With rooftops blown apart, homes devastated with damage, and tree limbs scattered across yards and streets, Missouri has endured a week and a half of severe weather and heavy hearts. From St. Louis to Springfield, communities across the state have been hit hard following multiple tornadoes and straight line windstorms. 

Lutheran Church Charities has been on the ground this week with Disaster Response, Human Care, and K-9 Comfort Dog teams to help local LCMS churches with damage assessments, chainsaw work, debris removal, food and resource distribution, and spiritual care and comfort. 
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Disaster Response

In Springfield, Missouri, last week and into this week, Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Jason Johnson, LCC Disaster Response & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, have been assessing damage from an EF-1 tornado with 95 to 100 mph winds, followed by a second storm with 80 mph straight-line winds. 

The damage is widespread with more than 200 households impacted, according to Katie Kovach, Green County Emergency Manager.

After weather delays on Memorial Day, LCC LERT volunteers arrived Tuesday to work with Hope Lutheran Church, Republic, Missouri, and Trinity Lutheran in Springfield — both are assisting with the volunteer camp at the Lutheran Student Center and providing meals for LCC LERT chainsaw volunteers who will serve until Saturday.

O’Day and Johnson report widespread devastation, with numerous homes and properties bearing the brunt of severe tree and structural damage. Among those affected was an elderly, disabled veteran whose property was left in ruins—12 massive trees toppled across his land, and his home suffered significant harm. On Tuesday, the teams used chainsaws to cut through the fallen trees and worked tirelessly to clear his property. He was very grateful for their help and mercy shown to him. As a heartfelt gesture, they presented him with a cross, lovingly carved from one of the downed trees and signed by each team member. Deeply moved by their kindness and the mercy shown to him, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the help he never expected but desperately needed.

The man shared how frustrating it is that he can no longer take care of his own property. He expressed great thanks that LCC could send chainsaw volunteers to help him clean up his yard this week. O’Day said they met several elderly homeowners that are grateful for the offer of assistance and a willingness to listen to their stories.
 
In St. Louis, another crew of LCC Disaster Response chainsaw and lift volunteers have joined forces with other LERT volunteers from around the country to clear tree damage at Concordia Seminary, which was swept by an EF-3 tornado on May 16. Officials estimate that more than 100 trees were uprooted or leaning on the campus and nearby park. Some caused damage to the chapel and several dormitories and apartments on the grounds.

Faced with challenging cleanup maneuvers, crews have been using heavy equipment and lifts — even climbing trees — to remove fallen and dangerous branches and limbs off buildings and clearing walking pathways.

LCC Care Teams

Two LCC Care Teams partnered with Bethlehem Lutheran St. Louis to distribute food, blankets, and essential care items to individuals affected by the storms. With stores closed, these are among the first supplies to reach the residents in the area.

One team included members from Living Word Galena, Ohio, along with staff from LCC. The second Care Team was from Trinity Green Trails Lisle, Illinois. They distributed gift cards and children’s activity back packs, with grooming supplies, hygiene kits, toys, books, and a blanket.

As they served the community, they provided Spiritual First Aid™ to those in need of emotional and spiritual support to take their next steps in their journey to recovery and healing.

While assisting community members, LCC Care Team volunteers spoke with Wanda. She expressed deep gratitude, saying she believed God had carried them through everything. Speaking quickly and with urgency, Wanda explained that she was helping her 80-year-old neighbor, who couldn’t leave the house. She had come to the distribution center to pick up food and supplies for her, as no one else was offering assistance.

Though thankful, Wanda also voiced concern about how long it might take for her neighbor to feel safe and comfortable again. Her stressed body language was noticeable, so one of the Care Team members placed a hand on her arm gently and spoke to her softly. As she began to calm down, Wanda shared how much she appreciated the team's presence and said she believed God had sent them to help.

K-9 Comfort Dogs in action

On Sunday, LCC church affiliates St. Paul Des Peres, Missouri, and Timothy St. Louis, brought K-9 Comfort Dogs Tabby, Zion, and Noah to partner church Bethlehem St. Louis, which has served as a hub for community members, distributing food and supplies, operating as a call center, and welcoming those who need shelter. Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling invited the community to attend the Sunday service and spend time cuddling with the comfort dogs.  

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries volunteers were:
Sheryl Schucart with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion
Ruth Agne with K-9 Comfort Dog Tabby
Ministry Partners Sue and Jon Burford with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion and Tabby
Glenn Nielsen with K-9 Comfort Dog Noah

At LCC, we never go where we are not invited. We never charge those we serve.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

Preparations began on Monday when Rev. Ross Johnson, LCMS Director of Disaster Response, invited LCC to help the Synod with recovery after an EF-3 tornado struck parts of St. Louis. LCC volunteers will travel there this week for cleanup work and assistance to the community. 
 
LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer and LCC Disaster Response Director Deaconess Kathy O’Day have been in communication with District Disaster Response Coordinators in Kansas, Missouri, and Kentucky, as well as engaged in conversations with LCMS pastors in the affected regions. 

• In the Missouri District, District Disaster Response Coordinator Kris Schuldt reports that the tree damage is extensive around parts of St. Louis and will require much LERT chainsaw assistance. More than 100 trees have fallen at Concordia Seminary and at least 60 more at the Park. The campus chapel and two apartment buildings were also damaged by falling trees.
• In Springfield, Missouri, residents are still cleaning up from an EF-2 tornado in early May, and DR Director O’Day will help with damage assessments this week and assist in recovery responses.
• Disaster Response is monitoring the town of Lincoln, Missouri, which was hit Tuesday by a tornado.
• In the Southern Illinois District, the town of Marion was struck by an EF-4 tornado with 190 mph winds, causing major destruction. Just today, the district has gotten into the town to assess damage, and LCC Disaster Response is available to help if called upon.
• In the Mid-South District, multiple towns in Kentucky, including London and Somerset, suffered widespread destruction and 17 fatalities. LCC has made contact with District Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Trae Fistler and local LERT volunteers who are working across the area for assistance.

“So many lives in so many areas have been upended and torn apart. Families are entering this week without loved ones, homes, power, and basic needs. They need our prayers and our help right now.” Rev. Singer said. “LCC is preparing to be there with them, ready to offer emergency assistance, tangible support, and most importantly, the comfort and hope found only in Jesus Christ.”

LCC can provide this assistance because of faithful, generous donors and volunteers who are willing to support and serve. 
 
“The financial support you can offer right now will go directly to helping families and LCMS congregations across the region and bring hope to the hurting,” Rev. Singer said. 
 
Your earnest prayers and kindhearted support are greatly appreciated by the many people overwhelmed by these storms and those who are responding with help. LCC asks that its supporters to pray for families and individuals affected, as well as LCC’s preparations to serve, along with favorable weather conditions to allow for ongoing cleanup and recovery efforts.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

At the invitation of Pastor Paul Ernewein of the Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator (DDRC), Lutheran Church Charities conducted a Basic LCMS Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) Chainsaw Operation and Safety classroom training in Slidell, Louisiana, on May 16. The class was co-led by LCC/LCMS Chainsaw Certified Instructors Marty Johnson and Pete Springmire.

On Saturday, May 17, four Iowa West LERT members participated in hands-on field work, serving as sawyers and draggers to clear leaning and fallen trees from a congregation member’s property.
 
Under the supervision of the LCC chainsaw instructors, the new LERT volunteers received individual instruction and guidance as they safely practiced felling and bucking trees and limbs while working alongside experienced team members.

It was a day of “undeniable joy” and “showing up for families.”

More than 4,700 Southern California residents turned out Saturday, April 12,  for the Recovery Pop-Up at the Dream Center event in Los Angeles — and in the middle of it all was the newly formed Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) from St. John’s Lutheran Charge in Orange, CA, lending their hands to families impacted by the state’s wildfires.

From assembling lanyards to gathering and carrying household goods to their vehicles, the St. John’s team donned their bright yellow vests with crosses, representing Lutheran Church Charities, and were a helping presence at the massive Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) production sponsored by Global Empowerment Mission. More than 1,300 families were counted for a day of carnival fun, free resources, and community connection.

“We walked around and offered assistance,” said Jason Johnson, Disaster Crisis Response and Volunteer Engagement Coordinator for LCC’s West Coast region. “Many people felt comfortable approaching us and sharing their stories.”

"One family’s home survived the fire, but smoke damage has prevented them from living in it. But they are making it, thanks to help from friends they are living with," Johnson said.

Another family lost their home, but they were able to find their grandmother’s ring while sifting through the remains.

Others are still coping with loss.

A mom with two teen daughters lost pictures of grandparents in the fire. A missionary attending Fuller Seminary saw her home burned, but her faith has kept her strong.
   
“From the smiles of the families to the dancing and laughter to the deep, soul-touching connections created, it was powerful,” said Elizabeth Jernberg of Global Empowerment Mission, who thanked the St. John’s Orange LERT volunteers for being there. “You all showed up under the sun, with sweat and smiles, and gave it your all. You should be incredibly proud.”

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster! If you feel called to support this mission, consider donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, so we can continue to BE PRESENT to bring hope to those suffering and in need.

Among the many touching stories of service, two elderly neighbors—aged 88 and 91—faced an especially daunting challenge. A massive pine tree had fallen between their yards, blocking their access and creating a hazardous situation. A nearby company had quoted an exorbitant price, requiring a crane to remove the tree, which neither neighbor could afford.

But the LERT volunteers stepped in, cutting down the tree with care and precision, removing it from the property at no cost. As a final touch, they raked the yards, clearing debris and leaving a clean, safe space behind. The elderly women expressed heartfelt gratitude, overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to them.

Through these selfless acts of service, the LERT team not only cleared fallen trees but also brought the light of hope to these neighbors, many of whom had nowhere else to turn. In a world filled with hardship, the LERT volunteers’ willingness to serve in the name of the Lord brought comfort and healing in a tangible way. It’s a powerful reminder of the difference compassion can make when we offer it freely, especially in times of crisis.

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training (more details below), donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.

Responding to Devastation in Valparaiso, IN

On Sunday, March 30, the town of Valparaiso, Indiana, was struck by 90 mph straight-line winds that toppled 110 utility poles, tore through rooftops, downed trees, and left residents without power for days. In the aftermath, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) was contacted by Immanuel and Christ Lutheran Churches to aid their communities.

Another stop brought the team to the home of a single mom and piano teacher, whose studio had been rendered inaccessible by three large uprooted spruce trees. Unable to afford help, she prayed for a miracle. Through a recommendation from one of her student’s parents, she found LCC. Within hours, the trees and root balls were gone, her yard cleaned and raked, and a cross was cut into the stump of one of the trees. Moved to tears, she said, “This cross will always remind me to trust God to provide for my needs and that He sent angels here to take care of me.”

Rebuilding in Tryon, North Carolina

Farther south, another team served at Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, NC, still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Though the congregation had hoped to return to their sanctuary by Easter, there remains much to be done.

Restoring a Beloved Camp in Linville, NC

Meanwhile, a small but determined team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL traveled to Camp Linn Haven in Linville, NC. The LCMS summer camp sustained extensive damage to its chapel, kitchen, main hall, 18 cabins, and bridge due to Hurricane Helene.

Volunteers assisted with hanging drywall, repairing siding, staining, painting, and general storm cleanup. Although there’s more work to be done, their efforts made meaningful progress in preparing the camp for future campers and ensuring the facility remains a safe and joyful space for all.

Gratitude for Hands that Serve

Lutheran Church Charities extends heartfelt thanks to the many LERT volunteers who offered their time, talent, and compassion in these recent deployments:

• Cross, Yorkville IL: Clay and Linda Arnold; Daeson Blue; Chris Coulombe; Heather Fiala; John Goettsch; Carrie Howard
• Bethany, Naperville: David, Gretchen, and Isabel Brouch; Alex Clasen; Pastor Seth Clemmer; Tye, Linda, Henry, and Ken Fox; Beth Hahn; James and Susan Jablonsky; Grace Ryan; Judy and Nathan Teske
• Good Shepherd, Elgin: David Vollrath
• Immanuel, Palatine: Chris Johnson
• St. Peter, Gilberts: Aleis Vasa
  
  

This team truly enjoyed the hospitality shown to them by the congregations of Trinity, Tryon and Mt. Pisgah, Hendersonville and will continue to hold both congregations in their prayers.

The Southeastern District has continued opportunities to serve at several locations in North Carolina. Please consider volunteering your time and talents to help those in need recover from Hurricane Helene.

How You Can HelpLERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.

The homeowner, deeply moved by the volunteers’ efforts, shared how the Lord had watched over his family during the storm. With heartfelt gratitude, he thanked the team for their hard work and compassion.

Through their service, these LERT volunteers embodied Christ’s love in action, bringing physical relief and spiritual encouragement to those in need. We continue to pray for all affected by these storms and for the dedicated volunteers who answered the call to serve.

Elsewhere in the U.S., a team of 20 LCC LERT volunteers, mostly from Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville, IL, is deployed to Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, N.C. They are helping to rebuild the church after massive flooding from Hurricane Helene.

The Trinity congregation hopes to return to their building in time for Easter Sunday. On the first day of work, the team helped clear the crawl space, remove floor tiles, build shelves, and paint bathrooms. A few of the team members (pictured at right) dug a trench to help lay pipes to divert water. They will be working hard to help Trinity reach it goal of worshipping on Resurrection Day!

In another part of the Tarheel State, a team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, (pictured below) is serving at Camp Linn Haven, N.C. They are also helping with rebuilding after Hurricane Helene destruction, doing drywalling, siding, staining, and cleanup. They are making progress to restore the camp for future guests.

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.

The team members shared their experiences while working at Grace Lutheran:

"We poured our hearts into the work because we wanted to help in any way we could. We painted 40 or more outside classroom doors, 4 bathrooms, cafeteria walls, narthex, and walls between classrooms. We bought plants to put out in front of the church, hoping to make the congregation bring back smiles on their faces."
 
"Witnessing older students mentor younger ones and hearing the children's joyful songs during chapel was a beautiful experience. Each moment was infused with prayer, reminding everyone of God's guiding presence in our efforts. The experience left everyone with full hearts, a renewed sense of purpose, and a shared belief in the transformative impact of serving others through Christ's teachings."

The team was grateful for the opportunity to serve both the church and the school. As they watched the team at work, the students frequently expressed their gratitude and grew increasingly optimistic, witnessing the transformation unfold right before their eyes each day.
 
Lutheran Church Charities extends sincere thanks to the following LERT and SFA volunteers and congregations from Illinois for their unwavering service, heartfelt prayers, and steadfast support. Your commitment makes a profound difference and brings hope to those suffering and in need.
 
Cross, Yorkville - Linda Arnold, Pastor Erik Gauss, Carrie Howard, Barb and Gary Lewison, Mike Moe, John Sleezer
 
Trinity, Lisle - Ed and Jan Boerman, Dale and Beth Durfey, Linda Fergusen, Jim and Veronica Reuter, Ed Schwartz, Skip and Karen Sorenson, Wayne and Sandy Witek, Kent Worrell