 In response to the devastating tragedy that occurred in Lewiston on Wednesday night, the network of LCC-affiliated churches across the nation mobilized to provide relief and comfort to those affected. As soon as news of the tragedy broke, staff, congregants, and volunteers came together to make a plan to BE THERE for the community. Their actions were inspired by their faith and guided by an overwhelming desire to help those in need. Several LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams immediately started preparations to deploy when it was safe to do so. We are ready to BE THERE! Now that the shooter is no longer a threat to the community, Lutheran Church Charities has been invited by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod New England District President Rev. Robert D Beinke and Rev. Timothy Sandeno, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Gorham, Maine, to bring the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion to the shocked and hurting community that has been greatly impacted by this horrific event.  LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer, Bonnie Fear, LCC K-9 Crisis Response Coordinator, Jody Lockwood, HMC Representative and the following LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams will be deploying to Lewiston this weekend to be with the families, survivors, and all of the first responders who serve them. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Caleb (Immanuel – Valparaiso, Indiana), Claudia (Trinity – Toledo, Ohio), Gideon (St. Michael's – Bloomington, Minnesota), Jared (Holy Cross – Fort Wayne, Indiana), Kezia (Emmanuel – Baltimore, Maryland), Lily (Good Shepherd – Old Bridge, New Jersey), Lydia (Messiah – Lynnfield, Massachusetts), and Magdalene (Cornerstone – Carmel, Indiana), and their handlers will be present to listen to those who are grieving, bringing them comfort, love, friendship, hope, and prayer.  LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion from Suburban Bethlehem (Fort Wayne, Indiana); Trinity (Toledo, Ohio); Cornerstone Lutheran (Carmel, Indiana); and LCC (Northbrook, Illinois) have joined hands to send Hearts of Mercy & Compassion to Lewiston along with K-9 Ministries Coloring Books and Mini Stuffed LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs. Their selfless and compassionate efforts are aimed at providing comfort and hope to the people of Lewiston during these difficult times. We hope that these resources will serve as a reminder that people across the nation love and support them. We pray that the community finds solace in the presence of these comforting resources. Please support us by prayer and if you are so moved, help us with travel expenses. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities. Serving Together in the Comfort of Jesus!  Rev. Chris Singer
President/CEO Lutheran Church Charities  Walmart Shooting – Chesapeake, Virginia |
| On the night of Saturday, November 13, a horrific shooting happened at the University of Virginia (UVA), taking the lives of three student-athletes Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr., and D’Sean Perry. CRU at the University of Virginia requested LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Amos (Our Savior's Way - Ashburn, Virginia), Kezia (Emmanuel - Baltimore, Maryland), and Solomon (King of Glory - Williamsburg, Virginia), who met last Thursday night for togetherness and prayer. Last Friday, the K-9s and their handlers visited the Lawn for a moment of silence, remembering the three students killed. The teams also spent time with the students on campus, providing a safe and gentle place of comfort and love. |  |
University of Idaho Attack – Moscow, Idaho
On November 13, four University of Idaho students were found fatally stabbed multiple times in their off-campus home. The deaths of Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Madison Mogen left the victim’s families and the university community in shock and grief.
Reverand Matt Gulseth from Concordia Lutheran Church in Pullman, Washington, invited LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Isaac (Redeemer – Spokane, Washington) and his handlers to be present with students, faculty, staff, friends, and families at the University of Idaho campus vigil on November 30.
Four Hearts of Mercy & Compassion crosses/markers for the victims will be placed at the designated memorial site on campus for vigil attendees to sign with messages for the families. Concordia-Pullman has seven University of Idaho students who attend the church.
Reverand Matt Gulseth from Concordia Lutheran Church in Pullman, Washington, invited LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Isaac (Redeemer – Spokane, Washington) and his handlers to be present with students, faculty, staff, friends, and families at the University of Idaho campus vigil on November 30.
Four Hearts of Mercy & Compassion crosses/markers for the victims will be placed at the designated memorial site on campus for vigil attendees to sign with messages for the families. Concordia-Pullman has seven University of Idaho students who attend the church.
Christmas Parade Attack – Waukesha, Wisconsin Anniversary
Monday, November 21, marked the first anniversary of the Christmas parade attack in Waukesha, Wisconsin. It was a day for the community to gather and remember the six precious lives taken: Virginia “Ginny” Sorenson, Leanna Owen, Tamara Durand, Jane Kulich, Wilhem “Bill” Hospel, and Jackson Sparks. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited to Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church and Clarendon Avenue Elementary School to be with the students and staff on this difficult day.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited to Clarendon Avenue Elementary by Principal Andrea Kaplaan and School Counselor Brittany Sadorf to be with the students and staff as they continue to heal after the tragedy. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity (Brookfield - Brookfield, Wisconsin), Hagar (Faith Lutheran - Appleton, Wisconsin), Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois), along with their handlers, were present at the school early Monday morning to shower in love, comfort, and understanding the teachers and administrative staff who had to face this challenging day of reflection and loss.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Dora (Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee - Milwaukee, Wisconsin), Rhoda (Prince of Peace - Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin), and Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois) were invited by Principal Wolff to support the students and staff at Beautiful Savior Lutheran School. Many students and their families were at the parade one year ago, and that memory still causes much sadness, fear, and other emotions.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited to Clarendon Avenue Elementary by Principal Andrea Kaplaan and School Counselor Brittany Sadorf to be with the students and staff as they continue to heal after the tragedy. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity (Brookfield - Brookfield, Wisconsin), Hagar (Faith Lutheran - Appleton, Wisconsin), Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois), along with their handlers, were present at the school early Monday morning to shower in love, comfort, and understanding the teachers and administrative staff who had to face this challenging day of reflection and loss.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Dora (Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee - Milwaukee, Wisconsin), Rhoda (Prince of Peace - Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin), and Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois) were invited by Principal Wolff to support the students and staff at Beautiful Savior Lutheran School. Many students and their families were at the parade one year ago, and that memory still causes much sadness, fear, and other emotions.
Oxford High School Shooting – Oxford, Michigan Anniversary
On Tuesday, November 30, 2021, a 15-year-old Oxford High School sophomore was accused of shooting in the building. Four students were killed: Tate Myre (16), Hana St. Juliana (14), Madisyn Baldwin (17), and Justin Shilling (17). In addition, two students were critical, five students and one teacher injured, and many students and staff traumatized.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Anna and Claudia (Trinity – Toledo, Ohio), along with their ministry teams, will return to Oxford High School to bring comfort and hope throughout the community on the 1st Anniversary of the shooting.
LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry never charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help these shocked and devastated communities and the first responders who serve them.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Anna and Claudia (Trinity – Toledo, Ohio), along with their ministry teams, will return to Oxford High School to bring comfort and hope throughout the community on the 1st Anniversary of the shooting.
LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry never charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help these shocked and devastated communities and the first responders who serve them.
Please pray for all of the LCC ministry teams deploying as well as the communities experiencing grief from these tragic situations.
Joyfully serving together in Christ,
Joyfully serving together in Christ,
Lynda Streich
Interim President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
Interim President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
Working with LCMS Florida-Georgia District Disaster Response Coordinators to Help Impacted Individuals and Families in Hardest-Hit Areas with Recovery Efforts
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)
Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful storms ever to strike the US mainland, battered southwest Florida with high winds, rain, and storm surges as it moved inland.
More than 2.5 million homes and businesses were left without power as the storm swept ashore in southwest Florida on Wednesday afternoon, bringing “catastrophic” 150 mph winds and a deadly storm surge of up to 18 feet. Hours later, the storm – estimated to be about 140 miles wide – was downgraded from a high category 4 hurricane to a tropical storm as it moved slowly northeast, causing major flooding.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said it brought “historic” damage to the state. “We’ve never seen a flood event like this,” DeSantis said.
More than 2.5 million homes and businesses were left without power as the storm swept ashore in southwest Florida on Wednesday afternoon, bringing “catastrophic” 150 mph winds and a deadly storm surge of up to 18 feet. Hours later, the storm – estimated to be about 140 miles wide – was downgraded from a high category 4 hurricane to a tropical storm as it moved slowly northeast, causing major flooding.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said it brought “historic” damage to the state. “We’ve never seen a flood event like this,” DeSantis said.
Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response has been carefully monitoring the path of Hurricane Ian since it began. Kathy O'Day and Ed Boerman, Northern Illinois District Disaster Response Coordinators, have been collaborating with the LCMS Disaster Response and District Disaster Response Coordinators Joel Mathews and Jay Wendland from the Florida-Georgia District.
Rev. Ross Johnson, Director, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) Disaster Response and Jay Wendland have asked Kathy O’Day and L.E.R.T. team leader Marty Johnson to travel to Florida next week to be part of the assessment team.
Rev. Ross Johnson, Director, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) Disaster Response and Jay Wendland have asked Kathy O’Day and L.E.R.T. team leader Marty Johnson to travel to Florida next week to be part of the assessment team.
If you are so moved, please donate to the LCC Disaster Response Fund or LCC Equipment Maintenance & Fuel Expense Fund so that we may continue to show the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
Please pray for the safety of those in the path of Hurricane Ian, including all of the LCC Disaster Response volunteers and staff, as we deploy to the hardest-hit areas of Florida to help during the long recovery process.
Joyfully serving together in Christ,
Please pray for the safety of those in the path of Hurricane Ian, including all of the LCC Disaster Response volunteers and staff, as we deploy to the hardest-hit areas of Florida to help during the long recovery process.
Joyfully serving together in Christ,
Lynda Streich
Interim President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
Interim President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
7 Killed & Dozens Wounded and Traumatized
"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
| The Independence Day celebrations turned to tragedy on Monday, July 4, when a gunman killed seven people and injured dozens of others at a July Fourth parade in Highland Park, Illinois, about 25 miles north of Chicago. Hundreds of attendees started to flee in terror, abandoning their belongings strewn on the streets. Eyewitnesses described grabbing their children and families and running for their lives, some hiding behind dumpsters or in nearby stores for safety amid the chaos. |  |
 | The same afternoon, Lutheran Church Charities was invited by Rev. Jim Buckman, Senior Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Lake Forest, Illinois, to bring the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses, to the shocked and hurting community that has been greatly impacted by this tragic event. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs have been invited to several locations in and around Highland Park to offer comfort and support to the community. |
On Tuesday, July 5, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams, and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC), Crosses for Losses were present at a Prayer Vigil at Highland Park Presbyterian Church to help bring comfort and hope to those grieving.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams will continue to serve the Highland Park community as requested.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Asher (Faith Lutheran - Lake Forest, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Bekah & Kye (Immanuel - Belvidere, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Emma (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Eunice (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Hannah (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Jacob (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Levi (Immanuel - East Dundee, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Malachi (St. Matthew - Hawthorn Woods, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Myra (St. Andrews - Park Ridge, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ruthie (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Bekah & Kye (Immanuel - Belvidere, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Emma (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Eunice (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Hannah (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Jacob (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Levi (Immanuel - East Dundee, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Malachi (St. Matthew - Hawthorn Woods, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Myra (St. Andrews - Park Ridge, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ruthie (LCC Staff)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois)
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois)
LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry never charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
Please support us by prayer and if you are so moved, help us with travel expenses.
Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
I feel like the Psalmist when he writes, “How Long O Lord, How Long!” Psalm 13:1
I ask myself – where does LCC start to respond? In the United States or Internationally, South, West, East, and between?
I know from past experience God works in the Midst of Disaster and Crisis – and He works in Mighty Ways! I know God’s Word is true and it should always be what guides us!
I ask myself – where does LCC start to respond? In the United States or Internationally, South, West, East, and between?
I know from past experience God works in the Midst of Disaster and Crisis – and He works in Mighty Ways! I know God’s Word is true and it should always be what guides us!
“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8
“Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:17
“For dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations.” Psalm 22:2
“Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:17
“For dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations.” Psalm 22:2
Here are some of the things that LCC is currently responding to:
 | Fires in California The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams were invited by Cal Fire to visit with the courageous firefighters at their base camp in Placerville, California. The Caldor Fire is threatening South Lake Tahoe. CLICK HERE to read more DONATE - LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Travel Fund |
 | Earthquake and Flooding in Haiti On August 14, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti taking more than 2,100 lives, causing massive destruction across the country. On August 16, Grace also lashed Haiti as a tropical depression. Our Mission Partners in Haiti have people on the ground doing assessments and distributing desperately needed aid. CLICK HERE to read more DONATE - Haiti Disaster Relief |
 | Flooding in Ethiopia On August 17, tragic flooding hit the Mekane Yesus Theological Seminary in Ethiopia. Inundated by floodwaters from monsoon rains that destroyed nearly all the campus also resulted in the tragic loss of many lives including those of children of the staff and students. CLICK HERE to read more DONATE - Ethiopia Flooding |
 | Hurricane Ida and East Coast Flooding Ida, a Category 4 hurricane, produced winds up to 150 mph, ten tornados, and historic flash flooding as it moved inland across eight states this past week. FEMA is currently reporting 65 deaths. Millions of residents and businesses are without power in multiple states. Thousands of people have lost their homes, belongings, security, and hope. LCC L.E.R.T. disaster response teams will be working with Pastor Ed Brashier, Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator when it is safe for volunteers to deploy. CLICK HERE to read more DONATE - LCC Disaster Response |
 | New Jersey District Pastor Home Destroyed Pastor Dan Fenco from Camino De Fe, a newly planted Hispanic congregation in the New Jersey District, lost his home caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida. During the storm, his home was severely damaged from their neighbor’s house exploding, leaving his home inhabitable. Fortunately, everyone in both homes had already evacuated safely prior to the explosion. Impacts were felt throughout the entire street. They are currently living with family. CLICK HERE to read more DONATE - Family Lost Home- Good Shepherd, Old Bridge NJ |
 | Relief for Afghanistan Family Rev. Jim Buckman, Faith Lutheran Church in Lake Forest, Illinois, and Chaplain with the United States Air Force in the Illinois National Guard, met a young lieutenant named Fahim Masoud from Afghanistan while supporting the vaccination efforts in Illinois. At the age of seventeen, Fahim volunteered to be an interpreter for our military serving three rotations. Fortunately, his family was able to escape from Afghanistan this past week. His mother, father, and two siblings have come to our country but they have nothing. CLICK HERE to read more DONATE - Afghanistan Refugee Fund - Faith Lake Forest IL |
So my friends, humanly - I DO NOT KNOW where to begin!
Spiritually and from past experience – I KNOW GOD HAS IT ALL FIGURED OUT!
We start with what God has put in front of us! One step at a time.
Each of the items above has a link to find out more!
Thank you for your faithful prayers and support for all who are suffering and in need. Help us to show them that they are NOT forgotten – God has it!
Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response stands ready to show the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
Serving Together, Serving Jesus, so we can serve others in HIS NAME!
Spiritually and from past experience – I KNOW GOD HAS IT ALL FIGURED OUT!
We start with what God has put in front of us! One step at a time.
Each of the items above has a link to find out more!
Thank you for your faithful prayers and support for all who are suffering and in need. Help us to show them that they are NOT forgotten – God has it!
Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response stands ready to show the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
Serving Together, Serving Jesus, so we can serve others in HIS NAME!
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
Helping with Property Recovery, but most of all Lives!
Working with LCMS Disaster Response, Districts & Churches to Help Impacted Individuals and Families with Recovery Efforts
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)
I REMEMBER ….
16 years ago – Katrina hit
Now Ida
But no matter when and where – LCC responds!
It’s what LCC did and still does because of Your Support – Then and Now!
Tim Hetzner
16 years ago – Katrina hit
Now Ida
But no matter when and where – LCC responds!
It’s what LCC did and still does because of Your Support – Then and Now!
Tim Hetzner
On August 29, the 16th anniversary of the devastating Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Ida made landfall in southern Louisiana with Category 4 strength of 150+ mph winds, slamming into Port Fourchon, Leeville, and Grand Isle. One of the strongest storms to make landfall is now a massive tropical storm moving slowly at 8 mph but plowing a destructive path through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida.
Your Donations Are Needed to Help People Severely Impacted
Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, and Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, have been monitoring the storm since Sunday and are in close contact with Rev. Ross Johnson and Rev. Michael Meyer from the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) Disaster Response, as well as District Presidents and Disaster Response Coordinators.
Pastor Ed Brashier, Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator, will begin assessments in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama as soon as it is safe to do so. Mid-South District President Rev. Dr. Roger Paavola stated he would closely watch the storm’s path through his district in Mississippi and Tennessee. Both intend to keep LCC posted on the effects of Hurricane Ida on their respective Districts and how LCC can assist with recovery efforts.
Pastor Ed Brashier, Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator, will begin assessments in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama as soon as it is safe to do so. Mid-South District President Rev. Dr. Roger Paavola stated he would closely watch the storm’s path through his district in Mississippi and Tennessee. Both intend to keep LCC posted on the effects of Hurricane Ida on their respective Districts and how LCC can assist with recovery efforts.
Packing a powerful punch, Ida continues to produce flash flooding as well as tornadoes as it moves inland over the next several days. Emergency Management is currently reporting one homeowner death from a fallen tree on a home in Ascension Parish. Other residents are being rescued from attics and rooftops in LaPlace, Louisiana. Over one million residents and businesses are without power which may take weeks to restore. Much of Louisiana has lost water supply due to the storm. Both Louisiana and Mississippi will experience major power outages, water and gas shortages for several weeks. Extensive damage has been reported in the following cities so far:
Louisiana: Delacroix, Golden Meadow, Gray, Grand Island, Houma, LaPlace, Leeville, New Orleans, Port Fourchon, Raceland, Venice
Mississippi: Gulfport, Jackson
Louisiana: Delacroix, Golden Meadow, Gray, Grand Island, Houma, LaPlace, Leeville, New Orleans, Port Fourchon, Raceland, Venice
Mississippi: Gulfport, Jackson
Please pray for the safety of those in the path of Hurricane Ida and for all of the first responders, volunteers, and LCMS and LCC Disaster Response teams who serve them. If you are so moved, please donate generously to help LCC support the recovery efforts in the hardest-hit communities.
Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response stands ready to show the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2
LCC never goes where we are not invited.
We NEVER charge those we serve!
LCC never goes where we are not invited.
We NEVER charge those we serve!
Thank you for your prayers, support, and involvement to help Make A Difference – in the name of Jesus to those in need.
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
LCC K-9 Ministry Teams Will Deploy to Surfside, Florida, to Serve First Responders
After Collapse of Condominium Tower
Four People Confirmed Dead, 159 People Still Unaccounted For
“Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.” Isaiah 40:1
"May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant." Psalm 119:76
“Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.” Isaiah 40:1
"May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant." Psalm 119:76
A 12-story oceanfront condominium tower partially collapsed in the early hours of Thursday, June 24 on Collins Avenue in the town of Surfside, Florida, spurring a massive search-and-rescue effort with dozens of rescue crews from across Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The partial collapse of the 12-story wing of Champlain Towers South resulted in four confirmed deaths and more than 159 persons still unaccounted for. Search and rescue crews continue to carry on the dire but delicate work of picking over and tunneling through tons of crumbled concrete and twisted steel in search of survivors.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs have been invited in by Rev. Dr. Gregory Walton, LCMS District President for the Florida-Georgia District and Rev. Dennis Bartels Pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in North Miami. Pastor Bartels has served this community for 35 years and is well connected to the community where we will be serving. Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, and Bonnie Fear, LCC K-9 Crisis Response Coordinator, are working closely with Pastor Bartels to determine the appropriate time to have Boots and Paws on the ground.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs have been invited in by Rev. Dr. Gregory Walton, LCMS District President for the Florida-Georgia District and Rev. Dennis Bartels Pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in North Miami. Pastor Bartels has served this community for 35 years and is well connected to the community where we will be serving. Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, and Bonnie Fear, LCC K-9 Crisis Response Coordinator, are working closely with Pastor Bartels to determine the appropriate time to have Boots and Paws on the ground.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs will come in to serve first responders and their families that have worked around the clock doing search and rescue for the 159 people who are unaccounted for (at the time of this writing). First responders include: emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, firefighters, police officers, city, state, and federal personnel. They are all working tirelessly with the destruction of the Champlain Towers. In addition, LCC K9 Comfort Dogs will serve all in that area who have worked selflessly, as well as family members who have lost loved ones.
Our LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Teams will be driving to and staying in Miami. Travel and accommodations in the area will be expensive. LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry never charges those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
Please prayerfully consider a donation to the LCC K-9 Travel Fund as we prepare to deploy to serve the first responders and this devastated community.
Please prayerfully consider a donation to the LCC K-9 Travel Fund as we prepare to deploy to serve the first responders and this devastated community.
Please join LCC in keeping the families, first responders, and the community in your prayers as they move through these extremely trying times.
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities
SPECIAL APPEAL: LCC Disaster Response Deploys to Help Assess Tornado Damage in Northern Illinois
6/21/2021
Direct Hit in Woodridge, Naperville, Darien, and Other Surrounding Areas
1 Person Critical, Others Injured, Many Families Displaced
Confirmed 250 Homes Damaged, Widespread Devastation, Power Outages
1 Person Critical, Others Injured, Many Families Displaced
Confirmed 250 Homes Damaged, Widespread Devastation, Power Outages
“For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.” Isaiah 49:13
At 10:45 pm, Sunday, June 20, an estimated EF-2 tornado and catastrophic storms raged through Northern Illinois, causing extensive damage in the hardest-hit areas of Woodridge, Naperville, Darien, as well as Burr Ridge and Downers Grove. Straight-line winds of at least 70mph tore through other communities. Buildings have collapsed, homes heavily damaged or leveled, multiple power lines down, large trees uprooted, and dangerous debris scattered. Major destruction has left many roads and neighborhoods impassible. At least 250 homes were damaged, 26 are reported as uninhabitable.
Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, and Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, have been monitoring storms and damage reports since it began. In less than 12 hours, LCC Lutheran Early Response Team (L.E.R.T) chainsaw team leaders began tornado and storm damage assessment to help determine where L.E.R.T. teams will be immediately needed. Pastor Mark Schultz from Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle has extended an invitation to serve out of their church. We are also working with Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville.
Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, and Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, have been monitoring storms and damage reports since it began. In less than 12 hours, LCC Lutheran Early Response Team (L.E.R.T) chainsaw team leaders began tornado and storm damage assessment to help determine where L.E.R.T. teams will be immediately needed. Pastor Mark Schultz from Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle has extended an invitation to serve out of their church. We are also working with Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville.
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LCC NEEDS YOUR ASSISTANCE TO HELP FAMILIES WITH CLEAN-UP!
The LCC Disaster Response Ministry never charges those we serve. Please donate to the LCC Disaster Response General Fund or LCC Equipment Maintenance & Fuel Expense Fund so that we may continue to show the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
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Please keep the families affected by the tornado and storms in your prayers, including all of the LCC Disaster Response volunteers and staff as we deploy to the hardest-hit areas of Northern Illinois to help during the long recovery process.
Your prayers, support, and involvement help Make A Difference – in the name of Jesus to those in need.
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Your prayers, support, and involvement help Make A Difference – in the name of Jesus to those in need.
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
9 People Killed, Many Injured
232nd Mass Shooting Reported This Year
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Isaiah 40:1
"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
232nd Mass Shooting Reported This Year
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Isaiah 40:1
"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
At 6:45 am on Wednesday, May 26, shooting began at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light rail yard in San Jose, California, during the morning shift change. At least eight of the nine people reported killed were employees, and many other employees were injured. The shooter, who was also an employee, took his own life as first responders arrived. Victim age ranges are from 29 to 63 years old.
In less than 24 hours, Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, and LCC Director of K-9 Ministries, Anastasia, received an invite for the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs from Pastor Andy Koschmann from Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Los Gatos, California, and Rev. Michael Lange, LCMS District President for California, Nevada, and Hawaii District.
Bonnie Fear, LCC K-9 Crisis Response Coordinator with LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Aaron (St. John's – Napa Valley, California), Micah (Light of the Valley – Elk Grove, California), and Reuben (First Lutheran – Yuba City, California), along with their ministry teams, are deploying and will arrive this afternoon to be present with employees, throughout the community, and first responders who are trying to cope with another mass shooting tragedy. They will attend the public vigil at the San Jose City Hall plaza this evening. LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Rahab (St. Andrews – Stockton, California) and her handlers will join the K-9 Ministry teams on Saturday.
Lutheran Church Charities will also place nine hearts on crosses or markers through our Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry at a memorial site for people to leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects for the lives lost.
Bonnie Fear, LCC K-9 Crisis Response Coordinator with LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Aaron (St. John's – Napa Valley, California), Micah (Light of the Valley – Elk Grove, California), and Reuben (First Lutheran – Yuba City, California), along with their ministry teams, are deploying and will arrive this afternoon to be present with employees, throughout the community, and first responders who are trying to cope with another mass shooting tragedy. They will attend the public vigil at the San Jose City Hall plaza this evening. LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Rahab (St. Andrews – Stockton, California) and her handlers will join the K-9 Ministry teams on Saturday.
Lutheran Church Charities will also place nine hearts on crosses or markers through our Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry at a memorial site for people to leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects for the lives lost.
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LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry never charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
LCC K-9 Ministry Teams and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry
Deploy in less than 24 hours to Comfort Community
Following Shooting at FedEx Facility in Indianapolis
Third Mass Shooting in Indianapolis, Indiana in 2021
8 People Killed, 5 Injured, 1 Critical
Employees Run and Hide for Life
"How Long, O Lord?" Psalm 13:1
"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
Deploy in less than 24 hours to Comfort Community
Following Shooting at FedEx Facility in Indianapolis
Third Mass Shooting in Indianapolis, Indiana in 2021
8 People Killed, 5 Injured, 1 Critical
Employees Run and Hide for Life
"How Long, O Lord?" Psalm 13:1
"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
Late Thursday, April 15, eight people were killed and five wounded at the FedEx facility in Indianapolis, Indiana. Employees feared for their life after hearing gunshots in their workplace. The shooting started in the parking lot, and then the shooter entered the facility. The FedEx Indianapolis hub employs more than 4,500 people and is their second-largest facility. This is the third mass shooting in Indianapolis this year.
 | Less than one month since we deployed to Boulder, Colorado for a shooting, another senseless mass shooting has occurred. First thing this morning, LCC K-9 Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry were invited by Pastor Dan Hauser of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, home of LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Naomi and will be on-site to be present throughout the community with employees, residents, and first responders who are trying to cope with this senseless tragedy. |
Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO, will lead the deployment team and is working with LCC Director of K-9 Ministries, Anastasia, and Bonnie Fear, LCC K-9 Crisis Response Coordinator, to deploy LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams and bring 8 hearts/crosses through our Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry to help people who are shocked and trying to process this horrific event. LCC Ministry teams will serve with open hearts to listen to the hurting, bringing them hope, comfort, and prayer. People will be able to leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects for the 8 lives lost.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Naomi (Holy Cross – Indianapolis, Indiana) will be joined by Nancy Borders (Trinity – Toledo, Ohio) and LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Benjamin (LCC Staff), Emma (LCC staff), Hannah (LCC Staff), Isaiah (Trinity – Hobart, Indiana), Jared (Holy Cross – Fort Wayne, Indiana), Mercy (Our Savior – Louisville, Kentucky), and Rosie (Atonement – Columbus, Ohio), along with their ministry teams arriving today to help bring comfort and hope to all who are grieving.
LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry never charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Naomi (Holy Cross – Indianapolis, Indiana) will be joined by Nancy Borders (Trinity – Toledo, Ohio) and LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Benjamin (LCC Staff), Emma (LCC staff), Hannah (LCC Staff), Isaiah (Trinity – Hobart, Indiana), Jared (Holy Cross – Fort Wayne, Indiana), Mercy (Our Savior – Louisville, Kentucky), and Rosie (Atonement – Columbus, Ohio), along with their ministry teams arriving today to help bring comfort and hope to all who are grieving.
LCC's K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry never charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
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