Lutheran Church Charities
  • Home
  • About
    • Staff >
      • Leadership
      • All Staff
      • Disaster Response
      • Ministry Development/Donor Relations
      • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion/Crosses for Losses
      • K-9 Ministries >
        • Staff
        • Trainers
        • Volunteer Trained Dog Handlers
      • Communications/IT
      • Operations
    • Board of Directors >
      • LCC Board of Directors
      • Spiritual Advisors to the President/CEO
    • Mission
    • Employment
    • LCC In the News >
      • Recent
      • Affiliates
      • Featured
      • Archives
    • Articles
    • Social Feed
  • Ways to Give to LCC
    • Donation Policy
    • LCC General Fund
    • Disaster Response
    • LCC K-9 Ministries
    • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion
    • Non-Monetary Donations
  • Disaster and Crisis Response
    • K-9/HMC Deployment Giving Page - Monterey Park, CA
    • Disaster Response >
      • Give Now
      • Training and Certification
      • Volunteer
    • Crisis Response
    • Care Carding
  • K-9 Ministries
    • Request a K-9 Comfort Dog Visit
    • K-9 Comfort Dogs >
      • About
      • Give Now
      • Meet the Dogs >
        • Affiliate Ministry Members
        • Affiliate K-9s Map by State
        • LCC Staff K-9 Comfort Dogs
        • K-9 Comfort Dogs In Training
        • LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs - Permanently Deployed
      • K-9 Apprentice Trainer
      • Articles
    • Kare 9 Military Ministry >
      • About
      • Give Now
      • Meet The Kare 9s
      • Meet The Kare 9 Squad
      • Kare 9 Articles
    • LCC K-9 Police Ministry >
      • About
      • Give Now
      • Meet The K-9 Police Ministry
      • LCC K-9 Police Ministry Articles
    • LCC K-9 Court System Fund - Ezra
    • Partners in Comfort >
      • Veterinary Services
      • Grooming Services
    • Acquiring an LCC K-9 Comfort Dog
  • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion
    • Request a Mercy Heart or Cross
    • About
    • Volunteer
    • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Coloring Pages
  • Current Needs
    • Families in Need
    • Ministries in Need
    • Vehicle Donations
    • Your Donations Make A Difference
    • International Missions >
      • Ukraine
      • Haiti
      • Ghana >
        • C-WoW Health for Ghana
        • C-WoW Wells for Ghana
      • Ethiopia
      • Israel
  • Volunteer
    • Disaster Response/LERT
    • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion/Crosses for Losses
    • K-9 Apprentice Trainer
    • Volunteer Opportunities
  • WORD Bible Study
    • WORD - Live Course
    • WORD - Online Courses
    • WORD - Short Courses & Small Groups
    • WORD Classroom
    • Daily Devotions
  • Resources
    • Food Equipment Ministry Outreach
    • Listen to Learn / Speak to Serve
    • Ministry Resources
    • Parent Resources
    • Face Mask Project
    • People EncourAGING People
    • Bag Mat Project
    • Items Available >
      • Items Free for the Asking
      • Items Available to a Ministry
      • Non-Monetary Donations
  • Contact Us
    • Request for Prayer
    • Subscribe
  • Media Center
    • In the News
    • Crisis Response
  • Shop
    • Store
    • Amazon Smile
    • Christianbook.com

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs & Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Continue to Respond to Recent Mass Shootings, Attacks & Crisis Anniversaries

11/23/2022

 
Picture

Walmart Shooting – Chesapeake, Virginia
6 Killed, 4 Injured
 
Club Q Shooting – Colorado Springs, Colorado
5 Killed, 18 Injured
 
University of Virginia Shooting – Charlottesville, Virginia
3 Student-Athletes Killed
 
University of Idaho Attack – Moscow, Idaho
4 Students Killed
 
Christmas Parade Attack – Waukesha, Wisconsin Anniversary
6 Killed, Many Injured
 
Oxford High School Shooting – Oxford, Michigan Anniversary
4 Killed, 8 Injured

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
DONATE — LCC K-9 COMFORT DOG MINISTRY
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
Lutheran Church Charities continues to respond to mass shootings and crisis anniversaries in November. Our ministry teams are present and serving devastated and grieving communities.

Walmart Shooting – Chesapeake, Virginia

Picture
On Tuesday night, November 22, a Walmart night team lead began a deadly rampage less than an hour before the store was scheduled to close, killing six employees, injuring four (two critically), and traumatizing many Thanksgiving shoppers before taking his own life.
 
Lutheran Church Charities received an invite from Pastor Nate Speerbrecker from Community of Hope Lutheran Church in Chesapeake, Virginia who will host the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs to bring friendship, comfort, and hope to yet another devastated community. LCC is also working with Rev. Dr. Bill Harmon, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) Southeast District President and pastor at King of Glory in Williamsburg, Virginia, who welcomes both the LCC K-9 Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) to continue serving the grieving communities in the Southeast District.
 
On Friday, November 25, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Claudia (Trinity – Toledo, Ohio) and her handlers will arrive in Chesapeake. Deployment details for additional LCC K-9 Ministry teams are underway. Hearts of Mercy & Compassion crosses/markers will be set up at the Walmart memorial site. Congregational members from Community of Hope Church will sign them prior to placement to let the families of the victims know they are loved and prayed for.

Club Q Shooting - Colorado Springs, Colorado

Picture
On the night of Saturday, November 19, a tragic shooting took place at Club Q in Colorado Springs, Colorado, killing five people and injuring 18 others. The parents, siblings, family, friends, and community who knew and loved Daniel Ashton, Derrick Rump, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh, and Raymond Green Vance are heartbroken and experiencing many emotions and fears.
 
On Monday, November 21, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Cubby and Devorah (Redeemer - Fort Collins, Colorado) and their handlers responded to this hurting community to share the gentleness, love, and comfort that Jesus gives each of us. LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion and crosses were placed for each person killed, providing a place for people to remember, grieve, and pray.

University of Virginia Shooting - Charlottesville, 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.
Picture

University of Idaho Attack – Moscow, Idaho

Picture
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.

Christmas Parade Attack – Waukesha, Wisconsin Anniversary

Picture
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.

Oxford High School Shooting – Oxford, Michigan Anniversary

Picture
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.

DONATE — LCC K-9 COMFORT DOG MINISTRY
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
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,
Picture
Lynda Streich
Interim President/CEO 
Lutheran Church Charities

LCC Disaster Response Ready to Deploy to Florida to Help Assess Property with Catastrophic Damage from Hurricane Ian

9/29/2022

 

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)

Picture
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.

Picture
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.

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,
Picture
Lynda Streich
Interim President/CEO 
Lutheran Church Charities

LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Deploy Within 24 Hours Following Mass Shooting at July Fourth Parade in Highland Park, Illinois

7/5/2022

 

7 Killed & Dozens Wounded and Traumatized

Picture
"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.
Picture
Picture
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.
Picture
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.
Picture
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'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.
DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
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!
Picture
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities

SPECIAL APPEAL: Special Crisis and Disaster Response Update: Labor Day Weekend – God Doesn’t Take Off and Kick Back!

9/5/2021

 
Picture
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!
“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

Here are some of the things that LCC is currently responding to:

Picture
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

Picture
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

Picture
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

Picture
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

Picture
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

Picture
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!
Picture
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities


LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.

Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response Ready to Deploy to Impacted Communities in Southern States Hardest-Hit by Hurricane Ida

8/30/2021

 

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)

DONATE — HURRICANE IDA
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

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
Picture
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.

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
Picture
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.
DONATE — HURRICANE IDA
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!

Thank you for your prayers, support, and involvement to help Make A Difference – in the name of Jesus to those in need.
DONATE — LCC MAINTENANCE & FUEL EXPENSE FUND
Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!
Picture
Tim Hetzner
President/CEO
Lutheran Church Charities


LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.

SPECIAL APPEAL: LCC K-9 Ministry Teams Will Deploy to Surfside, Florida, to Serve First Responders After Collapse of Condominium Tower

6/26/2021

 
Picture

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

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.
Picture
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.

Picture
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.

DONATE - LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
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

SPECIAL APPEAL: LCC Disaster Response Deploys to Help Assess Tornado Damage in Northern Illinois

6/21/2021

 
Picture
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
“For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.” Isaiah 49:13
DONATE — LCC DISASTER RESPONSE FUND
Picture
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.

Picture
Picture
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.
DONATE — LCC DISASTER RESPONSE FUND
DONATE — LCC MAINTENANCE & FUEL EXPENSE FUND
Picture
Picture
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!

SPECIAL APPEAL: 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 in San Jose, California

5/27/2021

 
Picture
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

DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
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.
Picture
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.

Picture
Picture
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.
DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION

SPECIAL APPEAL: LCC K-9 and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministries Deploy after FedEx Mass Shooting in Indianapolis, Indiana

4/16/2021

 
Picture
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
DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
Picture
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.

Picture
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.
Picture
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.
DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION

LCC Disaster Response Deploying on Palm Sunday to Alabama to Help Assess Tornado Damage

3/26/2021

 
7 Deaths, Multiple Injuries, Widespread Devastation

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
On Thursday, March 25, multiple catastrophic tornadoes ripped through Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee causing seven deaths, people trapped in their homes, multiple injuries, and widespread structural and tree damage. One long track super storm cell tornado was on the ground for 260 miles across three states.
Picture
Early this morning, LCC Disaster Response received an invite from Rev. Ed Brashier, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) District Disaster Response Coordinator for the Southern District.

Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, LCC staff member Tim Laabs, and Lutheran Early Response Team (L.E.R.T.) chainsaw team leaders Marty Johnson and Pete Springmire will arrive in Alabama on Sunday, March 28, to help Pastor Brashier assess widespread tornado damage to help determine where L.E.R.T. teams will be needed in the coming weeks.
LCC NEEDS YOUR ASSISTANCE TO HELP FAMILIES, HELP CHURCHES, AND PREPARE FOR DEPLOYMENT!
GIVE NOW - LCC Disaster Response
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.
LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.
<<Previous

    Categories

    All
    "22"
    Alabama
    All
    Boulder
    Cal Fire
    California
    California Wildfires
    Colorado
    Crisis Response
    Crosses For Losses
    Dayton
    Disaster Response
    Displaced Children
    El Paso
    Ethiopia
    Families In Need
    Florida
    Ghana
    Haiti
    Hearts Of Mercy & Compassion
    Hurricane Florence
    Hurricane Harvey
    Hurricane Ian
    Hurricane Ida
    Hurricane Irma
    Hurricane Maria
    Hurricane Michael
    IL Flooding
    Illinois Tornadoes
    International Missions
    In The News
    Israel
    Jefferson City
    Job Openings
    K-9 Comfort Dogs
    K-9 Court System - Ezra
    K-9 Police Ministry
    K-9 Travel Expenses
    Kansas
    Kare 9 Military Ministry
    Kentucky
    Kind Words For HMC
    Kind Words For K9s
    Kind Words For LCC
    Kind Words For LCC Disaster Response
    Las Vegas
    LERT
    LERT Mercy In Action
    Linwood
    Madison
    Maryland Great Falls
    Military-ministry
    Milwaukee
    Ministries In Need
    Ministry Resources
    Mississippi
    Missouri
    Molson Coors
    Myanmar Scholarship
    Nebraska Flooding
    NE Flooding
    Ohio
    Parkland
    Prospect Heights Fire
    Recommended Reading
    Santa Fe
    Scrub Buckets
    Special Appeals
    STEM School
    Sudan
    Sutherland Springs
    Taylorville
    Texas
    Thank You From LCC
    Thousand Oaks
    Tornadoes In Tennessee
    Ukraine
    Uvalde
    Watseka
    WI Flooding
    Wisconsin
    Your Donations Make A Difference

    Archives

    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017

    RSS Feed

Location

Contact Us

Lutheran Church Charities
3020 Milwaukee Ave.
Northbrook, IL 60062
Local: 224-257-4389
Toll Free: 866-455-6466
Fax : 866-451-1476
LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org

Follow Us

Lutheran Church Charities
LCC Disaster Response
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs
LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry
LCC K-9 Police Ministry
LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion
  • Home
  • About
    • Staff >
      • Leadership
      • All Staff
      • Disaster Response
      • Ministry Development/Donor Relations
      • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion/Crosses for Losses
      • K-9 Ministries >
        • Staff
        • Trainers
        • Volunteer Trained Dog Handlers
      • Communications/IT
      • Operations
    • Board of Directors >
      • LCC Board of Directors
      • Spiritual Advisors to the President/CEO
    • Mission
    • Employment
    • LCC In the News >
      • Recent
      • Affiliates
      • Featured
      • Archives
    • Articles
    • Social Feed
  • Ways to Give to LCC
    • Donation Policy
    • LCC General Fund
    • Disaster Response
    • LCC K-9 Ministries
    • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion
    • Non-Monetary Donations
  • Disaster and Crisis Response
    • K-9/HMC Deployment Giving Page - Monterey Park, CA
    • Disaster Response >
      • Give Now
      • Training and Certification
      • Volunteer
    • Crisis Response
    • Care Carding
  • K-9 Ministries
    • Request a K-9 Comfort Dog Visit
    • K-9 Comfort Dogs >
      • About
      • Give Now
      • Meet the Dogs >
        • Affiliate Ministry Members
        • Affiliate K-9s Map by State
        • LCC Staff K-9 Comfort Dogs
        • K-9 Comfort Dogs In Training
        • LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs - Permanently Deployed
      • K-9 Apprentice Trainer
      • Articles
    • Kare 9 Military Ministry >
      • About
      • Give Now
      • Meet The Kare 9s
      • Meet The Kare 9 Squad
      • Kare 9 Articles
    • LCC K-9 Police Ministry >
      • About
      • Give Now
      • Meet The K-9 Police Ministry
      • LCC K-9 Police Ministry Articles
    • LCC K-9 Court System Fund - Ezra
    • Partners in Comfort >
      • Veterinary Services
      • Grooming Services
    • Acquiring an LCC K-9 Comfort Dog
  • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion
    • Request a Mercy Heart or Cross
    • About
    • Volunteer
    • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Coloring Pages
  • Current Needs
    • Families in Need
    • Ministries in Need
    • Vehicle Donations
    • Your Donations Make A Difference
    • International Missions >
      • Ukraine
      • Haiti
      • Ghana >
        • C-WoW Health for Ghana
        • C-WoW Wells for Ghana
      • Ethiopia
      • Israel
  • Volunteer
    • Disaster Response/LERT
    • Hearts of Mercy & Compassion/Crosses for Losses
    • K-9 Apprentice Trainer
    • Volunteer Opportunities
  • WORD Bible Study
    • WORD - Live Course
    • WORD - Online Courses
    • WORD - Short Courses & Small Groups
    • WORD Classroom
    • Daily Devotions
  • Resources
    • Food Equipment Ministry Outreach
    • Listen to Learn / Speak to Serve
    • Ministry Resources
    • Parent Resources
    • Face Mask Project
    • People EncourAGING People
    • Bag Mat Project
    • Items Available >
      • Items Free for the Asking
      • Items Available to a Ministry
      • Non-Monetary Donations
  • Contact Us
    • Request for Prayer
    • Subscribe
  • Media Center
    • In the News
    • Crisis Response
  • Shop
    • Store
    • Amazon Smile
    • Christianbook.com