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LCC CALL FOR PRAYER AND DISASTER RESPONSE AFTER HURRICANE HELENE

10/1/2024

 
Hurricane Helene has left a swath of devastation, damage, and debris across the Florida Gulf coast, into Georgia, through the Carolinas, and to other areas in the Southeast and Mid-South.

At least 120 people in six states have perished in the flooding and tornadoes related to the Category 4 storm, which roared ashore on Friday.
"O my people, trust in Him at all times. Pour out your heart to Him, for God is our Refuge." 
(Psalm 62:8 NLT)

 
We are ready to BE THERE!
DONATE — LCC DISASTER RESPONSE FUND
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Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) is calling on its supporters to pray for families and individuals affected, as well as LCC’s preparations to serve the Florida-Georgia, Southeastern, and Mid-South districts of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) and Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT) participating in recovery efforts.
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Photo: Florida-Georgia District of the LCMS
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Photo: Teirsa Lane of Camp Linn Haven
LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer and LCC Disaster Response Director Kathy O’Day are monitoring communication with LCMS Disaster Response and Florida-Georgia District Disaster Response Coordinator Jay Wendland. LCC is engaged in ongoing conversations with multiple LCMS districts and local congregations.
 
“We know that so many lives have been upended and torn apart. They are entering this week without loved ones, homes, power, and basic needs. They need our prayers right now.” Singer said. “As the waters recede and power is restored, LCC stands ready to offer emergency assistance, tangible support, and most importantly, the comfort and hope found only in Jesus Christ.”
 
LCC is able to 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 affected by Helene,” Singer said. 
Thanks to you, Lutheran Church Charities will continue to BE THERE to provide the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those who are struggling, suffering, and in need.
 
Your earnest prayers and kindhearted support are greatly appreciated by the many people affected by Hurricane Helene and those who are responding with help.
LCC never goes where we are not invited.
We NEVER charge those we serve!

If you are compelled to give, please donate to the LCC Disaster Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.
DONATE — LCC DISASTER RESPONSE FUND
Serving Together in the Comfort of Jesus!
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LCC works in coordination with LCMS Disaster Response national and local districts of the LCMS.

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry Teams and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Deploy to Baltimore, Maryland, and Rockford, Illinois, to BE THERE for the Community

3/28/2024

 
Baltimore Bridge Collapse
Rockford Stabbing Attack


"For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones." 
Isaiah 49:13


DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
In light of the tragic bridge collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, and the recent stabbing attack in Rockford, Illinois, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion volunteers are uniting to BE THERE to provide support and comfort to the affected communities. Driven by their faith and compassionate spirit, these dedicated individuals are committed to being a source of solace and assistance for those in need. We are ready to BE THERE!
Baltimore, Maryland
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Rev. Dr. Pres. William Harmon of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Southeastern District and Deaconess Sally Hiller, District Disaster Response Coordinator of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Baltimore, have extended an invitation to LCC to bring our K-9 Comfort Dogs and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion to provide support and comfort to the community and to help those who have been deeply affected by the tragic event.
 
Among the teams ready to respond is LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Kezia (Emmanuel - Baltimore, Maryland). Additional LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams stand by, prepared to offer their services whenever they are needed to assist the shocked and hurting community during this difficult time.

Rockford, Illinois

Pastor James McCoid of Christ The Rock Lutheran Church in Rockford, Illinois, extended an invitation to LCC to bring our K-9 Comfort Dogs to offer solace and support to the community in the wake of a senseless act of violence that killed four beloved members of the community on Wednesday.
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Today, LCC's K-9 Comfort Dogs Asher (Faith Lutheran - Lake Forest, Illinois), Eunice, (LCC Staff), Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois) are in attendance at a Community Vigil at the intersection of Charles Street and Eggleston Road.
 
The teams will stand alongside the grieving community, offering their gentle comfort and support. After the vigil, the dedicated teams will visit Rockford Fire Department Station 11 to show appreciation and offer support to the brave first responders.
Additionally, LCC's Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry (HMC) has placed four hearts and crosses to pay tribute to each victim and in encouragement for community members to sign and write messages to each of the victims' families, embodying the spirit of compassion and unity during this difficult time.
 
We pray that the presence of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion will serve as a reminder that people across the nation love and support them, and that both communities would find solace in the presence of these comforting reminders of the hope we find through Jesus Christ.
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Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.
 
Serving Together in the Comfort of Jesus!
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DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry Teams and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Deploy to Perry, Iowa, to BE THERE for the Community

1/5/2024

 
Sixth-Grader Killed
Seven Other People Injured

"For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones." Isaiah 49:13
yesterday at Perry High School in Perry, Iowa, LCC-affiliated churches, LCC staff, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams, and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion volunteers came together to make a plan to BE THERE for the community. Their actions are 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.
We are ready to BE THERE!
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DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog team from Trinity Lutheran Church in Fremont, Nebraska, with LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Katie and Phinehas, was present last night at two candlelight vigils, bringing love and comfort to the community gathered to support each other.
 
Lutheran Church Charities has been invited by Lynsi Pasutti, Executive Director of Perry Chamber of Commerce, to bring additional LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs, as well as LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, to the shocked and hurting community that this horrific event has greatly impacted.

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity (Brookfield Lutheran - Brookfield, Wisconsin), Eden (Peace – Columbus, Nebraska), Gideon (St. Michael’s - Bloomington, Minnesota), Joanna (Christ Lutheran – Lincoln, Nebraska), Katie and Phinehas (Trinity - Fremont, Nebraska), and their dedicated handlers, will arrive in Perry on Sunday to be present and BE THERE with those who are grieving, bringing them comfort, love, friendship, hope, and prayer.
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The teams will place a Heart of Mercy & Compassion and cross in Perry to honor the memory of the 6th-grade student who was killed and will present Hearts of Mercy & Compassion to the first responders who serve and protect their community.
 
We pray that these Hearts will serve as a reminder that people across the nation love and support them and that the community finds solace in the presence of these comforting reminders of the hope we find through Jesus Christ.
DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.
 
Serving Together in the Comfort of Jesus!
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LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Teams and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Deploy to Lewiston, Maine, to BE THERE for the Community

10/28/2023

 
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18 People Killed
13 Injured


"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
DONATE — LCC K-9 TRAVEL FUND
DONATE — HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION
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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.
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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.

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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.

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 in the Comfort of Jesus!
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Rev. Chris Singer
President/CEO 
Lutheran Church Charities

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

11/23/2022

 
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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

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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

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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.
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University of Idaho Attack – Moscow, Idaho

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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

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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

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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,
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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)

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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.

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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,
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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

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"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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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

 
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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:

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!
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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
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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
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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!
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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

 
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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.
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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.

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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
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Lutheran Church Charities
3020 Milwaukee Ave.
Northbrook, IL 60062
Local: 224-257-4389
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