The HMC and K-9 visits created moments of connection and joy, as hurting individuals found comfort in the gentle presence of a heart bearer, and our loving Comfort Dogs and their dedicated handlers. Each interaction was a testament to the healing power of companionship, as students lit up with smiles or found a moment of respite. Through these ministries, LCC remains committed to providing emotional and spiritual support in times of distress, reminding us all that we are never alone in our struggles. Hundreds visited the memorial site at Apalachee High School where four LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion were set up in memory of each victim. People formed prayer circles and filled the hearts and crosses to the brim with messages of love and support With uplifting sentiments like “God has you,” “Never forgotten,” and the comforting words of Isaiah 41:10, individuals found solace in each other’s presence, reinforcing the importance of emotional and spiritual support during difficult times. The messages of “3 hours away we are praying for you” and “prayers and may God hold you in His loving hands” resonated deeply, reminding us all of the power of community in healing and hope. Through such acts of compassion and mercy, we are reminded that together, we can navigate even the most challenging moments. On Sunday evening the Comfort Dogs and their handlers attended a vigil at Apalachee High School’s football field. The handlers were able to support those who attended, providing a safe and comforting place. The fear of going back to school for both students and parents was there and shared in conversations both spoken and unspoken as well as a deep sadness and pain for those precious lives taken. It was evident to the team that the Winder community is a large family, one of strong faith and hope in God. So many people welcomed prayer from the Comfort Dog Ministry team and were thankful for the prayers shared with them. The Comfort Dog Ministry teams for Faith (St. Stephens - Hickory, North Carolina), Hope (Faith Lutheran - Marietta, Georgia), Jemimah (St. Paul - Boca Raton, Florida), Job (Christ the King - Memphis, Tennesse), Moriah (St. Luke's - Oviedo, Florida), Peace (Trinity - Orlando, Florida), Phinehas (Trinity - Fremont, Nebraska), Seth (Eternal Shepherd - Seneca, South Carolina) and Zoara (Island Lutheran - Hilton Head Island, South Carolina) spent time on Monday with some of the teachers in the Barrow County School System, just being there with them and for them, as they talked, and cuddled with the Comfort Dogs, sharing God’s light in this dark time. It was a time to be together to help them carry the load of their grief and to share smiles and tears.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams will be in Winder, Georgia until Saturday, September 14. We are incredibly thankful for your support, which makes it possible for us to BE THERE where we are needed most. Your donations are making a tangible difference in the lives of the people our dedicated teams of volunteers are able to help. The love, healing, and comfort we are able to provide are a direct result of your generosity. Comments are closed.
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