 "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:1-2 NIV)
Faith is one of 63 LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs who are dual-vested, trading her traditional blue LCC K-9 vest for her camouflage one when she goes out for ministry visits with her handlers Mace and Quinlan who are veterans. Started in 2014, the LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry is carried out by veterans for veterans, serving current and past military members and their families. Faith and other Kare 9s regularly spend time in VFW centers, VA hospitals, Traumatic Brain Injury Care centers, clinics, expos, and military ceremonies and activities. At each stop, the mission is the same — to spread the mercy and compassion of Jesus Christ. A Comfort Dog’s Love and Veterans’ Hope with Faith Leading the Way  At VTC, Faith’s impact is quiet, yet profound. Many veterans, struggling with PTSD, addiction, and the weight of their past, find comfort in her presence. Whether it’s a simple pat on her head or a quiet moment of companionship, Faith offers something words often cannot—a sense of peace. “Everything was new, and I was kind of nervous with anticipatory excitement,” one veteran recalled about his first VTC experience. “Faith helped me focus on what was happening right then and there, instead of being scattered. She helped me center myself and just be in the moment.” Faith’s presence has become so meaningful that veterans often ask, “Where is Faith?” if she is absent. Her ability to bring light into the courtroom is undeniable. One participant shared, “Faith really brings a light with her when she comes into the courthouse.” A Story of Redemption and Unwavering Love  Bryan, a veteran who spent over a decade homeless and battling addiction, found hope and transformation through VTC and the Comfort Dog’s ministry. From the moment he met Faith and her handlers, his journey took a turn toward healing. Through their encouragement, Bryan joined St. Stephens’ Warriors of Our Faith (WOOF) team where he found camaraderie and purpose. Despite his initial fears of judgment, he took a bold step and attended Sunday service at St. Stephens. “I was welcomed with open arms and became a member of the St. Stephens family,” he shared. Meeting Pastors David and Shea further deepened Bryan’s journey. “They spoke to me as if we had known each other for years and assured me they were there whenever I needed them.” Now, after nearly two years of sobriety, Bryan’s life is unrecognizable from his days on the streets. “None of this would have been possible without the love and support from St. Stephens, their Bible study, and Faith Comfort Dog. Because of them and God, I am truly a better man.” From the depths of hardship to the light of faith and healing, Bryan’s journey is a testament to the power of love, community, and God’s grace. A Community of Support  “Victory Earned Together” December 6, 2024: 25th Judicial District, 36th Prosecutorial District, Catawba County Veterans Treatment Court Graduation Ceremony. L to R: Graduate Casey Olivieri (Army), Honorable Scott Reilly District Attorney District 36, Graduate Ricky Moose (Army), Honorable David Aycock District Court & VTC Judge (Army), Graduate Jason Campbell (Army), and Congressman Elect Pat Harrigan (Army). The Veterans Treatment Court is unique—it’s not just about legal proceedings but about healing. Unlike traditional courtrooms, VTC fosters camaraderie, mutual respect, and personal growth. Veterans facing struggles are met with compassion and given the tools they need to rebuild their lives. Faith’s work begins before the court session even starts. Veterans arrive early, undergoing drug tests and preparing for hearings. During this time, Faith and her handlers, Melissa and John, move through the waiting area, offering comfort. A simple wag of Faith’s tail or a quiet moment of companionship helps ease the tension and anxiety that so many veterans carry. The impact of this ministry extends beyond the courtroom. A Friday night Bible study, launched the Friday of Labor Day weekend 2024, has become an essential part of many veterans’ recovery journeys. This spiritual outlet has been so meaningful that the court system now recognizes it as a voluntary but highly encouraged class for VTC participants. The support of probation officers, court clerks, and law enforcement has also been invaluable, with many engaging with Faith during court breaks. Faith in Action
As Simple as Being There  November 21, 2024: Congratulations to the newest participant of Veterans Treatment Court: Tabitha Bumgarner. She has also started attending church at St. Stephens as well as being a part of the HALO Bible study and the praise team. The Veterans Treatment Court and its extended community, supported by Faith Comfort Dog, is a powerful reminder of what it means to truly be there for someone. Through kindness, spiritual support, and the unconditional love of a comfort dog, veterans are finding a way to heal, rebuild, and thrive. In this unique setting, veterans are not just treated as cases; they are seen as individuals worthy of respect, compassion, and a chance at redemption. The presence of Faith Comfort Dog has created a ripple effect of kindness and transformation. Veterans who graduate from the VTC often return to mentor new participants, offering the same support they once received. Some have gone on to become counselors, helping others overcome the struggles they themselves once faced. Faith’s veteran handler, John, has witnessed this transformation firsthand. “The judge knows everybody personally and checks in every two weeks,” he explains. “It’s rigorous, but it’s also full of support. Many participants say they’ve never had this kind of help before.” For ministry partner Ralph, the calling to help veterans has become a way of life. “If somebody wants to go to church, I’m going to take them. I don’t care what their story is,” he says. From giving rides to helping find housing, Ralph has stepped in where help is needed most. “I was the last person I thought would be good at this, but it’s been a bigger blessing for me than for anybody I’ve prayed for or helped.” Finding Family and Faith VTC graduate Tabitha with Faith. “St. Stephens is my heart. This is where I belong. This is family,” shares a veteran who found not just a place of worship at the church but a family, recalling how the community welcomed her with open arms. For Kirk Hymes, Lutheran Church Extension Fund District Vice President Southeastern District, a retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Lay Deacon at St. Stephens, ministry is about making connections—often in the most unexpected ways. “Isn’t it amazing that this is all the result of one little golden retriever named Faith? These are veterans who may have gotten out of their lane and into some trouble,” Kirk shares. “But through Bible study, they’re finding something familiar—strong bonds, leadership, and the kind of brotherhood they had in the service.” “This is a place to come and learn. This is a place to come in and just have a good time and be able to be around other veterans,” they reflected. In each of these spaces, faith and community make all the difference. What started as an outreach has grown into a powerful community of veterans discovering that they are stronger together—and even stronger in the Word of God. Thank You for Making a Difference  LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog ministry is built on presence, love, and action. The work of Faith Comfort Dog and her dedicated team from St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Hickory N.C., is making a lasting impact in the lives of the veterans who bravely served our country.
As the team continues to serve, their mission remains clear: to offer unwavering support, comfort, PRESENCE and HOPE to those who need it most. With Faith Comfort Dog, the ministry is helping to rewrite the stories of these veterans, offering them not just a moment of comfort in court, but a new beginning in life. If you feel called to support this ministry, we invite you to take the next step. Because of your generous donations to the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry, lives are being transformed. Thank you for making a difference! Comments are closed.
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