"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2 Rockford, Illinois Last week, the city of Rockford, Illinois, faced moments of unimaginable shock, fear, suffering, and loss after two violent incidents struck this community.
![]() We are so grateful to the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams of Asher (Faith Lutheran - Lake Forest, Illinois), Eunice (LCC Staff), Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), and Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois), for being there for the Rockford community. Sarah Sekki, LCC Director of Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, and Tim Laabs, LCC staff, brought four hearts and crosses to pay tribute to the four lives lost. The victims' names were inscribed on each heart, and prayers were lifted for strength and support. The solemn procession to the vigil site, with hearts and crosses in hand, symbolized a collective effort to uplift and remember. Witnessing the outpouring of flowers and silent contemplation at the foot of each cross was a poignant reminder of the impact of loss. When the vigil location was suddenly relocated, community members were the first ones to pick up the crosses and move them to the center of the vigil to ensure the names remained at the forefront, showcasing a deep commitment to honoring and cherishing the memories of those no longer with us. We pray that the presence of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion served as a reminder of the hope we find through Jesus Christ.
God asks us to love one another and carry each other’s burdens. We are thankful for the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams that responded to be there for the Rockford community to love, support, and listen, always carrying Jesus with them. Jac-Cen-Del High School - Osgood, Indiana ![]() LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Claudia (Trinity - Toledo, Ohio), Dove (Peace - Fremont, Indiana), Magdalene (Cornerstone - Carmel, Indiana), and Naomi (Holy Cross - Indianapolis, Indiana), traveled to Jac-Cen-Del High School in Osgood, Indiana, to be with the students and staff who are mourning the loss of Carson Hughes who meant so much to this small community. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams spent two days at Jac-Cen-Del High School, middle school, and elementary school in Osgood at the request of Superintendent Sam Melton after their community faced the heartbreaking loss Carson Hughes, a senior at Jac-Cen-Del High School, was reported missing on Friday, March 15. After three emotional days of searching, police found his body at Versailles State Park. "Carson was a senior and honor roll student at the high school. Many remembered him for his infectious smile, kindness, and love for his family, friends, and faith. Carson’s passion was photography. His beautiful photos earned Carson much recognition and awards for his work, skill, and passion." (from Carson's Obituary) "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20) Community is important when we suffer loss as it helps us to process and heal. As LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams gathered around the hurting students and staff, Jesus was there with them, an anchor in the storm of grief and uncertainty. The handlers and ministry partners, with Claudia, Dove, Magdalene, and Naomi Comfort Dogs by their side, sat with the students, listening and comforting them. The students and staff signed the Heart of Mercy & Compassion for Carson with messages for his family. The students colored pictures of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in the coloring books, encouraging more conversation and smiles. Carson’s friends and classmates rotated between the Comfort Dogs, seeking their comforting touch and warmth. It was good to see smiles and the heaviness of grief ease from the young shoulders. The school has requested that the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs return to Jac-Cen-Del High School in May to continue to support the students in their grief. With the anticipation of prom, finals, and graduation, it may be difficult for the students, especially the seniors who will miss their classmate Carson. The teams of Claudia, Dove, Magdalene, and Naomi Comfort Dogs replied, “Here am I, send me” (Isaiah 6:8) and said they would return in May to be with the students and staff, strengthening the cherished connections already made. York Community School - Elmhurst, Illinois
We are thankful the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers could be there for the students and staff, walking alongside them in their grief.
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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