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“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)  Officer Krystal Rivera A Dream Fulfilled, A Life Sacrificed All Krystal Rivera ever wanted was to be a police officer. That dream came true in 2021 when she was sworn into the Chicago Police Department. Officer Rivera quickly became a beloved presence in the 6th District, known for her dedication, her heart, and her deep love for her 10-year-old daughter, Bella. On June 5, 2025, Officer Rivera was killed in the line of duty during a foot pursuit in Chatham. She had served with distinction for four years. Her tragic death sent waves of sorrow through her fellow officers, her family, and the wider community she served so faithfully. A Community in Mourning, United in Prayer Hundreds gathered outside the Gresham District police station on Wednesday, June 11, for a solemn prayer vigil to honor Officer Rivera’s memory. Friends, family, and community members stood side-by-side with dozens of Chicago police officers—some in uniform, others wearing shirts bearing Rivera’s image. CPD Chaplain Rev. Kimberly Lewis-Davis encouraged all present to lean into their faith for healing and strength.  Chicago police officers who were part of Krystal Rivera’s team wear a shirt commemorating her during a prayer vigil Wednesday outside the Gresham police station at 7808 S. Halsted St. in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood. (Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times) A Ministry of Presence: LCC Offers Support and Hope Among the mourners was Lutheran Church Charities, whose compassionate presence brought hope and spiritual care to both officers and grieving family members. Responding to a request from the Chicago Police Department, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams attended roll call for the officers of the 6th District and stood with the community at the vigil. Rev. Chris Singer, LCC President and CEO, was present alongside dedicated teams that included LCC Comfort Dogs Gethsemane & Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake - IL), Michael (LCC Staff), and LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Nigel (LCC Staff), each accompanied by their trained handlers. Also in attendance was Tim Laabs, Project Manager for Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, who helped facilitate the meaningful tribute with the Heart and Cross memorials. Together, this team provided comfort through their calm presence, empathetic conversations, and unwavering support, reminding all who gathered that they were not alone in their grief. One of the most profound moments came from young Bella, Officer Rivera's daughter. Initially hesitant to join others, she lit up when she saw the dogs. Jeanette, one of the handlers, shared that Bella—still reeling from celebrating her birthday just days after her mother’s passing—found a moment of joy as she bonded with Gethsemane. “She is hurting and has a long road ahead,” Jeanette said, “but she smiled and enjoyed the moment. One of the officers stated that the dogs made all the difference today for Bella. God is good!” Handlers stayed close to the family, walking with them through grief. Jenni shared, “I was surprised at the level of access we had to Krystal’s daughter. She lit up when she met our sweet dogs. That connection—that was God.” She also spoke with Officer Rivera’s friends and coworkers, recognizing the enduring support system that would surround Bella. Hearts of Mercy, Messages of Love At the heart of the vigil—both literally and figuratively—stood the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion. Tim Laabs brought one heart and cross for public messages and another to be gifted to Officer Rivera’s family. Messages like “I will forever miss your good mornings and talking about our girls,” and “Powerpuffs for life” reflected the deep affection and camaraderie Rivera inspired. Other notes offered encouragement: “The pain you feel is all the love you poured into Krystal,” and “May God lift you.” The second heart, passed among Rivera’s fellow officers, bore signatures and sentiments like “We love you and we will always miss you!” and “Great officer—and a BETTER friend.” When complete, the heart was presented to the family by CPD Commander Michael Tate and LCC President Chris Singer. “You are in our hearts and prayers as you grieve the loss of such a wonderful daughter, mom, and officer,” Singer said.  A Chicago police officer writes a message on a memorial board [LCC HMC] for Krystal Rivera during a prayer vigil in her honor Wednesday outside the Gresham District police station at 7808 S. Halsted St. in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood. (Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times) Answering the Call to Bring Hope for the Hurting Each handler present shared how divine timing and meaningful conversations unfolded throughout the day. Danielle reflected, “It isn’t always about the experiences you expect—it’s the connections that happen when you show up.” Valerie added, “To be there to love on those who knew and loved Officer Rivera was a blessing.” Jim, another handler, summed it up best: “What I experienced yesterday was one of God’s miracles. The love, compassion, and mercy displayed by everyone present could not have occurred without divine intervention. The Comfort Dogs brought mercy. The officers brought love. And the community brought honor. It was a beautiful thing to behold.” In the face of unspeakable grief, the ministry of Lutheran Church Charities offered a tangible expression of God's comfort. Through Comfort Dogs, Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, and the quiet faith of those present, they helped carry a community through a moment of heartbreak—reminding all that love, indeed, still lives.
Support the ongoing ministry of Lutheran Church Charities as we bring hope and healing to first responders, families, and communities in crisis. Together, we can be a light in the darkest moments. Comments are closed.
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