November 24, 2010 In This Issue
Large Tornado hits Northern Illinois Help Bring Water Purification Filters to Haitian Families Suffering from Cholera LCC's Newest Comfort Dogs in Training! Your Donations Make A Difference Tim Hetzner at Trinity Burr Ridge for LCMS Human Care Sunday Three LERT Training Sessions Scheduled for 2011 God's Invitation to Volunteer in His Work in the Gulf States Young Couple in Need of Car after Accident Church Secretary With Serious Eye Condition in Need of Assistance Housing Needed for Winter for Woman and Her Mother Help Keep Pastor Doug Hoag out of Jail New Boiler Needed A German Christmas..."Liederfest 2010" Malaria Initiative Comfort Dog Update Congregational Preparedness New Bible Study Classes Thrivent Choice Tim's Pick of the Week Job Seekers and Employers Holiday Craft Shows Upcoming Events How To Support LCC
Prayer Wall
Large Tornado hits Northern Illinois Monday, November 22's unseasonably warm temperatures created severe storms that swept across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. The small town of Caledonia, northeast of Rockford, Illinois, was severely hit by a quarter- to half-mile wide tornado, destroying homes and businesses in this community of 200+ people. Tim Hetzner from LCC and Rev. Keith Haney from the Northern Illinois District office were on location early Tuesday morning to meet with churches in the area, assess the damage and determine the needed response. Immanuel Lutheran in Belvidere has a mission congregation in Poplar Grove, just to the east of Caledonia, which will be used as a center for response operations. LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) volunteers have Rev. Kurtis Bueltmann, been placed on alert. LCC will begin deploying volunteers as Mission Pastor for soon as we receive clearance from the local authorities due Immanuel North, Poplar to downed power lines in the area. Grove
Click here to view photos
How to Help 1. Pray - Pray for those who have lost property and belongings, for the Pastors, relief workers, volunteers and all others serving those who have been displaced by the tornado. 2. Contribute to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund. Financial contributions are needed now and for the days ahead to assist the mission congregation in Poplar Grove as they reach out to serve their community in the aftermath of the tornado. 3. Volunteer - We are anticipating needing volunteers Friday and Saturday - and possibly into next week. Click here if you are able to volunteer As tragic these recent events are, they are open doors for the People of God to be the Church in Action showing the COMPASSION of Christ, along with the PRESENCE of Christ, and PROCLAIMING Christ in all we do! Serving Together, Serving Christ, so we can serve others IN HIS NAME, Tim Hetzner President, Lutheran Church Charities Click here to contribute to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund
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LCC's Prayer Wall
Help Bring Water Purification Filters to Haitian Families Suffering from Cholera Lutheran Church Charities is collecting donations to purchase water purification filters for families in Haiti. Each filter costs $30 and will provide a family of six with clean water for five years, as long as the filter is cleaned with a water/beach solution. Click here to donate to purchase Water Purification Systems for Haitian families Click here to read the article posted in the Daily Herald [pdf]
LCC connects needs with resources, working with more than 400 congregations to help Christians "Make a Difference in People's Lives and in God's Kingdom" To meet our staff, click here
The technology of the water filter is simple, effective, and, sustainable. A round-bottom ceramic pot is made from a mixture of clay, a combustible material (sawdust or rice husks), and colloidal silver. The colloidal silver is a naturally occurring anti-bacterial which improves the bacteria removal rate for the filter. First, the clay and combustible are both sieved through a fine mesh screens, then mixed together with a measured amount of silver and water until a homogeneous mixture is formed.
The mixture is made into a filter using a filter press. It is kiln fired to about 1000 degrees Celsius, burning out the combustible material and leaving micro pores For more information about coated with the silver to clean the water. During the firing process, about ½ inch of charcoal is produced within the filter to improve taste and color. The filter, which is LCC and its human care ministry, please contact LCC designed with a rim, is placed on a five gallon plastic storage bucket with a spigot at the bottom for dispensing. staff at: A lid is placed on the filter to prevent LCC@LutheranChurch contamination. When used, water is poured Charities.org through the ceramic pot and filtered into a plastic receptacle bucket (approx 5 gal) with a More... spigot at the bottom. Safe drinking water is easily poured from the spigot by all members of the household.
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The flow rate of the filter ranges from 20 to 30 liters per day depending upon how often the filter is refilled. Filters are cleaned by lightly scrubbing the surface when flow rate is reduced, and it is recommended that the filter is boiled every three months to insure optimum effectiveness. The effective useful life of the filter is at least 5 years. Click here to Help Bring Water Purification Filters to Haitian Families Suffering from Cholera Click here to download a PR poster for your church in Letter size Click here to download a PR poster for your church in Legal size
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LCC's Newest Comfort Dogs in Training! There is a new member of the LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dog team. Pictured here with Pete Imlah is our new puppy, Gracie. Gracie is ½ European Cream Golden Retriever and ½ American Golden Retriever. This puppy was donated to LCC for the Comfort Dog Ministry by Debbie Szwandrok. Debbie owns Eclipse Dog Grooming (Click here for more info) and provides free grooming services for several of our Comfort Dogs. She also breeds Golden Retrievers (Click here for more info). Debbie has graciously donated this puppy to help in the purchase of Top Gun "Gunnar" the K-9 Parish Comfort Dog placed at Walther Lutheran High School and St. Paul Lutheran Church and School. Gracie's full AKC name is Amazing Grace Ephesians 2:8 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God ." Gracie will be trained for the next seven months and then she will be placed into a Lutheran church and or school.
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here
Your Donations Make A Difference On Wednesday, November 17th, LCC volunteer Helmut Mueller delivered a corporate donation of food to Christ the King Lutheran Church in Chicago. Christ the King will use the food as part of their ongoing outreach to those in need in their community.
On Thursday, November 18th, Mr. Jim Stephen and his daughter Katie, from Pharmaceutical Laboratory Consultants, delivered a donation of hand Sanitizers, soap, and lotions to the LCC offices in Addison.
Tim Hetzner at Trinity Burr Ridge for LCMS Human Care Sunday This past Sunday, November 22nd, Tim Hetzner spoke at both services at Trinity Lutheran Church in Burr Ridge. It was LCMS Human Care Sunday so Tim spoke on the Human Care mission and activities of LCC. Between services he spoke to the Adult Bible Class about LCC's work in Haiti. Tim was joined by LCC Comfort Dog Howe. Pictured: Tim Hetzner with Pastor Bob Geaschel and an Elder from Trinity
Three LERT Training Sessions Scheduled for 2011 Saturday, January 8th - St. Paul Lutheran Church, Thornton, IL Saturday, February 12th - Our Savior Lutheran Church, Louisville, KY Tuesday, February 22nd - Fellowship of Faith, McHenry, IL Registration is $20 and helps cover the cost of the training materials, meal, and the LERT T-shirt, which is required to be worn in a disaster response situation. Registration can be paid by credit card online at time of registration or by cash or check at the door. To register click here. In order to better manage volunteers and resources, FEMA is finalizing a guideline on credentialing volunteers for large-scale disasters. The federal guidelines indicate that volunteers responding to a disaster should be trained and certified. LCC is providing training for Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT) throughout our district. Should a disaster strike these teams would be put on call and may be asked to deploy in 72 hours or less to the disaster site. This training will prepare team member for credentialing and will focus on the safety, work, and ministry of Lutherans as Early Responders. Click here to register. For more information, call Dianna Bonfield at 866-455-6466.
God's Invitation to Volunteer in His Work in the Gulf States This past week LCC staff member Dianna Bonfield had the opportunity to see the Lord at work through his Church in the inner cities of Houston and New Orleans when she visited LINC Houston and RAI- Camp Restore. During the last five years following Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav and Ike God has been working through his people. Through the ministries of LINC Houston, headquartered at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church- Houston and RAI-Camp Restore headquartered at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, New Orleans, God's people are bringing hope and healing as they live out the love and compassion of Christ to the communities around them. Through the ministries of LINC and RAI God invites you and I to work along side of Him as He touches and heals people's lives. Beyond rebuilding homes the camps offer volunteer opportunities helping with ELS classes, VBS programs, tutoring or other education activities; children & youth ministries, working in the Food Pantries and other food & clothing distribution programs as well as office, maintenance and housekeeping opportunities at the camps. Both camps offer short term ministry opportunities; single events or one and two week mission trips for youth, adults and families. They also have a great need for long term volunteers.
Are you a snow bird who spends your winters in South Texas or the New Orleans area where you might be able to commute to the camp one or two days a week to assist in these exciting ministries? If you or your group would be interested in volunteering and being part of this vibrant, exciting ministry contact Dianna Bonfield - LCC Volunteer Coordinator for more details at Dianna@LutheranChurchCharities.org.
Young Couple in Need of Car after Accident
Request from Pastor Dan Hawkins, New Song Community Lutheran Church, Aurora, Illinois There is a young couple at New Song that have been members since 2009. The young man is a personal trainer at a popular health club in the West Suburb. Recently the couple has faced several trials and financial setbacks. After breaking several ribs in an auto accident that happened six months ago, the couple asked me if I could help them with their need for another car. I told them that Lutheran Church Charities has been an extraordinary help in the past and has helped New Song families in need by providing cars on several occasions. I shared with them that LCC may be able to do that again for them. Please know we are truly grateful for any help you can provide. If you have a car to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Church Secretary With Serious Eye Condition in Need of Assistance
Request from Pastor Joe Ardy, Ascension Lutheran Church, Cleburne, Texas Jennifer, who was a part-time secretary at a small church in Cleburne, Texas, recently became ill with a strange and undiagnosed medical condition that has affected her eyes. One day in September, she woke with red eyes, that progressed to inflammation, that progressed to cloudy and impaired vision. The consensus of two eye doctors is that the eyes are a secondary site of inflammation caused by an auto-immune disease which is as yet unknown. She had to leave her job because she cannot see well enough to work at a computer and perform her duties. Focusing on a computer screen or reading for more than a few moments causes pain. Every day she sees life through "crumbled cellophane and fog." She cannot read or drive. An optometrist in her congregation has been seeing her and has treated her symptoms, but the underlying cause has yet to be found. She is currently under the care of an ophthalmologist, who requested blood work that cost over $800, the results of which were negative for three auto-immune diseases. He is requesting other tests and wanting her to see a rhuematologist. The testing will continue until the auto-immune diseases are eliminated and one is left standing. She has also seen her primary physician who could not find any underlying cause for the eye condition. Once diagnosed and treated, Jennifer will require two different eye surgeries. All these require funds that her family cannot provide. Her husband, who was laid off from his job in January, is currently on unemployment and there is no insurance for the family. He has applied for over 100 different positions, and is currently attending classes under a grant to become a paramedic. They have four sons, three living at home. Any assistance with these mounting medical bills would be such a blessing to this family. Click here to donate
Items Needed for Salam Arabic Fellowship Request from Pastor Hicham Chehab, Salam Arabic Fellowship, Lombard, Illinois
Salam is in need of a combo DVD/VHS player to use in their Bible Studiesfor families served by Salam. Please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org if you have a DVD/VHS player to donate.
Request from Rev Abraham Mengesha, EECMYCES President of the Lutheran Church in Ethiopia Lutheran Church in Ethiopia Risks losing their property to meet. I received the following email: Yesterday the Elders of the Dukem Congregation ,which you visited, came to my office and forwarded their challenge from the town administration. Either to build the standard church building or leave the place. Of course they have been doing all their best to raise some fund as much as they can. But still they are not able to meet the expected amount. The total cost that is needed to build the church building is equivalent to 15,000 USD. If we get 10,000 USD support from you, we will raise the rest, 5,000 USD from the members. I have attached pictures. I have attached three pictures. Two of them are the pictures of the congregation and the last one is just to let you see how we travel to reach to some of our parishes and congregations. If you could please help. Without building a church building on the property, the town administration will take away the property and give to the Muslims. Thank you Brother. - Rev. Abraham I visited the Elders of this church on my last Visit to Ethiopia. The need is great and the church is growing. Without keeping the property, they willhave no place to meet. Ethiopia is the last predominately Christian country in Africa and Islam is trying to change that. This is a very strategic location for the Christian Church - Our Lutheran Brothers and Sisters in Ethiopia. Please keep them in your prayers and consider helping them. - Tim Hetzner Click here to donate
Housing Needed for Winter for Woman and Her Mother
Requested by Pastor Gerald Menk, Faith Lutheran Church, Lake Forest, Illinois The leaves are falling and cold weather is coming. A woman and her mother are in need of housing during the winter months. They are willing to help in any way, for example cooking or babysitting children in exchange for a room in a house. Your prayers and any assistance you can offer will be a blessing. If you have a room available please call the church office at (847) 234-1868
Family In Need of $3,900 for Funeral Expenses
Request from Pastor Timothy Speckman, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Flint, Michigan I recently conducted a funeral for a lifelong Lutheran; her family is devastated both emotionally and financially. Patricia was taken home following a two-year battle with cancer and her family is unable to pay the remainder of the funeral expenses. Initially, the family was turned down by a funeral home and another facility accepted the responsibility even though they were uncertain of receiving payment. The outstanding balance is $3900. The Flint Area's unemployment rate is one of the worst in the nation and the members of her family are struggling with job loss and are unable to contribute. Any assistance that you could offer the least of these would be a tremendous blessing to this family and a well deserved thanks to the funeral home. Click here to donate
Nikki Berg and Her Twin Daughters, Ella and Lina Request from NID President Rev. Dan Gilbert
Update: Tim Hetzner was presented with a check by Pastor Paul Mumme from the attendants of the South Region Pastors Conference to help assist the Berg family.
With the sudden death of her husband, Rev Darrel Berg, a special fund has been set up with Lutheran Church Charities to help Nikki and her two-year-old twin daughters, Ella and Lina, with living expenses. Any financial assistance would be greatly appreciated to help them at this difficult time. Help show the Mercy and Compassion of Christ to the Berg family. To contribute please click here or send your gift to LCC at 333 W Lake St, Addison IL 60101 and mark you check Berg Fund, or call LCC at 866-455-6466 and talk with Tim Hetzner.
$1,000 Needed for Medical Costs for Special Needs Woman
Request from Pastor Matthew Gunia, Zion Lutheran Church, Lyons, Illinois and Faith Lutheran Church, Westchester, Illinois I would like to request help for a community member that I am working with who has some medical issues. She is 27 years old and is a special needs person. She does not have health insurance and developed a yeast infection two months ago. The infection wasn't treated properly and ended up turning into a kidney and bladder infection. She's been scraping up money and visiting the doctor and getting prescriptions here and there, but because of the cost she hasn't been consistent enough so the infection has not cleared. She's lost quite a bit of weight. She is in need of money to pay for her doctor visits and prescriptions to get the infection knocked out or possibly a doctor who would be willing to treat her pro-bono. She has had many challenges in her life and is very skeptical. She has a lot of trouble believing that someone would actually help her without expecting something in return. She knows and trusts me, but is positive that any help she may get will have strings attached. Any help would be such a blessing and such a witness to her about the Body of Christ. Click here to donate
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12
The Gospel is Still the Best Way to Counter Terrorism!
Help Support our Lutheran Outreach Efforts in Lebanon Lebanon is one of the few countries in the Middle East that still has a Christian population. It is a strategic country to reach Muslims in the Middle East. The Lutheran Church has been actively involved in Gospel outreach in Lebanon since the 1950's. Because of Mission cutbacks, support is desperately needed to continue bringing the Gospel to those of the Islamic faith. Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, will be traveling to Lebanon to meet with our Lutheran Missionaries there to help share the story of the work that is going and can be done! They are desperately in need of our support and prayers during this time of unrest in the Middle East. If we want to effectively fight terrorism, we need to use the only weapon that will make a difference - the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Please help our fellow Christians in Lebanon continue to proclaim the Gospel and serve those in need with the Mercy and Compassion of Christ. To help, send your support to: Lutheran Church Charities, 333 W Lake St, Addison IL 60101 or call LCC at 866-455-6466 or click here for online donations. Dr. Rev. Bernie Lutz shares a brief history of Middle East Lutheran Ministry (pdf)
LCMS Pastor Hicham Chehab shares why he asked LCC to Get Involved (video - 1:50) LCMS Pastor Hicham Chehab describes the need in Lebanon, with introduction by Pete Imlah, LCC's Director of Mission and Outreach (video - 4:22)
Click here to view more videos from Pastor Hicham Chehab's interview Click here to donate
Help Keep Pastor Doug Hoag out of Jail HELP!! I'M GOING TO JAIL!!!
For some of you that might be good news (but not too many of you, I hope). Actually, I'm going to the clink to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. If I raise my "bail" then I get to avoid the slammer. My bail has been set for $1000. Can you help me? ANYTHING you can donate would be helpful-- I might suggest $25 or $50 from individuals, or $100 from businesses-- but I'm a fugitive so I can't be too extravagant in my requests. AND... It's easy. You can donate online safely and securely. Your donation is tax deductible!! (Hello!!!!!) Just click here. You'll be taken to my personal MDA webpage where you'll find a GARGANTUAN Donate Button. Click it... AND... You will not only have helped keep me out of sing-sing, but you'll be helping a local family who is struggling with this life-sapping disease for an entire year! The difference you can help make in the life of a family might seem insignificant to you, but to them it makes a world of difference! Again, just go to my personal MDA Website to donate! My big heart thanks your big heart!! Doug
New Boiler Needed at St. Paul Lutheran School Dorchester Request from Sara Boedecker-Johnston, Principal, St Paul Lutheran School, Chicago
Update:
Sara Boedecker-Johnston receives a check from LCC of your donations. Thank you to those who have contributed to this ongoing need. Your donations are Making a Difference for the students at St. Paul St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran School at 7621 South Dorchester in Chicago is facing an unexpected and significant expense. During a routine maintenance inspection this week, we were told that the boiler has cracked and must be replaced. The cost for a new boiler is $20,000, an amount that cannot be squeezed out of our already lean budget. With inclement Chicago weather just around the corner, we
must act quickly to ensure that our students can continue to learn in a warm, safe building. We are seeking prayers and monetary assistance from individuals and congregations. St. Paul serves 90 students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade on the south side of Chicago in the Grand Crossing neighborhood. Over 90% of our students qualify for free and reduced lunch and receive financial assistance to attend school. Your support at this crucial time will help us fulfill our mission: bringing children to know Jesus Christ while providing a quality, academic education in a safe, disciplined environment promoting social, mental, physical and spiritual growth. Click here to donate
Help Lutheran Hour Ministries Build Wells in Ghana - Each Well Costs $3,300
Request from Rev. John Donkoh, Director of Lutheran Media Ministry, Ghana, West Africa Lutheran Media Ministry, part of Lutheran Hour Ministries, is based in Ghana, West Africa. Rev. John Donkoh, Director of Lutheran Media Ministry, is raising support to build Bore Holes, or wells, in different towns in Ghana as a tool for ministry. They are not only reaching out to fellow countrymen, but also to the widows that the government has forced to live as outcasts in (L to R) Gary Kessler, Rev. John Donkoh, places called Witch Camps. The goal of Tim Hetzner these wells is to provide clean water, and to display the love and compassion of Christ to those who need it. Gary Kessler (Member of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, La Fox, Illinois) has been working with Rev. John Donkoh to spread the word about this ministry and help gain support. Click here to watch a video of Gary Kessler and Rev. John Donkoh discussing this project To support Lutheran Media Ministry's efforts please click here to donate.
A German Christmas "Liederfest 2010" ( German Christmas Song Festival )
Sankt Johannes Kirche
am
Sonntag, den 5. Dezember 16 Uhr 30 (4:30 pm) 路 Weihnachtslieder - Lesungen 路 Choere - Erfrischungen 4939 W Montrose Ave in Chicago ( 2 blocks west of Cicero Ave) Ample parking in lot & on the streets For Information: (773) 736-1112
* Alle sind herzlich eingeladen *
Malaria Initiative Update: LCC received the following email from a Pastor in Ghana who received treatment for Malaria from Dr. Busse during her recently medical mission trip to Ghana. The results have been wonderful! Below is now another testimony on the value this treatment can bring to the Christian Church - at pennies a dose. This is all being done to provide the Christian Church another tool to touch lives with mercy and compassion and healing - in the name of Christ. I am very very happy to write to inform you that your malaria treatment I received in Kumasi when you came to Ghana works well and it is better than any other treatment I have ever received for malaria. Malaria kills many many children in Ghana as well as adults. I will be very happy if you can come to Bawku to help us. We are hoping and praying to see you. Ever since I received the treatment I never experience malaria again at all. COME AND HELP US TO BE FREE FROM MALARIA! Pastor Celtus Alale Bawku Lutheran Mission West Africa, Ghana For more on the Malaria Initiative, click here Visit their web site: www.malaria01.org or E-mail: malaria01@yahoo.com Click here to view a video about this project Click here to donate
Comfort Dog Update Star and Tillie at Prayer Vigil On Tuesday, November 16th, Trinity Lutheran Church in Lansing hosted a Prayer Vigil for the community. During difficult and trying times the answer is not complaining but taking our concerns and fears to the One who loves and cares for us. There is much comfort and power in prayer. With this in mind, Pastor Paul Appold opened the doors of Trinity to its members and community to join together for a day of prayer. He invited the LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs and had massage chairs available for individuals to get comfort from petting a dog and getting a backrub.
Tillie Visits Daisy Troop in Bolingbrook On Tuesday, November 16th, LCC Comfort Dog Tillie visited with 14 Kindergarten girls from a Daisy Troop in Bolingbrook. The girls are working on their badge for being considerate and caring. Pete Imlah shared with the girls how LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs are used to bring the mercy and compassion of Jesus Christ to those in need physically, emotionally and spiritually. Pete also shared with the girls how to care for a dog and how to approach someone who is walking their dog. The girls loved petting Tillie and each of them got a chance to brush Tillie... which Tillie really loved.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in Bourbonnais On Wednesday, November 17th LCC Comfort Dogs Grace, Hope, Star, and Tillie were at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School in Bourbonnais for a K-9 Chapel Talk. Pete Imlah shared with the students and was then presented with a check from the student body to support the K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs. The comfort dogs visited each of the classrooms and their handlers shared how the K-9s are used as bridges to connect people to the mercy and compassion of Jesus Christ.
Pete Imlah Shares at Comfort Dog Spaghetti Dinner On Saturday, November 20th Trinity Lutheran Church in Hobart, Indiana hosted a Comfort Dog Spaghetti Dinner. The proceeds from this dinner will be used to cover medical cost for Fuerst, the Comfort Dog who passed away on October 12th. It was determined by the medical team at Purdue University that Fuerst contracted a fungal infection called blastomycosis which led to his passing. Members from surrounding Lutheran churches were invited to this dinner and Pete Imlah shared with them about the LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs and how they are being used as outreach tools by Lutheran churches and schools.
Click here to schedule a K-9 Comfort Dog visit
Donate to the K-9 Parish Comfort Dog Ministry
Dog Grooming Services Donated Lutheran Church Charities thanks Leslie MacFabe for the donation of her time and talent in grooming LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Olympia and Faith.
Disasters Can Hit Anytime Anywhere, Therefore LCC Will Continue To Offer Congregational Preparedness Training LCMS Human Care and World relief has put together the training and tools needed for a congregation to develop a plan for being prepared if a disaster hits. Not only that - LCC and the District Disaster Response Team are trained and willing to take your congregation through the plan. This takes about 3 hours with key leaders of your church. Members of LCC and the District Disaster Response team will continue to consult with your congregation, helping you through each of the various aspects to have a plan in place. Congregational Preparedness Training (CPT) addresses questions like "Do we have a contingency plan in the event that the pastor becomes a victim of a disaster?" or "In the event that a tornado is bearing down on our church on Sunday morning during worship service who should be the person to say we need to evacuate the sanctuary and where is the safest place for all these people to go?" Having recognized that God often uses disaster to open doors for his Church to do ministry, participants address questions like "What are some ways that our congregation can offer Christ's comfort to the community after a disaster?" or "What happens to the church budget - can designated funds be used in times of crises?" If you are interested in scheduling a CPT session, Click here to fill out the CPT interest form. If you are interested in scheduling a CPT session please contact Dianna Bonfield at 866455-6466 or email Dianna@LutheranChurchCharities.org
How to Conduct a Successful Mission Fair LCC's Newest Resource FREE for Congregations! Has your church considered hosting a Mission Fair for your congregation? For your Community? Tim Hetzner and staff of LCC have put together an online resource that can help you do this. It is a step by step guide on how to plan a successful Mission Fair - along with sample letters and everything you will need. In fact, if you are planning a Mission Fair, LCC will help you promote it - all free of charge. Request your copy of HOW TO CONDUCT A SUCCESSFUL MISSION FAIR here or call Lutheran Church Charities at 866-455-6466
Vehicle Donations Needed for Families in Need LCC has received numerous requests from churches for vehicles for families in need of reliable transportation. The need for cars and vans to provide a means for getting to work, school and medical appointments has never been higher. If you have a working car or van please consider donating it to LCC for one of these families.
All vehicles that are donated to LCC go directly out to families or individuals through our congregations. NO vehicles are sold. If you have a vehicle to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Looking for Ways to Share the Mercy and Compassion of Christ to Those in Your Church and Community? We are in hard economic times. "Times are terrible" many say. But just think what a blessing God has given us to share the Mercy and Compassion of Christ! The door is wide open for the Church to be the Church. Jesus showed us by his life that we are to be the church that "Does Feet" (John 13). People say that they would "do" evangelism, they would reach out to people in need, but their church simply does not have the money right now to do it, things are tight! Dear Christian brothers and sisters, it doesn't take money to touch those in need and pain - it takes you and your willingness to follow Jesus' example. If you would like a staff member of LCC to come out and share ways for you and your church to reach your members and community with the Mercy and Compassion of Christ - without money - contact us at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org. We would be more than happy to come and work with you! By the way, we can even bring our K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs with us. This also will NOT cost you!
Looking to be in a Bible Study? Does Your Church Want to Host a Study? Your Small Group? Indicate Your Interest Here
Register Online - Click Here Looking to Host a Bible Study? WORD AMONG US Bible Studies
Lutheran Church Charities In-Depth Bible Studies WORD AMONG US - May be your Solution!
Free for Congregations! If you would like to be a host site click here If you would like to join an existing class - click here If you would like to take a course by Internet - click here
Short-Format Courses Long-Format Courses James: 5-week course Philippians: 5-week course Jude: 1-week course Jonah::3-week course Proverbs: 10-week course Know that God Exists: 1-week course Esther: 5-week course
Cover To Cover: A Journey Through The Bible 60-week course The Gospel of John 31-week course Apocalypsis Jesu Christus: The Book of Revelation 30-week course
For more information and registration, Click Here... To find out more information contact Tim Hetzner at 866-455-6466 or email at WAU@LutheranChurchCharities.org
LCC in Need of Snow Plow LCC has a need for a snow plow. The truck that it will go on is a 2000 Ford F250 Super Duty. For more information or if you have a plow to donate please call LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Thrivent Choice - Help Support Making A Difference Through Lutheran Church Charities Thrivent Choice is the new charitable grant program through which Thrivent Financial for Lutherans members are able to direct Thrivent charitable funds. Eligible members are designated Choice Dollars, based on insurance premiums, contract values, and Thrivent Financial volunteer leadership which are directed by the member to Lutheran organizations.
Tim's Pick of the Week HCSB Apologetics Study Bible-Brown Duotone By HCSB Scripture Real Questions. Straight Answers. Stronger Faith. The Apologetics Study Bible helps today's Christians better understand, defend, and proclaim their beliefs in an age of increased moral and spiritual relativism. More than onehundred key questions and articles placed throughout the volume about faith and science prompt a rewarding study experience every time. Highlights of this thinking person's Bible edition include the full text of the popular HCSB translation, two-color page layout, an introduction to each Bible book focusing on its inherent elements of apologetics, and profiles of historic Christian apologists from Justin Martyr to C. S. Lewis. Also featured are valuable
contributions from a who's-who of modern apologists such as Lee Strobel, Chuck Colson, Norm Geisler, Hank Hanegraaff, Josh McDowell, Albert Mohler, Ravi Zacharias, and J. P. Moreland.
LCC Emergency Assistance Fund LCC gets requests daily concerning people who need assistance, and it is increasing because of the current economic times we are living in. LCC works through our churches to provide assistance by making the need known - and dollar per dollar we give the money to a church to help the family or individual. However, we receive some requests that are emergencies, and money is needed that day or the next day and we can't always get the need out in our weekly email newsletter first. Would you consider making a gift to our LCC Emergency Assistance fund so that when these emergency needs occur we can help (through our churches) quicker? This is an important way for the Body of Christ to share the Mercy and Compassion and Proclamation of Christ. To contribute please click here Thank you for continuing to Make A Difference! Tim Hetzner
Items Needed by Ministries We have received the following requests for items from Trinity Lutheran Church/El Buen Pastor in Chicago: Communion ware - visitation set 6 or 8 foot folding tables If you have items to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email us at LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
LCC Staff and Comfort Dogs available for Church Functions and School Chapels! For more information on scheduling LCC and the K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs for an event or chapel at your church, contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org To help support the growing Ministry of the Comfort Dogs click here... To find out information on how your congregation can get one of the LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Click here Click here for some Photo Albums showing some of the many places the dogs have brought comfort.... And click here for the Dog Blog, featuring "Tara's Twitter"
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Widow in Need of Help to Pay Rent Food Pantry Building Project Historic St. Matthew Makes an Urgent Appeal
Items Available to a Ministry 2815 Minolta LP 2010 - 10 yrs old. Makes good copies but needs an upper fusur roller kit and starter. Parts and labor approx $250 2813 Kimbell Spinet Walnut Colored Piano with Bench 2809 Small, electric organ 2808 Wurlitzer 950 electronic theatre organ 2806 (60) metal folding charis 2805 Good Friday, Holy Saturday/Easter Sunday banner - deep purple velvet with black and yellow gold star and a white star 2804 One felt Reformation Banner that says, "Sola Scriptura and Fides Gratia" in the shape of a cross 2803 One Christmas Banner (off white w/brown manger, gold embellished star that says "The Word Was Made Flesh" 2802 One Lenten Set - altar, pulpit, lecturn parament and banner 2801 (5) 8 ft x 8 ft office cubicles For More items, click here to view the latest updates on our DONATE Web Page...
Items Free for the Asking LCC works THROUGH churches and is not a Direct Service Ministry. To request an item on our "Free for the Asking" list please contact your Church and ask that they call us (866-455-6466) requesting an item. Arrangements will then be made to connect the item with you. If you are not a member of a Christian Church then please call LCC to place you in contact with one of our LCMS churches who can assist you. 2815 Minolta LP 2010 - 10 yrs old. Makes good copies but needs an upper fusur roller kit and starter. Parts and labor approx $250 2813 Kimbell Spinet Walnut Colored Piano with Bench 2809 Small, electric organ - two manual organ (each manual has a range of 2 1/2 octaves); the swell has twelve stops on it and the grand has five stops 2808 Wurlitzer 950 is an electronic theatre organ with genuine internal Leslie rotating speakers. Solid wood console and bench, 53-1/2" wide x 46" tall (55" including music stand) x 29-1/2" deep (42" w/pedals), Three Manuals, all C - C: Orbit Synthesizer Keyboard: 2 octaves Upper and Lower Keyboards: 5 octaves each Pedals: 2 octaves 2807 Chair and a 1/2, light green denim color (slightly smaller than a love seat) For More Items Available, click here to view the list on our DONATE page... To OFFER an item for this section, or to get a Receipt for an item you have donated, CLICK HERE for the NON-MONETARY DONATION FORM
Vehicles Needed to Help Individuals and Ministries All vehicles that are donated to LCC go directly out to families or individuals through our congregations. NO vehicles are sold.
Photo: Jennifer's daughter had medical needs that required a vehicle with a lift. This donated van helped to meet that need. Here are some of the most recent requests, but we have others that are still waiting for some word... Car Needed for Nigerian Immigrant Van Needed for Faith, Stickney Truck Needed for Sexton at First Saint Paul's, Chicago Cars Needed for Immigrant Families Click here for the complete page listing the needs
If you have a vehicle to donate, please contact LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org or call 866-455-6466
COME LORD JESUS, BE OUR GUEST ... You recognize this prayer written by Martin Luther ...
Come Lord Jesus, be our guest And let thy gifts to us be blessed. Amen If we really mean this prayer and want Jesus to be our Guest - wouldn't we feed him also? Consider becoming a part of LCC's individual challenge and FEED THE INVISIBLE GUEST - AND MAKE HIM VISIBLE program to help feed the hungry. Click here for more details | Click here to donate now Click here for a Bulletin Insert
Job Seekers and Employers - Connect Online! Christians contact us frequently who are looking for employment - either because the company they are with has downsized, closed or has had layoffs. If you are looking for people to hire and would like to consider a fellow Christian for a position, please check here www.servantatheart.org. Job seekers can post their resumes, and employers can post job openings. Access to Expanded Job Listings through National Labor Exchange...
Servant at Heart
Lutheran Church Charities' Online Christian Business Directory Looking for a Christian business? Lutheran Church Charities has an online Christian Business Directory called Servant@Heart. This online directory allows: Christians businesses to advertise their services without cost. Others to seek out Christian businesses. Each member of the directory has their church and pastor identified in their listing. Search at ServantAtHeart.org to find Christian businesses or to have your business listed. You can also go to www.LutheranChurchCharities.org or call (866) 455-6466. It is the people of God working together that fully allows God to build for His Kingdom!
Holiday Craft Shows It's that time of year! We know that many churches host Holiday Craft shows as fund raising events. If your church is planning a craft show we would love to advertise it on our webpage! Just submit the details to LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org and we will include it on our webpage. Click here for a listing of Holiday Craft Shows.
Spirit of Life Chorus The 100 voice SPIRIT OF LIFE CHORUS will present our Fall 2010 concert series, "Ring The Bells, Immanuel Has Come". What a marvelous story to be told, the coming of a Savior. Our offering this season will tell the story of the hope and anticipation from ancient times, to the hope and wonder we experience today. The musical selections are typical SPIRIT in style. They are spiritually uplifting, motivating and exciting! Our musical goal is to bring each member of the audience just one step closer to God; one step closer to HIS presence in our lives. So please join us for these free concerts as we stand in HIS presence and sing HIS praises. The SPIRIT OF LIFE CHORUS is a 100+ member ecumenical Christian concert chorus performing in church sanctories and auditoriums throughout northern Illinois. Since 1990, SPIRIT has had a solid, musical reputation of dynamic concerts with strong emotional appreal performed from the heart of each member. "SPIRIT" style music is presented with a joyous dedication to bringing the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ to all who listen.
We hope to see you at one or more of our 2010 Fall Concert Series. The next two concerts are: CAROL STREAM Sunday, November 28th Lutheran Church of the Master 580 North Kuhn Road, 60188 Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
ROSELLE Sunday, December 5th St. Walter Catholic Church 201 West Maple Ave., 60172 Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
Open Clinic and Lunch December 4th 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Immanuel Lutheran Church 300 South Pathway Court Crystal Lake, IL 60014 The Clinic is a gift back to the community. We will be bringing in doctors, dentists, salons, photographers, food banks, and more in order to provide ANY person with these services who could not afford them normally. Volunteers will escort Clinic Participants throughout the day, giving them instructions as well as a Christian example. There will be a lunch for everyone this day and we need as many volunteers as we can get. We are expecting hundreds of people to come out for this event. Click here to volunteer To visit Touched Twice United online go to www.touchedtwiceunited.org
Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lyons, Illinois to hold a Christmas concert Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church Saturday, December 4, 2010 7930 Ogden Ave Lyons, Illinois, 60534 Concert Time: 3:00 p.m.
There is no cost to attend; all are welcome. There will be a free-will offering that will be divided between Lutheran Church Charities and local food pantries. The musical selections will have the Nativity of Jesus Christ as its central focus. Christian religious music, hymnody, and music inspired by the Nativity will be performed. A brief spoken introduction will be presented before each musical piece to introduce the music's history, musical characteristics, and theological emphases. All who attend the concert are invited to the church basement after the concert for an opportunity to meet the musicians and fellow concert-goers. Cookies and punch will be provided free of charge. For more information, please contact the offices of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church at 708.447.4499. Office hours are Tuesday and Wednesday 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. For e-mail inquiries, please e-mail the Zion Church office at zionevlutheranoffice@yahoo.com or the Rev. Matthew Gunia at matthew.gunia@yahoo.com.
Annual Christmas Concert of St. John's, LaGrange Sunday, December 12th St. John's Lutheran Church and School 505 S. Park Rd. LaGrange, IL 60525 "Dancing into His Promise" is the title of this year's annual Christmas Concert presented by St. John's Lutheran Church and School, 505 S. Park Rd. LaGrange, IL 60525, on Sunday, December 12th at 6:30 pm. Under the direction of Mr. David Christian, this evening of music will feature St. John's adult and children's choirs and ensembles, orchestra, two handbell choirs and liturgical dancers. The music performed at this year's concert will expand various time periods and styles, including time-honored compositions, traditional carols and new melodies, keeping in step with the timeless yet prevailing significance of the birth of Jesus, the promised Savior. Audiences of all ages are sure to be engaged and inspired. St. John's Christmas Concerts have a long-standing reputation as one of the area's finest and most enjoyable sacred Christmas Concerts. Those who have attended in the past can testify that it is an event you won't want to miss. The public is invited to attend and a nursery will be provided at no cost. A free-will offering will be received at the concert to help St. John's continue its annual concert series. For further information, please contact our church office at (708) 354-1690 or visit www.sjlagrange.com.
Live Manger
Sunday, December 12, 2010 at 4:00 and 5:30 PM Sunday, January 9, 2011 at 10:00 am Concordia Lutheran Church 3144 S Home Ave Berwyn, IL Concordia Lutheran Church at 3144 South Home Avenue in Berwyn, IL will present its annual Live Manger on Sunday, December 12th at 4:00 P.M. and 5:30 P.M. In costume, the children of the Sunday School and Little Lambs Preschool will again tell the story of the true meaning of Christmas on the church's front lawn.
A variety of animals from Friendly Farms in DeKalb, IL will be available for petting. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served, free to all who attend. Everyone is invited to join in singing carols as the story of the Savior's birth unfolds. On Sunday, January 9th at 10 A.M. the Live Manger will be performed indoors for the celebration of Epiphany and The Three Kings' gift-bearing visit to the Christ Child. Their journey guided by the Star of Bethlehem. In between, the church will observe the birth of Jesus with special services on Christmas Eve at 4:00 P.M. and 10:00 P.M. The former will be a Contemporary Family Service and the latter a traditional Candlelight Service. On Christmas Day, there is worship at 10:00 A.M. If you would like more information about Concordia Lutheran Church and its programs, visit its web site at www.concordiaberwyn.org, e-mail them concordia.berwyn@sbcglobal.net, or call 708-484-9784.
Christmas Cantata Sunday, December 19, 2010 at 8:00 and 9:30 AM St. Peter Lutheran Church 111 W Olive Arlington Heights, IL St. Peter Lutheran Church choir, handbell choir and instrumentalists will present a traditional service of beloved traditional scripture readings interwoven with 26 carols that include just a touch of Handel and Bach! The service will consist of a continuous flow of carols accompanying the scripture readings. Arrangements include choir, vocals and congregation participation. For more information visit www.stpeter-ah.org
Upcoming Events - Click Here for a complete listing of Upcoming Events
How To Support Lutheran Church Charities All contributions go dollar per dollar to the causes listed in this newsletter. If you would like more information on how to help or if you have items to share please contact TimHetzner@LutheranChurchCharities.org or send contributions to LCC, 333 West Lake Street, Addison, IL 60101 or contribute at our web site at http://LCC.LutheranChurchCharities.org or call us for credit card donations at LCC's office at (866) 455- 6466
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