March 9, 2011 In This Issue
Help Support Former Iraqi Muslim Attend Seminary College Students Head out for Haiti! Fill the Bus for Haiti Lutheran Church Charities Give a Mission Moment at Peace Lombard Three Days and Three Nights: How Can That Be? Lord of Life in La Fox Makes a Difference in Haiti Affordable Christian Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling Services Available Four Homes of Mercy in Bethany, Israel in Desperate Need Tim Kurth Installed to New LCC Position Concordia College in Selma, Alabama Needs You Devotion Series on Unrealistic Expectations 1 By Youth Making A Difference - Your Donations at Work Help Provide Clean Drinking Water for All Our Lutheran Schools in Haiti Items Available to a Ministry People and Ministries in Need Help a Congregation Located in a Prime Mission Field in Los Angeles Single Man in Need of Reliable Transportation Ebenezer, Chicago in Need of Boiler Repair Comfort Dog Update Travel Announcement CHRISTKINDL MARKETS Congregational Preparedness Training Thrivent Choice
Help Support Former Iraqi Muslim Attend Seminary Request by Rev. Hicham Chehab, Pastor, Salam Christian Fellowship & Missionary for Chicagoland Lutheran Muslim Mission Association (CLMMA) Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Waleed, a former Iraqi Muslim, is planning to pursue ordination from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri through the Ethic Immigrant Institute of Theology (EIIT )program. We need your prayers and donations in order to meet the challenges we have in providing for his living expenses here in Chicago as well as his tuition and education fees. This month marks the third anniversary of Salam Arabic Fellowship in Chicagoland. We are planning to expand our ministry by using Waleed to plant a sister church for Salam in the North side of Chicago. Also, we will incorporate more Farsi in our ministry in order to accommodate more Iranians who do not speak Arabic. Click below to read the amazing story of how God called Waleed to faith through Lutheran Hour Ministries. Click here to read Waleed's story Click here to donate to education fees Click here to donate to living expenses
College Students Head out for Haiti!
LCC staff members Tim Hetzner and Dona Martin heading to Haiti
A mission team of nine from four colleges will be leaving Saturday, March 12th for a weeklong mission trip to Haiti. While in Haiti, the students will be working in Jacmel on the Building Homes and Hope in Haiti project. LCC partnered with LCMS World Relief and Human Care to provide financial assistance so that students could participate in mission work in Haiti over their Spring Break. The students will also visit tent cities in Jacmel where they will take part in the distribution of shoes to the children living in the tent cities. All donations for shoes for the children will be sent to Haiti where the shoes are purchased and distributed. Please keep all of them in your prayers as they travel to and work in Haiti.
Click here to donate to the Haiti Shoe Fund
Help a Pastor's Widow Upcoming Events How To Support LCC
Prayer Wall Post a prayer, or pray for others!
Fill the Bus for Haiti Immanuel Lutheran Church - Richton Park, along with their community members, made a commitment to help the children of Jeremie, Haiti, in particular the 30 orphaned children living with Pastor Isaac Jacquet. They have decided to do this by purchasing a pre-owned school bus that will be used as a shipping container. Filling this bus with the many needed items will involve anyone wishing to participate.
LCC's Prayer Wall
The cost of this project is substantial and will be funded through donations and fundraising events.
Tim's Pick of the Week
The kick-off for this fundraiser will be a FREE concert on Saturday, March, 19th at Rich South High School, 5000 Sauk Trail, Richton Park, 60471. Concert begins at 3pm. The concert will feature Immanuel's Children's Choir and a presentation by FERNANDO JONES of the BLUES KIDS FOUNDATION (see www.BluesKids.com). Following the concert, a short DVD (six minutes) will be shown to introduce you to the orphans in Haiti. Tickets will go on sale that day for Immanuel's annual "HAM DINNER" to be held on Saturday, April 30th . All proceeds will go to "Fill The Bus". Free samples will be available. For more information call Immanuel Lutheran Church at 708-748-0558. Click here to donate
Lutheran Church Charities Gives a Mission Moment at Peace Lombard
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 For more information about LCC and its human care ministry, please contact LCC staff at: LCC@LutheranChurch Charities.org More...
Ministry Quicklinks
On Sunday, March 6th, LCC was invited by Peace Lutheran Church in Lombard to share a Mission Moment about the Mission and Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities on Sunday, March 6th. LCC Staff Pete Imlah, Tim Kurth, Rich Martin, and Marie Payes (along with LCC Comfort Dogs Tara, Tillie, and Olympia) were present to share with individuals about the many different ministries and ministry opportunities that LCC offers as we work alongside out LCMS churches to promote the Mercy and Compassion of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to those in our communities and world. If you are interested in having LCC share a Mission Moment at your church please contact us at (866) 4556466 or LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
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Lenten Resource Three Days and Three Nights: How Can That Be?
Tim is available to do a LIVE Presentation to your Church or Group If Jesus was crucified on Friday and the tomb was empty on Sunday morning, where do we get three days and three nights? Join Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, as he answers this puzzling question. Tim also looks at the "apparent" contradictions in the Gospels surrounding the Passion Narrative of Jesus and shows how when understanding the historical background the "apparent" contradictions disappear! Click here for online ordering To schedule Tim for a Three Day Three Nights presentation, call 866-455-6466 or email him at LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Lord of Life in La Fox Makes a Difference in Haiti "Send a Spoken Prayer"
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here
On Tuesday, March 1 the mission team from Lord of Life Lutheran Church in La Fox returned from a successful weeklong trip to Haiti. One of the trip organizers, Gary Kessler, said that the primary mission of the trip was to train Haitian lay ministers using Crossways! materials under the direction of Pastor Barry Kolb. Nearly 100 Haitians took part in the training over the course of the week. Also, Kathy Geiger of Lord of Life did a two day seminar with women on leading a successful small group. While the teaching was going on, Dr. Susan Busse and the other trip organizer, John Peterson, led a team that was busy with medical clinics. Volunteers provided medical services to nearly 500 people during their time on the island. One of the miracles of the trip happened when the team was worshiping on Sunday morning and a young girl fainted in church. Dr. Busse quickly tended to her and, through the course of events, discovered she was an orphan who had been given into slavery. The team set her free and got her settled in the orphanage where they were serving during the week. Lord of Life put this trip together through their Mission Board, with assistance in getting the word out through Lutheran Church Charities. They worked with native Haitian Lutheran pastors to arrange the medical clinics and Bible training. LCC is heavily involved in ministries across Haiti and is eager to support churches interested in scheduling their own mission trips to help in the ongoing recovery there. Contact Lutheran Church Charities at 866-455-6466 or LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org to learn more about planning a trip to Haiti for your church. Click here to donate towards Haiti Relief Efforts
Affordable Christian Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling Services Available! What if you really need help - you need a counselor Christian therapist to talk to - or have substance abuse issues you need to deal with but your insurance won't cover it or you just can't afford to pay the costs for therapy out of your own pocket? Good News! For a limited time (until 6/30/11), the Meier Clinic in Wheaton, IL is offering a low sliding scale fee for all new clients who make an appointment with Klaus Mehrl. Klaus has served as a parish pastor in the LCMS for 25 years and is completing his graduate studies in professional counseling. He is a certified substance abuse counselor with the State of Illinois and is also a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist Candidate. Meier Clinics recognizes and utilizes Christian principles and tools in the healing process along with sound psychological practices. For more information about the programs and services offered at the Meier Clinics, please call: (630)653-1717 or (800)848-8872 or visit www.meierclinics.org. Meier Clinics 2100 Manchester Road Suite 1510 Wheaton, IL 60187 For more information about Pastor Mehrl, please visit his website at www.hope-foryou.com.
Help Crossways International Bring the Word of God to Christians in the Philippines and Make A Difference to Thousands of Lives Tim Hetzner - President of Lutheran Church Charities comments: This training can literally impact thousands of lives with the saving message of salvation in Jesus Christ. This is a very important country to support the Christian Church by helping them Get the Story Straight and Get the Story Out. Click here to read the request Click here to donate
Four Homes of Mercy in Bethany, Israel in Desperate Need Recently, I was in contact with Four Homes of Mercy in Bethany, Israel. Because of the current situation in the Middle East, and in Israel and Palestine in particular, they are in desperate need of support to be able to continue their ministry of serving those children and adults with physical and emotional disabilities. Their staff has not been paid in months and yet they continue to serve those that are "the least of these". Bethany is where Jesus always stayed when he was in the area of Jerusalem, and his reason was it was the poorest of the poor that lived
there (Simon the Leper). Can you consider helping this Christian Mission that I have been connected with for well over 20 years. To donate click here and God Bless you!
Tim Hetzner President, Lutheran Church Charities
It's Official - Tim Kurth Installed to New LCC Position On Monday, March 7, Tim Kurth was commissioned and installed into his Mission and Ministry Advancement role at Lutheran Church Charities. Tim, a graduate of Concordia University Chicago, served in the Northern Illinois District as a teacher and DCE for over 20 years before taking a position with Group Workcamps in Loveland, Colorado for the last five years. Tim's expertise in domestic and international missions along with his many years of parish experience is a welcome addition to the gifted staff of LCC. The Reverend Bill Ameiss, former NID President, officiated the commissioning and installation service held at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods. The staff of LCC was on hand to celebrate with Tim and his wife Elizabeth.
Concordia College in Selma, Alabama Needs Volunteer Teams President Tilahun Mendedo of Concordia College in Selma, AL has asked Lutheran Church Charities to help expand their campus to house more students for the 2011-2012 school year. While that may seem a daunting task, it simply provides an opportunity for you to provide some labor that will change lives. Final details are coming together for a construction mission trip in mid-May to help refit buildings on newly acquired property for dormitories. This work will expand the capacity of Concordia allowing more students to prepare for a life of service to God and His Church. Watch here for more details in the coming weeks and invite the people of your church to consider a late spring trip to Alabama!
Devotion Series on Unrealistic Expectations The two-part devotion series on Unrealistic Expectations begins tomorrow. Click here to sign up for our free online devotions Click here for our archive of Daily Devotions
Help 1 By Youth Make a Difference The 1 By Youth day of service scheduled for Saturday, May 7 is a massive event designed to rally 1,000 or more Christian youth and their adult leaders for a single day of transformational service in a single neighborhood. To make this happen we'll need approximately 100 volunteers to work 'behind the scenes' in preparation for and during the event. Click here for more details
Making A Difference - Your Donations at Work
A wonderful class of third and fourth graders recently made a gift to LCC. They wrote..."We, the third and fourth grade class of St. Paul Lutheran Academy in Skokie, held a bake sale this past Monday to raise money for the water filtration kits that you are providing to the people of Haiti. We had been talking about the struggles the people there were still facing, and then decided we wanted to do something to help." Their donation will Make A Difference! Thank you to teacher Robin Rocans and her class.
Rev Hicham Chehab and Waleed, from Salam Christian Fellowship & Missionary for Chicagoland, stopped by the LCC offices last week to pick up computers that were donated by Rev William Duey.
Mission Trip to Haiti Changes College Student's Life In January 2011, Sofie Martin, a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Palatine (LCMS), and sophomore at Carthage College, went on a mission trip to Haiti. While in Haiti, Sofie worked at tent cities in Jacmel and Jeremie, as well as one of the sites for LCMS World Relief and Human Care's Building Homes and Hope for Haiti. Watch as Sofie describes how God worked through the Haitian people to change her outlook on life. Click here for information on Spring Break Mission opportunities for college students Click here to read more about how you can join LCC and LCMS WR-HC in Making A Difference in Haiti Click here to donate to Haiti Relief
Help Provide Clean Drinking Water for All Our Lutheran Schools in Haiti LCC, in partnership with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, is raising money to put a Hydraid® BioSand water filter in each of the 82 Lutheran Schools in Haiti. The cost of each filter is $185.00 and will provide clean drinking water for all the students in the school. Hydraid® BioSand water filters are a simple filter with no moving parts. The filter combats the leading causes of death and disease in the developing world by reducing parasites, bacteria and viruses found in contaminated water. "Part of our plan is to place larger HydrAid filters in each of the schools, therefore providing fresh water for the students. Using the Lutheran Schools as a setting, parents of students will be invited to attend a water sanitation class which includes the opportunity to obtain one of the family-sized filters." Glenn Merritt, LCMS WR-HC. Help Make A Difference for an entire school. Click here to donate
UPDATE: Haiti: All We Want for Christmas is a Toilet!
Request from Susan Gross, Haitian Lutheran Mission Project LCC received the following update from Sue Gross:
First Toilet Built Because of Your Support! Thank you for Making A Difference Toilets are being built in Jeremie, Haiti to prevent the spread of Cholera and other diseases. The first of several was built at the Dame Marie Lutheran School. There are 34 schools in Pastor Isaac's district and he hopes, eventually, to have a toilet built at each location. Thank you so much for the donations he has received so far. Sue Gross The Haitian Lutheran Mission Project These children are asking for a TOILET for Christmas. Yes, that must sound strange to most of us but it is true. Cholera is invading the country of Haiti. Clean water and toilets are needed to prevent thousands of deaths. Click here to read Pastor Isaac's letter Click here to donate
College Students Needed in Haiti! Our Making A Difference 2011 Spring Break Mission Trips LCMS World Relief and Human Care and Lutheran Church Charities are partnering to offer five different Spring Break Mission Trips to Haiti! Cost is ONLY your expenses to get to Port-auPrince and back plus a $150 registration fee. Costs for transportation, food, lodging, and materials are being covered by donors. Are you a College Student wanting to touch lives with the Mercy and Compassion of Christ this Spring Break? Consider Making A Difference by Building Homes and Hope for Haiti's 1.5 million people who are still living in tents from the earthquake a year ago! For more information or to register for a trip - click here To donate to help offset the costs to put up the college students Click here to donate through LCMS.org Click here to donate through Lutheran Church Charities To view pictures of the site where you will be working - click here For a poster to pass out to your college friends - click here. For more information contact Lutheran Church Charities at 866-455-6466 or email SpringBreak2011@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Items Available to a Ministry 2837 (50) like-new Lutheran Worship Hymnals. Books are imprinted with church name. 2836 Maple, Starck Spinet Piano with Bench. Needs to be tuned (Photos available) 2835 Large 50" Mitsubishi Big Screen Television in light wood cabinet with door closure. Incudes a VHS. (Photos available) 2833 Yamaha Stereo Receiver 2827 (3) CRT monitors, (2) Deskjet printers (952C) & (5550) 2822 several hundred 90-minute audio tapes 2821 Sony Master tape duplicator w/two slave units that allows duplicating of 11 tapes at one time 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. 2846 Mauve colored Wardrobe with 2 doors on left side to close off closet for hanging clothes and one door on right to close off 4 shelves for storing clothing 2845 Light pine corner wardrobe with 4 open shelves on each side 2844 White 2 drawer night stand 2843 maple sewing cabinet ( no sewing machine) 2842 Small oak writing desk Has 7 drawers ( two of which are file drawers) and two leather & oak chairs and a desk lamp 2841 gold brown and orange early american style high back sofa 2840 Heavy Oak wood coffee table & matching end table and Lamp 2839 Maple wood rocking chair and throw blanket 2838 Mauve colored Entertaiment center Two doors on right side to close off TV and 4 storage drawers on Left 2836 Maple, Starck Spinet Piano with Bench. Needs to be tuned (Photos available) 2835 Large 50" Mitsubishi Big Screen Television in light wood cabinet with door closure. Incudes a VHS. (Photos available) 2834 Blue and Light Mauve colored Couch (81" L x 34" H camelback) and Loveseat (60" L x 34" H camelback) 2833 Yamaha Stereo Receiver 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
People and Ministries in Need Help Make A Difference
Single Man in Need of Transportation for Work
Request from Pastor Loy Schlote, Our Savior Lutheran Church, Joliet, Illinois We are working with a man who was connected to our congregation when he was younger. About 5 months ago he was released from prison. He was able to enroll in a rehabilitation program at Wayside Cross Ministries in Aurora. He is nearing completion of a program to help retrain men and reintegrate them into society. He has the opportunity to work delivering papers but does not have a vehicle or the ability to buy one right now. If someone has a van (or any vehicle large enough to use to deliver papers) that they could donate to him it would be such a blessing as he continues to work to put his life back together. If you have a vehicle to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Single Mom of Two in Need of Financial Assistance Request from Pastor Brian Truog, Cross Lutheran Church, Yorkville
A single mom of two grade school age children is struggling to pay bills - especially rent. She is unable to work because of chronic health problems. Her two children also have health problems, especially the 10-year-old son who has ulcerative colitis. Due to lack of child support and mounting medical bills, she struggles to pay the basic bills of rent, phone, etc. Any assistance would be such a blessing to this young family. Click here to donate
Help a Congregation Located in a Prime Mission Field in Los Angeles
Request from Pastor ST Williams, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Los Angeles, California In March 2011, St. Paul will celebrate its 86th year of Word and Sacrament Ministry in the City of Los Angeles (SouthCentral). The Celebration is entitled "we have come this far by faith" Romans 3:21-24. We are seeking partners and fellow laborers of the Gospel who have a desire to come along side an urban/inner city congregation and assist with the financial deficits the church is facing under this present economic downturn. This will help sustain the future of the mission and ministry as he along with the members work under the guidance of the Holy Spirit to bring fulfill the Great Commission in the City of Los Angeles and the world. Click here to read more from Pastor Williams Click here to donate
Single Man in Need of reliable Transportation for Work
Request from Pastor Rick Schauer, Trinity Lutheran Church, Tinley Park, Illinois We have a member who is in need of reliable transportation. As a result of some financial struggles his credit rating is low so he is unable to borrow money to purchase a car. He is able to insure and maintain a car. He works as a courier so reliable transportation is absolutely necessary for him to continue to work. If someone had a car to donate to him that would be a tremendous blessing. Please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org if you have a vehicle to donate.
Single Man in Need of Reliable Transportation
Request from Pastor Dan Hawkins, New Song Church, Aurora, Illinois I have a special request for a vehicle. The request is for a single man in his 40's who is a member of our congregation. He has been out of work with no car for some time. Although he is actively searching for employment, nothing has opened up yet. In the meantime, he has been dedicating a great deal of time toward our ministry at New Song and would like to do more. He is very passionate about serving the Savior and is hopeful that his work situation will turn the corner in the near future. A reliable means of transportation would be a great help in his desire to find employment and dedicate more time to the work of the Lord at New Song church. LCC has been a powerful resource in the past for helping people in need of transportation. Your assistance for a vehicle for this member would be greatly appreciated. If you have a car to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Ebenezer, Chicago in Need of Boiler Repair
Pastor Richard Gizynski, Ebenezer Lutheran Church, Chicago LCC received the following request from Pastor Gizynski: Some things change. Some things do not. It is true that Ebenezer has listed its property for sale. This is a big change, but a positive one. The buildings are aging and inefficient. Daily upkeep, let alone mounting repair costs, are straining and stretching the resources of the congregation nearly to the breaking point. Click here to read the rest of the story Click here to donate
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Urban Children's Choir Looking for Volunteers Housing and Car Repairs Needed for Single Woman and Her Mother Nine-Year-Old Ethiopian Boy Needs Surgery in the United States Washer and Electric Dryer Needed Request from Rev Abraham Mengesha, EECMY-CES President of the Lutheran Church in Ethiopia Help Lutheran Hour Ministries Build Wells in Ghana - Each Well Costs $3,300
Comfort Dog Update K-9 Chapel Talk at Immanuel Batavia On Wednesday, March 2nd, LCC Comfort Dogs Adeena, Butter, Hope, Star, and Tillie where at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Batavia for a K-9 Chapel Talk and school assembly in the gym. Pete Imlah's emphasis during the chapel talk was remember Who and Whose you are through your baptism. After the chapel all the students when into the gym to meet and pet the dogs. After everyone had a chance to pet the dogs the work vests came off and a big game of keep-away was played between the 8th grade girls and boys basketball players and the LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs.
Comfort Dog Shami in the News Shami the Comfort Dog, of St. John Lutheran Church, brings smiles to those in need of a little love By Christine Hirhager, Darien Patch, Sunday, March 6, 2011 St. John Lutheran Church [Darien, IL] recently took in a new member that has everyone smiling. The church adopted 2-year-old golden retriever Shami last spring from the Lutheran Church Charities. Recently, Pastor Doug escorted Shami to The Birches Assisted Living Facility in Clarendon Hills. The pair held a service in the morning, followed by a visit to the residents downstairs. As Shami traveled around the room, smiles erupted on almost every face. Click here to read the full story Click here to schedule a K-9 Comfort Dog visit
Donate to the K-9 Parish Comfort Dog Ministry
Dog Grooming Services Donated Eclipse Grooming,Villa Park
Lutheran Church Charities thanks Debbie Szwandrok of Eclipse Dog Grooming for providing free grooming for LCC's Comfort Dog Howe. Debbie is a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Elmhurst. Her dog grooming business is in Villa Park (http://eclipsegrooming.com/index.htm) She also breeds and sells Golden Retrievers (http://sunsetgoldens.com/). We thank Eclipse Dog Grooming and Debbie for taking care of LCC's comfort dogs.
Now Available: Join Tim Hetzner this fall as he leads a CHRISTKINDL MARKETS trip to the Czech Republic, Germany and Austria, November 27 to December 5, 2011 December is the time for the Christkindl Markets (Advent Markets) in the Czech Republic, Germany and Austria, a tradition that dates back hundreds of years. Literally translated, the street fairs are Christ-child markets. They happen in nearly every city and village, large and small. They are always cause for celebration and for shopping, for some roasted sausage, music on the streets and the insides of centuries-old churches, and, of course, some hot, spiced wine. Let this be an invitation to focus on Advent and the Coming of Christ in bringing in the Christmas Season. Tim Hetzner President, Lutheran Church Charities Click here for more information on this trip
Join LCC Staff Member Tim Kurth on a Mission Trip to Kenya As the newest member of the Lutheran Church Charities staff I am pleased to invite you to join me on a short-term mission trip to Kenya this coming August. Together we will serve the neediest children in that country bringing them help and hope in the name of Jesus. Working with Kenyan folks I've known for over a dozen years means the projects will be meaningful and well-prepared. This is a combination medical/construction trip so we are looking specifically for doctors and nurses to join us. If you are not able to join the team please consider sponsoring someone from your church and encourage others to become sponsors, as well. Click here for more details...
Help us Feed People in Need
In Disaster Response and Outreach Events Because Christians do food well - and food is always needed in a Disaster Response situation and other outreach events, LCC is looking for a FOOD WAGON that we can cook and serve food from. Needs to be portable - can be a pull trailer or mobile unit. If you know of anyone who has one they would like to donate, or if your group would like to help purchase one that would be shared with our NID congregations and beyond, please contact Tim Hetzner at LCC at 866-455-6466.
Help Bring See Through the Scriptures to Haiti and the Dominican Republic Crossways International's See Through the Scriptures (STS) has been translated into French and Spanish, and has been used in Haiti and the Dominican Republic for a number of years - taught mainly by a Lutheran pastor who has conducted numerous training events for clergy and teachers. As you can well imagine, the people who live in these two countries have little or no money - more so than ever before as a result of the 2010 earthquake. Crossways International does not have access to the funding needed to provide the required materials. However, copies of the STS materials can be produced in the Dominican Republic for $2 each. We would love to be able to provide Christians in these two nations with one (better, two) thousand copies of STS. Please, can you help us do this? A personal note from Dr. Harry Wendt, President, Crossways International Chloris and I would love to be able to write out a check to fund the above projects. However, we live on a limited income, and give about 25% of it each year to CI's mission and other charitable causes. Sad to say, CI has been badly hurt by the present economic downturn. Can you come to our aid, or make suggestions regarding possible sources of funding? To date, CI's ministry has helped about 3,000,000 people around the world - and requests for access to our written/graphic materials continue to come in. Rest assured that our goal remains: "To reach the most people with the Best Message for the least cost." Click here to donate
LCC Offers Congregational Preparedness Training as Disasters Can Hit Anytime, Anywhere LCMS World Relief and Human Care 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 three 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 or contact Dianna Bonfield at 866-455-6466 or email Dianna@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.
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
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
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
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
Looking for Ways to Share the Mercy and Compassion of Christ to Those in Your Church and Community?
Free seminar or one-hour lecture by Tim Hetzner 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" Mercy and Compassion Ministry, 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 Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, 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 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
Long-Format Courses 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
Tim's Pick of the Week Legends of Luternia: The Prince Decides by Thomas Sabel With the help of an ex-mercenary turned pastor, an over-educated, priggish dragon, and a map that continues to change, Prince Ulrik turns the tables on the evil Mage who sent him on a quest doomed to failure to regain the throne and restore the faith. The quest forces Ulrik to decide which is more important-duty to the crown or the love of a comfortable home he has always known. Legends of Luternia: The Prince Decides is a Christian fantasy set in the land of Luternia where the prince's adventures lead him to discover the importance of God's Word and Sacraments. With a subtle hand, Thomas Sabel guides the reader into the importance of the church in the Christian's life. The Author Thomas Sabel developed The Prince Decides from campfire stories told on family vacations. He is a Lutheran pastor who divides his time serving a small parish in Otis, Indiana, teaching at Indiana UniversityPurdue University at Fort Wayne and Ivy-Tech Community College, and writing. His work has appeared in various professional and literary journals. He lives with his wife and two sons in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
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 866455-6466 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"
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.
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. Here are some of the most recent requests, but we have others that are still waiting for some word... Car Needed for Pastor in Florida Van Needed for Faith, Stickney 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!
Love and Logic Returns to St. John's Algonquin St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church 300 Jefferson St. Algonquin, IL Love and Logic returns to St. John's with the following: February 26th - Love and Logic for the Single Parent March 12th - Parenting Teens with Love and Logic April 5th - May 10th - Becoming a Love and Logic Parent Please call the church office to get more information and pre-register @ 847-658-9300.
The Lutheran School of Saint Luke Celebrates 125 Years! Saturday, March 12 at 6:00 pm The Lutheran Church of Saint Luke 410 S. Rush Street Itasca, IL On March 12th and 13th, The Lutheran Church of Saint Luke will be celebrating the 125th anniversary of their school. Plans include... - "Reunion Reception" Saturday, March 12, 6:00pm, in the gym - Celebration Worship Service, Sunday, March 13 at 10:00 am - Catered luncheon immediately following the service in the gym Recommended donation: $10 for Adults, $6 Child (7-14), $3 Child (3-6) The Lutheran Church and School of Saint Luke is located at 410 S. Rush Street, Itasca, IL. Register for the luncheon online at www.saintluke125.rsvpbook.com or call the parish office at 630-773-0396.
Spirit of Life Chorus Series SPIRIT OF LIFE CHORUS is a 100+ member ecumenical Christian concert chorus performing in church sanctuaries and auditoriums throughout the northern Illinois area. Formed in the fall of 1989 with 17 charter members, today, SPIRIT has grown to over 100 singers and musicians. Our solid, musical reputation of dynamic concerts with strong emotional appeal is 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. The members of THE SPIRIT OF LIFE CHORUS cordially invite you to "Open Arms Are Inviting You" as we present a wide variety of spiritually uplifting music as we conclude our twenty-first year of proclaiming His glory. Come join us this spring and enjoy the diversity of our program as we stand in His presence and sing His praises. See you at the concert! Lombard Sunday, March 13th Christ the King Catholic Church 1501 Main St, 60148 Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
Arlington Heights Sunday, March 20th Faith Lutheran Church 431 S. Arlington Heigths Rd., 60004 Concert time: 4:00 p.m.
Woodstock Sunday, March 27th First United Methodist Church 201 W. South St, 60098 Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
Des Plaines Sunday, April 10th Immanuel Lutheran Church 855 Lee St, Concert time: 4:30 p.m. This is a benefit for the Immanuel Lutheran School
Carol Stream Sunday, April 3rd Our Savior Lutheran Church 1244 W. Army Trail Rd., 60188 Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
Wood Dale Sunday, May 1st Holy Ghost Catholic Church 254 Wood Dale Rd Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
Click here for the full schedule
Open House at Saint Luke Lutheran School Sunday, March 20 from 12:00 pm -1:30 pm Monday, March 21st from 9:00 am - 10:30 am Saint Luke Lutheran School 410 S. Rush Street Itasca, IL Saint Luke Lutheran School, Itasca, is hosting an open house on Sunday, March 20th, from 12:00 - 1:30 pm, and Monday, March 21st, from 9:00-10:30 a m. Saint Luke is a fully accredited school that offers full day child care and quality education, Preschool - 8th Grade. If you are looking for a school that is Christ centered, academically strong and respectfully operated you need to visit. If you can't attend one of our open house dates take advantage of our weekly "Drop In and Learn More" days, Tuesdays, 9:00-10:00 am, or check us out on our website saintlukeitasca.org or call 630-773-0396.
Ready to get wild about VBS? Join us for Group's VBS U Training Event
Saturday, March 26, 2011, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Immanuel Lutheran Church 200 North Plum Grove Rd Palatine, IL Contact: Deaconess Brenna Nunes or Diana Broj at 847-359-1549 or youthdeaconess@ilcp.org At PandaMania VBS U you'll learn the tricks of the trade from Group's VBS veterans. This totally hands-on training gives volunteers pointers on everything PandaMania VBS. Bring all your key leaders! From fundraising, recruiting, decorating to clean-up, pack-up and follow-up...you'll learn to plan, coordinate and pull off your church's best VBS ever! Come network with other VBS leaders and earn your degree in everything PandaMania! Bonus: · Exclusive giveaway for participants · Raffles for FREE Group products Advance Registration: Group publishing offers a discounted rate of $18 per person if you register in advance. Hurry, the late registration fee is $25 per person and applies one week prior to the event. Register Online: Visit Group's VBS website www.groupvbsu.com
Wonder Full World - a Travel-Themed Retreat for Women Sunday, April 10, 2011 Our Savior Lutheran Church 1244 West Army Trail Rd. Carol Stream, IL Wishing you could get away for a mini-vacation? We've got your ticket! Wonder Full World is an unforgettable travel-themed retreat the women of Our Savior are doing together, and you're invited! It includes worship, Bible study, and laughter. At Wonder Full World we'll "travel" to each of the seven continents and explore wonders of a woman's heart, such as "I wonder if I matter to God" or "I wonder where God is when life is hard." We'll find the answer to each of these questions in the Bible and discover more of God's amazing love for us. Register now--Registration is $30 until April 1, and it includes lunch and dinner. See the website for more information: oursavior.com, call or email Karen Beckley, kbeckley@oursavior.com; 630-4833143x120. Mark the date - April 10 - the retreat begins at noon, and runs until around 7:30 pm.
Banquet and Auction - Grace Christian Academy April 10, 2011 Skylite West Banquets 7117 Ogden Ave. Berwin, IL Join us in the fun as we raise $35,000 for the Scholarship Fund at our FIRST EVER LIVE AUCTION! Watch Us Grow! Reservations are required to attend. Tickets are $40 per person, or save $25 and reserve a table of ten for only $375! Contact Diane at 773-762-1234 ext. 6 for more information, or to make a donation to our auction.
Little Lambs to Host Art Show and Dinner 2011 Saturday, April 16, 2011 from 4-7 pm Concordia Lutheran Church 3144 South Home Ave Berwin, IL While the Sistine Chapel in Rome has a permanent exhibit of art by Michelangelo, Raphael, DaVinci, and Botticelli, Berwyn's Concordia Little Lambs Preschool will host a special one night showing of their creative endeavors. The school's Art Fair and Dinner 2011 is scheduled for Saturday, April 16th from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at their church facility located at 3144 South Home Avenue. A meal of spaghetti, salad, rolls, and dessert will be served. The cost of tickets for the event will be $10 for adults and $5.00 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under eat for free. A family pass can be purchased for $25.00. A raffle will also be held. All proceeds will go to benefit the Preschool Program and Scholarship Fund.
Little Lambs Preschool has a long-standing reputation of quality Christ-centered preschool education in Berwyn and its surrounding communities. It is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Tuition assistance and multiple-child discounts are available. Call 708-795-7963 to arrange for a school tour, to secure more information, or to enroll. Click here for event flyer
Afternoons in the Arts - A Fine Arts Camp June 27 - July 1st from 9 am - 12:30 pm St. John's Lutheran Church and School 505 S. Park Rd. LaGrange, IL A creative program that encourages and challenges kids' artistic expression through music, movement, drama and visual arts while nurturing their relationship with Jesus. Experienced, professional teachers provide a positive and caring environment. Early registration by June 1st: $125 ($100 each additional child per family) After June 1st: $150 ($125 each additional child per family) Register online at www.SJLaGrange.com/arts
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://www.LutheranChurchCharities.org or call us for credit card donations at LCC's office at (866) 455- 6466