March 30, 2011
In This Issue
Featured Stories Families in Need Ministry Needs K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Tim's Pick of the Week Upcoming Events How To Support LCC
Staff Planning Retreat LCC's offices will be closed Thursday, March 31st. The staff is participating in an all day staff planning retreat. The retreat is being held at the Northern Illinois District office in Hillside. If there is an emergency and you need to contact LCC on Thursday please call the District office at (708) 449-3020 and they will get the message to us.
Help Make 1 By Youth a Success Tim's Pick of the Week
We are now just over one month away from a massive day of service known as 1 By Youth. LCC is the local partner working in cooperation with Group Cares of Loveland, Colorado to bring 1000 or more volunteers to the Austin/West Garfield neighborhoods of Chicago on Saturday, May 7. That day we'll be cleaning up yards for residents, painting, completing minor repairs, cleaning vacant lots, landscaping and more. Volunteers will gather on the Grounds of Bethel Lutheran Church on Keeler Avenue for a rally and kick-off before fanning out to make a lasting impact on the surrounding neighborhood. We are putting the call out for people to help on that day. Here's how you and/or your church can help: Serve as a Project Advisor greeting workers at a designated worksite and directing them in the work to be done there (we'll need 50 or more Project Advisors). Serve as a greeter welcoming people to the event. Assist with setting up the area early on Saturday morning. Have your church donate 100 bag lunches for the workers (10 churches needed to make lunches according to the menu provided). Become a sponsor for the event with a donation for supplies and materials. Click here to donate Click here for more details about 1 By Youth
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...
Accompany Tim Kurth on a Medical/Construction Mission to Kenya - Deadline Extended!!
LCC staff member Tim Kurth is returning to Kenya from August 27 to September 5 and he wants you to join him. The team will be providing basic medical checkups for orphans at Jehovah Jireh Orphanage in Nairobi and blind children at St. Luke's Centre for the Blind in Kitui. Construction projects will include improving bunk beds for the orphans and the chance to build a chicken raising facility on the grounds of the home for the blind.
Ministry Quicklinks Newsletter Archive / Printable Format
Bible Classes
A special incentive has been announced for those wanting to bring friends. Those inviting three or four friends will get a $200 discount on their registration. With five or more the discount is $500 for the person who brings the group. The registration deadline has been extended to Monday, April 11 and the registration deposit is only $200. Total cost of the trip is $2295 not including airfare. The trip includes a fly-in safari after the days of service. Don't miss this chance to make a difference in Africa. Registrations are made through Lifetree Adventures by calling (800) 747-2157. If you're not able to make it to Kenya this time but would like to make a contribution for medicine and/or construction supplies click on the link below.
Daily Devotions
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Prayer Requests
Scholarship a Child in Myanmar
To Donate
Ministries We Support
Strict regulations in Myanmar (formerly Burma) make it difficult for children to advance to a University education. Without specialized schooling outside of the inadequate public school system most poor children never get the chance for higher education which can lift their family out of poverty. The National Lutheran Church of Myanmar is trying to change this and needs your help to sponsor children in the 11 th grade (the final step
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"Send a Spoken Prayer"
prior to University). Click here to read the appeal from Reverend Charles Edwards from the National Lutheran Church of Myanmar. Click here to donate
Christian Education Projects in the Philippines
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here
Help the Lutheran Church of the Philippines (LCP) move toward establishing 100 new church and school ministries by the year 2017 to reach more people with the saving gospel of Jesus Christ! Rev. James Cerdenola is the LCP President and Tom Grunow of Portland, Oregon serves as an Educational Consultant. The Lutheran Church in the Philippines (LCP) is one of the oldest partner churches of the LCMS and ELCA. It has 92 churches, many mission stations, 28 ordained pastors and a large number of lay leaders. LCMS World Mission works with the LCP to share the Gospel message through educational seminars for local pastors and expanded church planting efforts. Your support is needed for the LCP to continue to grow and build to its capacity so that it will be able to respond to and engage the mission opportunities before them, and therefore be able to reach its goal of planting 100 new congregations and training hundreds of lay evangelists by the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. Click here to read about some of the current projects of the LCP Click here to donate
Newborn Needs Bassinette or Crib
Request by Rev. Hicham Chehab, Pastor, Salam Christian Fellowship & Missionary for Chicagoland Lutheran Muslim Mission Association (CLMMA) Your donations helped the Afrazie family move into an apartment in January. Thank you to all who donated for Making a Difference! Farshid is still looking for employment so he can better support his family. If you know of an employment opening for this young man please contact LCC at LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Any day now Yasamine is due to deliver a new baby. This past Saturday we were able to find a donated car seat/carrier and a matching stroller. They still need a bassinette or crib. Within the last few years the safety regulations on cribs have changed and most of the thrift stores or places that receive donations no longer have cribs. If you have a crib that meets the new safety regulations and would like to donate it please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Click here to make a monetary donation for the crib
Eye Glasses Needed for Mission Trip to Haiti
Request from Pastor Paul Klopke, Living Christ Lutheran Church, Arlington Heights, Illinois
A team of college students and members from Living Christ Lutheran Church will be going on a mission trip to Haiti--May 20-28. They will be conducting an eye glass and medical clinic for some Lutheran Churches and Schools in surrounding villages in Jeremie Haiti. 1800 prescription eyeglasses and 1000 eye wash/eye drops bottles are needed- the medical supplies that are needed are: Band-aids, disinfectant ointments, vitamins, etc... Any donations will be gratefully received at: Living Christ Lutheran Church 625 East Dundee Road Arlington Heights, IL 847-577-7133 LivingChristLutheran.org OR Lutheran Church Charities 333 West Lake Street Addison, IL 60101 866-455-6466 Please call before dropping off a donation
Pastor Paul Klopke
New SUMMER Trips to Haiti for College Students Scheduled! New trip dates are set for college students looking to make a difference in Haiti this summer. For those who weren't able to make our Spring Break trips here's another chance to join us in Haiti to build a guest house that will welcome other workers for years to come The cost for these trips have been underwritten by the LCMS so you pay only the $150 trip registration fee, one hotel night in Florida on the way to Haiti, and secure your own airfare to Port Au Prince, Haiti. All expenses once you arrive in Haiti are covered by the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. You must be enrolled in college in order to qualify for this trip. That includes graduating high school seniors who will be freshmen in the fall. Don't miss this chance to change lives through our ongoing work in Haiti. Invite friends and put your own group together. Contact Dona Martin at DonaMartin@LutheranChurchCharities.org or 866-455-6466. Choose from these dates and remember to add a travel day to the beginning of the trip as an overnight layover in Florida is required. Click on a date to register: June 18th to 25th July 16th to 23rd July 23rd to 30th Click here to view photos from a 2011 Spring Break trip Click here for a video and hear one of the college students describe how God worked through the Haitian people to change her outlook on life. Click here to watch a short video of college students passing out shoes in a tent city in Jacmel during a recent Spring Break Mission Trip.
College Students Launch Appeal for One of LCC's Own in Haiti Students from Carthage College and University of Illinois at Chicago just returned from Haiti with a new mission. Sophie Paulin, LCC's Assistant Volunteer Coordinator in Haiti for LCMS World Relief and Human Care's Building Homes and Hope for Haiti, recently underwent surgery incurring crushing medical debt. With no health care coverage in the country, these expenses have placed an incredible burden on her entire family. Deeply moved by Sophie's story Katie, Kristi, and Erica have launched an appeal to help repay Sophie's medical expenses that came in at over $4,200. Each student has made a personal contribution to the fund and hope that other faithful Christians will join them in the effort. Every dollar donated to LCC for this fund goes 100% to repair the financial condition of Sophie and her family. We praise God for the successful surgery and Sophie's full recovery. See their video interview with Sophie here Click here to donate
Haiti - The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful!
Update from LCC President Tim Hetzner, after just returning from Haiti I just returned from a week in Haiti. I was there with a group of college students from various colleges. What a joy to see the willingness of college students give up their spring break to spend a week serving the people of Haiti. It gives a renewed sense of hope for the Christian Church. It also confirmed to me what younger people are looking for in their walk and relationship with God they meet God in serving and showing Mercy and Compassion to those in need. Click here to read the rest of the update
Here are Ways to Help Our Ongoing Haiti Relief Efforts Physical Needs Water Filters · School Version - $185 · Home Version - $35 Building Homes and Hope in Haiti Shoes - $5 Motorcycles for Pastors - $1,000 Support College Students Volunteering in Haiti - $150 Goats - $50 each General Disaster Response Donations Spiritual Needs Staff Workers in the Tent Cities - $200 a month Bibles in French - $6 each Luther's Small Catechism in Creole - $5 each See Through the Scriptures manuals in French - $2 each Developing Projects Radio Ministry - click here to learn more Hosting Haitian Christian Music Group for U.S. Tour - click here to learn more
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 preowned school bus that will be used as a shipping container. Filling this bus with the many needed items will involve anyone wishing to participate.
The cost of this project is substantial and will be funded through donations and fundraising events. Tickets are now on sale for a delicious ham dinner to be held at Immanuel Richton Park on April 30th, with two seatings available at 3 pm and 5 pm. Proceeds will be used to "Fill the Bus for Haiti" with much needed medical supplies and other human care needs. Call the church office at 847-748-0558 to order tickets for the ham dinner. You can also contribute to the "Fill the Bus for Haiti" project at the link below. Every dollar of your donation goes directly to "Fill the Bus". Click here to donate
Lutheran Church Charities at LEA Convocation 2011 Pete Imlah and Lynn Buhrke along with the LCC Comfort Dogs Hope and Tillie joined over 2700 Lutheran school teachers and administrators in Cincinnati, Ohio for the 2011 LEA Convocation. LCC had a booth at the convocation to share about the mission and ministries of Lutheran Church Charities. LCC is here to walk alongside churches and schools to bring the Mercy and Compassion of Jesus Christ to a world in desperate need. The LCC Comfort Dogs were also present to bring comfort and joy to those who stopped by the booth. While individuals stopped to pet the dogs we shared with them how these dogs are used by LCMS churches and school as a calming effect upon students and members but also as an outreach tool to reach out into their communities. Once again the K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs were a big hit and we appreciated all those who stopped and visited. Our LCMS teachers are Making a Difference everyday in the classrooms in which they serve. LCC wants to thank all our LCMS teachers for their faithfulness and obedience in serving the Lord and making a kingdom difference for eternity.
Staying Connected to Japan as Needs Evolve As Japan continues to search for survivors, organize and execute its relief efforts, our prayers go out to all who suffer and have died in this tragedy. LCC has been following LCMS missionary Jenae Siebarth's journey and daily updates (click here). You can watch a video of her interview via SKYPE with LCC (click here) and follow her updates as she reaches out to people in her church and school in Niigata, witnessing to the Mercy and Compassion of Jesus Christ. Jenae has connected LCC with Rev. Emoto Shinri, VP of the Japan Lutheran Church. LCC reached out to Rev. Shinri last week to let him we: are an RSO (registered service organization) of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod proclaim the Gospel of Christ in all that we do are involved in both local and international disaster relief work through our local Lutheran Churches are dollar in, dollar out, meaning that 100% of all donations go as directed to the need. LCC absorbs all administrative costs. Please continue to pray for the people of Japan and consider a donation to the Japan Disaster Relief fund. Click here to donate Click here to read the original appeal
Jesendys Hygiene Ministry - Compassionately Providing Essentials Sponsored by Immanuel Lutheran, Downers Grove, IL
Hello Everyone! The time has come for a New Assignment. Jesendys Hygiene Ministry, by GOD'S Grace, will be producing as many as 1500 personal hygiene kits for several organizations; The Walk in Ministry of Hope and Sharing Connection Furniture Bank of Downers Grove IL, LARRI (Lakeshore Area Regional Recovery Of Indiana) for Families who have experienced devastation from Flood Catastrophe, and we will also be sending more kits to Haiti through Lutheran Church Charities. Thank you for your support! Personal Hygiene Kites are duplicated. There is a need that every individual get the same products in each kit for proper personal care. We are in need of: Toothbrushes & Toothpaste Full Bars of Soap T-Shirts Adult sizes Deodorant Bathroom Tissue.
Donations can be dropped off at: Immanuel Lutheran Church 5211 Carpenter, Downers Grove IL 60515
NOTE: Please call Ms. Darlene Havard-Founder, if you need a pick up at (630) 803-2541, or email: marjesendys@gmail.com
More information can be found on their website http://sites.google.com/site/marjesendyshygieneministry
Christians Attacked by Muslims in Ethiopia - 59 Churches Burned and Thousands Displaced Thousands of Muslim extremists reportedly set fire to 59 churches and at least 28 homes in Jimma (zone), in western Ethiopia in attacks that began March 2. More than 4,000 Christians in the area have been displaced as a result of the attacks, according to the Jimma Times. Police have arrested 130 people in connection with the church burnings, the newspaper reported. Through our partners there we have learned the attacks in western Ethiopia resulted in the death of a Mekane Yesus (the Lutheran Church in Ethiopia) member and at least 12 of the church's buildings in the region were damaged Church burned by extremists or destroyed by fire. The attacks reportedly began after Muslims accused a Christian of desecrating the Quran by tearing up a copy. While the attacks have subsided, there is much work ahead to restore the Christian ministries affected. 100% of your gift to LCC will go to our ministry partners in Ethiopia as they share the grace and forgiveness of Christ with their attackers and rebuild their churches. Click here to donate to the Ethiopia Church Fire Fund Click here to read the original appeal
New Disaster Response Training Scheduled For April
Saturday, April 9th, LCC partners with Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport to present a LERT Training. Registration and Coffee begins at 9 AM with class starting at 9:30 AM sharp to 12 PM. Lunch is included. JUST ADDED: Trinity Lutheran Church in Tinley Park will host LERT Training on Thursday, April 28th. Registration and a light supper will begin at 5:30 pm with class from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Click here to register for LERT Training on April 9th or April 28th
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. This training will prepare team members for credentialing and will focus on the safety, work, and ministry of Lutherans as Early Responders. Click here to register for LERT training for either date in April. For more information, call Dianna Bonfield at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org.
Help Support Former Iraqi Muslim Attend Seminary Request by Rev. Hicham Chehab, Pastor, Salam Christian Fellowship & Missionary for Chicagoland Lutheran Muslim Mission Association (CLMMA)
Update: Dear Friends, we are looking for housing for Waleed Khaled close to Devon Ave or Sheridan. Waleed is helping to establish a sister congregation of Salam Fellowship on the north side of Chicago. A parsonage or basement would be great. If you know of any available housing call Hicham Chehab at 630-627-1101 or email hicham.chehab@gmail.com 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
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
Your Donations at Work Making A Difference
Last Wednesday Hicham Chehab stopped by the LCC offices to pick up a donation of baby equipment for the Afraize family. While he was here he received a check from LCC of your donations for Waleed's seminary expenses.
On Monday LCC volunteers Helmut Mueller and Ray Bogaert picked up the donation of a MPV4 Hovaround Electric WheelChair
Families in Need Help Make A Difference Single Mother of Five Fleeing Abusive Situation Needs Vehicle to Work
Request from Pastor Brian Davies, Lord of Glory Lutheran Church, Grayslake, Illinois
Our congregation has been working with a woman and her four children (5th one is due any time) who recently sought refuge near us after fleeing a physically abusive situation. We have helped her get running water for her new place of residence, as well as providing beds, furniture, clothes and other needed items. After helping her enroll her children in school, we have now also provided an avenue for her to begin working again so that she can build her life here. Her last great need is a vehicle. She told us that she had stopped going to church a couple of years ago because she had lost hope. She said this was the first time she saw a church really doing what the Bible says we should do. If you have been waiting to donate a vehicle, here's a great, real need that a vehicle would immensely bless. Thanks for considering this need, and please join me in praying that God would continue to provide for her and her children! If you have a car to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
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 car 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
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Help a Congregation Located in a Prime Mission Field in Los Angeles Ebenezer, Chicago in Need of Boiler Repair 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
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. 2850 Tunturi Stationary Exercise Bike with digital pulse monitor / ear clip and excellent fly wheel, from about 25 years ago, still works very well 2847 Approximately 119 Canvas Laptop bags with business logo on the side. (SBP Strategic Business Partners) 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) 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
Ministry Needs Help Make A Difference Food and Household Items Needed to Support Bethesda's Outreach Ministries
Request from Pastor Jean Bingue, Bethesda Lutheran Church, Chicago Ten years ago, Bethesda Lutheran Church, on the north side of Chicago, began its French Ministry to French-speaking immigrants and refugees who have come to the Chicago area. Recently, ordained LCMS pastor, Jean Bingue, started as a lay minister at Bethesda sharing Jesus' love and compassion with those he ministered to. Today Bethesda has a group of 40 to 60 French-speaking people who gather in its sanctuary each Sunday to worship. Some come from a far distance to be part of this worship and fellowship. Because of the distance people travel, the scarceness of employment and the poor economy, Bethesda has developed a dinner fellowship following the Sunday services where they prepare a meal to feed the people. Recently, Pastor Bingue contacted LCC requesting food to feed the families on Sundays. In addition to the Sunday meal, there are five Haitian refugee families they are assisting. Three of the families are new to the area and need help. These three families in particular, numbering six adults, five boys, and four girls, need assistance. An elderly couple living in a third floor apartment also face some challenging physical restrictions. A washer and dryer would really alleviate some of their burden. Another family has requested assistance with a stove and refrigerator. LCC is looking for congregations who would be willing to do a food drive and perhaps take a door offering to enable Bethesda to buy meat, fresh greens, and dairy products. Pastor Bingue also requested help with the following: clothing, household items and appliances.
Food Items Needed for Church Outreach Chicken Beef Turkey Rice Beans Oil Macaroni and cheese Spaghetti Greens: collard, mustards, turnips, spinach Vegetables Breakfast items Cereal Flour Sugar Soup Jell-O Milk Cookies Ice Cream Candy Granola bars
Clothing Needed Men's suits size 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, and 44 Ladies sizes 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 Girls size 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 Boys size 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, and 14 Household Items Needed: Cooking pots bed sheets towels etc. Appliances Needed for 2 Elderly Couples: Refrigerator Stove Washing machine Dryer Laundry detergent
If your congregation or small group would like to help with any of the above needs and support the ministry of Bethesda, please contact Dianna Bonfield at 866-455-6466 or email Dianna@LutheranChurchCharities.org. Click here to donate for the purchase of food
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
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
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
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
Items Available to a Ministry 2849 (100) HS98 Hymnals 2848 (175) Lutheran Worship Hymnals 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) For More items, click here to view the latest updates on our DONATE Web Page...
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... Single Man in Need of Reliable Transportation for Work Single Man in Need of Reliable Transportation 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
LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Comfort Dog Update
K-9 Chapel Talk at Cross Lutheran School Yorkville On Wednesday, March 23, LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Adeena, Hope, Shami and Tillie visited Cross Lutheran School in Yorkville. Pete Imlah shared a message with the students on the importance of keeping their eyes on Jesus. Following the chapel the students had a chance to ask questions about the K-9 Comfort Dogs and to pet them.
Click here to schedule a K-9 Comfort Dog visit
Donate to the K-9 Parish Comfort Dog Ministry
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 Christchild 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
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.
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
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 'Twas the Night Before Easter by VeggieTales - Big Idea It's Easter time in Crisper County and cable news reporter Marlee Meade (Petunia Rhubarb) is hunting for a way to help others. On a tip that the old town theater will be shut down, Marlee cooks up a plan to save the stage and make a difference through the power of musical theater! With a cast of costume-clad townies, massive props and a 20foot robot rabbit - "Up With Bunnies" is hatched! There's only one thing missing -- the star of the show! When news spreads that singing sensation Cassie Cassava (Melinda Doolittle) is arriving to perform in her hometown church's Easter service, Marlee gets worried. Concerned about the competition, she schemes to steal the starlet for her own pageant! But when things go haywire, will it be curtains for Marlee's dreams -- or will she discover the true meaning of Easter and what helping others is really all about?
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 Follow the K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs on Facebook - you do not need to have a Facebook account to view photos and updates!
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!
Job Fair at Harper College - April 1st
Friday, April 1, 2011, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Harper College Wellness and Sports Center (Building M) Palatine, IL
Harper College in Palatine, IL will be hosting its Spring Job Fair at the College this Friday April 1 st , 2011. Spring Job Fair Wellness and Sports Center (Building M), Park in Lots 1 and 2. For more information visit their web page at http://goforward.harpercollege.edu/page.cfm?p=5421
Voice of Care Education Event - "Coming Alongside People Touched by Disability"
Saturday, April 2, 2011 St. John Lutheran Church 215 S. Lincoln St., Lombard, IL 60148 Fee $5.00
"When the church attempts to function without all of its parts, the body of Christ becomes disabled. Same Lake, Different Boat is a transformational work---designed to renew our minds to think biblically about disability in order that our lives, our relationships, and our congregations might wholly reflect Christ". Stephanie Hubach Voice of Care is pleased to invite you to our April Educational Meeting. Spend the morning with us enjoying refreshments and listening to our speaker Stephanie Hubach. The opening part of the seminar will be on learning how to think biblically about disabilities, identification, and respect. In the second section, Stephanie will address how to understand the differences of degree of struggle that all families touched by disability face. In the final topic we will be discussing the concept of restoration- how to understand the relationship between the kingdom of God and how Christ works through His Church to bring His restorative power to individuals and families touched by disability. To register call Voice of Care, 630-231-3862 OR visit: www.voiceofcare.org
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! Carol Stream Sunday, April 3rd Our Savior Lutheran Church 1244 W. Army Trail Rd., 60188 Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
Click here for the full schedule
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
Wood Dale Sunday, May 1st Holy Ghost Catholic Church 254 Wood Dale Rd Concert time: 4:30 p.m.
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: 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.
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.
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