May 18, 2011
In This Issue
LCC President Tim Hetzner Returns from Alabama Tornado Relief
Featured Stories K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Families in Need Ministry Needs Mission Opportunities International Ministry Tim's Pick of the Week Upcoming Events How To Support LCC
The Presence of Christ is Shown in Acts of Mercy and Compassion
How much more can the South take? Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Flooding - it doesn't seem to end. In the midst of the storms of Life God and His people respond with truly being the Body of Christ, showing the Mercy and Compassion of Christ. I am always amazed at the out pouring of love that is given by so many in times of devastation - and how the Message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Presence of Jesus Christ through acts of Mercy and Compassion MAKE A DIFFERENCE. I personally want to thank all the hundreds of Tim Hetzner with 87-year-old member of people who are supporting those in need through Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Volunteers our churches! God Bless you for all you are giving worked at her home, which was and sharing! damaged by the tornado. Click Here to Donate Click Here to Volunteer Click here to view photos from the Southern District
Tim's Pick of the Week
LCC has many resources available to congregations, businesses, and individuals.
Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, interviews Rev. Ed Brashier, Southern District of the LCMS Disaster Volunteer Coordinator, about efforts in ministry and disaster response in the southern states.
Click here to visit our website and learn more
Listen as Stephen Jacobs, Elder at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, tells the story of families finding refuge in their church immediately after the tornado destroyed their homes. Holy Cross is also opening their doors for volunteers who come to Tuscaloosa to help with the relief efforts in the Southern District.
Disaster Response Update
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 Newsletter Archive / Printable Format
Bible Classes
Daily Devotions
Prayer Requests
To Donate
Ministries We Support
LCC has strengthened its relationship with the Southern District as we continue to provide support in their disaster recovery efforts. Working closely with Reverend Ed Brashier, Southern District Disaster Coordinator, we are processing requests from volunteer teams and individuals hoping to travel to Alabama and work where needed. As with any disaster, the needs change on a daily basis and sometimes from hour to hour. Flexibility and a servant heart are essential for all those Tim Hetzner meets with Rocky Mease, wishing to help in this ongoing recovery effort. President Schultz of the Southern LCC is serving strictly in a supporting role helping District, and Pastor Noon at Holy Cross Pastor Brashier get help to the areas that need it most. There are currently several teams from Northern Illinois in Alabama with more scheduled to arrive in the coming weeks. We are still accepting registrations for work teams. If your church would like to send a team, please click on the volunteer link below. Click Here to Donate - Click Here to Volunteer Click here to view photos from the Southern District
LCC Donates Truck for Disaster Response
A 2000 Ford F250 Super Duty pick-up truck has been donated by LCC to Pastor Ed Brashier to assist with ongoing disaster recovery efforts in the Southern District. The truck was delivered on Monday, May 16 by Pastor David Prentice and his sons, David III and Patrick. Pastor Prentice serves Faith Lutheran in Westchester that was devastated by the flooding last summer. Now he and his family are giving back through their volunteer efforts in Alabama. The truck is an invaluable resource for the current recovery efforts and the future in the Southern Pastor David Prentice receives a District. Ford F250 Super Duty truck for delivery to the South District in support of ongoing disaster recovery there.
Join Our Mailing List!
LCC Needs Chainsaws for Southern District Disaster Click here to join our Recovery Southern District Disaster Coordinator Ed Brashier is mailing list and asking for donations of chainsaws to be used in the receive free email current clean-up efforts and for the future. One of the daily devotions greatest challenges faced by communities hit with
tornadoes and hurricanes is the removal of fallen trees. As Pastor Brashier has said, you can never have too many chainsaws! If you have a chainsaw that is in excellent condition and would like to donate it, please contact (name of contact here) at LCC. New saws would be preferable. You can make a contribution for a saw and case, which runs between $700 and $750 or purchase one to donate. The chainsaw we recommend is the Husqvarna 359 20" with the Powerbox carrying case. All saws will become part of the permanent collection of the Southern District in support of their disaster response efforts. Click Here to Donate
Recommended Chainsaw: Husqvarna 359 20" with the Powerbox carrying case
"Send a Spoken Prayer"
Travel Trailers Needed for Disaster Response Work Request from Rev Ed Brashier - Associate Pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gardendale, AL and Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator
LCC is in need of a donation of 1-4 travel trailers, the kind you can pull with a car or truck and live in, to be used down south for the longer term recovery efforts because of the tornadoes and flooding. If you or someone you know has a travel trailer in livable and moving condition and would like to donate it to LCC so it can be used to house longer term volunteers, please contact Tim Hetzner at 866-455-6466 or email Tim at TimHetzner@LutheranChurchCharities.org Thank you.
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here Rev Ed Brashier
Lutheran Church Charities' Newest K-9 Parish Comfort Dog
Lutheran Church Charities is proud to introduce our newest K-9 Parish Comfort Dog, Chewie. Chewie was purchased from a certified breeder in the Chicago area and is being trained by an individual who was a zookeeper at Brookfield Zoo and trains service dogs. Chewie was born on Christmas Day and has already been out at different events like the Pet Expo in Pingree Grove last month. He is a handsome young puppy who is learning commands quickly and loves to be around people. The training will last eight months before he will be ready to be placed within one of our LCMS churches/schools. Chewie's AKC official name is Chewie Matthew 11:28. As Chewie is introduced by the handler they can share his entire name and the words of encourage from Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
LCC Receives Donation from Gift Annuity
Ray Pagels of the LCMS Foundation delivers a check to LCC from a donor who used a Gift Annuity as part of his gift planning. Has your fixed income dropped? You may be interested to learn more about a Charitable Gift Annuity. This agreement is a contract obligating a managing charitable organization such as the LCMS Foundation to pay the "gift annuitant" a fixed dollar amount for life(s) in exchange for the donor's original contribution to ministry. When the agreement terminates, whatever is left of the original contribution after obligated payments are distributed to named ministry beneficiaries is distributed to ministry beneficiaries. Our LCMS Foundation manages this program for the benefit of our members and Lutheran Church Charities. To learn more, ask Rich Martin, LCC's Director of Ministry Advancement, to answer your questions. Call 866-455-6466 or email RichMartin@LutheranChurchCharities.org .
Pastor Seeking Support for Colleague to Attend Conference
Pastor Brian Banke of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Tacoma, Washington is seeking support for a colleague to attend a conference that will benefit church planting and domestic missionary activity. The Fivetwo Wikiconference in Katy, TX takes place June 21-24 and deals directly with effectively planting and mobilizing churches in a Postmodern and Pluralistic society. Pastor Banke is seeking donors to cover the costs of a Midwest based fellow pastor to attend this conference. The conference fee is $199. With travel costs and lodging the total expense for the event is estimated at between $800 and $900.
Click here to donate
Vacation Bible School It's That Time Again!!
LCC is posting a Vacation Bible School schedule on our website again this year. Many people use LCC as a source for information on church activities. Send us the time, date, location and description of your VBS program and we will include it on our website. VBS is such a wonderful outreach to bring the Compassion of Christ into the community that we want to take every opportunity to tell folks what you're doing. Just e-mail the information and contact person's name to LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Click here to see VBS listings for 2011
New Disaster Response Training Scheduled For June 14th
On Tuesday evening, June 14th, LCC partners with Immanuel Lutheran Church in East Dundee to present LERT Training. Registration with a light supper will be at 5:30 pm. Class will be from 6 to 9 Pm Click here to register for the LERT training at Immanuel East Dundee Registration is $20 and helps cover the cost of the training materials, meal, and the LERT Tshirt, 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 on June 14th. For more information, call Dianna Bonfield at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Comfort Dog Update
Darlin Participates in Walk-A-Thon at Trinity Lutheran School On Thursday, May 12th, Darlin, the LCC K-9 Parish Comfort Dog placed at Celebration Ministries in Forest Park, participated in a Walk-A-Thon at Trinity Lutheran School in Tinley Park, IL. This is an annual Walk-a-Thon hosted by Trinity Lutheran School to raise money for the St. Jude's Children's Research Fund. Mr. John Boor (Assistant Principal) is the organizer of the Walk-A-Thon and is pictured with Darlin, Christine Rechsteiner (Darlin's Handler) and some of the students who participated in the event.
Star and Tillie at Luther East High School On Wednesday, May 11th, Lutheran Church Charities was invited to bring K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Star and Tillie to Luther East High School in Lansing IL. Pete Imlah shared with the students about the mission and ministry of Lutheran Church Charities, how the K-9 Parish Dog Ministry began and how the dogs are used by churches and schools to serve as bridges to share the mercy and compassion of Jesus Christ. Pete Imlah also challenged the students to keep their eyes upon Christ and not to get distracted by the things of this world. After chapel there was time for Q & A and visiting with the dogs.
K-9 Chapel Talk at St John Lutheran School in Lansing
On Wednesday, May 11th, LCC's Pete Imlah shared with the students and faculty at St John Lutheran School in Lansing, IL about the mission and ministry of Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs. He also focused on the words of 1 Peter 2:9 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." as a challenge and reminder for the students to remember who and whose they are. K-9 Parish Comfort Dogs Star and Tillie visited with the students along with their handler Tranetta McComb.
Click here to schedule a K-9 Comfort Dog visit
Donate to the K-9 Parish Comfort Dog Ministry
LCC Staff and Comfort Dogs Available for Church Functions and School Chapels! Click here to learn more!
Families in Need Help Make A Difference Grandmother, Daughter and three Grandchildren in Need of Furniture Margarita is in her fifties and is a volunteer at St. Matthew Lutheran Church El Comedor Popular Soup kitchen that feeds the homeless in Chicago. Margarita lives in the Pilsen area with her daughter who is a single mother, she works during the day at a commercial center and at night is studying to become a nurse. Margarita takes care of her three grandchildren, who attend Chicago Public schools; they are Anthony 12, Christopher 9, and Angel 6. Three months ago they moved to a third floor apartment that has hardly any furniture, They are in a great need for a used living room set, a double bed, small beds for the children, they need chairs, the six windows have no drapes or curtains, furniture to store plates, glasses, silverware. The family would appreciate having a television set because they cannot afford to buy one. The family is supported by the children's mother. If you have any of these items to donate or are interested in helping this family please contact Pastor Loza at the church office phone: 1-773-847-6458 or his cellular: 1-773-220-0111. Our Lord Jesus said: "Blessed are the merciful".
35 Year Old Ethiopian Man in Need of Medical Treatment
Request through the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus Yonas, who lives in Ethiopia, was born with congenital ventricular septal defect. When he was ten years old, his condition was corrected with surgery in Switzerland. However, two months ago, his heart problem reoccurred. His diagnosis is CHF SECONDARY TO VSD WITH EISENMENGER COMPLEX and he is currently on Oxygen at 10 L/min. Since he lives in a country where there is no advanced medicine, he is not able to get any kind of medical treatment. He is 35 years old and if he doesn't get help soon enough, he will lose his life at this very young age. He can receive the surgery he needs in Bannock but it's expensive. (estimated cost $25,000) Many avenues are being explored for funding. $3,000 is needed for his travel expenses and additional money will be needed for his medical treatment. If you are able to help with his expenses it will be a life saving blessing for this man and his family. Click here to donate
Single Man Needs Rent Assistance
Request from Rev. Reuben Baerwald, Emeritus, St. Mark Lutheran Church, St. Charles, Illinois I am working with a middle aged man who is separated from his family and living alone. He needs temporary assistance to pay his room rent and for food while he continues to look for a job. Any assistance would be a blessing for this man as he works to start a new life. Click here to donate
Rev. Reuben Baerwald
Car and Financial Help Needed for Homeless Single Mother Request from Pastor Paul Cutler, Grace Lutheran Church, Streamwood, IL
A single mother of a 5 year old is in desperate need of a car to drive to her newly acquired job. She is currently relying on friends and family to get to work but there are times when they cannot assist her. She is also trying to find a place for her and her daughter to live. She is struggling to keep her new job so that she can afford a home for her and her daughter who are having to move around to different locations. Any means of transportation would be greatly appreciated as well as a lead on a place for her and her daughter to live or financial assistance for a down payment for rent. If you have a vehicle to donate please contact LCC at 866-4556466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Click here to donate toward financial assistance If you have a place for this family to live or need more information please contact Pastor Paul Cutler at Grace (630) 289-3996 or email pastorswifesue@yahoo.com
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 Transportation for Work Single Man in Need of Reliable Transportation for Work Single Man in Need of Reliable Transportation 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
Faith Led Feet - A New Opportunity to Put Your Faith in Action Lutheran Church Charities is creating a new page,"Faith Led Feet", on our web site that will help Christians who are involved in activities for a charitable cause as an expression of their faith to spread the word. Our hope is to give individuals from Christian congregations a place to announce their participation in all the great causes out there as a way of sharing and spreading Christ's love to the sick and less fortunate among us. The Faith Led Feet web page will provide those actively involved and those who are moved to prayerfully and financially support them, a central, secure place to invite others to join them. Here's how it works: an individual participating in a fundraising walk-a-thon or other charity event or activity submits a simple online form at the LCC website. Once completed their activity is listed for everyone to see. We do the work of spreading the word to potential supporters complete with links to event websites where donations can be made. One stop at the LCC website connects you to our network of Christians passionate about reaching out with the compassion and mercy of Jesus Christ. You can send your friends and relatives to the LCC website to read your brief testimony and commit to supporting you financially and in prayer. If you're participating in an upcoming event for a charitable cause that will make a difference in the lives of others, consider letting LCC help you spread the word. Click here to fill out the application form to get started. There is no cost and LCC does not collect any money as part of this service. Watch our website for postings on the Faith Led Feet page
Your Donations at Work Making A Difference Here and in Haiti
Patti Witzke and her son A.J. picked up a communion set and medications for the mission team from Living Christ Arlington Heights for their mission trip to Haiti from May 20-28
Special thanks to LCC volunteer David Vollrath, for picking up the truck that LCC is donating to the Southern District Disaster Response Efforts
Paula Durante, Elaine Vance and Bev Baumann (order in picture taken) brought in 24 hand made quilts from St Luke Charity Quilters (St. Luke, Itasca). They requested that the quilts be sent where most needed.
Because of your generous donations clothing was distributed to those in need though the Lutheran Church in Jacmel, Haiti
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Urgent Need for Medical Assistance Help Support our Lutheran Outreach Efforts in Lebanon Christians Attacked by Muslims in Ethiopia - 59 Churches Burned and Thousands Displaced College Students Launch Appeal for One of LCC's Own in Haiti Food and Household Items Needed to Support Bethesda's Outreach Ministries Jesendys Hygiene Ministry - Compassionately Providing Essentials Ongoing Recovery Efforts Open Doors for the Gospel in Japan
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. 2862 Electric Scooter 2861 refrigerator (larger size)-cream/off white color 2860 Girl's white bedroom furniture, 2 twin bed headboards and frames, 1 mattress set, dresser, desk with mirror, 1 double size beige sleeper sofa, 2 dark wood veneer tall book shelves, 1 end table with white top, wood legs, and 1 dark wood kitchen table with leaves and 5 chairs 2858 Green Sofa 2855 King size mattress and box spring (no frame) 2854 Two 1950s or 60s end tables (dark brown wood) 2853 Twin mattress & box spring with metal frame and Mattress pad 2852 Mitsubishi 35" TV and stand 2851 Toshiba 35" Color Television (CF35D50) 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) Click here for the full list of Items Free for the Asking 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 Lockers Needed
Submitted by Aaron Landgrave, Principal, Trinity Burr Ridge Trinity Burr Ridge is in need of six lockers for their school- 60" high, 12" wide and 12" inches or so deep. If you have any lockers you are no longer using, please contact the principal Aaron Landgrave at trinityprincipal@comcast.net or call (708) 839-1444.
Still Point Theatre Collective Needs $1,000 to Continue the Persephone Project
Submitted by: Lisa Wagner-Carollo, Executive Director, Still Point Theatre Collective Still Point Theatre Collective, associated with Christ Lutheran Church Chicago, was founded by Lisa Wagner-Carollo, recipient of the Wheat Ridge Foundation's Seeds of Hope Award of 2009. Still Point is a Chicago-based community of artists dedicated to creating performances, workshops, retreats, and community events that celebrate our common spirituality, and raise consciousness on issues of peace and justice. One of Still Point's most unique and inspiring programs is the Persephone Project, through which the artistic staff facilitate theater workshops with women in Chicago-area detention centers including the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC), Lake County Jail, and the Dwight Correctional Center. These workshops are safe spaces for incarcerated women to tell their stories, build community, and explore together. At the end of a three- to four-month process, participants present an original performance for invited guests, prison volunteers, and their fellow inmates. Each performance is a powerful expression of inner strength and spirit. Keeping these programs thriving is an ongoing struggle. Still Point is seeking $1,000 by June 1 to cover travel expenses for facilitators, so that the workshops at Lake County Jail and Dwight Correctional Center can continue. The women at these institutions truly depend on the safe, creative space provided by Still Point Theatre Collective. Click here to donate
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
Items Available to a Ministry 2856 Hammond Commodore Series 300 Organ Wood is in excellent condition, teak color, includes bench. Was serviced about a year ago. Two manuals/keyboards, full foot pedals, many stops. 2849 (100) HS98 Hymnals 2848 (175) Lutheran Worship Hymnals 2837 (50) like-new Lutheran Worship Hymnals. Books are imprinted with church name. 2835 Large 50" Mitsubishi Big Screen Television in light wood cabinet with door closure. Incudes a VHS. (Photos available) Click here for the full list of Items Available to a Ministry 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
Mission Opportunities Help Make A Difference 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.
Medical/Construction Mission to Kenya Still Open
Our medical/construction mission trip set for August 27 - September 5 still has a few openings. The early registration deadline has passed but there's still time to join the team. LCC Director of Mission and Ministry Advancement, Tim Kurth, leads this trip that will serve orphans in Nairobi and blind children in Kitui with medical check-ups. Those who are not medical professionals will assist with construction projects in both locations to help improve the living conditions for the children. Take a step of faith and join us for a trip that will change lives and Make A Difference...for the children and you. The cost for the trip is $2395 per person and includes all in-country transportation, most meals, supplies and materials, and a two day safari in the Masai Mara National Park. Airfare from the U.S. to Kenya is not included in this price. For more information on the trip contact Tim at (866) 455-6466 or TimKurth@LutheranChurchCharities.org. You can register by calling (800) 747-2157. There is a $200 deposit required at the time of registration. Not able to go? Consider a donation to support the team through the purchase of medicines and construction materials.
Click here for more details... 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
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
International Ministry Haiti Update - Mission Teams at Work
Jackie Rychel from the Ohio district is leading a team to work on Building Homes and Hope in Haiti project in Jacmel, Haiti.
Jackie has lead 5 teams this past year to work on the Building Homes and Hope in Haiti project and the Guest House project in Jacmel.
Support Needed For Summer Project - "Building Haiti from the Inside Out" Â God is ever present and visible in the people of Haiti. The 1st Lutheran Church of Jacmel has more than tripled in believers since the earthquake the previous year. College students from Building Homes and Hope trips were asked by Pastor Marky Kessa to teach an ESL (English as a Second Language) course this summer. The project goal, "Building Haiti from the Inside Out", is to continue to encourage, support and enable our brothers and sisters in Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit, through education and Some of the students that will be served outreach in Jacmel, Haiti. In recent this summer by the ESL class conversations with Pastor Marky Kessa, he has identified 100 youth who would benefit from the ESL program.
As a way to help build communications, the project also includes teaching people designated by Pastor Marky how to use computers, projectors, website design, and other graphic media to document and keep people globally informed of God's work in Haiti by providing updates on the current conditions of Churches, orphanages and schools. Your help is needed now in touching the lives of 100 youth with the Mercy and Compassion of Jesus Christ by supporting these students in their mission. Help cover the costs of travel expenses for seven weeks - $6,865 which includes: food, lodging, ground travel, school supplies, airfare and technology - cost $6,523 which includes projector, DSLR camera, and computer. To donate equipment you can click here to see a list the specific equipment being requested. Click here to donate to send the students to Haiti Click here to donate to the cost of the equipment needed
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
Scholarship a Child in Myanmar 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 11th grade (the final step prior to University). Click here to read the appeal from Reverend Charles Edwards from the National Lutheran Church of Myanmar. Click here to donate
Haiti - The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful!
Update from LCC President Tim Hetzner, on returning from Haiti I have 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
Christian Education Projects in the Philippines 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
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 Ministry Resources Ministry Resources Available to Congregations Looking for Ways to Share the Mercy and Compassion of Christ to Those in Your Church and Community? How to Conduct a Successful Mission Fair
Click here to learn more about these and other Ministry Resources available from LCC
Looking to be in a Bible Study? Does Your Church Want to Host a Study? Your Small Group? LCC offers many Bible Study opportunities. Click here to learn more
Servant at Heart - Online Christian Business Directory Looking for a Christian business? Lutheran Church Charities has an online Christian Business Directory, Servant@Heart. This online directory allows: - Christians businesses to advertise their services without cost. - Christians looking for employment a place to post their resume - Christians with job openings a place to post those opening - Others to seek out Christian businesses and employees
Click here to learn more
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
Tim's Pick of the Week New Oxford Annotated Bible with the Apocrypha This classic resource is the only RSV study Bible available today. It features extensive annotations to the biblical text, book introductions, eight supplementary charts and essays, and authoritative, full color Oxford Bible Maps.
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
101 Ways to Show the Mercy and Compassion of Christ in Ways That Don't Cost Money Presented by Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities Wednesday, May 18, 2011, 7-8:30 pm Luther Village Creative Arts Room A 2nd floor of the Wittenberg Commons area 1220 Village Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Limited parking is available along Village Drive. Village Drive runs north from Oakton. 1220 is after you cross Concordia Lane. The main entrance is just beyond the fountain. Questions? Email Gilda Karu at abistaja@yahoo.com or call the church office at 847253-4839
St. Luke Lutheran School Itasca Curriculum Presentation/Open House
Sunday, May 22nd from 12:00 pm -1:30 pm Monday, May 23rd from 9:00 am - 10:30 am Saint Luke Lutheran School 410 S. Rush Street Itasca, Illinois
Saint Luke Lutheran School, 460 S. Rush Street, Itasca, Illinois is hosting a Curriculum Presentation and Open House on Sunday, May 22, 2:00 - 4:00pm, and Monday, May 23, 9:00am - 2:00pm the school will be open to visit. Saint Luke is a fully accredited Lutheran 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 find out more about Saint Luke. You won't be disappointed! For more information call 630-773-0396 or visit www.SaintLukeItasca.org
Trinity Green Trails Hosts Music Event
Saturday, May 21, 2011 Trinity Green Trails 2701 Maple Ave Lisle, IL 60532
Saturday, May 21 at 7:30pm, Trinity-Green Trails, home of the Grounds for Hope Cafe, located in Lisle, hosts two bands as they launch their debut Cd's. Mia Koehne, who currently serves at Christ Church-Lutheran in Phoenix is excited to return to her hometown of Chicago. "As a singer/songwriter, her soulful music reflects the painful beauty of human struggles and a passion to worship the God who saves." Mia is joined by fellow Phoenix, AZ based singer, Nathaniel Hoiles. www.aboutmidnight.com. "Indeed", which includes Sanctuary Manhattan's worship leader, Nathan Fisher, is an original, piano-driven, modern folk rock trio with a penchant for three part vocal harmony. Their songs share their personal challenges and experiences on their journey through life, faith and relationships." Find them on MySpace at www.myspace.com/music.indeed. Tickets are $5. For more information, please contact Dan Grissom, 630-390-1290 or email at dan.grissom@tlc4u.org
Arlington Heights Christian Youth Chorus Spring Concert
Sunday May 22, 2011, 4:30 PM Faith Lutheran Church 431 S. Arlington Heights Road Arlington Heights, Illinois
Under the direction of Matt Stiehr, the Chorus will present a wide spectrum of choral music. Included is the syncopated hip-hop style "Joyful, Joyful" from the movie Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit; "How Can I Keep From Singing," a Quaker song with a powerful text reflecting internal strength and hope; two very popular songs from the Rodgers and Hammerstein Broadway musical and hit motion picture, The Sound of Music - "Do-Re-Mi" and "My Favorite Things;" "Antiphonal Kyrie," a prayer of petition sung a cappella by the Chorus; plus additional selections to round out the concert. Several of the numbers feature choreography designed and taught by Amanda Lehmann. The concert is free of charge with only a free will offering taken to help defray costs.
First Bethlehem Chicago's 140th Anniversary Celebration
Sunday, May 22, 2011 First Bethlehem Lutheran Church 1649 W. LeMoyne St. Chicago, IL 60622 and White Eagle 6839 N. Milwaukee Ave. Niles, IL
First Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Chicago will celebrate its 140th anniversary on Sunday, May 22, at its 10:45 a.m. Sunday morning worship service. Pastor Elton Heimsoth, an alumnus of the congregation and school (and the son of a former pastor of First Bethlehem), will preach. Pastor James Kellerman will lead the liturgy. The motto for the anniversary will be "The Gospel Advances" and is based upon Philippians 1:12, where Paul speaks of how the gospel had advanced from Jerusalem to the very halls of power in Rome. The verse reminds us that Paul chose urban areas (such as our neighborhood in Chicago's East Wicker Park) to get the gospel message out into a whole region. After the worship service a banquet will be held at the White Eagle, 6839 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Niles. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. and the meal will be served at 2 p.m. A program will follow, which will include a presentation of pictures of First Bethlehem Lutheran Church from way back in the day. Banquet tickets cost $30 each and can be ordered from the church: 1649 W. Le Moyne St., Chicago IL 60622. All ticket orders must be received by May 10. If there are any questions, you may call the church office at 773.276.2338.
Parish Nurse from Bethlehem to Visit St. Paul, Rochelle
Raida Mansour (pictured), parish nurse at Christmas Lutheran Church and Dar-alKalima in Bethlehem (Palestine) will be the guest of the NID Parish Nurse Network May 28 - June 6. The majority of time she will be participating in parish nurse meetings and the Concordia Conference for Parish Nurses at Concordia University Wisconsin. On Sunday, June 5th, St. Paul Lutheran Church (Rochelle) will give thanks to God for the five years of blessings for the parish nurse ministry in Bethlehem. The coffee hour (immediately after the 9am worship service), and a presentation during the Bible class time that follows, will provide an opportunity to visit with Raida and learn more about parish nursing in Bethlehem.
Marcia Schnorr (CLM-Parish Nurse at St. Paul and Coordinator, Parish Nursing, LCMS) was part of the initial task force (2005) through Bright Stars of Bethlehem and agreed to provide the leadership in providing parish nurse education if a nurse was identified. God provided the nurse (Raida Mansour) and a distance learning course was developed with an internship spent at St. Paul (Rochelle) and within the NID. Parish nursing in Bethlehem began with Raida serving fourteen older adults at Christmas Lutheran Church then quickly expanded to well over
100 Palestinian Christians in the Bethlehem area. Soon they added regular visits to elderly (including Muslims) in the nearby villages. They have now served over 250 elderly as they have added outreach to Nablus and Taybeh. The NID Parish Nurse Network provides the support for Raida to return to the USA bi-annually. Click here if you would like to donate to this ministry outreach.
Lutheran Hispanic Mission Benefit Dinner and Wine Tasting
Sunday, June 5 at 5 pm Don Quijote Restaurant 119 Lincolnway Valparaiso, IN The Lutheran Hispanic Mission will host a benefit dinner and wine tasting on Sunday, June 5, starting at 5:00 PM. The event will be held at Don Quijote Restaurant, 119, Lincolnway in Valparaiso, Indiana, and will feature authentic Mexican food and entertainment. The Mission is organized to help Hispanic residents with American citizenship applications and English as a Second Language Classes. It also provides a myriad of social services to the Hispanic Community of Northwest Indiana.
Reservations for the dinner are $60.00 and are available from Dennis Hodges: 219793-3370 or the Lutheran Hispanic Mission at (219) 508-7109.
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