September 7, 2011
In This Issue
Featured Stories Comfort Dog Update Families in Need Disaster Response Ministry Needs Mission Opportunities International Ministry LCC Ministry Resources Tim's Pick of the Week Upcoming Events How To Keep LCC Serving
Tim's Pick of the Week
Consider Joining Tim Hetzner on a Superb Advent Germany Tour! Four Spots Open as of Today! 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 Hetzner Begins Live Class - The New Testament - Starts September 12
Join Tim Hetzner as he teaches live on Mondays - Word Among Us - The New Testament study of the Bible. Starting with an overview of the history and culture of First Century Palestine he will then journey through the entire New Testament. Classes will look at the Bible in the context of history, culture and customs of the people at the time, as well as the archeological evidence.
Classes are non-denominational and are open to anyone regardless of church (or lack of) affiliation. This is a safe environment to study the Bible - no church membership solicitation will be allowed! The course is also available to be taken by Internet. This 30 session class will start Monday, September 12th at Harris Bank in Palatine at 6AM, St Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods at 9:30AM and 7:30PM. To enroll, call 866-455-6466 or click here to enroll online.
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
Your Donations at Work Making A Difference Pastor Duane Fluechtling, St. John Lansing, presents John Nichoson with a check from LCC of your donations. The Nichoson house was destroyed by fire in July. The Nichoson family is so thankful to the many friends and "new friends" that donated money and household items to help get them back on their feet.
For more information about LCC and its human care ministry, please contact LCC staff at: LCC@LutheranChurch Charities.org More...
LCC has many resources available to congregations, businesses, and individuals.
Comfort Dog Update
Chapel Talk at Zion Matteson Last Wednesday Tim Hetzner gave the Chapel talk at Zion Lutheran School in Matteson. He was joined by LCC Comfort Dogs Howe, Tara and Olympia as well as handlers Dona Martin and Linda Colberg. After the service they visited with each of the students and teachers.
Click here to visit our website and learn more
Ministry Quicklinks Newsletter Archive / Printable Format
Immanuel Downers Grove Block Party
Bible Classes
On Sunday, September 4th, Immanuel Lutheran Church in Downers Grove hosted their annual community block party. LCC Comfort Dogs Tara, Star, Barnabas and Shami, as well as handlers Marie Payes, Tranetta McComb, Karen Fulkerson and Linda Ramey were on hand for the festivities. They all had a great time meeting and sharing with members of the community.
Daily Devotions Prayer Requests To Donate Ministries We Support
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"Send a Spoken Prayer"
Circuits 19 and 20 Host Gourmet Fund Raising Dinner for LCC Disaster Response
Last spring brought upon us a lot of nature caused disasters: earthquake and Tsunami in Japan brought upon the people of the region nuclear meltdown; tornados in the Alabama, Mississippi and other states killed scores of people and left countless others without homes and livelihood. Pastors of Circuits 19 and 20 took close to their hearts the pain of the affected people, realizing that it is not enough to pray for the victims of disasters and they need to take one step further - to have a fundraiser dinner. Reserve the date and the place
September 30, 2011 at 7 p.m. Saint Paul Lutheran Church
4660 West 94th Street, Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453 Our special speaker for the event will be Timothy Hetzner President of Lutheran Church Charities.
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here
Our guests will be treated with 4 star gourmet food prepared by master chefs: Rev. Steven Riordan of Grace Lutheran Church, Western Springs (E19) and Rev. Dr. Valdas Ausra of Zion Lithuanian Lutheran Church, Oak Lawn (E20) and Pastors of Circuits 19 and 20. Menu includes fine appetizers, salad, main course and dessert. Cost is $50.00 per person. Limited seating. Deadline for reservations is Saturday, September 23, 2011. Please make reservations through the office of Grace Lutheran Church, 4101 Wolf Road, Western Springs, IL 60558 For more information call (708) 246-0536 or e-mail: gracelutheran.ws@gmail.com Payment should be included with your reservation. All the proceeds will go to support Disaster Relief efforts of Lutheran Church Charities.
New Believers, New Starts in Cambodia!
Mercy, Witness, Life Together! Our new LCMS theme underscores a great outreach opportunity for all LCMS members; especially in our Northern Illinois District. George & Shary Frahm (pictured) are LCMS Missionaries recently commissioned at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Palatine. Through this commissioning, Immanuel is partnering with the Frahm's in providing support for their Cambodian mission. Together, we are seeking other congregations throughout the LCMS to join in this effort to support the "Angels Dormitory project in Phnom Penh, Cambodia." The Angels Dormitory is a human care project which will bring 50 young men and women from the provinces of Cambodia to the capitol city of Phnom Penh and feed and house these young students while they attend school in the capital city. George and Shary will be providing these students with on-going vocational skills training, English as a Second Language training (ESL), and especially reaching out to these students with
the love, grace, and hope of Jesus Christ while actually living with them. George and Shary will have a wonderful opportunity to reach and impact these young men and women by simply building relationships and having "Holy Conversations" with them on a daily basis. Lutheran Church Charities has been asked to partner with Immanuel Palatine to help in Cambodia. Click here if you would like to support the "Angels Dormitory Project" financially. You can contact George and Shary Frahm at george.frahm@lcmsintl.org or by calling Immanuel Lutheran Church at 847-359-1549.
Devotion Series - Real Forgiveness
An eight-part devotion series entitled "Real Forgiveness" begins tomorrow. Click here to sign up for our free email devotions Click here for our archive of Daily Devotions
Hurricane Irene Update Lutheran Church Charities Working in New Jersey and the New Jersey District of the LCMS
Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. Mark 1:41 Please help be the Body of Christ to touch those suffering from Hurricane Irene It will go down as one of the most damaging storms to hit New Jersey in a century, if not in recorded history. The state's rivers, swollen by Irene's relentless downpours, began spilling their banks Sunday, inundating backyards and basements, major highways and downtown streets. Many waterways were still rising, suggesting the worst is yet to come. Even as 1 million displaced residents began streaming back to their homes along Kara, 20, takes her dogs to dry land to go the Shore, tens of thousands of people began evacuating inland flood zones, a vast to the bathroom from her house in expanse stretching from the state's northeast Fairfield NJ after hurricane Irene. corner to Trenton. Lutheran Church Charities will be working with Rev. Dennis Rockett, the VP of the New Jersey District of the LCMS and Pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church to bring assistance to the families and churches in that District. Assessment of properties and contacting the people affected (many of whom have not been able to get back to see their property yet!) is taking place now. The New Jersey District Office had minimal flooding. LCC will be working with the New Jersey District to bring assistance and most importantly the Mercy and Compassion of Christ to those affected by Hurricane Irene. Any assistance is greatly appreciated to help! Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 To Donate, click here
"Being the Church" Event - St. Paul Mount Prospect Spends Sunday Serving
This past Sunday, St Paul Mount Prospect combined all its service into one service at the park. Immediately following the worship service the members dispersed into the community to serve on service projects with the love and compassion of Christ. Projects were completed by Sunday evening and made a difference in the lives of many people, for those who were served and those who did the serving, as they learned what true worship is all about. Pictured: Saturday morning Vern Duckmann, a member of St Paul Mt Prospect, picked up the LCC Disaster Response Trailer and tools for St Paul's "Being the Church" Event on Sunday
LCC Staff Member Tim Kurth and Mission Team Return from Kenya
On Tuesday Tim Kurth and the Mission Team serving in Kenya returned home. Below is an update from Tim: The trip went very well. Everyone is safe, had a great time and did a lot of serving. We did check-ups for over 110 people, left a room full of medicine for future help, refurbished a building to be a medical clinic and resurfaced the floor of a boys dormitory. We enjoyed a couple of safari days and got to see the Wildebeest crossing the Mara River, one of the natural wonders of the world and the last large mammal migration on earth! All in all and excellent trip for everyone. Click here to donate to the ongoing care of the orphaned and blind children of Kenya Click here for pictures and mission updates from Tim
Looking to be in an in-depth Bible Study? Does Your Church Want to Host a Study? Your Small Group?
Over 150 weeks of In-Depth Bible Studies available on DVD
Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, has led over 40 Biblical Studies Trips to the Middle East over the past 30 years. Learn his insights into the Biblical Text, the Culture and Customs of the People, the History and Archeology of the land - but
MOST OF ALL - discover the MIND-METHOD-MANNER and MINISTRY of our Lord Jesus Christ. All Courses are available on DVD and also on the Internet. Become a host site for Word Among Us Studies and find Answers in the Bible for Life's Many Difficulties and Questions! 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
Help the Haitian Orphans NOW-Donations Needed for Bunk Beds Request from Sue Gross, Lutheran Mission Project
Friends of Haiti, I am often asked how a small congregation can be part of the Haiti Ministry without making a monthly commitment of support. Well here it is..................... Immanuel Lutheran Church in Richton Park, along with the Richton Park Community, bought a used school bus which we will use as a shipping container to send large items to Pastor Isaac in Haiti. This is a rare opportunity for us to have such a large space to ship needed items to Haiti so we decided to take advantage of it by shipping the much needed BUNKBEDS that the children will use when the addition on Pastor's house is finished next year. We found white pine bunk beds at IKEA for $159.00 each. The mattresses are extra and they have 20 available right now if we want them. We do not have to pay tax and we will pick them up ourselves. So if we can get 20 congregations to donate $300.00 we will have enough beds for the 30 orphans and the guest room where mission teams will stay in the future. We would like to thank Immanuel Lutheran Church and the Richton Park Community for the FEST they sponsored last Saturday. All proceeds went to pay for the cost of shipping the bus to Haiti. Please consider a donation for this cause. These children sleep on a concrete floor in Pastor's home right now. These children have never had a bed to sleep in! Can you imagine the excitement when they get to sleep in their very own bed for the first time? Please help make this happen NOW. If the bus leaves before we can raise the money for the beds it will be too costly for us to ship them. Click here to donate
Families in Need Help Make A Difference Single Mother Needs Car for Medical Treatment and to Find Employment Request from Pastor Harold Wahl, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Thornton, Illinois
Family Loses Everything in Fire Request from Larry Baade, Organist, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Addison, Illinois
Disaster Response Immanuel Joplin Requests Construction Trailer for Ongoing Recovery Work
Immanuel Lutheran Church and Martin Luther School have asked Trent Davis to serve as full time Disaster Relief Coordinator with support from President Mirley of the Missouri District. As Trent begins the transition to Joplin he has asked for an office trailer similar to those used on construction sites. A simple trailer with power, heating and a/c, an entrance door and a window or two (see picture) would be used to house the offices of the disaster recovery efforts. This will allow Martin Luther School and Immanuel to return their spaces to other ministry uses. Please consider making a donation toward securing a rent or lease on a trailer by clicking the link below. If you have a trailer that might be used, please contact Tim Kurth at LCC (866) 455-6466 or TimKurth@LutheranChurchCharities.org. Click here to donate
Help us Feed People in Need
In Disaster Response and Outreach Events
LCC has been looking for a food cart to use in our Disaster Response and other outreach events. This would be made available to congregations when they do outreach events and be used to feed volunteers and displaced people in a Disaster Situation. Last week we found a cart and grill on a trailer that fits the bill. Help us raise the additional $800 needed. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans NW Cook County Chapter will match $1600! Click here if you would like to help with the purchase of the cart and grill.
New Disaster Response Trainings Scheduled For Fall 2011
Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle will host LERT Training on Tuesday, September 20th. Registration and a light supper will begin at 5:30 pm with class from 6 pm to 9 pm. St. John Lutheran Church in Island Lake will host LERT Training on Thursday, September 22nd. Registration and a light supper will begin at 5:30 pm with class from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Zion Lutheran Church in Hinsdale will host LERT Training on Wednesday, October 5th. Registration and a light supper will begin at 5:30 pm with class from 6 pm to 9 pm. Immanuel Lutheran Church in Batavia will host LERT Training on Tuesday, October 25th. Registration and a light supper will begin at 5:30 pm with class from 6 pm to 9 pm. The Central DuPage Chapter of Thrivent will host LERT Training on Thursday, October 27th at St. John Wheaton. Registration and a light supper will begin at 5:30 pm with class from 6 pm to 9 pm. Our Savior Lutheran Church in Carol Stream will host LERT training on Saturday, November 12th. Registration and a light breakfast will begin at 8:30 am with class from 9 am - 12 noon. Click here to register for LERT Training Registration is $20 and helps cover the cost of the training materials, meal, and the LERT vest, 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 more information, call Dianna Bonfield at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org.
Immanuel Joplin Begins Transition to Long Term Recovery: LCC Continues to Support Their Efforts
With the school season quickly approaching, Immanuel Lutheran Church and Martin Luther School in Joplin are beginning the process of transitioning their disaster relief center into a long term recovery ministry. LCC will continue to register volunteers for the efforts in Joplin and update our website and newsletter with all the latest information. Click here to donate to Tornado Relief in Joplin, Missouri Click Here to Volunteer in Joplin, Missouri
Alabama Recovery Continues - Volunteers Still Needed
Reverend Ed Brashier, Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator, has sent us an update on the progress of recovery in Alabama. He writes... In the Gardendale, Hanceville, Cullman areas (Birmingham and north) we are still doing tree and debris removal. In the Tuscaloosa area we are still doing tree and debris removal PLUS some rebuild and remodel of homes. We are currently still housing volunteers in Gardendale and Tuscaloosa. Currently all rebuild work in Tuscaloosa is organized through another ministry. All tree and debris removal is organized through Shepherd's Heart Ministry.
I estimate that we will be working tree and debris clean up for another 4 months. Rebuild efforts will probably last another year. Please continue to encourage volunteers to come to Alabama. Thank you for all your work in support of the disaster recovery efforts in every location! Ed As you can see there is still much to be done in the south and we encourage individuals and churches to consider organizing a team to help in Alabama. Click on the link below to volunteer. Contact Dona Martin at 866-455-6466 or DonaMartin@LutheranChurchCharities.org with any questions. Click Here to Donate to Disaster Relief in Alabama Click Here to Volunteer in Alabama
With LCC CARE CARDING You Can MAKE A DIFFERENCE in a Tangible Way So many people want to help the people of Joplin, Missouri in a meaningful way - but are not sure what to do. Here is an opportunity to provide Mercy and Compassion and Help to an individual or family right now! Click here for more information If you are unable to do a CARE CARD but would like to contribute to the purchase of gift cards, click here to donate.
Travel Trailers Needed for Disaster Response Work
Request from Rev Ed Brashier - Associate Pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gardendale, Alabama 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. Read more...
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 - An Opportunity to Put Your Faith in Action
Lutheran Church Charities has created 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. Click here to read more.
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Lutheran Man in Need of Pro Bono Criminal Legal Counsel and Representation Request from Northern Illinois District President to Help District Pastor Kenyan Pastor Needs Replacement Vehicle for Ministry and Family Help bring See Through the Scriptures to Haiti and the Dominican Republic Help support former Iraqi Muslim attend seminary
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. Pictured: 1930 Cable Nelson baby grand piano - good shape, needs a little TLC and a tune-up (item #2877) 2888 Medium blue colored sleeper sofa with matching love seat - some wear on the arms, sleeper mattress like new 2887 (15) Student bibles 2886 (6) new still in the boxes LUMARK, MOTION ACTIVATED, Motion Sensors, Installs to one or more existing lights, adjustable settings, 3 in 1
* Motion Activated * Night time on * Standard Floodlight Applications: Wide Area Coverage Cooper lighting LMS240W White 2885 2 1/2 boxes of Post-it Brand picture paper, Matte finish, super sticky, print, peel and stick practically anywhere. 20 sheets 8.5X11 inches for inkjet 3M 2884 Fabric, four cushion long couch - cream in color with light floral pattern. Skirt reaches the floor 2883 Pioneer stereo... included w/ an amplifier, surround sound, cabinet, 6 CD changer and 2 speakers 2882 Multi-Grey colored couch 2880 Rest-o-pedic (Limited Edition) queen size mattress with matching box spring and bed frame. Good condition 2879 72"x72" Sauder oak wall unit - Side cabinets have 4 shelves each (16" deep), Middle section is for TV with closed cabinet underneath (20"deep), top of TV opening is another cabinet with glass doors with an interior light - ALL ONE PIECE 2878 3-cushion sofa(79" long) and a 2 cushion love seat (54" long) - Excellent condition - print fabric with beige background with a design of light blue and pale wine 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 St. Matthew's "Comedor Popular" Soup Kitchen In Desperate Need of Industrial Refrigerator
Request from Pastor Julio Loza and Maria Leal, Director of Community Services, St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Chicago, Illinois The very old industrial refrigerator used by "Comedor Popular" Soup Kitchen is no longer working. Maria Leal, Director of Community Services at St. Matthew, who is still undergoing cancer treatment, is continuing her efforts to share Christ's love by feeding the hungry. In order to serve those in their community who rely on the meals provided by "Comedor Popular" they need to replace their old industrial refrigerator with a used or new one. If you have a used industrial refrigerator in good working condition that you can donate please call LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Click here to donate to a new refrigerator
Pastor in Need of Van for Outreach Ministry in Chicago
Request from Pastor Samuel Shin, Tabor Lutheran Church, Chicago
I am a Lutheran pastor in Chicago serving at Tabor Lutheran Church, focusing on the ethnic outreach ministry. I need a van to be able to pick up and drop off people as part of our outreach to the community. I do not have a personal car that I can use. If you have a van that you can donate to this ministry it would be a real blessing to this community. Thank you and God's blessing to you! Pastor Samuel Shin If you have a vehicle to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Cargo Van or Pick-up Truck Needed for Food Pantry at Zion Lutheran Church, Chicago Request from Pastor Stephane Kalonji, Zion Lutheran Church, Chicago
Since its opening in June, Zion Lutheran Church's Food Pantry has been serving individuals and families with food bags every Thursday, from 4:00p.m to 6:00p.m. and any day and time in case of emergency. Each week the number of those coming to receive food has been growing. Zion's members have contributed their vehicles for the food pick up from the Greater Chicago Food Depository, but we are no longer able to pick up all the food boxes due to the limited transportation available. We therefore need help with a Cargo Van or Pick-up truck for the food pantry. And since more and more food items are being sold (at a discounted price) by the Greater Chicago Food Depository, we're asking for financial assistance so we can purchase the food items that our clients greatly need. Thank you for your help! If you have a vehicle to donate please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Click here to donate to support Zion's food pantry
Elevator Repairs Needed at St. John's, Chicago Request from Pastor Richard Heinz, St. John's Lutheran Church and School, Chicago In spite of the tough times that have plagued Lutheran schools on the northwest side of Chicago, St. John's ("Mayfair," in the Portage Park neighborhood) has been greatly blessed over the years, and continues to be. Ten years ago, an extensive renovation brought great improvements to both church and school. The $1.5 million project is 1/3 paid for, and although the budget is stretched tightly, the mortgage with LCEF is being kept current. Second Grade class rides the elevator But when the Gospel is being preached and with their teacher who was recovering taught clearly, and the Holy Spirit is working from knee replacement surgery great things, the devil gets nervous and tries to send annoyances. Read more... Click here to donate
Items Available to a Ministry
Reed Organ Available Ten stop antique reed organ available to a congregation. The instrument, of solid oak construction, and lovingly waxed and polished, has been in the same family since it was built in the late 1800's. Although modest in volume by today's standards, it might well serve a smaller congregation in providing support for its liturgy and hymnody. Currently in storage for the last several weeks, this organ, operated by mechanical bellows using pedals, has been played until recently. A bench is included. 2881 (200) Lutheran Worship Hymnals (blue) located in Hampshire, Illinois 2879 72" X 72" Sauder Oak wall unit - Side cabinets have 4 shelves each (16" deep), Middle section is for TV with closed cabinet underneath (20"deep), top of TV opening is another cabinet with glass doors with an interior light - ALL ONE PIECE 2878 3-cushion sofa(79" long) and a 2 cushion love seat (54" long) - Excellent condition - print fabric with beige background with a design of light blue and pale wine 2877 Cable Nelson baby grand piano 2873 Savin 3550 Duplicator 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 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 Short Term Mission Opportunities MOST Ministries Lutheran Church Charities endorses MOST Ministries as a valuable partner in Proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in works of service to others in places throughout the world. We have worked with MOST in the past and endorse and support this ministry. If you are interested in Short Term Mission opportunities, please click here to find out what currently is available. Or you may go directly to their website at www.MostMinistries.org We thank God for the ministry and partnership of MOST Ministries and encourage those who are interested to be involved with them in serving others. Thank you, Tim Hetzner President Lutheran Church Charities
Carly Stevens, Executive Director MOST Ministries
Malaria Initiative The LCC Malaria Initiative provides treatment for malaria and research in multiple countries to combat the spread of Malaria. 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 LCC to Furnish Guest House in Haiti Last October work began on the Guest House in Jacmel, Haiti. Part of the Building Homes and Hope in Haiti project, which partners LCMS World Relief and Human Care and Lutheran Church Charities, the Guest House will be used to house mission groups working in the area. The walls are up and the interior work has begun. Many items are still needed before the Guest House opens this fall so we are having a "Guest House Shower". If you or your group would like to be a part of the "shower" and help furnish the Guest House you can make a donation for any item(s) on the list. LCC will arrange for all donations, Dollar per Dollar, to be sent to Haiti to purchase the items. This is a great opportunity for individuals, congregations, mission teams or organizations to be part of a project that will have a lasting impact in Haiti. Thank you to Jackie Rychel and the Ohio District for all their work overseeing the construction and furnishing of the guest house. If you have any questions regarding items on the list, please email Jackie Rychel at jrychel@gmail.com. Click here to read the list of items Click here to donate to furnish the guest house in Haiti
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. Read more... 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
LCC Staff and Comfort Dogs Available for Church Functions and School Chapels! 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
Tim's Pick of the Week
Thunder Dog by: Michael Hingson A blind man and his guide dog show the power of trust and courage in the midst of devastating terror. It was 3:00 a.m. on 9/11 and Roselle whimpered at Michael's bedside. A thunderstorm was headed east, and she could sense the distant rumbles while her owners slept. As a trained guide dog, when she was "on the clock" nothing could faze her. But that morning, without her harness, she was free to be scared, and she nudged Michael's hand with her wet nose as it draped over the bedside toward the floor. She needed him to wake up. With a busy day of meetings and an important presentation ahead, Michael slumped out of bed, headed to his home office, and started chipping away at his daunting workload. Roselle, shivering, took her normal spot at his feet and rode out the storm while he typed. By all indications it was going to be a normal day. A busy day, but normal nonetheless. Until they went into the office. In Thunder Dog, follow Michael and his guide dog, Roselle, as their lives are changed forever by two explosions and 1,463 stairs. When the first plane struck Tower One, an enormous boom, frightening sounds, and muffled voices swept through Michael's office while shards of glass and burning scraps of paper fell outside the windows. But in this harrowing story of trust and courage, discover how blindness and a bond between dog and man saved lives and brought hope during one of America's darkest days. The Cross and the Towers (DVD) by: Bridgestone Follow the lives of seven individuals who were changed forever by the stunning symbol of hope they found buried beneath the rubble of Ground Zero.
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
ROC-Chicago, Illinois - September 9-10, 2011 Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM) and the Northern Illinois District (NID) of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod bring a truly unique conference experience to the Chicago suburb of St. Charles for the fourth of LHM's eight Regional Outreach Conferences (ROC) for 2011. ROC-Chicago will deliver valuable, ready-to-use ministry information from mission specialists, who are engaged in creative projects that combine innovation and enthusiasm to bring the Gospel to their communities and the people they meet everyday. Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, will be presenting a breakout session on 101 Ways to Share the Mercy and Compassion of Christ. Prepare to be strengthened as a witness of Jesus Christ! This conference will include: the opportunity to meet and hear from the new Speaker of The Lutheran Hour Rev. Greg Seltz; a missional challenge from LCMS NID President Rev. Dan Gilbert; a passionate presentation from Mission Facilitator Rev. Mike Mast; practical breakout sessions on hard-hitting topics to reach today's culture; age-appropriate training events for children and teens; Spanish language workshops and translation of main stage programs, and so much more! Click here for conference details and registration information
Special 9/11 Memorial Service On "Worship For Shut-Ins"
Yes, we've killed Osama bin Laden - but that is not our source of comfort and peace! Our source, of course, is our Savior Jesus Christ! "Worship for Shut-Ins" television service on September 11 this month will be one of "Remembrance and Thanksgiving". This weekly TV program can be seen weekly throughout the Northern Illinois District and the nation on DIRECTV Channel 377 at 11:30 am Eastern time, 10:30 am Central, 9:30 am Mountain time, and 8:30 am Pacific time. It can also be seen on their Web site of www.worshipforshutins.org by clicking on "View videos". The 9/11 program should be up by 5:00 pm on September 9th. Throughout the District, "Worship for Shut-Ins" can be seen every week on the local Chicago station of the Total Living Network (TLN-Comcast Channel 138). This cable station stretches into central Illinois, northwest Indiana, and southwestern Michigan. Guest pastor for this special service will be Chaplain Colonel Retired James Cotter of Fort Wayne. Pastor Cotter is a graduate of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne. He has served four Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod congregations in Peoria, Illinois; Denver, Colorado; and two in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Lutheran Ministries Media is the producers of "Worship for Shut-Ins" and relies on contributions from individuals, organizations, and groups to sustain this television ministry at a cost of $1600 daily. Donations may be sent to Lutheran Ministries Media; 5 Martin Luther Drive; Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825.
9/11 Prayer and Remembrance Service Hosted by St John's LaGrange
Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 4:30 pm Waiola Park Corner of 47th St and Waiola LaGrange, Illinois
St. John's Lutheran Church and School, LaGrange will host a Service of Prayer and Remembrance on the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America. This outdoor service for the community will be held at Waiola Park at the corner of 47th street and Waiola (six blocks west of LaGrange Rd.) in LaGrange at 4:30pm on Sunday, September 11, 2011. The afternoon's activities will include a program honoring emergency police officers and firefighters, a worship service and free hamburgers and hot dogs for all who attend. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in St. John's gym at 505 S. Park Rd., LaGrange. For more information, contact St. John's at 708-354-1690.
Building a Marriage that Experiences and Expresses the Love of God
September 23-25 Trinity Lutheran Church 405 S. Rush St. Roselle, Illinois 60172
With marriages ending in divorce at an alarming rate, both inside and outside of the church, learning and implementing God's wisdom for building a marriage that experiences and expresses the love of God is vital. We invite you to attend this retreat hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church in Roselle, IL, and led by Rev. Jason Pankau of the Life Spring Network over the weekend of September 23 - 25, 2011.
We will examine what the Scriptures say about marriage and use the U.N.I.T.Y. in Marriage paradigm to build a Godly foundation. It is designed to ground you in God's wisdom and to give you the practical tools and paradigms that you can refer back to during the different seasons of your life. This retreat has something to offer everyone - we welcome and encourage single individuals, engaged and married couples to attend to learn about marriage from God's perspective. For additional information including a detailed copy of the event schedule, or to register for this event, please visit our website at www.lifespringnetwork.org or contact our office at 888-968-5559 or email info@lifespringnetwork.org.
The Churches of Circuits N-3 & N-2 Present "the Event"
Saturday, October 15, 2011 - 9 am-3:30 pm St. Peter Lutheran Church 111 W. Olive Street Arlington Heights, Illinois
Faith, Life, Mission You are invited to something so special, it can only be called: "the EVENT" Join with congregational members from 14 area churches Hear from our NID District President Dan Gilbert Attend a wide array of interesting and informative seminars conducted by area pastors and others Enjoy a luncheon fellowship View exhibitor's materials from many Synod/District ministries Lutheran Church Extension Fund Lutheran Church Charities Thrivent Lutheran Hour Ministries Lutheran Child and Family Services WheatRidge Shop for spiritual gifts for yourself or others at the Concordia Publishing House "store"
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