February 29, 2012
In This Issue
Featured Stories Families in Need Disaster Response Ministry Needs Mission Opportunities International Ministry LCC Ministry Resources Tim's Pick of the Week How To Keep LCC Serving
Tim's Pick of the Week
Two Best Friends - High School Cheerleaders Killed - Others Injured in Belvidere Accident
Support for Families and Friends through Immanuel Belvidere, Lutheran Church Charities and K-9 Comfort Dogs LCC Establishes Fund to help all the Families Involved in Crash Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. Psalms 41:1 Last Friday night three families were involved in a two car crash on Route 76 in Belvidere, Illinois. Belvidere North High School juniors and cheerleaders Brenda Gutierrez and Thalia Arredondo lost their lives in the crash. They were on their way to cheer at a basketball game when the car they were driving apparently hit ice, slid into oncoming traffic and was struck by an SUV. The family of four in the other vehicle suffered injuries and the father is still hospitalized. Working with Immanuel Belvidere, LCC first got involved bringing a dozen K-9 Comfort Dogs to Belvidere North High School on Monday, February 27. Dogs and handlers spent the day bringing comfort to the students and faculty. We were also invited to bring dogs to visit students at the middle school. We will continue to provide a presence as long as we are needed. Click here to read more Click here to donate for the families
K-9 Comfort Dogs Visit Belvidere North High School as Students Cope with Death of Friends
LCC has many resources available to congregations, businesses, and individuals. Click here to visit our website and learn more
Last Friday night, February 24, Belvidere North High School juniors Brenda Gutierrez and Thalia Arredondo were killed in a car accident as they traveled to cheer at the school. The whole community is grieving the loss of these two young girls. The staff at Immanuel in Belvidere arranged with high school administrators to have the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs spend Monday, February 27 with the students at the school. Twelve dogs and handlers came on very short notice to provide comfort to all the students who are struggling to cope with this loss. LCC staff and volunteers who participated in this special day were profoundly moved to be able to bring the compassion and presence of Jesus Christ into the midst of this grief. View photos
Stephen Johnson - Reporter for Rockford CBS Affiliate WIFR Channel 23 Visits LCC Office for K9 Comfort Dog Story
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
Following up on the visit of the K-9 Comfort Dogs to Belvidere North High School last Monday Stephen Johnson of WIFR Channel 23, the CBS affiliate in Rockford, visited the LCC Office on Tuesday. President Tim Hetzner was interviewed about the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and our presence at the high school in the wake of an accident that claimed the lives of juniors Brenda Gutierrez and Thalia Arredondo. Immanuel Belvidere invited LCC to help the community through this difficult time and our presence gained attention through social media and regular news outlets. K-9 Comfort Dogs are available to your church or school in times of crisis, disaster or special events and celebrations. To learn more about the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry call (866) 455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org. Click here to see WIFR K-9 news video Click here to donate to the families in Belvidere Click here to request a K-9 visit Click here and donate to support the K-9 Comfort Dogs
More...
More Than 50 LERT Volunteers Receive Ministry Quicklinks Advanced Training in Mold Abatement Good Shepherd Elgin hosted an LCC advanced Newsletter Archive / skill training in mold abatement on Saturday, Printable Format February 25. More than 50 volunteers came out to Bible Classes Daily Devotions Prayer Requests To Donate
hear EPA representative, Jack Barnette, share his international expertise in mold and air quality. Jack has worked for the EPA for 35 years and is an expert in air quality, mold remediation and radiation detection. LCC is scheduling other advanced trainings throughout the year to provide LERT teams the chance to add to their skill set. This Mold Abatement Training will be repeated at the Trinity Lisle Green Trails campus on Saturday, March 3. These advanced trainings are open only to those who have completed the basic LERT certification course.
Ministries We Support
"Send a Spoken Prayer"
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here
LCC Looks to Acquire Printer/Copier to Meet Growing Demand
The many ministries of Lutheran Church Charities require a substantial volume of printed material. Our ministry growth has made it necessary to get a printer/copier to meet demand. Recently LCC took on the printing of all our LERT manuals previously supplied by the LCMS. As one of the most active districts in the synod when it comes to Lutheran Early Response Team training it's important to have a reliable copy machine to produce manuals. And that is just one of the many things we print. However, the cost of the high volume copier being considered would draw significantly from our operating funds. Please consider a gift to help us with the purchase of the Konica Minolta C552 Bizhub printer/copier that will meet our needs. Thank you for your generous support of Lutheran Church Charities. Click here to donate for printer/copier
Donated Van Needs New Tires to Use Safely for LCC Ministry
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Last fall Good Samaritan Ministry based at Immanuel Palatine graciously donated a full size Ford handicapped accessible van to LCC. It will serve us well as it has a wheelchair lift and a large open cabin for hauling donated items, disaster response materials and more. The vehicle has very low miles and is in good mechanical condition but had sat unused for quite some time. Because of this the tires are dry rotted and must be replaced in order to safely use the van. LCC has received a very favorable quote of $620 for a set of four tires and would like to have them installed as the busy spring season is fast approaching. Please consider a gift to replace the tires on this van. Click here to donate for a new set of tires
Pastor Dennis Perryman of Good Shepherd Elgin Seeks Support for Pastor in Transition
LCC received notice of a Pastor and his family in dire financial need. The request came through Pastor Dennis Perryman of Good Shepherd Elgin. He writes... One of our Lutheran Pastors is in transition between Calls and now his wife has also lost her full time job. She is applying for unemployment insurance, but currently there is no income coming in for the family. They are in jeopardy of losing their home. Income assistance is greatly needed until the Lord opens up other doors. Any donations will be of great encouragement to them during this difficult time. Thank you, Pastor Dennis Perryman Click here to donate
Request for Assistance with Medical Bills from Reverend David Bass of St. Paul Norwood Park
Pastor David Bass of St. Paul Norwood Park/Chicago is seeking assistance for a member of his church. All funds collected by LCC will be released to the church for distribution to the family. Pastor Bass writes... This request is on behalf of a faithful church member here at St. Paul. His wife has been diagnosed and is being treated for breast cancer. She has been fighting this battle since September, 2011. Having undergone 6 heavy doses of chemotherapy, she has 12 more to undergo. This has caused tremendous financial stress on both of them. He is currently the sole bread winner for his family, but refuses to give up. He is a hard working individual and is only asking for assistance as a last resort - to help with medical bills. Any assistance he receives will be deeply appreciated by him and his wife. As his Pastor, and on his behalf, I thank you for your prayerful consideration to help those in the family of faith. Serving Him, Pastor Dave Bass Click here to donate
Reverend Paul Touloute Undergoes Emergency Surgery in Haiti - Financial Support Needed
On Monday, February 20 LCC received an urgent email from Pastor Marky Kessa, President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti with news of an emergency surgery for Pastor Paul Touloute. Pastor Kessa was traveling to be with him but notified LCC before departing for the hospital. This event highlights the need for ELCH to have reliable transportation and there is also a need for financial support to cover medical costs. He writes... Brothers, Rev. Paul Touloute he is sick need have surgery right now, this is really hard, the doctors will start in a few minutes, so pray for him. I have to go tomorrow to be with them, you can see a good car for ELCH it is necessary I want to know if it is possible, if there is a way to have a financial support for him? God bless you, President Kessa Click here to donate to medical bills Click here to donate for auto purchase
Lord of Life LaFox Provides Matching Funds to Acquire Laptop for St. Matthew Chicago
St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Chicago has 25 Catechism students, some of them have learning disabilities. Nelly Bordonoba (pictured) is the teacher who has shown concern and Christian love to teach the students who have learning problem. One of them, Manuel, 12 years old, has attended worship services with his parents for almost 10 years. Nelly is in great need of a laptop computer to prepare Catechism lessons for her special students. Reverend Julio Loza is Pastor of St. Matthew. The Mission Board Lord of Life, LaFox has provided LCC with a grant of up to $500 to establish a matching fund for the purchase of a new laptop for St. Matthew, along with software and accessories. Please consider a gift in any amount as every dollar donated will be matched, up to $500. Click here to donate matching funds for laptop purchase
Pastor Jean Bingue of Bethesda Chicago Seeks Replacement Stove
Reverend Jean Bingue and the people of Bethesda Chicago work with a large Haitian community in the city and usually provide food after worship services. Recently the church stove failed. They have asked LCC to share the need for a replacement stove. If you have a gas stove in good condition or know someone who does, please contact Dianna Bonfield at (866) 455-6466 or by email Dianna@LutheranChurchCharities.org.
Kenyan Pastor Needs Replacement Bus to Continue Transportation Ministry
Every weekday Reverend Daniel Mulwa (pictured) in Nairobi, Kenya sees that nearly 40 children living in poverty get a ride to a Christian school. These children rely on Reverend Mulwa for an education that gives them a chance to rise out of poverty to care for themselves and their families. Recently, the very old and undersized van he has been using finally failed completely. Reverend Mulwa has appealed to LCC to help him acquire a new bus that is larger and more reliable. This will allow him to continue a vital ministry to children and their families. The bus will also be used to transport mission teams that visit Kenya. Tim Kurth of LCC has a longstanding relationship with Daniel who has helped arrange mission work for teams Tim has taken to Kenya since 1999. Thank you for considering a gift of any size. Click here to donate
Retirement Research Foundation Announces Accessible Faith Grant Program
Friendship Ministries, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has alerted LCC to a grant program your church may benefit from. The Retirement Research Foundation has announced the 2012 Accessible Faith Grant Program to enable houses of worship to make accessibility improvements to their facilities. The program is available to houses of worship in six metro Chicago counties: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, and McHenry. Since the program began nine years ago, the Foundation has awarded 129 grants to religious congregations totaling almost $2.8 million to make their facilities more accessible. Retirement Research Foundation will accept applications from March 1 through June 1, 2012. You will find a full description of the program, application form, and tips for completing the application in the Accessible Faith Grant Program section of their website at www.rrf.org. Click here to download informational flyer
Join Tim Hetzner for a Reformation Heritage and Advent Christkindl Markets Tour
The tradition of the Advent Markets in Germany and Europe reaches back into the Middle Ages, when the December fairs were a time to stock up on provisions for the long winter months ahead. Today they provide a magical stage to share in the festive spirit of a traditional Christmas celebration - handcrafted cribs and hand carved decorations, mulled wine, Christmas gingerbread and roasting chestnuts all help contribute to the festive mood. Literally translated, the street fairs are Christ-child markets - all with an
Advent Theme. I would like you to join me and be amazed at the ultimate Christmas fantasy come true of lights and trees, ornaments and snow and everything to prepare you for Christmas without the commercialization of Christmas we have in the US. Add to the Christ-child markets the main sites of the Reformation and Luther on Christmas. Have you ever said to yourself, "If I had been in Bethlehem the first Christmas, things would have been different. I would have..." I found the following excerpt from Martin Luther's Christmas Book very challenging: "There are many of you in this congregation who think to yourselves: "If only I had been there! How quick I would have been to help the Baby! I would have washed His linen. How happy I would have been to go with the shepherds to see the Lord lying in the manger!" Yes, you would! You say that because you know how great Christ is, but if you had been there at that time you would have done no better than the people of Bethlehem. Childish and silly thoughts are these! Why don't you do it now! You have Christ in your neighbor. You ought to serve him, for what you do to your neighbor in need you do to the Lord Christ Himself." Martin Luther was right. We know he is right because Christmas present is no different than Christmas past. The only way we can say things might have been different that first Christmas is by making our present Christmas different. The words of Christ in Matt. 23:31-36 and the exhortation of John in I John 3:16, 17 challenge me and ought to challenge us as we consider the love of Christ demonstrated to us and our need to demonstrate that love of Christ to others. How different will this Christmas be for you? I invite you to join me in a trip which will be remembered for many years to come; to a place where magic's in the air.
Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities Click here for the trip brochure Click here to notify us of your interest in this trip
Volunteers Needed to Help Organize Big Day of Serving (formerly 1 By Youth) Cosponsored by LCC
LCC is once again cosponsoring Big Day of Serving (formerly 1 By Youth) in partnership with Group Cares based in Loveland, Colorado. Last year's event brought over 600 youth and adult volunteers into Chicago's Austin neighborhood for a single day of transformational service. This year we hope to top 1000 volunteers. With the enthusiastic cooperation of Chicago Aldermen Emma Mitts and Jason Ervin, the event will have a lasting impact on residents in need. Marcia Turner is leading the team organizing this year's event with support from Tim Kurth and other LCC staff. Marcia is looking for volunteer leaders to help her put this life changing day of service together. Meetings will be limited to only what is absolutely necessary and she hopes to have the team together by the end of February. Help is needed in tracking and coordinating projects, sourcing donations from area businesses, managing the logistics of the day and other tasks related to seeing the event is a big success like it was last year. LCC is also accepting financial contributions to help defray the costs of the event. If you're interested in joining Marcia's team contact Tim Kurth at (866) 455-6466 or email him TimKurth@LutheranChurchCharities.org. Click here to donate to the Big Day of Serving
Immanuel Joplin Identifies Need for Skilled Volunteers and Dates to Serve Trent Davis, the Director of Disaster Response for Immanuel in Joplin, has sent out a list of dates when construction skilled volunteers are needed. These are one week blocks with a week being from Tuesday through Saturday. If your church can assemble a team of skilled workers for any of these dates please register at our website or contact Dona Martin at (866) 455-6466 or DonaMartin@LutheranChurchCharities.org. Here are the dates when teams are needed: The following weeks we could use up to an additional 20 skilled volunteers each day: 3/6 - 3/10 4/3 - 4/7 6/26 - 6/30 7/17 - 7/21
The following weeks we could use up to an additional 40 skilled volunteers each day: 3/27 - 3/31 4/10 - 4/14 4/24 - 4/28 5/1 - 5/5 5/8 - 5/12 5/15 - 5/19 6/12 - 6/16
Click here for more information or to register your team
Your Donations Make A Difference Pastor Stephane Kalonji of Zion Lutheran Church in Chicago stopped by the LCC offices on Monday, February 27th to pick up a donation of toys. The toys will be distributed to the families that are served by the ongoing outreach efforts of Zion.
Here are Ways to Help Our Ongoing Haiti Relief Efforts Spiritual Needs
Physical 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
Latrines for the Lutheran schools - $500 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
Developing Projects Radio Ministry-click here to learn more Hosting Haitian Christian Music Group for U.S. Tour - click here to learn more
Attention Thrivent Members: There's Still Time to Direct 2011 Dollars to LCC - Help Us Meet Our Expanding Ministry Needs
Thrivent has reported that a significant amount of the Thrivent Choice dollars allocated for members in Chicagoland have NOT been directed. The deadline for directing 2011 dollars to Lutheran Church Charities is March 31, 2012. We are asking Thrivent members to take advantage of this opportunity and help LCC respond to the everincreasing needs. Thrivent Choice is the charitable giving program through which Thrivent Financial for Lutherans members are able to direct Thrivent charitable funds. Eligible members can designate Choice Dollars, based on insurance premiums, contract values, and Thrivent Financial volunteer leadership, which are then directed by the member to Lutheran organizations. To direct Thrivent Choice dollars please call 1-800-847-4836 and announce the topic "Thrivent Choice" when asked or go to the website: Thrivent Choice Dollars (www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice/). Direct dollars to LCC and let's not leave any money from 2011 on the table! We are deeply grateful for your support. The process for designating Thrivent Choice dollars is simple. Click this link to go direct to the Thrivent Choice page. Once there you can log-in or, if you haven't before, register. Then you can click the red 'Get Started' button to walk through the process of designating your Choice Dollars to LCC. If you would prefer to do this by phone you can call Thrivent at (800) 847-4836 and say 'Thrivent Choice' when prompted. If you would like additional help with this process, please call Rich Martin at LCC (866) 455-6466 and he'll walk you through the online process (plan to be in front of your computer when you call). Click here to designate Thrivent Choice dollars to LCC
LERT Training Available - Two Scheduled for March, One in May
Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport, Illinois is hosting LERT training on Tuesday, March 13th from 5:30 pm until 9 pm. Registration and a light dinner will begin at 5:30 pm followed by a three hour class from 6-9 pm. St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois is hosting LERT training on Thursday, March 15th from 5:30 pm until 9 pm. Registration and a light dinner will begin at 5:30 pm followed by a three hour class from 6-9 pm. Living Waters Lutheran Church in Peoria, Illinois is hosting LERT training on Sunday, May 20th from 2:30 pm until 5:30 pm. Registration will begin at :00 pm followed by a three hour class from 2:30-5:30 pm.
Click here to register for the LERT training
Registration is $20 and helps cover the cost of the training materials, meal, and the LERT Safety 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
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. 2908 Lift Chair (dark blue) - electric, upholstered, reclliner - has heat and vibrates 2902 (2) boxes and (1) can of assorted sockets and socket set pieces, paint roller, (2) hack saws, (1) grease gun, mason's hammer, claw hammer, hatchet, Army cot replacement canvas, (2) caulking guns, tube of acrylic caulk, (2) small measuring tapes, 10' measuring tape, 36" pry-bar, 16' motorized measuring tape, router, 16" laser level, scoup shovel, manual week wacker, extension pole for paint rollers, (2) tubes lithium grease, (1) socket set, universal joint socket set, one drill chuck, small level and (2) small sets of assorted sockets and drivers 2901 computer desk with hutch - storage above with area for keyboard and monitor, one drawer, adjustable shelves 2900 Plastic Children's chairs with metal legs for kids (14" high). (30) Gold and (11) Dark Gold in color 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
Do More Than "Make A Wish" - Make A Difference in the Name of Christ
Receive full Kelley Blue Book value for your IRS charitable deduction as your car is given to a family in need and never sold by LCC
LCC regularly receives requests for vehicles to help families in need. We cannot keep up and are hoping that you will consider donating your vehicle through LCC to meet these needs. Any car, van, or SUV in good working order will be gladly accepted and passed through to people in need. You'll get the full value of your car for charitable donation credit. We cannot overstate the need for vehicles. 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... Pastor and Family in Desperate Need of Vehicle Faith Lutheran Church in Prescott, Michigan Seeks Van for Disabled Man Van Needed for Jesendys Hygiene Ministry Member of New Song, Aurora in Need of Car Pastor in Need of Van for Outreach Ministry in Chicago Cargo Van or Pick-up Truck Needed for Food Pantry at Zion Lutheran Church 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
Families in Need Help Make A Difference Your Donations Help Christ the King Chicago with Funeral Costs for Cherished Volunteer
UPDATE: Pastor John Brazeal at Christ the King in Chicago gratefully received your donations to assist in covering the funeral costs for one of their most dedicated volunteers. While donations to the fund have been passed along to Pastor Brazeal, the total cost of the funeral has not yet been covered. Those still wishing to contribute for this need are invited to click the link below. Original Appeal: Geri Brazeal, wife of Pastor John Brazeal (pictured) at Christ the King in Chicago, who are both dear friends of LCC, are seeking assistance to cover the funeral costs for one of their most dedicated volunteers. The request came as part of a thank you note for a general gift to their ministry that recently came through LCC to Christ the King. Please consider making a gift and help Christ the King help a grieving family in their time of loss. Geri writes... Dear Friends, We are indeed grateful that the Lord moved someone to donate to our ministry. The church council has chosen to use this gift to help defray the cost of the funeral of one of the volunteers who cooked lunches for our school. We are in the process of collecting donations to cover the cost of her funeral ($4200). She died last week after complications following the amputation of her leg. There were circulation problems due to her advanced age and diabetes. She had financial problems so there was no insurance. Your gift is indeed a timely blessing to assist this family in their time of need. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 Geri Click here to donate
District President Dan Gilbert Appeals for Support for Pastor and His Family LCC has received an appeal from District President Dan Gilbert. A pastor and his family are in need of financial assistance as they make the transition into ministry in the LCMS. They have been Spirit led to pursue the course even though it has meant sacrificing regular income during this time. They ask for your prayerful support and, if the Spirit so leads you, temporary help with living expenses. LCC has already provided some assistance for immediate bills and will continue to support the family in this transition as the Lord provides through your contributions. Click here to support this pastor
Disaster Response Call for Alabama Tornado Clean-up Volunteers Temporarily Suspended
Reverend Ed Brashier, Southern District Disaster Coordinator, has alerted LCC that the city of Clay, Alabama, is asking volunteers to take a two week break and allow the city to clear debris from the streets. Piles of limbs and debris, some more than 10 feet high, placed along the streets by teams have severely restricted movement through the affected area. City crews need room to move through and clear what has already been done before allowing volunteers to continue. LCC will stay in touch with Pastor Ed and let volunteers know when they are welcome to return. Watch here for all the latest updates. Click here to donate to Tornado Relief in Alabama Click here for photos from 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.
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Tragic Car Accident Takes Life of Pastor's Wife and Two Children Urgent Request to Support Family Suffering Through Devastating Loss Short-Term Missionary Hannah Kiefer Seeks Assistance for One-Year Service Meagan Seals Miracle Baby Pastor Doug Swanson Requests Rent Assistance for a Member Reverend Robert Rahn of Lutheran Heritage Foundation Seeks Support for Sudanese Seminary Pastor Marky Kessa, President of the Lutheran Church in Haiti Makes Special Request to Replace Vehicle and Repair Worship Space Pastor Hicham Chehab Requests Help for Woman Needing Dental Work
Ministry Needs Help Make A Difference Voice of Care Requests Help With Special Needs Camp Scholarship
Voice of Care is a ministry to developmentally challenged people and those who care for them within our Northern Illinois District. Caring for those with special needs is a 24/7 responsibility that comes with financial challenges, many doctor and therapy appointments and more. Families rarely get breaks as few people are equipped to care for their special needs children and so provide time off. Voice of Care addresses many of these concerns by providing scholarships for the Special Needs Camp program held at Walcamp in Kingston, Illinois each summer. In order to make this camp accessible to everyone, Voice of Care scholarships cover some or all of the cost for families in need. LCC is cooperating with Voice of Care to help provide this year's scholarship fund. Your gift will make it possible for families to send their developmentally challenged child or adult child to camp. This is a memorable event for the child and provides a much needed respite for the family. Click here to donate for Voice of Care Camp Scholarships Click here to read a mother's story of Ellen's trip to camp Click here to learn more about Voice of Care
English New Testaments Needed for Salam Outreach to Students Request from Pastor Hicham Chehab, Salam Arabic Fellowship, Missionary, POBLO- Chicago
Salam Arabic Fellowship needs paperback English copies of the New Testament for the student ministry at College of DuPage and Morraine Valley Community College. NIV, or other modern translations are preferable. Our student ministry has given out more than 300 copies of the Bible to college students over the past four years, not to mention tracts and Christian books. God's Word sows seeds of faith in the hearts of people and would never return empty! At this time we are looking to give away copies of the New Testament only. We have found that to be the most effective outreach to the students. If you have copies of the New Testament to donate contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org Click here to donate for the purchase of New Testaments
LCC in need of Video Editors for Missions Lutheran Church Charities receives frequent requests from ministries and missionaries asking for help producing short videos on their mission or ministry. Although LCC has all the equipment and a studio, we simply do not have the staff time to do all the editing jobs that are asked of us. If you have the skills and would like to volunteer to help a missionary or someone working to go on the mission field tell their story we would like to talk with you. Anyone interested in volunteering for projects is asked to please contact Dana Yocum, Tim Kurth, or Tim Hetzner at LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Items Available to a Ministry 2900 Plastic Children's chairs with metal legs for kids (14" high). (30) Gold and (11) Dark Gold in color 2897 Risograph GR 3750 printer (black & white printing only) 2881 (22) Lutheran Worship Hymnals (Blue) located in Hampshire, Illinois 2879 72" x 72" Sauder Oak wall unit 2873 Savin 3350 Duplicator 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 Believers, New Starts in Cambodia!
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." Click here to read more
Short Term Mission Opportunities MOST Ministries
Carly Stevens, Executive Director 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
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 Scholarship a Child in Myanmar
Because of your Donations Two of 10 Students have Received Scholarships Click here if you would like to make a donation to help one of these young students
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 Tim's Pick of the Week
Live To Make A Difference by Max Lucado
Featuring key selections from Outlive Your Life, this booklet embodies the spirit of making a difference in the church as well as the local community, region, and world. Perfect for giving away to your church community, small group, or neighbors.
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 MINDMETHOD-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
Hot Dog Cart and Grill Available for Ministry Events Thanks to Thrivent and Generous Donors
Thanks to the generous contributions of LCC donors and a grant from The Northwest Cook County Thrivent Branch, LCC has acquired a commercial grade food service cart and a large gas grill. Both of these are mounted on trailers and can be picked up to be used by your church for picnics, festivals, and other events where food is served. LCC plans to use this food prep equipment as part of our disaster response in order to feed volunteers and victims of disaster. When there is no disaster related activity the cart and grill are available for churches and schools in the Northern Illinois District. If you would like to use one or both of these for an upcoming event, please contact LCC or click below to complete a request form. LCC always looks for ways to resource your ministry in unique and creative ways. Click here to fill out a reservation form
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
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.
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
Evening Concert - Mariachi San Pablo
March 16, 2012 - 7 pm Calvary Lutheran Church 107 N. Wood Dale Rd. Wood Dale, Illinois Ysleta Lutheran Mission from El Paso, Texas. Come hear your favorite Christian and popular songs and hymns performed in the Mexican, folk "Mariachi Style!" For more information, please call (630) 766-2838 or visit www.ylm.org for more Mariachi San Pablo tour information!
Click here for the flyer in English Click here for the flyer in Spanish
4th Annual Voice of Care Benefit Concert
March 31, 2012 Hyatt Hotel 1400 Corporetum Drive Lisle, Illinois
You are invited to an evening of music and dance. Live music provided by The New Invaders - www.NewInvaders.com - Playing the best of the 60's Tickets: $30 Price Covers: Appetizers, desserts and refreshments Silent Auction: held to raise additional funds for the future of Voice of Care - In Christ with person developmentally challenged! For more information or to order tickets, click here.
Retreat for Men - Men of Courage & Encouragement
April 20-22, 2012 Camp LuWiSoMo W5421 Aspen Rd Wild Rose, Wisconsin
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17 This retreat offers you the opportunity to sharpen and be sharpened, to encourage and be encouraged, and to be inspired to greater courage to live out your faith in Jesus Christ at home, at work, and in your community. Pastor Ken Klaus will be our speaker for the weekend as we enjoy the beautiful setting and facilities at Camp LuWiSoMo. You will not want to miss this weekend retreat. Wives, you will not want your husband to miss this opportunity. The retreat begins with registration and fellowship from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, April 20, and ends at noon on Sunday, April 22. The schedule will include time for Bible study, worship, recreation, food, and fellowship. Space is limited and will be filled based on when the registration form and deposit are received, so sign up today! For more information, click here.
Read Your Mate's Mind - Marriage Encounter Weekends
April 20-22 July 20-22 October 5-7 Hyatt Deerfield Hotel Deerfield, Illinois
On a Marriage Encounter Weekend you can learn the next best thing to this by finding out what your mate is really thinking when talking (or not talking) with you. This is done in the privacy of your hotel room, - just the two of you - between presentations given in a conference room. See couples' comments below: "We learned skills to make our marriage successful as God intended. Uplifting to be around other couples who really value and invest in their marriage. Accommodations (food, lodging) excellent." "You start off a little skeptical, you work together through the process, you both end-up better off for having done it." "We met couples that were married for months and for years, and the Encounter Weekend offered something for both groups." Applications are due by: Mar. 16, June 15, or Aug. 31. For an application form, or to apply online; see website: www.NorthernIllinoisLME.org, or contact: Dave and Jean Dobbelstein; 1-847-839-3546; dave_jean@comcast.net. Click here for the brochure
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