March 14, 2012
In This Issue
Families in Need Disaster Response Ministry Needs International Ministry LCC Ministry Resources Tim's Pick of the Week Upcoming Events
Tim's Pick of the Week
Indiana District Requesting Volunteers for Disaster Recovery
LCC has been asked to spread the word that volunteers are needed in Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky to help with clean-up and recovery. As with any disaster the situation continues to be quite fluid so the work to be done is changing moment to moment. If you are unable to join a team or travel south, you can donate through LCC with every dollar donated going 100% to the churches that are coordinating the efforts so that they can help where most needed to those affected by the tornadoes. Click here to read the rest of the story. Click here to volunteer Click here to donate
Lutheran Church Charities and Pastor Bartz Immanuel Richton Park Team with Community Coalition To Do Good in Support of Veterans
LCC has many resources available to congregations, businesses, and individuals. Click here to visit our website and learn more
The 2012 project for the Community Coalition To Do Good of Richton Park, is helping our veterans. Coalition partners will be working with VFW Post 311 in Richton Park to help veterans in transition with housing and emergency needs. The first fundraiser will be a ham dinner at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Richton Park, Saturday, April 28. Serving times will be from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. The menu is all you can eat and includes a salad bar, homemade desserts, and beverage. ALL proceeds will go to support the project. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. First come, first served. The Coalition project for 2011, Fill the Bus for Haiti, is now complete. The bus arrived in Jeremie, Haiti safely, with all contents undamaged. PTL! Immanuel Lutheran Church is located at the corner of Sauk Trail and Cicero in Richton Park, 1/2 mile EAST of I 57, exit 339. Call 708-748-0558 for more information. Click here to donate to the Coalition Project working with VFW Post 311
Elim Christian School Announces Matching Fund Grant to get a K-9 Comfort Dog
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
Elim Christian School in Palos Heights equips students with disabilities to reach their highest God-given potential. They provide services to approximately 275 students ages 3-21. Last fall the K-9 Comfort Dogs visited Elim for a chapel service. The experience for the students was so powerful that the school began discussing the possibility of getting their own K-9 Comfort Dog to work with the students. Since that time a generous matching fund gift has been made through Lutheran Church Charities to assist the school in acquiring a dog. Assistant Principal Tim Griffin, who leads the Crossroads program for older students transitioning into adulthood, writes... "A vital component of the Crossroads initiative is to provide opportunities for our students to participate in serving. Everyone has something to give the larger community. Our students are excited to reach out in love and bless others and the Comfort Dog Ministry provides one of the most tangible ways to do that especially for our students with physical and medical challenges." The leadership at Elim is working to finalize funding so that they can acquire their LCC K-9 Comfort Dog and have asked LCC to broadcast this appeal. Every dollar donated will be matched, up to $4000. If you would like to help Elim Christian School in their efforts to get a K-9 Comfort Dog please click below to donate. Click here to learn more about the ministry of Elim Click here to donate to the K-9 Matching Fund
Daily Devotions Prayer Requests To Donate Ministries We Support
"Send a Spoken Prayer"
LCC's "Send a Spoken Prayer" e-Card site is available. To learn more, Click Here
Pastor Alex Merlo of Iglesia San Pablo Aurora Needs Commercial Mixer to Continue and Expand Ministry
Iglesia San Pablo in Aurora has a unique venture that supports four vicars serving their community. Members of the church make and sell tamales to and through area churches one weekend a month. At this time they are making approximately 1000 tamales over one weekend each month. These are then sold to two churches in Aurora. Pastor Merlo is looking to acquire a commercial mixer for the church that will allow them to expand their operation and serve a larger community while at the same time raising additional funds to support the vicars. There are over a dozen ladies in the church that volunteer making these tamales and all are willing to expand the operation. Here is what they hope to acquire: A commercial bakery mixer of no less than 30 quarts with no less than a 2 horsepower motor. The very best price they have found for a new unit is $1,800 with $200 shipping. If you have a mixer to donate or know someone who does please contact LCC at (866) 455-6466 or LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org. Click here to donate for the purchase of a mixer
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Lutheran Church Charities at the NID Convention this past Friday and Saturday
LCC was humbled to receive an award from the NID for their work of Compassion Ministry. LCC is privileged to partner with all the LCMS congregations in Northern Illinois to bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. View photos from the Convention The staff at LCC took advantage of having all the Northern Illinois District churches in one location last weekend to distribute funds that have been collected for a variety of needs.
Pastor Alan Buss of Immanuel Belvidere for Families Involved in Fatal Car Accident
Pastor David Bass St. Paul (Canfield) Chicago for the Medical Assistance Fund
Pastor Phil Ressler Lord of Life LaFox for Ongoing Support for the Seals Family
Pastor John Brazeal Christ the King Chicago to Recover Funeral Costs for Faithful Volunteer
Pastor Gerald Behnke Good Shepherd Elgin for Pastoral Assistance Fund
LCC Distributes Funds to Three States - Three Churches - Three Pastors Affected by the Recent Tornadoes
On Friday March 2nd LCC President Tim Hetzner was in Harrisburg, Illinois and surrounding areas surveying damage from the tornadoes that hit there earlier that week. Traveling with Pastor Jim Rivett of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Golconda, Illinois, Tim spent Friday afternoon assessing the need for volunteers. On Saturday March 3rd Tim visited Marysville and Henryville in Indiana on Saturday, March 3rd to assess the needs there from Friday's tornadoes. He toured the area with Pastor Bruce Kischnick of Grace Lutheran Church in New Albany that has members in Henryville and Maryville. On Sunday, March 4th Tim met with Reverend Charles Fausel, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Because of your generous donations, Tim was able to deliver financial assistance for those affected by the tornadoes last week to all three churches he visited. These churches will help where most needed those affected by the tornadoes. Click here to read the rest of the story Click here to donate to help the families Click here for photo galleries from Illinois and Indiana Click here to hear Henryville, Indiana resident Andy Pell talk about the tornado and the bus that flew into his friend's business
Attention Thrivent Members: There's Still Time to Direct 2011 Dollars to LCC - Help Us Meet Our Expanding Ministry Needs - DEADLINE APPROACHING
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 ever-increasing 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
Now Scheduling Events - His Little Lambs Ministry Coming to the NID
His Little Lambs Ministry will be in the Northern Illinois District from Thursday, March 29th through Sunday, April 1st. They are currently finalizing their March tour to Northern Illinois, and still have some available openings. His Little Lambs Ministry shares the "Good News of Jesus" with children, (and adults) through their Christian variety and/or puppet show. Their shows can include ventriloquism, juggling to Christian songs, puppets performing, sing-a-longs, fiddle and guitar playing, other instruments, lots of audience participation, and more. They would love to share their Ministry with your church, school, Sunday School, seniors or special event. Please email Karen at karenlynn@cnonline.net, or call her at 618-806-4896.
Crafters are Needed
Crafters are needed to participate in the 23rd annual Crafter's Paradise (a juried craft and folk art sale sponsored by Bethany Lutheran Church Ladies Guild). Crafter's Paradise will take place on Sat. Nov. 10th, 2012 from 9:00 - 3:00 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 1550 South Modaff Road, Naperville, IL 60565. Space is 8' x 10' with tables provided. The fee is $35.00 and a donated item of a $10.00 value to be used in a Candy Cane Sale. If electric is needed there is an additional $5.00 charge. Proceeds from the Candy Cane Sale go to Loaves and Fishes (a local food pantry) in Naperville. There is no admission charge. There is a bake sale, lunch and wide aisles. Applications and guidelines can be found here. There are a limited number of space available in each category. Information can also be obtained by calling 630-357-2946 or 630-961-2030.
Your Donations at Work Making A Difference While at the NID Convention this past weekend LCC handed over the title to a full size Ford Van to Reverend Doctor Guillermo Jerez, Pastor of Faith Cicero. Pastor Jerez was excited to receive the van which will go into service immediately in support of the ministry at Faith.
The people of Richton Park and our partners in Haiti are thrilled to report that the bus filled with relief supplies has arrived safely in Haiti. It is now being put to use in ministry there. Thanks to all who donated items and financial support to make this event such a wonderful success!
On Tuesday, March 13, Pastor Harold Wahl of St. Paul Thornton visited the LCC office to receive a donated Chevy Malibu that will be given to a single mother in his congregation. Thanks to your car donations we are able to meet these needs as they arise. Click here to learn more about donating your car
Thanks to Your Generous Support, We Were Able to Provide Assistance to the following: St. Matthew, Chicago - Laptop Matching Fund Grace, New Albany, Indiana - Disaster Response Our Savior, Louisville, Kentucky - Disaster Response Lord of Life, LaFox - Meagan Seals Fund Immanuel Belvidere - 2/24 Accident Fund
Comfort Dog Update K-9 Comfort Dogs Attend Chapel and Visit Students at Immanuel Elmhurst
Dog visit
On Wednesday, March 7 the K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers visited Immanuel Lutheran School in Elmhurst. They were introduced at chapel and afterwards greeted all the children as each class came in to visit. This was the first public event for three of our new dogs, Luther, Kye and Abbi. They were accompanied by Gunnar from Walther Lutheran High School, Star and puppyin-training, Ruthie (pictured). Click here to schedule a K-9 Comfort
Donate to the K-9 Parish Comfort Dog Ministry
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
LERT Training Available in March, April and May
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. St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Barrington, Illinois is hosting LERT training on Saturday, April 28th from 8:30 am until Noon. Registration and a light breakfast will begin at 8:30 pm followed by a three hour class from 9-Noon. 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
Join Tim Hetzner for a Reformation Heritage and Advent Christkindl Markets Tour November 30-December 9, 2012
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. Click here for more information Click here for the trip brochure Click here to notify us of your interest in this trip
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. 2916 Sofa and Love Seat, beige w/ brown and blue plaid pattern and a floor lamp (available on 3/27) 2915 Sony 32 inch (Black) 1997 Color TV with remote 2913 Amana white washer and white Whirlpool gas dryer (10 years old). Both run fine 2912 Whirlpool Dishwasher (2yrs old), Magic Chef Electric Stove - Just like new (flat top, self-cleaning), Menards Self-propelled Lawnmower (Briggs & Stratton Engine) 2911 standard twin bed frame, headboard, mattress, box spring; all in excellent, like-new condition 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 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
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
Other Stories Still Seeking Support Lord of Life LaFox Provides Matching Funds to Acquire Laptop for St. Matthew Chicago Kenyan Pastor Needs Replacement Bus to Continue Transportation Ministry Pastor Jean Bingue of Bethesda Chicago Seeks Replacement Stove Reverend Paul Touloute Undergoes Emergency Surgery in Haiti - Financial Support Needed 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
Disaster Response 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: 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
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.
Ministry Needs Help Make A Difference Lutheran Day Nursery in Need of Commercial Refrigerator
Request from Rev. Bruce Ray, Lutheran Day Nursery, Chicago, Illinois
A recent LCC appeal on behalf of Lutheran Day Nursery in Chicago resulted in the donation of a new washer and dryer. Reverend Bruce Ray has contacted us with another need that has come up. He writes... I am contacting you about another need that we have at Lutheran Day Nursery. Our current refrigerator that we use for storing food for the children has not been draining properly and we need to replace it. Our license regulators have also recommended that we upgrade our kitchen to be "commercial" grade. Our current refrigerator does not meet that standard. We are in need of a commercial grade refrigerator for food storage. Commercial grade usually has a built-in temperature monitor and is "energy star rated". If any of your donors would have one available, we would be very grateful. Thank you for the good work you do in the name of Jesus. Rev. Bruce Ray Lutheran Day Nursery If you have a refrigerator to donate to the Lutheran Day Nursery please contact LCC at 866-455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
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
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
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
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
Items Available to a Ministry 2914 8 shelf magazine rack - 42 3/8" W, 60" tall, base 18"D (almond and wood grain in color) - Picture available 2907 Fischer Empire 8', one-piece marble top pool table with new felt (comes with cues and all accessories) 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
International Ministry Here are Ways to Help Our Ongoing Haiti Relief Efforts
Physical Needs 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 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
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
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
Maximum Faith: Live Like Jesus by George Barna Every person is on a spiritual journey of some sort. The value of the new research, according to Barna, is that most people who consider themselves to be Christian, regardless of their level of spiritual maturity, are entangled in more of a circular journey than a consistently progressive route. While the journey orchestrated by God is not always strictly linear, it has discernible destination points along the way, and a clearly identifiable end point that followers of Christ may partner with the Holy Spirit to reach before they die. Barna's research shows that most Christians get stuck at "saved." The reason: we take the "free gift" of salvation, but fail to pay the price that enables us to experience a deeper, genuine transformation and live like Jesus. In Maximum Faith, you'll discover how God transforms people's lives. You'll gain practical insights into how you can experience everything that God has in mind for you. If you sometimes wonder, "is this all there is?" "Did Jesus die for me just so that I could live this mundane life?"--then Maximum Faith has the answers you're looking for.
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-METHODMANNER 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
Immanuel Lutheran Hosts Early Childhood Open House on March 21st
March 21, 2012 - 9:30-10:30 am Immanuel Lutheran School 200 North Plum Grove Rd Palatine, Illinois
Immanuel Lutheran School, in Palatine, will be hosting an open house on Wednesday, March 21st, from 9:30-10:30 a.m., for parents of preschool, prekindergarten and kindergarten-aged children. "Our open house allows parents to see the classrooms and our dedicated teachers in action," said Marlene Tres, director of the early childhood program at Immanuel Lutheran. "Individual tours also are available to accommodate working parents' schedules." To schedule a tour, please contact Marlene Tres, by phone at 847-359-1990, ext. 115, or via e-mail at ecdirector@ilcp.org. For more information about Immanuel Lutheran's Early Childhood Program, visit www.immanuelpalatine.org
Friday Night Fish Fry
Friday, March 30, 2012 from 5-8 pm St. Matthew Lutheran Church 24500 N. Old McHenry Rd. Hawthorn Woods, Illinois Dinner includes: Beer batter fried cod Homemade coleslaw French fries Fresh bakery rolls Coffee or iced tea Dessert Chicken tenders available for the non-fish lover Pop, beer and wine available for a fee Adults $12, kids 10 & under $6
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.
Eggstravaganza Promises To Be Eggciting Event
Saturday, April 7, 2012 - 9 am-Noon St. John Lutheran Church 7214 Cass Avenue Darien, Illinois
St. John Lutheran Church & Early Learning Center located at 7214 South Cass Avenue in Darien, IL will continue the tradition by hosting their annual Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 7, 2012 from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon with an egg hunt at 10:00 A.M. The event is open to the public free of charge as a community outreach. In addition to looking for treat-filled plastic eggs, children and their families will have the opportunity to participate in games and to make crafts. Roaming puppeteers along with Shami, the congregation's K-9 Comfort Dog, will greet all who attend. It promises to be a joy-filled morning.
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
Voice of Care and Bethesda Lutheran Communities Host Educational Event
Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 9 am-Noon Cross Lutheran Church 8609 State Route 47 Yorkville, Illinois
Everyone Invited to Learn more about Ministry to those with Special Needs Voice of Care and Bethesda Lutheran Communities are inviting you to come hear stories about families who have children with special needs. Come learn how to support these families and how to serve them. We will first hear from Diane Mueller who serves with Bethesda Lutheran Communities. After a brunch we will hear from a panel of parents and their children who happen to have a special need. Click here for full details
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