March 21, 2012
In This Issue
Featured Stories Disaster Response Ministry Needs International Ministry LCC Ministry Resources Tim's Pick of the Week Upcoming Events
Tim's Pick of the Week
Spring Tornado Season in Full Swing as LCC Continues to Support Recovery Work in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and NOW Michigan
Over the last two weeks spring-like weather has spawned tornadoes across the Midwest. LCC has been directly involved in assessing damage in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and, most recently, Michigan. We are assisting our LCMS churches in their response to those suffering and in need as the recovery work goes on. All locations are receiving and distributing funds and the Indiana District, which includes Northern Kentucky, is accepting volunteers to help with clean-up. All volunteers are asked to register through LCC. Tim Hetzner handing Pastor Larry Click here to donate to the Disaster Relief Courson of Peace Ann Arbor, Fund funds from the special appeal to Click here to read about Indiana District help those in need because of the recovery work tornado that hit Dexter. Click here to read about Michigan District recovery work Click here to register a group to go to Indiana Click here to register as an individual for Indiana Click here for photos from Dexter, Michigan 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
LCC has many resources available to congregations, businesses, and individuals. Click here to visit our website and learn more
Indiana District Disaster Response Team Calling for Volunteers - Many Needed!! Ages 14 and Up
LCC has received an update on the ongoing recovery work in the Indiana District from LERT Volunteer and member of the Disaster Response Coordination Team, Tricia Major. As with any disaster the situation changes constantly from day to day. After the initial rush of attention the area is now in need of many volunteers to help. Tricia writes...
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
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
Work by the Japan Lutheran Church in Partnership with the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod Continues as Japan Marks First Anniversary of Tsunami Disaster
Bible Classes
The first wave of volunteers and government agencies in Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky have come and gone and the work ahead is still copious. We have months if not years of work still ahead of us here and we need your help. We need unskilled labor to do office work, debris clean up, field walking (clearing debris so farmers can plant crops) and more. We need skilled labor such as chain saw crews and torch cutters (to cut up steel trailer home frames). We need large equipment like backhoes and people licensed to use them. The majority of the people in this disaster (70%) had no insurance at all. So if they receive any help at all it will be from people like you. Please register your group or yourself on the web through LutheranChurchCharities.org. We are happy to arrange housing for you and look forward to meeting and working with you. The need for workers of all types is immediate and groups with members as young as 14 are invited. Please consider getting a group together, bringing your LERT Team or registering as an individual. Click on the links below and register today. Click here to register your group (team leaders only) Click here to register as an individual Click here to donate
Tim Hetzner of Lutheran Church Charities will be traveling to Japan with Reverend Glenn Merritt of LCMS World Relief and Human Care to meet with Lutheran Leaders there. "About 1 percent of Japan's population is Christian, with the vast majority of the population practicing Buddhism or Shinto as a religion. Lutherans assisting with relief and recovery efforts are often asked, 'Why are you doing this?'" said the Rev. Glenn F Merritt, director of LCMS Disaster Response. "The door then is open for the sharing of the Gospel in a quiet, reserved way acceptable to Japanese society." Lutheran Church Charities continues to work through our church body so that jointly we can share the Gospel and further the work of our Lord's Church so that those suffering can know the Mercy and Compassion of our Lord. One of the projects LCC is considering would support the development of the "Kids Escape" project. Details of this project are on the agenda when LCMS leaders meet with representatives from the JLC and Japanese government organizations. The JLC is looking to build and staff a camp, along the lines of a vacation Bible school, and provide transportation for children. Click here to view the entire LCMS article on Japan and the wonderful work LCMS Disaster Response is providing Click here to see a video featuring Reverend Glen Merritt Click here to support the ongoing relief efforts in Japan and send aid with LCC President Tim Hetzner on April 8th
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LCC President Tim Hetzner Interviewed on KFUO Today
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Tim Hetzner will be interviewed on KFUO, the radio station of the LCMS, based in St. Louis at 9:05 am today. The producers at KFUO asked Tim to provide an update for their listeners on all the work LCC is doing. Click here to listen live
Pastor Steve Kass of Family of Faith Requests Bibles to Give Away at Food Pantry
Pastor Steve Kass has contacted LCC requesting an appeal for Bibles. He writes... I wanted to put out a simple request, which you may be able to help me with. We are giving away used Bibles at our Food Pantry. We have given away all of the Bibles we had here (after light repair.) If there are churches out there with used Bibles that need covers repaired, that they would like to see given away, we would be happy to receive them, and give them away. Bibles can be sent directly to: Family in Faith Lutheran Church 1480 Bloomingdale Road Glendale Heights, IL 60139
Tim Hetzner Presents 'Three Days Three Nights: How Can This Be' at Trinity Huntley
On Tuesday evening, March 20, Tim Hetzner presented his popular Lenten seminar 'Three Days and Three Nights: How Can That Be'. He led attendees through the puzzling question "If Jesus was crucified on Friday and the tomb was empty on Sunday morning, where do we get three days and three nights? " He also looked at the "apparent" contradictions in the Gospels surrounding the Passion Narrative of Jesus and showed how when you understand the historical background the "apparent" contradictions disappear! Tim is available to present this seminar at your church upon request. LCC has a variety of seminars and other ministry resources available to congregations. Click here to learn more or call LCC at (866)455-6466 or email LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org.
Three Days and Three Nights: How Can That Be? Tim Hetzner from LCC is available to do a LIVE Presentation to your Church or Group If Jesus was crucified on Friday and the tomb was empty on Sunday morning, where do we get three days and three nights? Join Tim Hetzner, President of Lutheran Church Charities, as he answers this puzzling question. Tim also looks at the "apparent" contradictions in the Gospels surrounding the Passion Narrative of Jesus and shows how when understanding the historical background the "apparent" contradictions disappear! Click here for online ordering To schedule Tim for a Three Day Three Nights presentation, call 866-455-6466 or email him at LCC@LutheranChurchCharities.org
Elim Christian School Announces Matching Fund Grant to get a K-9 Comfort Dog
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
LCC President Tim Hetzner Visits Trinity in Paw Paw, Michigan for Wild Game Event and Sunday Services
Tim Hetzner along with K-9 Comfort Dogs Howe and Luther accepted an invitation from interim Pastor and LCC Spiritual Advisor Ron Moritz to go to Trinity in Paw Paw, Michigan last weekend and attend their annual event for hunters and wild game enthusiasts. That event took place on Saturday. Tim then stayed for Sunday services where he spoke about LCC and the K-9 Comfort Dogs at all services and led the adult Bible class between services.
Lutheran Church Charities and Pastor Bartz Immanuel Richton Park Team with Community Coalition To Do Good in Support of Veterans
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
Devotion Series - Building Great Relationships
The two-part devotion series entitled "Building Great Relationships" began today. Click here to sign up for our free online devotions Click here for our archive of Daily Devotions
Two LERT Trainings Last Week Push Total Trained Volunteers Near 700
Last Tuesday evening Immanuel Freeport hosted a LERT training led by Tim Kurth. A record fourteen walk-ins made for a group of 39 volunteers who completed the training and received their ID cards. On Thursday night, at St Matthew Hawthorn Woods, Tim trained an additional 21 volunteers. This brings the grand total for our District to 663 credentialed volunteers. Because of these two trainings we will also be adding two new LERT teams in the Northern Illinois District. Our next scheduled LERT training is Saturday, April 28th at St Matthew Barrington. Registration and breakfast open at 8:30 a.m. with the training following from 9 a.m. until Noon. If you would like to schedule a LERT training for your congregation, please contact Dianna Bonfield at (866) 455-6466 or Dianna@LutheranChurchCharities.org or... Click here to register for LERT training in Barrington
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 Junior Youth Group from St. John Newhall, Iowa Donate Lenten Taco Dinner Proceeds for Disaster Response LCC received a donation from the Jr. Youth Group of St. John in Newhall, Iowa. Parish Assistant Holly Bierschenk writes: Our Jr. Youth Group would like to give you the proceeds they received from their Lenten Taco Supper held March 7th. Please use these funds to assist our brothers and sisters who have been affected by the recent tornadoes. We thank you for your ministry and the opportunity we have to work through you to share the Good News. Click here to read the letter
Pastor Isaac in Haiti Sends Enthusiastic Thanks for Bus and Supplies The bus filled over the past year through the efforts of Immanuel Richton Park and the entire community arrived in Haiti and was safely delivered. Pastor Isaac sent words of thanks and some pictures. LCC helped organizers spread the word about this project and supported the effort throughout. Pastor Isaac writes... Greetings in the name of Jesus, We continue to thank you with you team and all people who think to us in Jeremie. We don't find any word in the world to tell thank you again thank you, we keep you in our prayer. It's a pleasure for me to send you some pictures. God bless you, Pastor Isaac Click here for photos of the bus in Haiti Pastor Ron Rock of Zion Beecher Receives Funds for Family in Transition Pastor Ron Rock and congregational Vice Chairman Bob Barber display a check received from LCC which Zion has passed along to a local family in transition. Thank you for your generous support that allows us to work through our churches to help those suffering and in need.
Recipient of a Donated Car Sends Thanks to LCC Pastor Harold Wahl of St. Paul Thornton put out an appeal to get a car for a single lady in his congregation. Last week she received a car donation through LCC and sent along this note of thanks... I don't believe there are words that would properly express what you have done for my family. Considering I have a minimum of 5 doctor appointments monthly as well as starting physical therapy again you have made one aspect of my life much, much easier. There is a special place in heaven for people like yourselves. If you have a car you would like to donate, please contact LCC at (866) 455-6466 for details on the process.
Thanks to Your Generous Support, We Were Able to Provide Assistance to the following: Christ the King - Funeral Assistance Fund
Comfort Dog Update K-9 Comfort Dogs Wear the Green at St. Patrick's Day Festival There were Bag Pipers, Irish Dancers, a sea of green and, in the midst of it all, were the K9 Comfort Dogs! Olympia, Abbi, Kye, Tara, Tillie, Butter and Wave along with the handlers all got into the festivities. Immanuel Lutheran Palatine invited the K-9 Comfort Dogs to be a part of their outreach as they passed out free lemonade to parade goers. Immanuel set up a booth at the end of the parade and on a beautiful sunny day passed out a lot of lemonade. The youth also had donation signs and jars for people to give to Disaster Relief. It was a great day for the "Wearin of the Green"!
K-9 Comfort Dog Ladel from St. Matthew Hawthorn Woods Visit Wauconda Elementary School Ladel, K-9 Comfort Dog for St Matthew Hawthorn Woods, along with handler Debra Kinne got to take center stage in a Prevent The Bite presentation. Ricky Tiesi, a fifth grader at Robert Crown Elementary School in Wauconda, is actively involved with the Prevent The Bite organization. Ricky did an informational presentation to his class and Ladel helped demonstrate how to approach and pet a dog. The class learned a lot from the presentation about dog safety even though Ladel, as a Comfort Dog, posed no threat and loved being petted by the class.
New K-9 Comfort Dog Abbi Visits Elim Christian School - Her Future Home
New K-9 Comfort Dog Abbi did a meet and greet at Elim Christian School on Thursday, March 15. She is currently being vetted for placement at Elim. Abbi, along with LCC staff Rich Martin, Dona Martin and Marie Payes, did a meet and greet for five classes at Elim. The students all loved meeting Abbi, and Abbi loved meeting the students. Everyone is excited about Abbi being on campus to help the students in the Crossroads program do outreach ministry in the community. Kathleen Kung (Elim) has many ideas on how Abbi will help students reach new goals in serving outside of Elim. Elim has received a matching fund grant through LCC and is inviting anyone interested in supporting them to make a donation that will be matched dollar for dollar, up to four thousand dollars. Click here to donate to the Elim matching gift fund
K-9 Comfort Dogs Travel to Danville for Lutheran Schools Week Lynn Buhrke with new K-9 Comfort Dog Kye, and Dona Martin with K-9 Comfort Dog Olympia, were greeted with smiles and Nylabones at the Danville Lutheran School campuses on Wednesday, March 14. The day started with an assembly, student questions and visits with the K-9 Comfort Dogs at the Immanuel Campus, which is where the preschool, kindergarten, and 6th8th grades attend. Then it was off to the Trinity Campus were the K-9 Comfort Dogs greeted the 1st-5th grades along with an assembly, student questions and a visit with the K-9 Comfort Dogs. Kye and Olympia demonstrated some of the commands that are used in training. It was a great day for all and Kye and Olympia are especially thrilled with their presents!
St. John Burlington - Home to K-9 Comfort Dog Adeena Hosts Handler Training
Adeena, K-9 Comfort Dog at St John Burlington, welcomed some new handlers to her existing group. LCC staff members Dona and Rich Martin with K-9 Olympia did a handler training for several new handlers and a refresher training for six current handlers. Shar and Dave Farran (caregivers for Adeena) along with Pastor Gleason where happy to have some new people join the K-9 Ministry at St Johns. Adeena is out in the community 3-4 days a week now; hopefully the new handlers will find more new outreach opportunities to do ministry in the community. Click here to schedule a K-9 Comfort Dog visit
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 April and May
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 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
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
Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul, revised and expanded by John Eldredge, Stasi Eldredge When you were a little girl, did you dream of being a beautiful princess? Rescued by a dashing hero? Swept away into a great adventure? In this updated edition, the Eldredge's bring their male and female perspectives to the core desires of a woman and invite you to recover your feminine heart. Paperback.
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
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
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
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
TONIGHT! 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, Illinois 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
Saturday, 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