To Thank God for Work of LCMS Disaster Response and Training

WHEREAS, Holy Scripture teaches us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2), and the Lord calls His Church to works of mercy that flow from His mercy given to us in Christ Jesus; and

WHEREAS, Since its current organizational structure in 2005, LCMS Disaster Response has faithfully equipped the church for acts of mercy in times of crisis, trained and coordinated Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) volunteers, trained leaders, and supported congregations and districts in times of disaster; and

WHEREAS, LCMS Disaster Response currently works through 104 key leaders across 35 districts and six recognized service organizations (RSO), supporting a network of more than 9,200 trained LERT volunteers and more than 80 pieces of specialized disaster equipment, enabling faithful and compassionate response; and

WHEREAS, In the past triennium, LCMS Disaster Response and its volunteers have responded to disasters, (including hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, and other emergencies) and has provided enhancements with new training options for LERT volunteers and trainers, showing Christ’s mercy in tangible acts of service and bringing the comfort of the Gospel with pastoral care to thousands of survivors; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention give thanks and praise to God for His mercy and provision through the ongoing work of LCMS Disaster Response, especially for the witness and service offered through LERT volunteers, districts, and RSOs; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod encourage continued support and prayer for those affected by natural disasters and for those who serve faithfully in times of crisis; and be it further

Resolved, That each district appoint a district disaster response coordinator to work directly with LCMS Disaster Response and offer LERT training modules in the district; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod commend LCMS Disaster Response, its staff, leaders, and volunteers, to the Lord’s continued care, asking Him to strengthen their work in mercy and to bless their proclamation of the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed;

and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod joyfully confess that every act of mercy flows from Christ Himself, “who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction” (2 Cor. 1:4), to the glory of God and the comfort of His people.