Contributions to mark LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC) Sunday Nov. 21 will benefit the Synod’s “Soldiers of the Cross” fund, which is currently depleted.
Since 2004, LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC) has awarded Soldiers of the Cross grants and provided pastoral care to church workers in financially difficult situations. Often, grants help retain health insurance coverage or provide funds to cover housing, medical and other bills.
In the last year, a 55 percent increase in the number of Soldiers of the Cross grants and a growing number of grant recipients requiring assistance for longer periods have led to the fund’s depletion.
WR-HC depends solely on donor contributions for Soldiers of the Cross grant funds.
“One of our Synod’s top priorities must be helping our church workers in their time of need,” said Synod President Rev. Matthew C. Harrison.
“These are the men and women who teach our children and preach God’s Word. Many have given a large portion of their lives to serve, very often in modest circumstances,” Harrison said. “While these are challenging times for many families, we must make every attempt to help our servants of the church.”
For more information and free congregational resources about LCMS World Relief and Human Care Sunday or Soldiers of the Cross, visit www.lcms.org/wrhcsunday, www.lcms.org/sotc, or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1380.
Posted Oct. 20, 2010