Disaster Response

Photos, video, audio describe Nebraska tornado aftermath

Dual tornadoes pummeled Pilger, Neb., on June 16, 2014, killing one person there, injuring more than two dozen, destroying 40-50 homes, and crushing St. John Lutheran Church and its parsonage. Several LCMS members lost their homes in the storm. The LCMS made an initial $100,000 available to the LCMS Nebraska District to help in the aftermath of the storm.

Nebraska church ‘gone’ after dual tornadoes

The June 16 tornadoes pummel Pilger, Neb., killing one person there, injuring more than two dozen, destroying 40-50 homes and crushing St. John Lutheran Church.

Double disasters open doors for Gospel in Chile

Faced with wildfires and an earthquake less than two weeks apart, the Confessional Lutheran Church of Chile is undeterred in responding to those who need help.

Lutherans share stories of survival amid tornadoes

A week after being baptized and confirmed, an LCMS family in Mayflower, Ark., rides out an EF4 tornado in a closet.

Violent storms affect LCMS members, pastor, churches

The violent storm system sweeping through the central, southern and eastern United States April 27-May 1 causes damages or destruction for LCMS members, a pastor and at least five congregations.

LCMS Disaster Response reaches out following storms in central, southern United States

LCMS Disaster Response is reaching out with mercy to help LCMS congregations in Arkansas and Mississippi as they help their members and neighbors affected by the April 27-28 tornadoes that killed at least 30 people and shattered dozens of homes and businesses across the central and southern United States.

Disaster Response ‘touches lives with Gospel of hope’

It may seem like devastating tragedies are never-ending, but there’s a light in the darkness: LCMS Disaster Response is there, “reaching out with caring and compassion in the name of Christ.”

Philippines Relief Infographic

On Nov. 8, 2013, Typhoon Haiyan tore through the Philippines, killing more than 6,000 people and damaging or destroying more than 1 million homes. The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) quickly stepped in, offering grants to its partner church body, the Lutheran Church in the Philippines (LCP), and sending a team to plan for the island nation’s long-term recovery. Download this infographic to learn more about how the LCMS is walking alongside the LCP to rebuild lives, homes and spirits.

LCMS response helps restore joy in Philippines

Because of the generosity of LCMS members, more than 50 Typhoon Haiyan-damaged homes have been rebuilt and restored, and there is hope among residents.

Disaster staff revisit Illinois, Colorado; distribute grants

Disaster staff return to the disaster sites to assess ongoing recovery efforts and determine needs in this post-emergency, or intermediate, phase of the relief effort.

A Light in the Darkness-Typhoon Haiyan Relief

See the effects of a devastating typhoon in Leyte province, Philippines, and watch how the LCMS responds with witness, mercy and life together.

Opportunities ‘to do good’ called ‘massive’

There are still opportunities to help those suffering from disasters — particularly in Colorado and the Philippines.

LCMS Disaster Response by the numbers

A quick look at disaster funds received and what’s still needed.

LCMS church takes in students after Colorado shooting

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church and School — one block from Arapahoe High School in Centennial, Colo. — offers a safe haven for some 1,800 terrified students.

Philippines Disaster Update: Your Gifts at Work

During the distribution stage, the team loaded 5 large trucks and traveled nearly 36 hours to reach the typhoon disaster areas on the island of Leyte. The tired and hungry victims were so happy and hopeful at the thought and anticipation of receiving food and water.

Disaster team surveys typhoon damage, brings aid

Lutheran Church in the Philippines (LCP) pastor says the LCP is grateful for “the help, leadership and support of the LCMS.”