A Basic LERT Training class will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church, 3600 NW Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK 73112, on Saturday, October 3, beginning at 9:00 am.
Participants will be introduced to the LCMS Disaster Response program. They will learn about the basic nature of disasters and how Christians can support church workers, families, congregations and the general public as the hands and feet of Jesus during trying times. Other class topics include response and deployment protocol in times of disaster, a ministry of presence and safety practices.
Class registration must be made at www.lcms-lert.org. Please pre-register by September 21, 2026, so we can have the proper materials for everyone. A registration fee of $20 per person will cover training materials, a T-shirt, and snacks. Please bring your check or cash to the training. Checks should be made out to Messiah Lutheran Church. Note "LERT Class 10-03-2026" on the check.
If you have any questions about the class, contact Don Kelle, the LERT trainer for the event, at okddrc@gmail.com.
All interested participants are welcome to attend the LERT Training; however, only LCMS members 14 or older are eligible to receive a certificate of completion as aLERT volunteer. All LERT materials will be distributed during the class. You will receive your certificate of participation, volunteer ID card, and T-shirt after the training is complete.
Please arrive by 8:30 for registration. The class will begin at 9:00 am and should finish by 12:30. There will be ample opportunity to ask questions during and after the class.
What will we study? These are the main topics of the training:
1. Christian Care in times of disaster
2. A ministry of presence
3. Lutheran Early Response Teams and how they function
4. Utilizing the LERT website
5. Safety Protocol
6. Congregational Preparedness and Mercy Teams
