A Basic Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training class will be held for the congregations of the LCMS-Southern Illinois District Circuit 2, Metro North Circuit, at Zion Lutheran Church, 625 Church Dr, Bethalto, IL, on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Participants will be introduced to the LCMS Disaster Response program, learn basic nature of disasters, the opportunities to respond to personal needs in disasters, and how Christians can support families, congregations and the public as the hands and feet of Jesus during trying times of natural disasters. A lunch will be provided.
The congregations of the Metro North Circuit are: Messiah, Alton; Zion, Bethalto; St. Matthew, Brussels; Zion, Bunker Hill; Our Redeemer, Carrolton; Emmaus, Dorsey; St. Peter, Dorsey; Faith, Godfrey; Hope, Jerseyville; St. John, Kampsville; and St. Paul, Wood River.
The registration fee is $25.00 per person which helps cover the cost of the LERT manual, ID badge, a disaster response T-shirt, and lunch. Please make checks payable to Zion Lutheran Church. Please note on memo line 'LERT' Training'. Checks may be sent c/o Debbie Jenne, Zion Lutheran Church, 625 Church Dr., Bethalto, IL 62010, or brought the day of training. LERT Trainer will distribute all materials for the class.
Registration should be completed two weeks prior to the training date, April 6. For questions or additional information, please contact Bryce Cramer, jbramer@mchsi.com or 618-201-1806.
In the chaos of disaster, it's important to stay focused on the task at hand. This training will help you focus on the most important thing to remember as you prepare for or respond to a disaster in your community or beyond. At the center of our LERT Volunteer training is one thing: MERCY! Christ's mercy is the basis for everything we say and do. This training event will equip you to be an effective volunteer should a disaster strike your community. After a brief introduction regarding the goals and theological rationale of LCMS Disaster Response, the LERT volunteer training will address the following:
- Christian care in times of disaster
- A Ministry of Presence
- The LERT Program and how it works with other responders
- Introduction to Disaster Response
- Service Opportunities after a Disaster & Safety Protocol
