Trainings & Deployments From: LCMS Disaster Response & Training

This registration is for the September 7–11, 2026 deployment only. Separate registrations will be available for any additional deployment weeks.

This event is sponsored by SED Disaster Response and hosted by Camp Linn Haven and Mountainside Lutheran Church in Linville, North Carolina.

This deployment gives LERT volunteers an opportunity to serve their neighbors in the love of Christ by helping meet physical needs, offering encouragement and sharing the mercy of Jesus Christ.

This event is made possible through generous funding from Lutheran Church Charities and LCMS Southeastern District Disaster Response.

Description of Work

Projects may be added or adjusted as the deployment approaches and local needs continue to develop.

Current work includes repairs to damaged farmland and fencing surrounding an approximately 10-acre property. Supplies and materials for the first phase are already on site; volunteers are needed to complete the work.

Additional projects may include construction, plumbing, chainsaw work, general cleanup, debris removal, or other recovery work as needs arise.

We will provide tools and project-specific supplies as needed. Teams should bring basic personal tools and work gear appropriate for a variety of projects.

Background Checks: LERT background checks are required for this deployment because volunteers will be working in and around private homes and property. When registering for this deployment through the LCMS LERT system, volunteers who need a background check will be directed to Sterling Volunteers to complete the process.

Important Information

Tetanus: Please make sure your tetanus vaccination is current. Consult your physician regarding any additional recommendations for working in disaster-recovery environments.

Expenses: LCMS Disaster Response will cover approved hosting costs for the deployment. Volunteers should bring sufficient funds for personal purchases, incidental expenses, and any recreational activities or meals outside those provided for the deployment.

Housing

Housing arrangements may vary depending on team size, availability, and existing reservations. Current housing options include:

Workdays for this deployment are Monday through Friday, September 7–11.

Housing will be coordinated for the registered deployment dates. Anyone arriving earlier or staying later must arrange and pay for additional lodging. Volunteer Coordinator Heather Bassett can recommend nearby accommodations upon request.

Meals

Groceries for teams may be provided upon request.

What to Pack

Please bring:

Weather in this region can change quickly and may include rain, wind, sun, cool temperatures, and heat—all within the same day. Pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

Team leaders may provide additional packing instructions based on assigned projects or specific worksite conditions.

Come Prepared to Work

This is an active LERT deployment. Volunteers should be prepared for approximately eight-hour workdays and physically demanding work. Expect to be tired at the end of the day—but to have accomplished something worthwhile in service to your neighbor.

A multi-day deployment option for LERT-trained volunteers is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8 through Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. (There are shift options.) This disaster response for tornado damage cleanup includes chainsaw operations, lift/skid steer operations, and manual dragging.

Peace Lutheran Church, Neenah, is the gathering place for all LERT volunteers to check in and receive work assignments. The church will provide lunch, snacks, and water for all workers.  Each person should bring their LERT ID card and a medical card in case of emergency.  If you have not completed the online Background Check, now is a great time to do so for future deployments: https://www.lcms-lert.org/need/detail/?need_id=673397

For Basic LERT-trained Draggers:

Chainsaw Operators: Must have completed Basic LERT Chainsaw Training.

Chainsaw Operators should bring the following:

There are overnight accommodations at the church with a valid LERT background check. Please include your need for overnight accommodations and arrival time in the comment area. Showers are available at the local YMCA during hours of operation.

Check the current forecast for Neenah, WI. We may pause or suspend operations due to weather.

Please complete this process only if you intend to volunteer for an upcoming LERT deployment.

If you would like to procure your LERT background check (or need to renew an expired LERT background check) so that you are prepared to respond to future LERT Deployments, please use this event to do so.

As you try to sign up for this event, you will be redirected to the Sterling Volunteers site to enter your information. LCMS Disaster Training covers the cost of LERT background checks. It is made available to you at no cost.

Please note that the background check is good for one (1) year and must be renewed annually if you wish to keep current.

LERT Background Checks are required for all LERT Deployments in which the following activities/conditions are taking place:

You can read our blog post about background checks here: Why Background Checks? | LCMS Disaster Response (lcms-lert.org)

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If you have questions regarding your background check, LERT volunteers should contact Sterling Volunteers at:

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LERT volunteers are needed to fell 2 dead trees and cut several dead limbs from trees that are leaning toward a house. Many dead limbs recently fell on the roof and fortunately were blown off during the storm. 

All LERT volunteers are encouraged to wear yellow LERT shirts or vests. Also, have sturdy boots, work gloves and hard hats. All LERT chainsaw volunteers are required to wear appropriate PPE.

This work site is near King-of-Kings Lutheran church. Immanuel LERT volunteers will meet at Immanuel's parking lot to load equipment and for carpooling. All other LERT volunteers should contact Kris Schuldt for the work site address and can meet us there at 9:00 am.

Water and Gatorade will be provided. No lunch will be provided.

If you have any questions, please contact Kris Schuldt at 314-971-5747 or pitchatent@centurytel.net.

NE KANSAS LERT - AWARENESS & CRAFT FAIR FUNDRAISING EVENT

When: Sept. 12, 2026

Event Time: 9 am – 2 pm (10-12 people needed per shift)

Where: Paola Kansas Town Square (Paola, KS)

Scope of work: Raise community awareness of LERT and LCMS Disaster Response and how we respond to Disasters and Critical Incidents in the KC/Gardner community and state-wide. Volunteers will staff the LERT vendor table sharing the “LERT Story” with visitors and handing out flyers and LERT brochures. We will be offering grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. 

Gear: Suggested........Please wear your KS District LERT Lime Green T-shirt if possible. If you don’t have one, wear a safety yellow LCMS Disaster Response LERT T-shirt. Feel free to add some LERT headgear to your ensemble. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle, lawn chair and a hand towel.

Questions? Please contact event organizers Dale Melancon (913) 522-2684

A one-day deployment for LERT-trained volunteers is scheduled for Monday, September 14, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. This response continues last year's 2025 damage cleanup. The request is for both chainsaw operators and Basic LERT-trained volunteers.  Work includes tree removal and brush cleanup.

Site Coordinator, Rev. Gary Rehborg, asks all volunteers to meet at 8:00 am at the parking lot of the Emmaville store on County Road 4, traveling north out of Park Rapids.

Water, snacks, and lunch will be provided. Volunteers may bring their own water bottles.

For Basic LERT-trained Volunteers:

Chainsaw Operators: Must have completed Basic LERT Chainsaw Training. 

Chainsaw Operators should bring the following:

Work will consist of tree, branch, and debris removal. Wood will be blocked and stacked for later use or removal.

Please contact Gary Rehborg at (763) 370-3441 with any questions.

Please consider attending LCMS LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) volunteer training offered by Lutheran Church Charities. This training will prepare LERT team members for credentialing and will focus on the safety, work, and ministry of Lutherans as Early Responders. This training is part of a Synod-wide disaster response program, facilitated by a national network of District Disaster Response Coordinators and Teams. After the training, you will receive a certificate, ID badge, and a T-shirt.

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 LCM Disaster Response, the LERT volunteer training will address the following:  

 This training will be hosted by CUC Deaconess Studies and held in Krentz Hall - Rm. 120. Parking for Krentz Hall will be in Visitor Lot 3 on Augusta St.

The Kansas District will provide Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) Basic Chainsaw training on Saturday, September, 19 2026. The chainsaw training serves to increase our dedicated LERT volunteer’s capabilities to help those who haven’t the means or skills to perform this dangerous work following a disaster. The district wants to equip LERT members with the ability to provide this service safely and efficiently.

You must have previously completed the LERT basic training class to participate in this class.

Location: 603 N. 8th Street, Atchison, KS, Classroom, fieldwork and lunch will all be onsite on the Church Campus.

During the training, you will learn the following:  

The morning session is classroom lecture on chainsaw safety. All LERT qualified volunteers are invited to attend.

The afternoon session is operations hands-on with a saw. The morning session must be attended to participate.

Please indicate if your intent is to train as a chainsaw operator/puller (safety and operations portion of the class) or only as a dragger (safety portion of class).

To be authorized to use a chainsaw on LERT disaster responses as an LCMS LERT Chainsaw Operator, you must attend BOTH the safety (morning) and operations & fieldwork (afternoon) sessions.

Afternoon hands-on participants should bring, if they have:

Training Costs: 

Snacks, drinks, and lunch will be provided.

Please contact Jason Burgess, (580) 658-0994, Brian Mead, (859)576-1892 or DDRC Donna Williams (316)641-0332 ksddrc@gmail.com for further information if needed.

A Basic LERT Training class will be held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 4605 Cypress Ave, Wichita Falls, Tx on Saturday, September 19 beginning at noon.

Participants will be introduced to the LCMS Disaster Response program and 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 disasters, a ministry of presence, and safety practices.

Class registration must be made at www.lcms-lert.org.  Participants are urged to pre-register before September 5, so we have the proper materials for everyone. A registration fee of $20 per person will cover the cost of training materials, tee shirt and lunch. Please bring your check or cash to the training. Contact the site coordinator, Nancy Opheim, if you encounter any difficulties registering.

If you have any questions about the class content, 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 LERT volunteers.  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 noon for lunch and registration.  The class will begin at 1:00pm and should finish by 4:30.

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.

Join us for a North and South Wisconsin District Basic LERT training event

On Saturday, September 19, 2026. 

Starting at 9 am (Doors open at 8:30 am for check-in)

At St. John Lutheran SCHOOL (Formerly Hewitt-Texas Elementary) 

Located at 164475 Granite Road, Wausau, WI 54403

NOTE: This is NOT at the Church. 

It is at the NEW SCHOOL LOCATION near State Hwy 52 to North County Road J and Granite Road.  

Together we will address the nature of disasters and explore what our response would be to a disaster as members of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The goal is to prepare congregations and individual members to be better prepared when a disaster strikes and to help them know how to respond within their families, congregations, and in Word and deed within the greater communities.  

A luncheon will be provided at the conclusion of the event.

The class fee is $40 per person. Your LERT Trainer will distribute all materials during and after the class.

Please feel free to call or email Pastor Andy Weden at Peace Lutheran Campus Center with any questions or concerns- phone: 715-345-6510  email: aweden@uwsp.edu

The North and South Wisconsin Districts will provide LERT BASIC Chainsaw training on Sunday, September 20th and Monday, September 21st (with possibly Monday 21st in the afternoon IF NEEDED for a 3rd section of hands-on training).

A meal will be provided on Sunday evening beginning at 5:00 pm at the start of the classroom portion of LERT BASIC CHAINSAW TRAINING and will last till approximately 8:00 pm. 

Monday will be hands-on training.  Location will be shared during classroom training on Sunday evening.  "In the woods" Training will run from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 am Monday. (A possible afternoon section (12:30 pm-3:30 pm). *If the class size warrants it, a Monday section will be created for those living closest to the worksite from 12:30-3:30 pm to accommodate the possibility of a larger class.*   

Bottled water will be furnished at the worksite on Monday. Participants are encouraged to bring their own Gatorade or Powerade, if they would like.

Lunch is on your own for Monday's sessions.

The chainsaw training will be for both experienced and novice sawyers. The districts want to equip LERT members with the ability to provide this service safely and efficiently, and to become qualified for LERT deployment. 

The Sunday evening session will be held at 

St. John Lutheran SCHOOL,

164475 GRANITE ROAD,

Wausau, WI 54403 

 During the training, you will learn the following:

To be authorized to use a chainsaw on LERT disaster responses as an LCMS LERT Chainsaw Operator, you must attend BOTH the classroom and "hands-on" sessions. 

Monday hands-on participants should bring, if they have:

Training Costs: 

The class coordinator will distribute all training materials during and after the class.

LERT Chainsaw Trainer - The Training will be led by Pastor Andy Weden, North Wisconsin District Disaster Response Coordinator and Pastor Eric Hollar of Shepherd's Heart Disaster Response Ministry located in the South-Eastern District-LCMS. Pastor Andy and Pastor Eric helped lead the Disaster Response after both the Ringle, WI tornado in April and assisted with the Fox Valley Tornado at the end of July. Both are looking forward to this opportunity after a busy spring and summer tornado season.

If you have questions or concerns, feel free to contact the North Wisconsin District Disaster Response Coordinator, Pastor Andy Weden, at Peace Lutheran Campus Center, 715-345-6510.

LERT volunteers are needed to limb and buck a large tree that fell during our recent high-wind storm. All wood and branches will need to be dragged to a burn pile at the back of the property. This is one of the two homes we worked at after an earlier tornado this year. We will also need to move all of the branches and limbs to the burn pile that we piled near the road because the city decided not to pick up the debris. We plan to bring our skid steer to assist in this effort.

LERT volunteers in the Wentzville area will meet at Immanuel's parking lot at 8:00 am to finish loading equipment and carpooling. LERT volunteers in the St. Louis or St. Charles County area will need to contact Kris Schuldt for the work site address.

All LERT volunteers are encouraged to wear yellow LERT shirts or vests. All LERT chainsaw operators are required to wear appropriate PPE.

Water and Gatorade will be provided. No lunch will be provided.

If you have any questions, please contact Kris Schuldt at 314-971-5747 or pitchatent@centurytel.net.

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

Our Basic LERT training aims to prepare congregations and individuals to respond effectively in a disaster and to understand how to serve as LERT volunteers. We will present LERT organizational and safety procedures, as well as ways congregations can deploy volunteers to local and more distant disaster sites.

Anyone interested is welcome to attend the training session. However, only LCMS members who are 14 years or older will receive a certificate of participation, volunteer ID card, and T-shirt after the training is complete. Your LERT trainers will distribute all the LERT materials during and after the class. The cost is $20 per person (includes all materials and refreshments).  Pay by cash or check at the training.

This training will be held on Saturday, October 3rd at Peace Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, MN 56096.   Doors open at 8:30, and we should be done by 12 noon!

LERT TRAINING PRE-REGISTRATION:   Find the "Sign up" button on this page to register!  Because materials are ordered based upon pre-registrations, your early registration by September 21st is greatly appreciated.  Walk-ins are welcome, but we cannot guarantee classroom materials.  IF THERE ARE ANY QUESTIONS/CONCERNS, please call 507-369-8705.

Note: When you click the "sign up" button on this page, you will be asked to register an account if you don't already have one.  The one-time registration process includes granting permission to use class pictures, reading and acknowledging the liability waiver, and selecting your T-shirt size.  Also note that every volunteer needs their own email address when they register. Once you have an account, you can sign up for this training, which will allow you to participate in other trainings, deployments and local responses.  

Many thanks to Peace Lutheran for hosting our LERT Training!

Join us for LCMS Basic LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) Volunteer Training, led by Jeffrey Toepke of the Ohio District LERT Task Force and Rev. Dr. Brian Heller of the LCMS Office of National Mission. The training will take place at Tallmadge Lutheran Church on Friday, October 9, from 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.  Registration 6-630pm

Federal guidelines recommend that disaster-response volunteers receive appropriate training before serving in affected communities. This training equips participants to respond safely, effectively, and compassionately when disasters impact churches and communities.

Basic LERT Training introduces participants to the safety, work, and ministry of LCMS Disaster Response and prepares them to serve within the nationwide LCMS Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) network. LERT volunteers may serve with teams in their own communities or join trainings and disaster responses in other areas, even if their congregation does not have an active LERT team.

LCMS members age 14 and older who complete Basic LERT Training receive an LERT Volunteer ID, certificate of completion, and LERT T-shirt and are eligible to participate as LCMS LERT volunteers.

At the heart of LERT volunteer training is one central principle: mercy. Christ’s mercy guides how we serve people and communities affected by disaster. This training helps prepare volunteers to serve safely, effectively, and compassionately, whether responding close to home or assisting in another community.

Following a brief introduction to the goals and theological foundation of LCMS Disaster Response, the training will cover:

Location: Tallmadge Lutheran Church, Akron, Ohio

We encourage all LCMS members 15 or older who want to serve others through disaster response ministry to attend.

Tallmadge Lutheran Church will host this training.

Location:

Tallmadge Lutheran Church

759 East Ave.

Tallmadge, OH 44278

The cost of the training is $20.00 per person and should be paid on the day of the training (please make checks payable to Hope Lutheran). This fee covers the LERT manual, certificate, ID badge, T-shirt, and refreshments.

For questions, contact Jeff Toepke at jeff@hopelcmsakron.org or call 330-922-3490.

A Basic LERT Training class will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 S. Country Club Rd, El Reno, OK on Saturday, October 10, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Participants will be introduced to the LCMS Disaster Response program and 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 disasters, a ministry of presence and safety practices.

Class registration must be made at www.lcms-lert.org.  Participants are urged to pre-register before September 28, 2026, so we may have the proper materials for everyone.  A registration fee of $20 per person will cover the cost of training materials, a T-shirt and snacks.  Please bring your check or cash to the training.  Checks should be made out to Trinity Lutheran Church and note "LERT Basic class 1-10-2026" on the check.

If you have difficulty registering or if you have any questions about the course content, 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 will finish by 12:30. There will be ample opportunity for 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

Join us for LCMS Basic LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) Volunteer Training, led by Jeffrey Toepke of the Ohio District LERT Task Force and Rev. Dr. Brian Heller of the LCMS Office of National Mission. The training will take place at Hope Lutheran Church in Coventry Township, on Saturday, October 10, from 9:00 a.m. to Noon.  Registration 830-9am

Federal guidelines recommend that disaster-response volunteers receive appropriate training before serving in affected communities. This training equips participants to respond safely, effectively, and compassionately when disasters impact churches and communities.

Basic LERT Training introduces participants to the safety, work, and ministry of LCMS Disaster Response and prepares them to serve within the nationwide LCMS Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) network. LERT volunteers may serve with teams in their own communities or join trainings and disaster responses in other areas, even if their congregation does not have an active LERT team.

LCMS members age 14 and older who complete Basic LERT Training receive an LERT Volunteer ID, certificate of completion, and LERT T-shirt and are eligible to participate as LCMS LERT volunteers.

At the heart of LERT volunteer training is one central principle: mercy. Christ’s mercy guides how we serve people and communities affected by disaster. This training helps prepare volunteers to serve safely, effectively, and compassionately, whether responding close to home or assisting in another community.

Following a brief introduction to the goals and theological foundation of LCMS Disaster Response, the training will cover:

Location: Hope Lutheran Church, Coventry Township, Ohio

We encourage all LCMS members 15 or older who want to serve others through disaster response ministry to attend.

Hope Lutheran Church will host this training.

Location:

Hope Lutheran Church

999 Portage Lakes Dr

Coventry Twp, OH 44319

The cost of the training is $20.00 per person and should be paid on the day of the training (please make checks payable to Hope Lutheran). This fee covers the LERT manual, certificate, ID badge, T-shirt, and refreshments.

For questions, contact Jeffrey Toepke at jeff@hopelcmsakron.org or call 330-922-3490.

A Basic Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training class will be held at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 2021 W SR 426, Oviedo, FL, from 9am - Noon on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Participants will be introduced to the LCMS Disaster Response program, learn the basic nature of disasters, understand opportunities to respond to personal needs and how Lutherans can support families, congregations and the public as the hands and feet of Jesus during a disaster.

Anyone 14 years and older who is interested is welcome to attend this LERT training session and will receive credentials as LCMS LERT volunteers. Youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. You will receive your certificate of participation, volunteer ID card, and T-shirt after the training is complete. Your LERT trainer will distribute all the LERT materials before and after the class. A lunch will be provided.

The registration fee is $25 per person. This fee helps cover the costs of manuals, ID Badges, t-shirts and trainer expenses. Please make checks payable to the St. Luke's Lutheran Church and bring them with you on the day of training. Please note on the memo line: 'LERT Training'.

Registration should be completed two weeks prior to the training date. For questions or additional information, please contact Steve Lehenbauer at slehenbauer@sllcs.org or 407-365-3408

Disasters like tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods can have devastating effects on communities. It is better to prepare and train now than to try to receive training in the midst of the disaster. Trinity Lutheran Church, Hoffman, will host a Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training on October 11. The training will allow you to volunteer and to serve those affected by a disaster.  This training is part of the Synod-wide disaster response program, facilitated by a national network of District Disaster Response Teams.

Training will take place at Trinity Lutheran School, 8701 Huey Rd, Hoffman, on Sunday, October 11 from 1 pm- 4 pm.

Registration for the training is online at www.lcms-lert.org. Click on the yellow ‘Sign Up’ box near the top to create a login (email address) and password (remember your password for future use).  Note: each individual signing up must use a separate email address. You will then be asked to create a profile and to sign a generic release form. Click on the ‘Training and Deployment’ box on the left and look for the Basic LERT training to be held at Trinity. Registration should be completed by September 26.

The cost of the training is $35.00 per person and should be paid the day of the training (please make checks payable to Trinity Lutheran - Hoffman). This fee covers the cost of the LERT manual, certificate, ID badge, T-shirt and refreshments.

This training will help you focus on the most important things 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.

If you have any questions regarding the training or sign-up process, please contact Bryce Cramer (one of our SID disaster trainers) at bcramer197364@gmail.com or 618-201-1806.

You can stay current on Synodical disaster activities on Facebook.  Follow LCMS Disaster Response and LCMS Southern Illinois Disaster Response.

LERT Team members will help set up and operate a local Marketplace to support approximately 100 families still impacted by Hurricane Helene. Team members will be working with Mountainside Lutheran and Camp Linn Haven. Housing is available at the camp for this event. Folks will help with set-up on Friday.

Location: 456 Scout CP LN, Newland, NC 28657.

Disasters like tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes can have devastating effects on communities. It is better to prepare and train now than to try to receive training during the disaster. Faith Lutheran Church, La Crosse, will host a Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training on October 17. The training will allow you to volunteer and to serve those affected by a disaster locally, around our state, or even nationally.  This training is part of the Synod-wide disaster response program, facilitated by a national network of District Disaster Response Teams.

Training will take place at Faith Lutheran Church, 1407 Main Street, La Crosse on Saturday, October 17 from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

Registration for the training is online at www.lcms-lert.org. Click on the ‘Sign Up’ box near the top to create a login (email address) and password (remember your password for future use).  Note: each individual signing up must use a separate email address. You will then be asked to create a profile and to sign a generic release form. Click on the ‘Training and Deployment’ box on the left and look for the Basic LERT training to be held at Faith. Registration should be completed by October 4.

The cost of the training is $35.00 per person and should be paid the day of the training (please make checks payable to South Wisconsin District). You may also pay online at https://myswd.net/LERTPayment. This fee covers the cost of the LERT manual, certificate, ID badge, and T-shirt.

This training will help you focus on the most important things 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.

If you have any questions regarding the training or sign-up process, please contact Rev. Greg Hovland, the District Disaster Response Coordinator, at mercy@swd.lcms.org or 414.464.8101.

You can stay current on Synodical disaster activities on Facebook.  Follow LCMS Disaster Response and South Wisconsin District LCMS. Don’t forget to become “a fan” of any districts on lcms-lert.org that you wish to follow, too.

The Oklahoma District will provide Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) Basic Chainsaw training on Saturday, October 17.  The chainsaw training serves to increase our dedicated LERT volunteers' capabilities to help those who don’t have the means or skills to perform this dangerous work following a disaster. The District wants to equip LERT members to provide this service safely and efficiently.

This training consists of two parts: a morning classroom session and an afternoon hands-on session outdoors.

The morning classroom session will be a lecture-style class and will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church, 3600 NW Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK.   All LERT-qualified volunteers are invited to attend. Please arrive by 7:30 a.m. to complete registration and to receive class material. The morning session will begin promptly at 8:00 a.m.

The afternoon session is hands-on with a chainsaw. Those wishing to participate must have previously completed the LERT basic training class and the morning classroom session. The afternoon session will be held outdoors from Noon to 4:00 p.m. (or later if needed) at Messiah. Those wishing to attend both sessions should register for both. 

Those aged 14–17 may attend the classroom portion and become a dragger, but will not be able to become a puller or chainsaw operator until they have reached the age of 18. Others wishing to volunteer as draggers or pullers only, need not attend the afternoon session. 

To be authorized to use a chainsaw on LERT disaster responses as an LCMS LERT Chainsaw Operator, you must attend BOTH the classroom and "hands-on" sessions. Afternoon hands-on participants should bring, if they have: Chainsaw, bar oil, gas-oil or synthetic fuel mix, Chaps and other Personal Protective Equipment (helmet, eye protection, gloves, steel-toed boots). Participants must wear steel-toed work boots. Tennis shoes or sandals/flip-flops are not allowed in the outdoor session. Outdoor work clothes and boots should be appropriate for the weather at the time. Shorts are not allowed. Some chainsaws and PPE will be available for training if you do not have your own.  Those who are under the age of 18 will not be allowed to operate a chainsaw. 

During the training, you will learn the following: 

Training Costs: 

A lunch will be provided before the afternoon session.

Please contact Denny Rader if you have any questions about the training.

Email: okdrfom@gmail.com. Cell phone: (918) 946-7961

A Basic Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training class will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 601 Church St, Campbell Hill, IL 62916, Sunday, October 18, from 5:30 p.m.–8:30 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 these trying times. A lunch will be provided.

The registration fee is $35.00 per person which helps cover the cost of the LERT manual, ID badge, a disaster response T-shirt, Certificate, and refreshments. Please make checks payable to St. Peter Lutheran Church. Please note on memo line 'LERT Training'. Checks may be brought the day of training. The LERT Trainer will distribute all training and post-class materials.

Registration should be completed two weeks prior to the training date, Oct 4, (if at all possible, but walk-ins are welcomed). For questions or additional information, please contact Bryce Cramer (an SID disaster response trainer), bcramer197364@gmail.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:  

Join us for a North Wisconsin District Basic LERT Training event

On Saturday, October 24th

Starting at 9 am (Doors open at 8:30 am for check-in)

At First Lutheran Church 

Located at 15 E Sawyer Street, Rice Lake, WI 54868

Together, we will address the nature of disasters and explore our response as members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.  The goal is to prepare congregations and individual members to be better prepared when a disaster strikes and to help them know how to respond within their families, congregations, and in Word and deed within the greater communities.  

A late lunch will be provided at the conclusion of the event

The class fee is $40 per person. Your LERT Trainer will distribute all materials during and after the class.

Please feel free to call or email Pastor Andy Weden at Peace Lutheran Campus Center with any questions or concerns- phone: 715-345-6510; email: aweden@uwsp.edu

The LCMS Missouri District will provide a one-day Intermediate Chainsaw training on Saturday, November 7, 2026. It will be held at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Mo.

We encourage any LERT chainsaw volunteer who desires to take this class to participate in several chainsaw deployments before this class.

Our two instructors are able to train 10 students, and in addition, we can have LERT-trained pullers to help with clean-up.

The chainsaw training serves to increase our dedicated LERT volunteers’ capabilities to help those who haven’t the means or skills to perform this dangerous work following a disaster. We want to equip LERT members with the ability to safely and efficiently provide this service to homeowners impacted by disaster.

Participants must complete Basic LERT Training and Chainsaw Basic Training before participating in this class.  

During the training, you will learn the following:
   Safe tree-felling techniques
   Safe limbing techniques
   Binds and pressures on limbs
   Use of a pole saw
   Basic rope use

Participants should bring, if they have:

   Chainsaw, bar oil, gas-oil or synthetic fuel mix
   Chaps and other Personal Protective Equipment (helmet, eye protection, gloves, steel-toed boots)
   Participants must wear steel-toed work boots. Tennis shoes or sandals/flip-flops are not allowed.
   Outdoor work clothes and boots appropriate for the weather at the time. Shorts not allowed.
   Some chainsaws and PPE will be available for training if you do not have your own.

Training Costs: 
$50 ($75/couple)
Participants will receive snacks, drinks, and lunch. 

Payment may be made by cash or check (payable to "Immanuel Lutheran Church").

Send to: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 632 E. Hwy. N, Wentzville, Mo. 63385.

Please write: "LERT Intermediate Chainsaw Class" in the note section of the check.

Should you have any questions, please contact Kris Schuldt at 314-971-5747 or pitchatent@centurytel.net.

The classroom portion of this class will be held in one of the classrooms at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. The field portion of this class will be held on the campus of Concordia Seminary.

This event is sponsored by SED Disaster Response and is in partnership with Eternal Shepherd, Seneca, SC.

This event gives participants an opportunity to serve their neighbor in the love of Christ by caring for their physical needs and helping with debris removal and rebuilding.

This project will involve basic home repairs, rebuilding, and debris removal. This is part of the continuing recovery of activities common to storm damage due to Hurricane Helene in the Spartanburg, SC area. 

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we are working in peoples' homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers site to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Work staging:  Spartanburg SC Emergency Management Building, 175 Community College DR, Spartanburg SC 29303

Housing Details:

Participants need to bring their own PPE and equipment.

Clothing appropriate for the season.

Toiletries and prescription medicines

Sturdy shoes/work boots are necessary for carrying sheets of drywall down steps that have had carpet, etc., removed. 

Work gloves

Protective eyewear

Long pants (jeans) and work shirts (of course, socks, etc.)

Bedding and towels.
 

A Basic LERT Training class will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 218 W 2nd St, Alma, KS. 66401, on Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants are asked to arrive by 8:15 a.m. to complete registration. 

Participants will be introduced to the LCMS Disaster Response program and learn the basic nature of disasters. The goal is to prepare congregations and individual members to be better prepared when a disaster strikes and to help them know how to respond within their families, congregations, and in word and deed, within the greater communities. 

Please pre-register at the LCMS-LERT website: www.lcms-lert.org.  There is no deadline, but we would appreciate your registration by October 30, 2026, to allow sufficient time to order class materials.  Walk-ins are welcome, but materials may be limited.  You must create aLERT profile and account on the website, then return to the same website to sign up for this training event.  A registration fee of $35 per person will help cover the cost of snacks, drinks, lunch, training materials and a t-shirt.  Payment can be sent by check, made payable to St. John’s Lutheran Church. On the note line of the check, write “LERT Nov 14th.”

All interested participants are welcome to attend this LERT training session.  However, only LCMS members who are 14 years or older will receive certificates of completion and LERT ID's as LCMS LERT volunteers.  Those under 18 must have an adult participate and accompany them in class.  You will receive your certificate of completion, volunteer ID card and T-shirt after the training is complete.  Your LERT trainers will distribute all the necessary LERT materials at class.  Participants should arrive by 8:15 a.m. 

The building is handicap accessible.  That entrance is on the north side of the building.  All other participants may enter at any Memorial Hall entrance. 

Lunch is provided.

Please contact Kimberly Diehl, with St John's Lutheran Church, at kovermiller1974@gmail.com if you have questions. 

LCMS Disaster Response and the Missouri District will conduct a three-day Advanced/Storm Clearing Chainsaw training on November 16-18, 2026. Training will be held at Heit's Point Camp, 28345 Heit's Point Ave, Lincoln, Mo. 65338.

Participants are expected to arrive on November 15, 2026. Senior LERT Chainsaw Trainers will equip LERT Chainsaw Operators with information to safely address common situations found in storm tree-debris clearing; these techniques also apply to more “normal” tree-cutting situations and can be used in other complex situations.

This hands-on class seeks to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of LERT Chainsaw Operators so they can address storm-damaged tree-clearing operations more efficiently, effectively, and safely. It also meets the requirements for a portion of the LERT Chainsaw Trainer training.

 NOTICE: Participation in this class does not automatically mean the participant is or will be an LERT Chainsaw Trainer. Those interested in being a Trainer must complete the Trainer Application process, which includes approval of your DDRC and a current LERT Chainsaw Trainer.

General Information 

·      Housing: We will be at Heit's Point camp in a Bunkhouse. Cost is $10/person/night. 

or: at Spitz Center (own room $45/night.

or: RV parking (no water in November) $20/night

Contact Janine, Camp Director, directly at 620-795-2008 to reserve housing.

·      What to bring:

o   Chainsaw Manual

o   Bedding, towel. Participants should bring a pillow, twin sheets/blanket, or sleeping bag for bunk beds.

o   Weather-appropriate clothing (temperatures can range from the 40s to the upper 70s, slight chance of rain; check the weather outlook before you come).

o   Chainsaw PPE – chaps, helmet, eye protection, gloves, steel-toed boots. Limited PPE may be available; please let us know if you need it. Participants must wear PPE for the class.

o   Chainsaw equipment – chainsaw, tools, wedges, and other desired equipment. Chainsaws will be available if transporting a chainsaw is a problem, but we prefer operators to use their own saws. We will provide chainsaw fuel and bar oil.

·      Meals: Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks) will be provided. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.

·      Location: The camp is located in Central Missouri.

·      Health Conditions: This is a hands-on class that will require participants to handle chainsaws and trees in the woods.

·      Prerequisite: Participants must have previously completed the LERT basic Chainsaw Operator training, the Intermediate Chainsaw class and attended several chainsaw-related deployments to participate in this class; be comfortable operating a chainsaw; and be knowledgeable in felling, limbing and bucking trees.

·      Class Size: This is a hands-on class, so class size is limited to 10 participants.

·      Trainers: The class will be led by senior LERT Chainsaw Trainers, each with years of chainsaw storm-clearing experience.

Schedule

·      Sunday, 11/15             Travel day: Arrive early afternoon

·      Monday, 11/16            Morning – classroom instruction

                                            Afternoon – field exercises

                                            Evening – saw maintenance, group discussion

·      Tuesday, 11/17            Daytime – field exercises

                                            Evening – group discussion

·      Wednesday, 11/18       Daytime – field exercises

                                            Evening – group discussion

·      Thursday, 11/19          Travel day: Leave by 10:00 am                                  

·      Class hours:                8:00 – 5:00

        Cost:                            $125 

Please sign up for all three shifts. 

Senior Chainsaw Trainers: Ricky Gross and trainer Kurt Elsesser will assist.

If you have any questions, please contact Kris Schuldt at pitchatent@centurytel.net or 314-971-5747.