Disaster Response Ministry


Become a Trained Christian Volunteer

A disaster may happen anywhere at any time. Are you prepared to respond? Join us at the Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) volunteer training program provided by the LCMS Office of National Mission. This 6-hour program will help you serve as a trained Christian volunteer, focusing on the most important things to remember as you prepare for–or respond to–a disaster in your community or beyond.

An unparalleled opportunity stands before us to share Christ by offering Christian care in times of disaster. Christ’s mercy is at the center of LERT training and is the basis for everything we do.

Become Certified

After you complete the LERT training, you will receive your certificate and volunteer certification badge from LCMS Disaster Response and the LCMS Office of National Mission.

Flood Buckets and Hygiene Kits

The Michigan District LERT leaders are also asking congregations/ministries in the Michigan District to consider assembling Flood Buckets and Hygiene Kits (PDF format). This PDF explains more about the buckets/kits and how you can support our efforts. This could be a project for your families to either do at home or gather materials for assembling them when we are able to gather together in smaller groups. We have several organizations in our state that are in need of these buckets/kits.

If you have questions, you can email Bruce Collins at bscollins27@gmail.com or Travis Grulke at travis.grulke@michigandistrict.org.

Join or Form a Team

To join a current team or to learn more about forming a new team, contact the Michigan District coordinator:

Travis Grulke

Latest LCMS Disaster Response Information

For up-to-date information concerning Disaster Response, visit LCMS World Relief and Human Care.

Here is also a Quick Reference Guide for Disasters and Pandemics by the LCMS Disaster Response. (added 5/12/2020)