We are taking a bold step together as we launch our HopeChest partnership in Ethiopia. Our goal is to sponsor 150 children! Here’s what makes this unique: you won’t choose a child—instead, you’ll sign up and a child at Arba Minch Highland will choose YOU! We can’t wait to see how this journey will transform lives—both across the world and right here at St. Lorenz!
Read a special message from Mark Keinath here.
Read a special message from Mark Keinath here.
FAQs
How reputable is Children’s HopeChest (CHC)?
CHC was recently recognized as the top nonprofit in Ethiopia out of more than 5,000 organizations. During our week with their leadership team, we were amazed by the quality of people God has placed in leadership there. The men and women serving with CHC are highly talented, deeply faithful, and genuinely compassionate — the kind of people you’d want on any team. They lead with humility, wisdom, and a clear love for the children and families they serve.
When out St. Lorenz team visited, they saw firsthand how the CHC staff care for children with excellence through strong, Christ-centered programs that build leaders and strengthen families. It was evident that their work is both professional and Spirit-led — and that the children truly love and trust the staff who guide them.
What are the religious beliefs of the children and families in Arba Minch?
Most of the children and families connected to the Arba Minch CarePoint are Lutheran—just like us! The CarePoint partners closely with local Lutheran congregations in the area, and faith is central to all that they do.
In fact, three other LCMS churches will be joining St. Lorenz in supporting this particular CarePoint, creating a beautiful connection between our congregations here and our brothers and sisters in Christ in Ethiopia. Together, we’ll be walking alongside this community in both faith and friendship.
How long is this commitment for?
You are in control of your sponsorship commitment. Most people choose to sponsor for at least a year, and many continue much longer. This ministry is about relationship building, not just financial support. Over the next few months, you’ll have the opportunity to write to your sponsored child and receive letters in return — forming a meaningful connection that grows over time.
While each sponsorship is personal, the Arba Minch CarePoint itself is part of a 15-year plan. CHC walks alongside the community to develop self-sufficiency and sustainability over time.
Why do I need to sign up by October 12?
Because the St. Lorenz team is traveling to Arba Minch this November! They’ll bring along the photos we upload and help introduce the children to their future sponsors. We want every one of the 150 children attending the CarePoint event to be able to choose a sponsor from St. Lorenz — so this is the perfect time to sign up and be part of that life-changing moment.
Can I sign up from home?
Yes! You can sign up right now using this link:
Here’s what to expect when you get started:
- On the first page, select how many children you’d like to sponsor and choose whether to give monthly, quarterly, or yearly.
- Click “Add to Basket.”
- Scroll down the page until you see “Continue to Checkout.”
- Confirm your selections, then complete the Contact Information and Billingpages.
- Be sure to check the box to receive communications from CHC — that allows you to hear from your sponsored child!
- Finally, you’ll be prompted to upload a photo and include the names of family members in that picture. This is the photo the child will see when they make their sponsor selection.
If you have any questions or need help, please contact church@stlorenz.org or call 989-652-6141 — we’ll be glad to walk you through the process!
Who is Children's HopeChest?
Three Ways Children's HopeChest Model is Unique
- It's relational and hands-on. Two communities share a common vision for equipping vulnerable children, their families, and entire communities.
- It's strategic and sustainable. Focusing on asset-based community development, we work alongside local leaders who understand the resources that the communities already have that can release their full potential. We know we’ve succeeded when we’re no longer needed.
- It creates two-way transformation. Because our approach is built on relationship, the partnering communities in North America are also transformed
Learn about the Model 👇
What to Expect
Launch Day – October 4 & 5
Join us in this special new partnership with Children’s HopeChest! On October 4 & 5 after each worship service, you and your family will have the opportunity to sign up as sponsor families. Volunteers will be available to guide you through the process and take a photo that will be shared with our new friends in Ethiopia.
Final Sign-Ups – Sunday, October 12
Don’t miss the final call! Be sure to complete your sponsorship by October 12 so we can send your information to our CarePoint in Arba Minch and prepare for child matches.
Match Event – Mid-November
A team from St. Lorenz will travel to Arba Minch in mid-November, bringing your photos along. Children at the CarePoint will prayerfully choose their sponsor families—they will choose YOU!
Reveal Event – December 5th
When the team returns, we’ll celebrate with a Reveal Event to hear about their journey and discover which child God has matched with your family.