Dear Youth and Parents of Atonement Lutheran Church,
The following was part of a report in the Chicago Tribune on February 13, 2007:
“Katie Merkel was desperate to leave a house party in west suburban Montgomery early Sunday. In the 15 minutes between 1:30 and 1:45 a.m., the OswegoHigh School freshman called at least two friends and also walked a few yards from the party to the home of her best friend, asking if she could stay the night. Nobody could help. Less than 20 minutes later, apparently after accepting a ride home, Merkel was dead, involved in a horrific crash about 4 miles from the party.”
We, your church family, never want this to happen to any of you. There is always SOMEONE who can help you – whether in a situation like Katie’s or on some other occasion when you need help from an adult who cares about you. Sometimes things happen and a situation gets out of hand. If, for example, you or your ride have been drinking, or if you just need to get away from somewhere where you feel you don’t belong, or even if you have car trouble, you can call us and someone will respond. Please cut out the card below, fold it in half, and carry it in your wallet. On it you will find the names and phone numbers of several parents who will “come to the rescue” if you need it. You can call anytime, day or night, and someone will be able to help you. We promise you a safe ride home without judgment about your situation.
We love all of you and want you to realize that “YOU HAVE PEOPLE”!
In Christ, Pastor Jane Kunzie-Brunner Pastor Don Wink
Atonement Safe Ride
Your Atonement family wants you to be safe!
If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation –
party gone bad, you have been drinking, your ride has been drinking – whatever it is, you can call one of us for a safe ride home.
We pledge caring and confidentiality without judgment.
If you need an emergency ride for any reason,at any time – day or night – PLEASE CALL!
Pastor Jane and Mr. Brunner……………..847 382 0311
Pastor Jane’s cell……………………………630 841 3907
Mr. & Mrs. Griese…………………………….847 382 2688
Mr. & Mrs. Curtis……………………………..847 726 2641
Mr. & Mrs. Huldin……………………………847 842 0585
Mr. & Mrs. Keiser……………………………847 842 9712
Mr. & Mrs. Gallo………………………………847 381 5236
P.S.: Printed cards are available in the church office.
