United Methodist Response to the Newtown, CT attack

Coventry Cathedral

From the United Methodist News Service, a story about the response of the Newtown United Methodist Church in Sandy Hook, Connecticut.

From Bishop Martin McLee of the New York Conference (UMC):

December 14, 2012

Beloved Friends,

By now you may have heard of the unimaginable tragedy that occurred today at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. The prayers of the nation and even the world are now directed toward the families of the Sandy Hook – Newtown community. The Reverend Mel Kawakami, Pastor of the Newtown UMC will host a prayer vigil this evening.

Friends, in the midst of this tragedy, draw closer to your loved ones, especially the children. Reassure them of God’s love and your love. While we cannot undo this carnage, we can respond with the message of hope and healing that our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ offers to us all. Through the tears of a nation, remember the promise of the Psalmist:

“Weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Ps. 30:5.)

The grief of this tragedy is still unfolding. However, in this Advent Season of hope and love, let us remember the Christ Child and the promise of the manger.

O’ Come O’ Come Emmanuel.

All my prayers,

Bishop Martin D. McLee