The news from Newtown, CT continues as we grieve with all the people who have been touched by this tragedy. Newtown Congregational Church is a UCC congregation. Rev. Matthew Crebbin writes this message on the church's website:
As Newtown and our entire country mourn the loss of so many innocent people; we are very grateful for the many the prayers and outpouring of love from the community and nation. At this time we ask for your continued prayers as we begin to heal from this horrific event.
Together we will take this one day at a time, resting in the hope of a new morn. We lean on God's grace and love for all people, and pray for peace and comfort for our community. The church extends its support to the community and opens its doors to all those in need of help and counsel. We will continue to work together as we begin to rise above this.
Our prayers are with them, and the other churches of Newtown and the surrounding area, as they continue to bring compassion and healing to overwhelming grief.
As we acknowledge this situation, we also consider its connection to other issues, such as gun control and the staggering numbers of deaths related to children, youth and gangs. As we pray, I would invite us all to pray large prayers.
God of life and light, God of different people, God of healing, We come to you with grief. We are touched by the deaths of children and adults in Newtown. It seems so senseless.
At the same time, we know that others also die and others also kill. We ask that you bring healing to those who grieve and those who begin the process of recovery - in Newtown, and in the world. We ask that you strengthen those who work to bring and support your healing - in Newtown, and in the world. And we ask that you use us to be a part of that work, no matter where we are, no matter what we do.
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In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Amen.
Rev. Betty Sue Sherrod, Christ Church UCC, Maplewood