Pastor's Page

From Pastor Barbara

Welcome to First United Methodist Church, Torrington. We are a purpose-driven church

that provides many opportunities to grow individually in the midst of your family and, of course,

within the community of our faith. I would like to visit

with you or someone you know of who could

use a visit. Please contact the office to schedule a time. This is a great way for me to get to know

you and a great way for you to get to know our church. Our phone number is 860-489-8084. Our email

address is fumctorr@sbcglobal.net. Please see my message below from the church's monthly

newsletter, which we plan to update on this web page every month as well.

The Belfry Echo

First United Methodist Church of Torrington

December 2011

John said “I am the voice of the one crying out in the wilderness; prepare the way of the Lord.” John 1:23

Like most of you, I have a ‘to do’ list. We have that enormous book of tasks that never real seems to end. For every task I cross off the list as accomplished, two more seem to be added. I keep waiting for the ‘quiet time’ when there is less to do, but it is illusive. How long is your list? Is there ever an end in sight? How much longer does is grow at Christmas time? Is there more to do than there is time to accomplish? The days are going quickly! Are you prepared?

If our preparation for Christmas is only filled with tasks and errands and obligations, then, perhaps, it is time to roast the lists in the open fire along with chestnuts. It is time to prepare for the birth of hope in this world and the coming of Jesus in our hearts. Our greatest preparation is in prayer, not in malls. Is prayer entered on your list?

This is the season of Advent; the season that manifests the miraculous message of the incarnation of our Lord and Savior. If we are to understand the joy of His birth, we must first acknowledge the crisis of darkness and turmoil that the world experiences when we live without His grace. We must understand that the Holy Birth brings light into a darkened world, addressing the deepest human needs. “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John1:5) Is meditation anywhere on your list?

Advent is the time of preparation for the coming the birth of the Holy Child. It is the birth of hope. It is the expectation of our salvation through the grace of Christ. Is Hope is the first entry on your list? Is worship on your list? Is Jesus on your list?

In Christ’s Love,

Pastor Barbara