GREETINGS FROM THE PASTOR

“The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just       

  as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential   

  thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well.” ~ Baron Pierre de

Coubertin (1863 -1937), founder of the modern Olympic Games

The 2018 Winter Olympics have been underway for several days now and they’ve proven to be a good diversion from the troubles and chaos of the world. I am writing this in the wake of the Parkland, FL school shooting as well as news of Special counsel Robert Mueller’s indictment of 13 Russian nationals for interfering with the 2016 Election.

This year, I was hooked on the Olympics right from the start! The opening ceremony touched my heart and spirit with its message of peace and unity, which was expressed by the singing of John Lennon’s song, Imagine, followed by the spectacular choreography of people and lights to form two doves that merged into one. As someone who doesn’t pay much attention to the world of sports, I’ve surprised myself by staying up into the wee hours to watch the competitions.

Seeing the snowboarders shaking hands and complimenting one another on their performance, skiers hugging one another regardless of how they placed in the race or the ice skaters getting right back up and continuing with their routine after taking a fall…all of this has been inspiring to me. These are the actions of individuals who, though they have worked hard to fulfill their own dream, seem to understand that there is more to the games than competition. They appear to appreciate the community of athletes that has gathered, the opportunity to be part of something so big and the courage to keep on going even when the going gets tough.

As we continue on our faith journey, through the season of Lent and Holy Week, a time of self-reflection and preparation for Easter, may we do so keeping the spirit of the Olympics in mind.

Wishing you peace for the journey,

Rev. Margret

 

2018 Lenten Program—24 Hours That Changed the World.

Facilitated by Rev. Margret Hofmeister & Rev. Jane Rowe

Wednesday March 21, at First Church

Wednesday March 28, at South Church

Wednesday April 4, at First Church

This year for the first time in a very long time we will join with South Church for our Wednesday evening Lenten Program.  We will meet every Wednesday during Lent, alternating location between here and South Church. Our time together will include a light meal followed by a program, based on the last 24 hours of Jesus’ life. The guide we will use is a book titled, 24 Hours That Changed the World, written by Rev. Adam Hamilton, a United Methodist minister. Rev. Hamilton is the senior pastor of the 22,000 member United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas.

 

INVITATION TO OUR CHAPEL

Our Chapel is open for a private moment before Sunday’s service or during the week.  You are invited to come early and take a moment to thank God for a good week or for help with a challenge.

 

830 Corbin Avenue
New Britain, CT 06052
860-229-3709

Contact us at firstnewbritain@snet.net

“ROOTED AND GROUNDED IN LOVE.” . . .  Ephesians 3:17