Congregational Church Members Were At Silver Lake

For Golden Anniversary, Annual Meeting

Five members of Newtown Congregational Church attended the 140th Annual Meeting of the Connecticut Conference of the United Church of Christ at Silver Lake Conference Center in Sharon last weekend. The May 12 meeting also served as a celebration of the center’s 50th year.

Newtown Congregational Church clergy participating were the Reverend Janice Touloukian, associate minister, and the Reverend Lee Moore, interim senior minister. Other NCC attendees were Keith Roberts, who serves on the board of directors of Silver Lake; Deacon Steve Bennett, who conducted a seminar on “Safe Churches”; and Darlene Jackson, assistant church moderator.

“Touch the Earth Lightly” was the title of the keynote address by the Reverend Peter Sawtell, founder and executive director of Eco-Justice Ministries. He has background in academics, professional work and community involvement that has led him to leadership of this ecumenical agency. He is ordained in the United Church of Christ.

Pastor Sawtell’s address spoke of the need to heed the global warming trend in this world. He saluted the UCC for its work for human rights and charged attendees with the need to face the new challenge of protecting the earth, which is in a catastrophic state. He encouraged Green Teams, more recycling, political advocacy, and other leadership possibilities for saving earth for “our children, grandchildren, and those generations yet to be born.”

There was singing, communion, afternoon workshops, and lunch.

Valerie Tutson was in attendance and gave spirited testimony about attending this camp as a child and about always being joyous to return. Ms Tutson travels around the world telling stories and offering song and dance programs for all ages.