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Reverend Koonae Lee has come to the Stratford United Methodist Church from the United Methodist Church of Southampton in Long Island where she served as pastor from 2006 to 2010. Prior to Southampton, Pastor Lee served in a number of churches, including the East Meadow United Methodist Church from 2002 to 2006, and the Woodbury United Methodist Church from 1996 to 2000. She has also served on several committees within the New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Koonae received a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea, a Masters degree in Professional Studies in Humanistic Education from State University of New York at New Paltz, and a Master of Divinity degree from New York Theological Seminary. Prior to her ordination, Koonae had a career in nursing, working at a number of New York area hospitals as a staff nurse, assistant director of nursing, director of nursing and director of education. Koonae is married, and has three sons.

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Liberated by Surrender Message

Grace and Peace to All!

Pastor’s Message          January-February, 2012

A few years ago, I read an article about a blind teacher who was exceedingly successful in a high school classroom. The students never took advantage of her blindness; because, as a student explained it, “she sees very well with heart.”

 St. Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians about what they needed the most. They are the gifts that enlighten blind hearts, and correct the poor vision caused by the veil of ignorance and deception. Paul prays for the Ephesians. He wants them to have correct vision for the impaired sight suffered by the eyes of their hearts. Thus, he prays for two things: first, that God will give them a “spirit of wisdom;” and second, that He will provide them a “spirit of revelation” as [they] come to know Jesus as Lord.

 As we enter this New Year, it is fitting for us to seek corrective vision ourselves. If there is one thing this New Year needs - it is hope. Having come through a time when evil was on the brink of triumph in many places, we need hope. It is the need of the individual, as well as the Church. We all need hope. The Christ … “the word became flesh and lived among us” … has entered our world to dispel darkness; and bring His true light so that we may see hope as promise, and promise as the gift of God. The secret of discovering this gift of God is prayer. The secret to a vibrant and thriving hope is in our prayer. Through prayer, we discover the spirit of wisdom and revelation. It is through prayer that we cling to Jesus.

 Whatever this year holds in store for you, pray! Your lack of vision will improve mightily if you apply the power of Christian prayer to life.

 In closing, I would like to share one of my favorite prayers written by Mildred M. Smith:

             A New Year is approaching.

            What does it hold for me?

            It may bring joy or sorrow;

            Oh, God, what shall it be?

            Sometimes my heart is anxious –

            I think that I should know the way

            into the future – each step that I will go.

            But you, in Your great wisdom

            Must plan for me my all.

            Lest as Your child I falter

            and miss your perfect call.

            Dear Lord, I pray for guidance

            in all I say and do.

            And then the year upcoming

            will truly honor You!”

 Happy Blessed New Year!

Email: stratfordumc@yahoo.com or Call (203) 375-5851