Church musicians sing to aid Ukraine

TORRINGTON — Musicians from 12 or more area churches are performing to aid Ukraine in Torrington and Lakeville.

The performances will have instrumental and vocal solos, duets and ensembles, and choral selections from the groups at two separate events starting this weekend.

“We will be sharing our hopes and support for Ukraine through music,” said Pastor Joy Veronesi of Lakeville United Methodist Church.

The first concert will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 24 at Lakeville United Methodist Church, Main St. Lakeville.

The second concert is set for 6 p.m. May 1, at First United Methodist Church of Torrington, 21 Fern Drive, Torrington.

At each event, a free will offering will be taken. For those who are unable to attend, donations can be mailed to the First United Methodist Church, 21 Fern Drive, Torrington, CT 06790.

The funds will be donated to UMCOR, or the United Methodist Committee on Relief. As the humanitarian relief and development arm of The United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Committee on Relief assists United Methodists and churches to become involved globally in direct ministry to persons in need, according to its website. UMCOR has volunteers helping refugees from Ukraine who are coming into Slovakia, Romania, Czechnya, Hungary and Poland.

For more information, call Pastor Joy at 860-4599006, the Rev. Sun Joo Lee at 860-618-2233, or Ken Beyer at 860 496 1289.

Both churches are following current COVID-19 guidlines. Masking is optional by choice and comfort, according to a statement.

Betsy Beyer / Contributed photo Musicians from 12 or more area churches are performing to aid Ukraine in Torrington and Lakeville, where the concert will be held at Lakeville United Methodist Church at 3 p.m. April 24. Singers at rehearsal Wednesday at First United Methodist Church in Torrington, who will give their concert May 1 at 6 p.m.