Dear Friends:

I just finished intensive studies in pastoral care and counseling and believe now more than ever, that the last thing we all need is to only attend "church" as it has developed over the years. Although I am the Senior pastor at a wonderful church on the West side of Manhattan in the West Village, I really enjoy sitting together in s a small group.

Perhaps sitting in a pew is not the enemy, however, I have found that sitting together in small groups and sharing with each other various topics, can lead us to a better understanding of ourselves, our situation in life, and more important, the God who loves each and every one of us.

I have also found, that most people who have attended church for years or who call themselves "Christians" really do not understand the teachings of Jesus Christ very well, and have let others "tell them" what religion is all about, when in fact, religion just might be the problem. Remember, Christ had little to do with religion when he walked the earth, in fact, he found himself rejected by the faith community of his time and spent most of his teaching, with individuals and small groups. This is the concept of REACH-NYC, and I know you will enjoy these small groups.

REACH-NYC sponsores The Chapel At Union Square.

We call our gatherings "Conversations" and it is our hope that you will join us for a stimulating conversation on the Biblical issues of the day, and how growth in the teachings of Jesus Christ, can be a refreshing change for our lives.

With this in mind, I am inviting you to explore with me your life story, what God has in store for each one of us and to join us in a safe place to relax, be yourself, say what's on your mind and find a meaningful relationship with God and good, caring friends.

We currently meet at a small intimate venue we rent at The Seafarers International House, 123 East 15th Street, NYC, on the corner of Irving Place, in the Union Square Area of New York City. We meet promptly at 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. on Saturday mornings. Most people travel by bus or train to get here. There is limited street parking, however, if you do come by car, you can find reduced rate parking on East 18th Street between Third Ave. and Irving Place, on the South Side of the street, as you head East on E. 18th Street.

You will see a sign in the window: The Chapel At Union Square, and depending on the size of our small group, you will find us either on the Mezzanine level in a small conference room. Just take the elevator and press "M" and make a right, where you will find us in the conference room.

If our group grows, you will find us in the intimate chapel. As you enter the lobby of the Seafarers International House, just make a right as you enter the lobby and the chapel will be right there.

We will post signs so you will know how to find us.

I truly look forward to meeting you as we share the love of Jesus with each other and learn about a lifestyle that is all about the greatest teaching's Christ gave to his disciples and can be found in the Word and some great advice from the Apostle Paul, a Jewish believer and Roman citizen who became a follower of Jesus and an advocate for his teachings, that many have yet to fully comprehend.

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" - John 13:33-35

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you." - 2 Corinthians 13:11

May God richly bless you as you prepare to join us for a time of refreshing and peace. Christ has fully paid the price for our lives to be restored. Salvation is a free gift and what a joy it is, once found.

Best Regards - Tony Romeo

P.S.: If you have any questions, please write me.