Moravian Magazine, Issue 4 2022

From income planning for yourself and your family to ensuring your gifts go to the Moravian Ministries you’re passionate about, look to the MMFA to help you structure and organize your financial resources.

Our Lamb has conquered. Let us follow Him.

In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love

God Creates. God Redeems. God Sustains.

We Respond in Faith, Love and Hope.

Visit our website at https://www.moravian.org. Letters to the editor, address corrections, and other correspondence may be e-mailed to the editorial staff at moravianmagazine@mcnp.org.

On the cover: Fall colors foretell

coming of winter. Photo by Mike Riess

PONDERINGS

The value of face time

Iknow the pandemic isn’t over. I know we still need to be careful, know our symptoms and test when we feel there might be a possibility that we’ve contracted COVID-19. Like all of us, I hope this scourge is behind us, because as 2022 progressed, I rediscovered the joy – and importance – of “face time.”

For more than 18 months, travelling for my work with the church was pretty much off-limits. Events where large numbers of Moravians gathered simply weren’t being held. Zoom was the order of the day, as services, meetings and even training events were relegated to our computer screens. We were doing the right things to keep people safe while we learned to find ways to stay connected.

But in 2022, I was able (as our good friend Willie is famous for singing) to get back “on the road again.” In April, I joined hundreds of Southern Province Moravians for their 2022 Synod. In May, I made my first trip to Ohio for the 250th anniversary of Schoenbrunn Village. The summer had me surrounded by amazing singers (all of them masked) and musicians for the 26th Moravian Music Festival in Bethlehem. And at each of these events, the ability to see the smile in peoples’ eyes, to converse without a computer screen and camera in between and to hear voices raised together offered an energy that I hadn’t felt since early 2020.

As the year progressed, I had more chances to be with Moravians from all over North America. I joined provincial leaders and church agency heads in Virginia to discuss opportunities for the future. I travelled to Montgomery, Alabama for an amazing experience studying racial justice issues with many Northern Province pastors. Not long after, I joined pastors from both provinces for their Ministers’ Convocation (note: articles on many of these events will be featured in our year-end edition). With each of these events, I was struck by how much I missed – and valued – the opportunity to be together.

I know many congregations continue to work on the best way to be together safely. As Christmas Eve plans gel, I’m certain many are hoping to be in their sanctuaries, in-person. While safety is paramount, there’s no substitution for being with each other. We’re strongest when we can come together.

As you read this edition of The Moravian Magazine, you’ll see getting back on the road and getting together is a common theme. We feature articles about our bishops meeting together; Moravians travelling to far off places like Labrador and the Czech Republic; and the Board of World Mission gathering representatives from across Latin America and the Caribbean. With each of these, it’s evident that “face time” was a vital component.

You may have noticed that the magazine hasn’t been arriving on a regular basis. There are a variety of reasons for this, but know that we are working on re-establishing our schedules, developing a new design and working to keep the publication valuable to you. In future issues, we will cover some of the major events of 2022 in greater detail while sharing stories of our beloved faith tradition.

As always, I welcome your comments, suggestions, ideas and stories. I hope you enjoy this issue of The Moravian.

Mike Riess, Editor

(ISSN 1041-0961)

Issue 4 2022, Vol. 53, No. 4

Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: OnTrac International, 41 Northern Stacks Drive, Suite 200 Fridley, MN 55421 email: file@ontrac.com

Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces

Published by the Interprovincial Board of Communication, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Subscription rates: $15.00 per year, U.S.A. & Canada; $18.00 per year, all other countries.

Individual copies available for $3.00 each.

The Moravian is sent to the families of the Moravian Church as a privilege of membership. Non Profit postage paid at Bethlehem, PA. Circulation: 16,000

Continuing The North American Moravian, The Moravian and The Wachovia Moravian.

Michael Riess, Editor

Susan Kiefner, Communications Assistant Jill Bruckart, Customer Relations/Business Assistant

Interprovincial Board of Communication Ginny Tobiassen, chair

Terri Bischoff, Peggy Carter, Margaret Couch, Paul Knouse, Kat Lehman, Amy Linville, Dan Miller, Valerie Bean Wagner.

Design by Michael Riess, IBOC.

Address all correspondence regarding articles, subscriptions, or advertising to The Moravian, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018

FAX: 610.866.9223 Phone: 610.867.0593 800.732.0591 e-mail: moravianmagazine@mcnp.org www.moravian.org

Contents © 2022, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in America. All rights reserved

BISHOPS OF THE UNITY

Bishop Conference brings together Moravian Church’s spiritual leaders

In Mark 6:31, Jesus said to his disciples, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile.” The bishops residing in the Northern and Southern Provinces heard that same invitation as they gathered not in a deserted place, but on the campus of Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, for the 18th Interprovincial Bishops’ Conference in August.

Our time together began at Moravian Theological Seminary where Dr. Bryon Grigsby, president of Moravian University, and the Rev. Dr. Heather Vacek, Dean of Moravian Theological Seminary welcomed us for dinner, and provided information on happenings at both the Seminary and the University.

Pastors of local Moravian churches provided leadership for worship throughout our conference. Our first evening concluded with the Rev. Brian Dixon, pastor of Emmaus Mora-

vian, leading us in the celebration of Holy Communion.

Breakfast and lunch each day was hosted at Central Moravian Church and served by members of the congregation under the direction of Rose Werner. We enjoyed a variety of homemade items, with both healthy and notso-healthy choices available. Dinners were hosted by Bethlehem Area Moravians at Moravian Village in Bethlehem and Heritage Village in Nazareth where we received a tour of Morningstar Senior Living.

On Wednesday, our morning and afternoon worship was led by the Rev. Dan Miller, pastor of Edgeboro Moravian (Bethlehem) and the Rev. Sue Koenig, pastor of First Moravian (Easton)Easton. We spent the day in spiritual formation and renewal as a time for us to be nourished. Dr. Micah Sadigh, a member of

(Continued on next page)

Bishops from the Northern and Southern Provinces include the Rt. Revs. Doug Kleintop, M. Blair Couch, Tom Shelton, Kay Ward, Hopeton Clennon, Chris Giesler, Sam Gray, Carol Foltz, Graham Rights and Paul

Graf. Bishops Lane Sapp, Wayne Burkette and John Thomas were unable to attend.

Bishop Conference

(Continued from previous page)

Central Moravian Church and a professor at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pa., led us in “Falling in Love with God (again!)” and Marcella Kraybill-Greggo, director of Spirituality Programs at Moravian Theological Seminary, in “Wisdom’s Way of Knowing, Loving and Serving.”

We spent time meditating on scriptures such as: “Call unto me and I will answer you.” “Fear not for I am with you; I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine!” “Rest in my love.” “Love one another as I have loved you.”

We also received the name of one of our bishop colleagues for whom we were asked to pray, throughout the day, and in the months ahead. And we were reminded of what is most important as we seek to be servants in the church; by remembering God’s message through Hosea 6:6, “I do not want your sacrifices, I want you to love me; I do not want your offerings, I want you to know me.”

The Rev. Tammie Rinker, pastor of Westside (Bethlehem) and the Rev. Christine Johnson, pastor of College Hill (Bethlehem) led our worship on Thursday. That morning, the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller, President of the Northern Province Provincial Elders’s Conference, discussed current issues including pastoral leadership, recruitment, church decline, emerging ministries, care and nurture of pastors in the ongoing Covid pandemic, and the need to be open to new possible ministries. We also met with Mike Riess, executive director of the Interprovincial Board of Communication, who

shared updates on the ministry of the IBOC.

Later in the day we met with Charlene Donchez Mowers, who provided a presentation on Historic Bethlehem becoming part of a multi-cultural World Heritage site. Bethlehem, Gracehill (UK), and Herrnhut (Germany) are seeking to join Christiansfeld (Denmark) as a combined World Heritage site featuring Moravian church settlements in Europe and North America.

Friday worship was led by the Rev. Derek French, pastor of Nazareth and the Rev. Jodie Lean Harney, pastor of Mountainview (Hellertown). We spent time with the Rev. Jennika Borger, chaplain of Moravian University and Moravian Theological Seminary to discuss new ways of involving bishops with our seminary students. Most of our day was spent discussing a variety of topics related to ministry in the Moravian Church as we look to the future. Our day concluded with dinner at Hotel Bethlehem and a Cup of Covenant Service led by the Rev. Linda Wisser, pastor of East Hills (Bethlehem). However, the most important aspects of our being together for this conference were the opportunity to share with one another about our lives and our ministries, to support and encourage each other, and to pray for each other and for the Moravian Church.

We are grateful to the Provincial Elders’ Conference of the Northern and Southern Provinces for providing us this opportunity and we look forward to meeting again in the Southern Province for the 19th Interprovincial Bishops’ Conference in 2024. n

The Rt. Rev. Doug Kleintop is a bishop of the Moravian Unity from Pennsylvania.

“...We were reminded of what is most important as we seek to be servants in the church; by remembering God’s message through Hosea 6:6, ‘I do not want your sacrifices, I want you to love me; I do not want your offerings, I want you to know me.’”

OUR CONGREGATIONS

Reaching out to youth through Elevate

It all started with a yearning. Isn’t that how it often starts with God? Jesus’ words kept emerging, “Let the little children come to me.” We know Jesus has a big heart for children—for “to these belong the Kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16). It is clear from our Lord that we are not to hinder but are to help children come to him!

In an age when more and more families do not attend church regularly—or at all— what if we provided a new way for children to come? I thought, “We have a church van!” Other than camps and retreats a few times a year, it just sits in the garage. What if we went out into the community and drove youth to our church? I had a feeling that if we provided the transportation, that many parents would allow their children to come to church, even if they did not come themselves.

Quick side note: Over the course of my ministry, I was always in awe of children or teens that would come to church by themselves, while their families stayed home. In generations gone by, when most lived a “stone’s throw” away from the church, I heard

how some children would simply walk to church on their own. This always touched my heart. Many kids live further away now, and we want them to be as safe as possible. I thought it would be great to pick them up for a youth night and then bring them back home.

This idea kept circulating in my mind. The yearning was there…the holy “nudges” were there… and finally a member of our church encouraged me, “Let’s not wait any longer, let’s do it!” (Thank you Jennifer Wiwi!) This was a catalyst to get this new ministry going!

Soon it got a name, a day, a time, a general structure, and some key volunteers! We decided to hold “Elevate” on the first Sunday of each month, from 6:00-7:30 p.m., and every youth night we have the elements of Faith, Food and Fun. As good Moravians, we would say these are our “Elevate Essentials”!

Our basic structure starts with vibrant worship-with camp songs, prayer and a simple faith message, followed by a hot meal and play time in the church gym.

While most of the kids love to run loose

Elevate

(Continued from previous page)

in the gym, playing 9-Square and basketball, we noticed early on that there were kids that would prefer another outlet. We added a “craft time” in another room for those that enjoyed art as well as a quieter atmosphere. Overall, the reception we’ve gotten in the community has been wonderful. The reality has been that many parents have brought their kids. That said, we have been able to pick up about 8-10 kids with the church van that do not have any church affiliation. I do not want to give the impression that our “pick-up” ministry is easy. It is not. I am seeing how it will take continued time and effort to establish relationships of trust with the families of the community that do not attend church.

As we have all learned through Covid, we need to be able to flex, change and pivot in new ways to reach out effectively. Elevate is one attempt to do just that and it is one of the most exciting ministries we’ve done in recent years. Lastly, I would like to say “Thank You” to our church volunteers that have made Elevate a reality in these first 6 months: Evan Watkins, Lisa Garrison, Linda Foote, Natalie and Norah Berkenstock, David and Jennifer Wiwi, Ed Hendershot, Pat Walters, Karen Kilps, Mike Crull, Sally Scrogham, Ken and Michele Seim, Eric Lux, and Austin Bogue. n

The Rev. Andy Kilps is pastor of Hope Moravian Church in Hope, Indiana. Photos of Elevate events courtesy of Hope Moravian.

A MORAVIAN EDUCATION Moravian Theological Seminary graduates 21 in the Class of 2022

Morning rain evaporated into afternoon May sunshine as members of the Moravian Theological Seminary Class of 2022, in graduation robes and mortar boards, processed into Bethlehem’s Central Moravian Church, where family and friends had gathered.

The graduation service was presided over by Dr. Bryon Grigsby, president of Moravian University, Moravian Theological Seminary and Lancaster Theological Seminary, and the Rev. Dr. Heather H. Vacek, who was marking her first year as vice president and dean of the two seminaries. Another first this year was the online availability of the one-hour service, which was livestreamed.

During the ceremony, Moravian Theological Seminary conferred a total of 21 graduate degrees and certificates: 12 Graduate Certificates in Spiritual Direction, three Graduate Certificates in Moravian Studies, three Master of Arts in Theological Studies, and one degree each of Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Chaplaincy and Master of Arts in Theological Studies.

Dena Grillo Fortuzi is one of the six Moravian graduates among the Class of 2022. From Tirana, Albania, Dena earned a Master of Arts in Theological Studies. She was awarded The Rev. Elmer D. Bender Memorial Prize that is given to a “worthy individual preparing for the ministry of the Moravian Church.” In the audience

(Continued on next page)

Seminary

was a Moravian delegation that had supported Dena in her seminary journey. They travelled north from the Southern Province to be present at this happy moment for her.

Dena is looking forward to ordination while serving as the lay pastor in the six congregations of the Moravian Church in Albania.

“When I started seminary,” she recalls, “I didn’t know what kind of journey was ahead of me. As I started walking this path, I had mixed feelings. Soon I realized that I was not walking alone.

“During my studies at MTS, I have grown both academically and spiritually, thanks to the outstanding experiences and to the people I have encountered. I have shared my life with people from different backgrounds and yet feeling one in the Spirit.

“I will always be grateful to all those dear sisters and brothers who supported me, to all students whom I shared these wonderful years with and to all my amazing professors who were always ready to help me in the long run.

“God is continuously opening new doors for me, and my hope is that I will be a humble servant, responding daily to God’s call.”

Another of this year’s graduating Moravians is Pastor Tammie Rinker who completed her Certificate in Spiritual Direction. She plans to use her learnings in her congregational ministry at Westside Moravian Church in Bethle-

*Taken from the processional song, For All These Students, lyrics by C. Riddick Weber (2015) sung to the tune Sine Nomine by Ralph Vaughn Williams (1906)

hem, Pa., where she has served as pastor since February 2020. Tammie received her Master of Divinity from MTS in 1999, and she is currently enrolled in the Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling.

“I entered the program looking to expand my skill set,” she says, “and found something even more meaningful - a deep blessing and profound grace in the learning process and in contemplation.”

In addition to Dena and Tammie, other Moravian graduates include: Grace Adele Hochella of Allentown, Pa., who received a Master of Divinity and delivered the Graduate Address; Dana Myers of Winston-Salem, N.C., who received a Graduate Certificate in Moravian Studies and is now serving Fries Moravian Church in Winston-Salem; Esther Vitt Gonzalez of Ardrossen, Alberta, Canada, who received a Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction; and Margaret Norris and Madison White of Winston-Salem, N.C., who each received a Graduate Certificate in Moravian Studies. Margaret is now serving as pastor at Hope Moravian in Winston-Salem; Madi is serving in specialized ministry as a chaplain at Wake Health.

In celebrating the accomplishments of all our graduates, we’ll leave you with this message from Dean Vacek, marking the end of another successful academic year at Moravian Theological Seminary:

“This was a year that called us to be flexible and adaptable in the face of change, but one thing remained steady: our shared journey of theological education. Whether through distance learning or in-person in the classroom, we continued our mission to equip persons with the knowledge, skills and being to engage in vocations that serve God and humanity in a world of change. As the members of our Class of 2022 step into a new chapter of their vocational lives, we give thanks for your prayers, support and witness which continue to make possible this sacred journey to serve.” n

MORAVIANS IN MISSION

A call to mission: helping refugees in Czech Republic

This summer, my wife Cat and I travelled to the Czech Republic to plan stops for the 2023 Young Adult Convo set for next June. While making our plans, we contacted Daniel Dostrašil, the pastor of the Moravian Church in Ústí nad Orlicí, Czech Republic about bringing 50 or so young adults to his church for a short mission project while on Convo. Ústí nad Orlicí is one of the oldest Moravian Church sites in Europe. This year they are celebrating 525 years and we wanted to make a stop there to show those on Convo another side of Moravian history.

When talking with Daniel, he said they needed help now! He and his congregation

“We were called to help others and yet we were blessed with the moments to share God’s love and the connections we all have with one another across the world.“

have been doing what they can to help with housing and other needs of refugees from Ukraine. Since the war with Russia began in February, towns across Europe have seen many people come to them escaping the war. Ústí nad Orlicí is on a major train route between Russia and Western Europe. People escaping the war have been boarding trains not knowing exactly where they will end up and they would just get off wherever looks good to them. For

many, it is the town of Ústí nad Orlicí in the Czech Republic.

After taking some time to discern the call to help, we agreed that we must do what we could, although at the time, we did not know what that meant. After some time, Daniel told us that there was a need for bicycles for the folks coming from the Ukraine. Most had to walk around town and public transportation only went so far if they could find money for it. So, Cat and I told our congregations (Water of Life Lutheran and Covenant Moravian in Wilmington, N.C.) about the mission and they overwhelmingly helped the cause. We were able to raise about $4000 for bikes, helmets, some bicycle baby seats, and an electric bike for a man with a serious leg injury.

Word got out beyond our congregations and donations came in from across the Southern and Northern Provinces. We also were asked by Daniel about collecting used Kindles and e-readers to form a digital library for those coming from Ukraine. All in all, we collected around 20 readers to take to them.

When we arrived, we thought our mission was to help with the needs of only those refugees in town, but it is amazing how God finds opportunities to share talents in unexpected ways. So, in addition to finding and distributing bikes and Kindles, we were asked to visit several schools and talk about ourselves and who we were as Moravians. The history of the Moravian Church taught in the Czech Republic

Refugees

(Continued from previous page)

schools stops with John Amos Comenius and he is taught as being the last bishop of a church that does not exist anymore. This history comes as a result of the many years the Czech lands were under communist rule. So, for those we talked with it was an eye-opening experience to know that the church of Comenius and Hus was still alive and well around the world and in their own town.

During our two weeks in the Czech Republic, we were presented with many “God moments” —moments such as pieces of Convo coming together with what has to be divine intervention; the tears, laughter, and stories from our Ukrainian friends; time with Daniel and his family which included us as part of their family, and then sharing our history and faith with school children. We were called to help others and yet we were blessed with the moments to share God’s love and the connections we all have with one another across the world. n

The Rev. Jeff Jones is pastor of Covenant Moravian Church in Wilmington, N.C. The 2023 Youth Convo will visit Czech Republic and Germany July 3-11, 2023.

Another perspective

Donna Hurt, a retired christian educator and member of Home Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C., joined Jeff and Cat in their work in theCzech Republic. In this remembrance, she shares some of her insights about her visit there.

In June, I was blessed to accompany Jeff and Cat Jones to the Czech Republic, specifically to assist pastor Daniel Dostrasil and his congregation with helping the refugees, mostly women and children, who have practically nothing.

On Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, refugees are invited to gather at Daniel’s church, giving them an opportunity to be with others since they are alone so much. Daniel had asked me ahead of time to lead these gatherings, so I planned activities that I hoped would be enjoyable, allowing these dear people to do something other than think about the war back home. At Daniel’s suggestion, along with fun get-acquainted games, I shared unusual or special experiences from my many travels around the Unity. I also took a paper for each of them to color. Around the edges were flowers, and in the middle were the large words: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.”

I wanted them to take their beautiful creation to their room or apartment and be encouraged by looking at it every day.

Sometimes I was able to talk individually with Ukrainians. After a conversation with one young woman about her life now and all that she had left behind, I shared how very, very sorry I was that all this was happening to her. Since we had briefly connected in a special way, she responded with tears in her eyes, “Thank you so much for caring.” And that brought on tears for me as well.

Another woman I spoke with on several occasions was Alah. Daniel’s church is helping her, and one day we took her a bicycle. Alah spoke about hoping the war would end by winter, so she’d be able to go home and find her husband. Because we had been talking for a while and were now ‘friends,’ I gently offered that I could not know what would happen with the war, but that I did know God loved her and would take care of her. Not having any idea how much Alah understood about God, I nevertheless encouraged her to hold that truth in her thinking.

In the tiny apartment at Daniel’s church now lives a refugee family with a mother named Lesia and her three young sons. They

have so little, wear the same clothes almost every day, but shared lots of smiles whenever I had a chance to talk with the mom or play with the boys…especially when I taught one of them new English words!

One day, we traveled to the nearby town of Nova Paka, where the Czech Province had purchased an empty hotel some years ago. They were renovating the building to eventually rent the rooms. But that idea changed when Ukrainians started flooding the country: the renovations are now for the refugees. While touring the building to see the work underway, we talked with several of the three dozen Ukrainians already living there, two people per room with two beds, a table and a bath.

Moravians in Europe are definitely stepping up to this heartbreaking refugee situation. Moravians in America are doing likewise, through the Board of World Mission and other ways. As for me, I had one specific request that I repeated to God over and over during the weeks of preparation, because I knew this trip would be different. “Use me, Lord, just use me. Let me be Your love, however You choose, to anyone around me.” I will never forget the opportunities and blessings of those days. n

Far left: Cat and Jeff Jones deliver a bicycle to a Ukranian refugee. Left: Pastor Daniel Dostrasil receives a Moravian Star in the colors of the Ukranian flag. Below: Moravians work with Ukranian refugees in Ústí nad Orlicí, Czech Republic

MORAVIAN HISTORY

Salem Walks open eyes about the past

Salem Tavern. God’s Acre. Salem Square. The Single Brothers’ house. For some, these locations call to mind picturesque tourist sites in Winston-Salem, N.C. For local Moravians, they are part of our heritage. Recently, though, they have also become part of “Salem Walk,” an ongoing exploration shedding light on some of the shadowed parts of our shared history.

The Salem Walk experience is a different sort of Old Salem tour, focusing on Moravian involvement in slavery and racism over the first half-century of the Wachovia-Salem community. It is an attempt to put ourselves in physical and historical proximity to the enslaved Africans and their children who lived and worked in Salem between 1771 and 1865. It is an attempt to acknowledge our past, historically and spiritually, as Moravian Christians.

Enslavement was practiced widely by North Carolina Moravians, as individuals and as the church. In the early years of the

community, individuals could not own slaves in Salem. Rather, enslaved people were purchased by the church (the Wachovia Administration) and were then rented out to individuals. After years of pressure, Salem leaders eventually capitulated and permitted individual ownership; the last bill of sale from the church itself was in 1832, and in 1847 Salem rescinded all restrictions regarding ownership of human beings.

Acknowledging this history is crucial: What can we learn about the past? What did those Moravian ancestors not see? What might we still be blind to today? We have to be very careful about assumptions because there is much we do not know, but thanks to the work of archivists, historians, and translators, there are at least some things we do know. It is from those seeds of knowledge— and from our desire to acknowledge the sins of racism---that the Salem Walk experience has grown.

At left: Betsy Bombick leads a group of studends on a Salem Walk. Below: gravestone of Phoebe, an enslaved woman, found along the Salem Walk tour.

Step by step, Salem Walk participants walk through or cast their eyes toward the places where enslaved Black individuals worked, lived, and were buried. After a brief introduction, participants join one of three groups. Each group is led by a trained narrator who shares the unique story of either Abraham (Sambo), Catherina (Cathy), or Phoebe. These enslaved people did not come to Salem by choice, but each became an integral part of the community. They participated and contributed with their labor and their lives. They worshiped, ate, slept, lived, died, and were buried in Salem. Where and how they lived, worked, and were buried tells us much about the community. The three small groups hear those stories as they walk through Salem, learning and reflecting, before gathering once again as a whole for conversation and a worship service of confession, repentance and supplication.

Salem Walk was developed by the South-

ern Provincial Moravian Team for Racial, Cultural, and Ethnic Reconciliation (MTR) and a focused subgroup (Betsy Bombick, Frank Crouch, David Guthrie, and John D. Rights). The three Salem Walk narratives were developed through careful research into Moravian records and published materials, conversations with Martha Hartley, Director of Moravian Research at Old Salem Museum & Gardens, and reviews by several individuals and groups. Everything we know about Abraham, Cathy, and Phoebe comes to us through the eyes and words of the European Moravians who enslaved them, from the records that have been translated to date from German into English. The concept was inspired by the Sankofa Journey led by the Evangelical Covenant Church, and by the work published in God’s Fields, Landscape, Religion and Race in Moravian Wachovia by Leland Ferguson. Publications by Jon Sensbach, Daniel Crews and Richard Starbuck were also essential resources, and the program continues to adapt in response to feedback and new research. We especially appreciate and affirm the work of the Hidden Town Project led by Old Salem Museum and Gardens (https://www.OldSalem.org/core-initiatives/hidden-townproject)

Since August 2021, more than 115 people (mostly Moravians) have participated in a Salem Walk. Reactions have been thoughtful

(Continued on next page)

Acknowledging this history is crucial: What can we learn about the past? What did those Moravian ancestors not see? What might we still be blind to today?

Salem Walks

(Continued from previous page)

and encouraging. Some have commented on the emotional impact of walking through the sites as the stories are told. Others are moved by the powerful liturgy shared at the closing worship service. Many have pointed out that the history told at Salem Walk is notably different from the Old Salem story most local Moravians grew up hearing. There is often a consensus that confronting complex history is compelling and painful, but most participants seem to agree that honest storytelling and time for reflection can help make such confrontations meaningful and purposeful.

And so, step by step, we confront our Moravian history. We search ourselves. We pray that we may “match our fine statements with worthy deeds.”*

We hear the words of Psalm 79: “Do not remember against us the iniquities of our ancestors; let your compassion come

speedily to meet us, for we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins, for your name’s sake.”

NOTE: In-person Salem Walks are scheduled for November and December, and will be scheduled again beginning in February. Salem Walks can be arranged for groups upon request.. The MTR is exploring ways to make Salem Walk a virtual opportunity, and also plans to explore ways to make more recent history visible (1865 forward, including the Jim Crow era, the Civil Rights era, and into today). For more information about Salem Walk, email MTR@mcsp.org. n

Thanks to Betsy Bombick, Home Moravian; the Moravian Team for Racial, Cultural and Ethnic Reconciliation; and Salem Walk narrator; Lydia Ingram, Calvary Moravian (Winston-Salem, N.C.) for this article.

*1998 Statement on Racism and the Church, affirmed by the 2018 and the 2022 Southern Provincial Synods.

MORAVIAN WRITINGS

Book Review:

Losing Light: Walking by Faith but Wanting to See

by the Rev. Brian R. Dixon

6x9 in. paperback, 118 pages published in partnership with IBOC

Early in the Gospel of John, Jesus invites two questioning disciples to “Come and see.” As they turn to follow, the disciples cannot predict that the journey will take them from feast, to fear, to faith—from a wedding where the wine never ends, to a locked room where death shrouds the air, and finally to more than one encounter with the risen Christ and the promises of resurrection Life.

In Losing Light: Walking by Faith but Wanting to See, the Rev. Brian Dixon (currently pastor, Emmaus Moravian Church in Emmaus, Pa.) invites readers on a similar journey through shadow and light. With a seeker’s questions and a pastor’s heart, he encourages us to “come and see” the fullness of life with God even if (and when) our vision is clouded or the way is unclear.

The stories, poems and prayers collected in this volume do not shy away from the reality that in most lives, “heartache and hope lay stitched together” (“Herstory,” p. 61). Indeed, one of the first stories in the collection offers a compelling reminder of that truth.

In “The Garden on Eden Street,” friendship blossoms between two boys from very different backgrounds who meet in the open

spaces of a new neighborhood. Their imagination soars as they build spaceships and seek buried treasure with one another. Joy is crushed to its root, however, by the hateful speech of an adult whose words wound and destroy, changing the way the boys view the world. As with several offerings in the book, the story invites a clear-eyed look at the human propensity to inflict harm rather than to live into God’s gifts of life and love.

Wherever one is along the journey of faith, there is always more to see.

The collection is divided into six sections of approximately 20 pages each, with the stories, poems and prayers in each section reflecting a slightly different theme related to light. Most of the entries are a page or two in length, although they range from four lines

Losing Light

(Continued from previous page)

(“Riddle”) to five or six pages for some of the short stories (“An Industrial Fairy Tale”).

Indeed, the short stories—or parables, as Dixon rightly calls them—are my favorite parts of the book. Like the parables of Jesus, they draw on familiar settings and people to encourage deeper reflections on matters of faith. For example, the beauty found in a flower shop in “A Floral Parable” invites readers to consider the value of attention to (and intention about) one’s faith. “The Perils of Lights Attraction” led me to wonder whether or not I would recognize Jesus if he showed up at my front door.

And, like most parables, those found in Losing Light often take an unexpected turn. I would not have predicted “The End of the World” from reading its opening page.

Reflection questions following each entry help readers to consider whether and how their own experiences might intersect with what they are reading. A few questions offer explicit insight into the author’s own thinking while others suggest biblical and theological themes that readers may want to explore further.

Some of the questions took me in directions I did not anticipate, or they suggested interpretations I had not considered. I’m grateful for the expanded vision that comes from seeing through another’s eyes.

The book’s format lends itself well to both individual and group reflection. One caveat: do not rush through the reading!

Sit with the words. Read them again. It is worth pondering what we might hear if the Garden of Gethsemane could speak (“Walls Could Talk”), or what it means to claim “a faith of broken glass and crumbs of bread” (“Changing Tune,” p. 96).

Like those first disciples of Jesus, no one can predict the precise turns in their journey of faith. Whether one’s vision is clouded by shadow or blinded by light, Brian Dixon’s Losing Light is a faithful companion, inviting readers to “come and see” the love of God that accompanies every step. n

Thanks to Audrey West, M. Div, Ph. D., for this review. Losing Light, along with Brian’s first book, Keeping Time, are available from the IBOC (store. moravian.org)

The Rev. Brian Dixon

BWM UPDATE

Board of World Mission announces new Education Fund

Universal education has been a Moravian core value since the founding of the Church in 1457. As 2022 comes to a close, the Board of World Mission is pleased to announce the launch of our Education Fund, which will continue to grow and be a source of funding for Moravian education ministries for years to come. We invite you to be part of this effort by including the Board of World Mission in your end-of-year giving.

To give you an idea of the blessing your gift will be to a Moravian educator or student, here are some impact examples based on our current projects:

• $25 = one week of schooling for a student in Kyiv, Ukraine

• $75 = one month of instructor certification training for a teacher in Ngiehun, Sierra Leone

• $150 = one week of speech therapy for all students at Star Mountain Rehabilitation Center in Ramallah, Palestine

• $2,000 = an international Board of World Mission conference for one church leader

• $5,000 = one year of training for a future doctor, nurse, or medical support staff at the Moravian clinic in Ahuas, Honduras

Go to MoravianMission.org/Education to learn more about the specific education efforts of the Board of World Mission, including youth education, religious and theological education, and vocational training.

U.S. donors can make a contribution to the Education Fund today by sending checks to: Board of World Mission, 1021 Center St.,

Bethlehem, PA 18018. You may also donate online at MoravianMission.org/Give. Please indicate that your gift is for “Education Projects.”

Canadian donors can contribute to the Education Fund today by sending checks to: Moravian Church in Canada, 600 Acadia Drive SE, Calgary, AB T2J 0B8. Interac e-Transfer donations may be sent to treasurer@moravian. ca. Please mark this donation as “Education” and include your name and address to receive a tax receipt.

BWM accepting nominations for Mission Service Awards

Each year, the Board of World Mission presents the Ted Wilde Mission Service Award and the Herrnhut Congregational or Organizational Affirmation to Moravians who have given of themselves for the benefit of others either down the street or around the world.

The Ted Wilde Mission Service Award honors the memory of former BWM Executive Director Ted Wilde by recognizing individuals who have been willing to take up the great commission by learning from our Chief Elder, Jesus Christ, and then engaging in humble service in his name.

The Herrnhut Affirmation and Celebration for Dedicated Mission and Service goes to a Moravian congregation or organization that is following the example of the Moravian community in Herrnhut by actively giving of themselves in terms of time, talent, and treasure to be the light of Christ to others.

We invite you to submit nominations for the 2023 Ted Wilde and Herrnhut Awards. You can find more information and submit nominations at MoravianMission.org/Awards.

MORAVIANS IN MISSION

Paying a pastoral visit to Labrador Moravians

In January of this year, a group of six sisters and brothers gathering in Hopedale and Happy Valley, Newfoundland-Labrador, met by Zoom with three leaders, The Rev. Jason Andersen and Bishops Chris Giesler and Paul Graf. The text for this ten-week Lay Ministry training was Our Moravian Treasures: Topics for Theological Education in the Unitas Fratrum. In addition to the topics covered in the book, focused instruction also covered the administration of the sacraments, Bible study skills, active and effective listening, conflict management, and basic church administration.

Plans were then made for a pastoral visit by two of the group leaders to hold commissioning services for the six participants. This “Mission” was carried out and completed August 5-16, 2022, by Bishops Chris Giesler and Paul Graf. Plans included visits to each of the four Moravian coastal congregations of Nain,

Hopedale, and Makkovik. They also visited the Happy Valley congregation located inland on the shores of the Churchill River. They were accompanied by Sister Sarah Jensen, Chairperson of the Moravian Church NewfoundlandLabrador Provincial Board. Together, the bishops participated in worship services, provided listening sessions, preached, and offered support and encouragement. All of this provided for significant engagement with our sisters and brothers of this Mission Province.

The following represents recollections and impressions of the two bishops, first from the Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler.

“The Moravian Church in Labrador is often forgotten by the rest of the North American Moravian Church because it is a small province, but also because they are quiet and unassuming people who tend not to make a lot of noise. Yet, they are a rich part of the his-

tory of the Moravian Church in North America and are meeting their communities’ day-to-day spiritual and temporal needs in significant ways. While zoom sessions have allowed us to increase our connection frequency with folks in Labrador, there is nothing like meeting face to face and heart to heart.

“Traveling to all four Moravian congregations in Labrador and meeting with congregational leaders was a blessing. Not only were planned meetings more meaningful but being on the ground in these villages allowed for unexpected connections with folks we met in restaurants, sitting next to us on the airplane, or simply walking down the street.

“I am excited to know that we have six new Lay Ministers now trained, commissioned, and serving the needs of their congregations. We were also blessed to spend time with Darlene and McKinley Winters, who are currently taking online seminary courses (at Queens College and Moravian Theological Seminary) and should be available for ordination by the end of 2023. There is also hope for another young person who seems to be a perfect fit for future church leadership. The social and emotional needs of the people of these villages are complex and, at times, daunting, but I am confident

that these servants are ready to rise to the occasion as we partner with them. The solutions are not simple, and the problems will not be going away tomorrow, but I sense a renewed effort to name their challenging issues and work together to bring God’s love to be a part of the solutions.

“It was a blessing to sit with Alice Harris, a long-time member of the Moravian Church in Nain, now well into her 80s. She was born in the village of Hebron, located further north up the coast from Nain. The government closed this village when she was nine, and she and her father and siblings were resettled to Nain. Her mom had passed away earlier and was buried in Hebron’s Moravian graveyard. Alice spoke of the difficulties in the resettlement process, along with being sent off to a residential school. Being separated from extended family, church home, and ancestral lands was like a tree being cut off from its root system for Alice, her family, and the other villagers. Alice visited what remains of this abandoned village about ten years ago, and she said she didn’t know whether to laugh for joy or weep for grief. The first thing she did when she arrived was to run to her mother’s grave, which she had not seen

Bishops Paul Graf (far left) and Chris Giesler (far right) with newly-commissioned Lay Ministers in Hopedale, Labrador, including Sarah Jensen, Sybilla Hunter and Doris Boase. Joining them is Bishop Devon Anglin from Jamaica.

Labrador

(Continued from previous page)

for over 70 years. Even with all this, she is a woman with a deep faith in her Lord and appreciates the value of the ministry of the Moravian Church.”

Bishop Graf writes: “My first visit in Labrador came at the invitation of the Rev. Sam Propsom in December of 2004. Upon learning that no Moravian Bishop had made an extensive visit in the province in over 25 years, I assured our sisters and brothers that they would no longer be forgotten and that they would receive annual visits by the bishops of the Northern Province. Until Covid, I was able to make those annual visits with the additional presence of the Rt. Reverends Sam Gray and Chris Giesler who participated in youth camps.

“A primary objective in our visit was to reassure our sisters and brothers of our partnership in the Gospel, that we are committed to walking with them, listening and learning together, and wherever possible, offering our support and guidance. I believe we accomplished that objective.

“Especially memorable was Sunday worship in Hopedale on Aug. 14. This gave opportunity to meet the Rt. Rev. Devon Anglin and his

wife, Janice, from the Jamaican Province. Bishop Devon was in his second multiple-month visit to serve the Hopedale community. The morning started with an Innutitut service led by Brother Amos, followed by the English service in which the Sacrament of Infant Baptism was celebrated. While there were three bishops present, theirs was a support role, as lay leaders of the congregation led the service with Acolyte Marjorie Flowers presiding over the baptism. In both services, much was said about the August 13, 1727 experience that, in time, helped to motivate the mission work that brought Moravians to the coast of Labrador by 1752.

“In the afternoon service, two young women confirmed their baptismal vows, with Lay Minister Martha Winters-Abel presiding. It is more than interesting to note that in Herrnhut, on August 13, 1727, two young women likewise confirmed their faith. The day of worship concluded with the celebration of Holy Communion, with Sister Martha presiding.

“We left Labrador filled with a deeper appreciation for the ministry of our sisters and brothers of the Labrador province, impressed with their resilience and persistence despite overwhelming challenges, yet re-enthused by the possibilities for whatever God may have in store for Christ’s church in this awesome and beautiful land. n

Bishop Giesler address the congregation in Hopedale.

MORAVIANS IN MISSION

Board of World Mission hosts Moravian Resource Conference for Spanish-speaking partners

As the globally-minded mission agency of the Moravian Church in North America, the Board of World Mission (BWM) holds the privilege and responsibility of developing and maintaining direct partnerships with our partner churches around the globe. For a very long time, the care and continuance of these relationships relied on repeated in-person visits to foster trust and plan strategically together for the growth and development of leaders and whole churches.

When the global pandemic stuck, it erased all travel plans by BWM staff for much of 2020 and 2021. Only in 2022 have all of the flight credits accumulated from cancelled flights finally been used to get back out into the field for in-person visits.

To stay in touch with our global partners, it was necessary to develop new communication opportunities that went beyond “we will talk about it in-person the next time I visit.”

In some cases, this was led by just an earnest desire for updates on ministries, local conditions, and prayer concerns during a time of global uncertainty. In other cases, urgent situations, like the response to the damage of Hurricanes Eta and Iota hitting the Atlantic coast of Honduras and Nicaragua required direct online communication with partners to mobilize hundreds of thousands of dollars of generous donations to the Moravian Disaster Response program.

As these contacts grew between BWM and more global partners, we looked at options to connect people in small groups or one-on-one with one another via messaging tools like WhatsApp.

BWM’s recent focus on the important work of translating resources outlining the history, theology, structure and governance of the Moravian Unity into the languages na-

Conference

(Continued from previous page)

tive to the places where we are called to do our work added to this increased communication. Translation from English to Spanish of the “Church Order of the Unitas Fratrum” (COUF) which is the book of order of the Moravian Unity, and a resource designed as a primer in our church’s history and theology titled, Our Moravian Treasures, represented the first steps in this process.

As BWM began to electronically share these resources, we were encouraged when Rev. Christopher Valencia Alcantara in Perú offered an online course studying Our Moravian Treasures; this course was joined via WhatsApp by

Moravians in Cuba. The discussion of the content was enriched by participants sharing from their context and being able to go into detail and nuance not possible had the presentation been made by a non-native Spanish speaker.

As renewed visits by BWM staff and representatives to individual partners resumed, we recognized what a blessing it would be to bring leaders from our global partners together in a single space to share and learn together. The reality of a global church often means that Unity-wide gatherings take place in English, as the common language. This had excluded many leaders from our Spanish speaking partners from being able to attend global gatherings.

Recognizing these realities, and the potential for renewing energy in a large portion of

the Latin America and Caribbean region of the Moravian Church the idea to hold a leadership and resource conference, facilitated in Spanish, was born.

A year of planning, pre-meetings with delegates to share resources, and receiving surveys to help shape conference presentations led to the reality of this vision in September 2022, in Panama City, Panama in the form of the “Conferencia de Recursos Moravos” (or “Moravian Resource Conference”).

The group brought together representatives from ten countries, with Moravian delegates representing the Ahuas Clinic, the Costa Rican Province, the Cuban Mission Province, the Honduras Unity Province, the Honduras Mission Province, the Nicaraguan Province,

and the Mission Area of Perú as well as guests from prospective new areas of work in Brazil, Bolivia, and a small group of Moravians worshiping in Panama.

Conference participants discussed a variety of topics including: Unity structure, how to plan a Synod, financial administration in the church, leadership as servanthood, and more. BWM distributed physical and digital copies and provided guidance on how to use the Church Order of the Unitas Fratrum and Our Moravian Treasures. The group of 45 delegates and presenters spent four days studying these topics, worshiping together, and enjoying fellowship time, including a group tour of Casco Viejo and the Panama Canal’s Miraflores Locks. (Continued on next page)

Participants expressed their gratitude for this opportunity to build relationships, gain resources and discuss current challenges with Moravians in their region who may be experiencing similar joys and concerns.

Joaquin Muro, president, Moravian Church in Perú, said, “This conference will really help me apply the knowledge gained in my area to have a more united and solid church to continue the work of God.”

Leo Pixley, President of the Moravian Church in Costa Rica, offered, “I have learned so many things that I can take home to help remind the people that Costa Rica is not out there alone, but are part of a big body this covers the whole world, bringing the Gospel to the people.”

“In my view, one important result of this conference will be that all who were there are now interconnected,” said Bishop Armando Rusindo from Cuba. “And, through us, all of our Provinces and areas are now also interconnected. This will be tremen-

dously powerful, especially now in the moments where we see the Moravian work in Latin America emerging so powerfully with such great potential. This conference was an extraordinary idea because now the work in the region has been strengthened with increased knowledge, training and tools. In fact, the Moravian identity has been strengthened, and in turn the whole of the Unity has been strengthened.”

The BWM is overwhelmed with gratitude for the presenters and planners who made this Conferencia de Recursos Moravos a meaningful experience for our delegates. Thanks to Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler, Unity Business Administrator; Bishop Armando Rusindo; Bishop Sam Gray; Bishop Kingsley Lewis; Brother Rick Nelson; Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller, President of the Northern Province PEC; Brother Leo Pixley, Chair of the Provincial Board in Costa Rica; Rev. Dr. Dion Christopher; Sister Julie Tomberlin, Unity Women’s Desk Coordinator; Brother Justin Rabbach; Rev. Angelica Regalado-Cieza; Bishop Chris Giesler; and Sister Sylvie Hauser. n

“...This conference was an extraordinary idea because now the work in the region has been strengthened with increased knowledge, training and tools...” — Bishop Armando Rusindo, Cuba

MORAVIANS IN MISSION

Remembering Reading Moravian

Seated toward the rear of Reading Moravian Center, formerly known as Reading Moravian Church, I can hear the strains of the passion chorale, “O Sacred Head Now Wounded,” being played by the brass choir. The mournful tune calls to mind the alternative verse: “What language shall I borrow?” This day in late March, knowing that Reading Moravian’s days are numbered, I can’t help but ponder that question. Indeed, what language can be borrowed to capture the essence of an evaporating congregation and a church that will soon be closing its doors for good? This is a tough one.

In 1994, I had the pleasure of interviewing long-time members of Reading Moravian for the creation of an 80th Anniversary video. I did most of the interviewing while my sidekick, Shirley Odum, did the taping. Stories abounded of a church that began its life in a fish store and grew to become a thriving congregation complete with a Sunday School orchestra, brass choir, senior choir, chapel choir, and a faithful membership.

In 1973, when an addition was added to the church building, and under the pastorate of the Rev. Doug Caldwell, a small Fastnacht-making fundraiser grew into a full-fledged 72-plus-hour enterprise as the church transformed itself into a doughnut factory. More than the money raised, the yearly event provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and community outreach. The aroma of fried dough wafted all the way to 13th St!

Community outreach was always a mission of Reading Moravian Church. The church had a stand at the Reading Fairgrounds where members

served breakfast, lunch and dinner to patrons amid the roars and revs of the race cars. In more recent times, and in conjunction with Helping Harvest Food Bank, a community food pantry was set up. Additionally, from 2008 to 2020 (when the pandemic hit), a community meal was served once a month, reaching an average of 85 people per meal. Clearly, this congregation took to heart Christ’s message from John 21: “Feed my sheep.”

On this day in late March, the Advent star still shines above the pulpit. Behind it, the cross reigns. The juxtaposition of the two call to mind the march of the liturgical seasons: A birth; a death, and a resurrection. In the bulletin under the heading “Ministers” are three words: “All of Us”. As members of Reading Moravian go forth to join with the Lititz congregation and the larger world beyond, they will carry Reading Moravian within their hearts, bringing with them a new resurrection.

A sign taped in the choir loft gives standing instructions for Christmas Eve services. It states: CHOIR LOFT LIGHT OUT, p. 15 “Behold a great….” The electrical lights will go out at Reading Moravian Church, but the inner light of Christ goes forth. Behold a great and heavenly light! n

Mary Arguelles of West Reading, Pa. shared this remembrance. Photos by her husband, Frank. The Reading Moravian Church congregation was officially brought under the aegis of Lititz Moravian Congregation in 2017. It has operated as a community outreach since then. It’s closing worship was held in May.

Prayer Watch

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS NORTHERN PROVINCE

The Moravian Church has experienced spiritual renewal and strength through a covenant of prayer. In 1727, the church in Herrnhut, Germany, covenanted for an “Hourly Intercession” which continued for one hundred years with a great blessing to the entire Moravian Church.

The Unity Prayer Watch established in 1957 (the quincentenary of the Unitas Fratrum) has continued to bless us. The 1988 Unity Synod affirmed the importance of this experience for the worldwide Moravian Church.

Under the schedule adopted by the 2016 Unity Synod, December 1-22 is assigned to the Northern Province and January1- 18 to the Southern Province. Each Provincial Board will supply assignment of specific dates to individual congregations, with suggestions for prayer topics.

World AIDS Day, December 1

The Synods of 2006 resolved to recognize World AIDS Day on December 1 and proclaim it as a day of commemoration and prayer by our Moravian churches. Congregations are encouraged to schedule an AIDS Awareness Day and to find a way to support an AIDS ministry focusing on areas of education, prevention and ministering to caregivers, orphans and those living with HIV.

Presbyterial Ordination

Br. James Heroux, pastor of the Freedom Moravian Church in Freedom, Wisconsin, will be consecrated a Presbyter in the Moravian Church on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 3 pm CT. Br. Paul Graf will be the consecrating bishop. James was ordained a Deacon in the Moravian Church on June 16, 2018. Consecration as Presbyter is the second order of ministry in the Moravian Church.

All are invited to join James and his family in this celebration of the church and affirmation of James’ ministry. The congregation will host a meal following the service. Those unable to attend in person may join via livestream on the Freedom Moravian Church’s YouTube page. That can be found here - https://www. youtube.com/channel/UC6J4etgo6ywZdAucqtYUzew.

Please be in prayer for James, his spouse Alli, and their whole family, along with the Freedom congregation at this time of celebration.

New Dorp, New York

Br. Walter Bishop, a Moravian pastor from the Southern Province, has accepted an appointment to serve as the Intentional Interim Pastor of the New Dorp Moravian Church on Staten Island, New York. Walter will be or was installed on November 27. Please keep Walter and his wife Debbie, and the New Dorp congregation in your prayers at this time of transition.

Unionville, Michigan

Br. Jeff Bonn, an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), has accepted an appointment to serve part-time as pastor of the Unionville Moravian Church in Unionville, Michigan. He was installed on October 30. Jeff will continue to serve part-time as pastor of St. Peter’s ELCA church, also in Unionville. Please keep Jeff, his family, and both congregations in your prayers at this time of transition.

Washington, DC

Br. Bevon White, who has been serving as pastor by appointment at Faith Moravian Church in Washington, DC, has accepted a call to serve as full-time pastor of Faith Moravian. His transition to called status began on June 14, 2022.

Released for Other Service

Br. Matthew Gillard has accepted a call to be Released for Other Service to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC), serving as pastor at Redeemer Church in Hanna, Alberta. He began his new work on July 1, 2022.

SOUTHERN PROVINCE

Ordination

The Rev. Dana Myers was ordained a deacon on Sunday, October 2 at Home Moravian, Winston-Salem NC, with bishop Carol Foltz officiating.

Dana was then installed as the Associate Pastor of Mission and Discipleship at Fries Memorial Moravian Church. Your prayers of support for Dana, Matt and Raine are appreciated.

Ordination

The Rev. Madison White was ordained at Calvary Moravian in Winston-Salem, N.C. on November 6 at 3 PM, led by The Rt. Rev. Sam Gray. Come and Worship was the hosting congregation. Calvary Moravian generously provided their space for the event. Madi is presently serving in specialized ministry as a Chaplain at Wake Health/Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. Please support Madi with your prayers.

Pastoral Appointment

The Rev. Walter Bishop has been appointed as the Intentional Interim at the New Dorp Moravian Church in Staten Island, NY. Please support Walter and Debbie as they make the transition to residence in the NYC area.

Congregation Status

We are happy to announce that the faith community of Come and Worship has been approved for status as a congregation in formation. This is the next step of a fellowship community toward full status as a congregation.

Retirement

The Rev. Dr. Nola R. Knouse, Director of the Moravian Music Foundation since 1992, retired at the end of August 2022. Nola was ordained a deacon in the Moravian Church on September 27, 2009 and consecrated a presbyter March 1, 2015. We express deep appreciation to Nola for her faithful and dedicated service to the Moravian Music Foundation and wish her many blessings in retirement.

OBITUARIES

The Rev. Dr. William Vance Campbell

The Rev. Dr. William Vance Campbell, Sr., 83, passed into the more immediate presence of our Savior on June 27, 2022.

He was born June 4, 1939, in Winston-Salem, N.C. to the late Ray Vance and Ruth Grose Campbell. William was a graduate of Moravian College, Campbell University, and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

William served numerous Southern Baptist churches as Minister of Music and Youth. Additionally, he served as pastor at Immanuel Moravian, Winston-Salem, N.C., Moravia Moravian, Oak Ridge, N.C. and New Hope Moravian, Miami, Fla.

William retired in 2005 and in retirement served Olivet Moravian, Winston-Salem, N.C. as pastoral assistant and Memorial Reformed Church as pastor until 2020. During his 60 years of ministry, William served as Chaplain of Police, the Highway Patrol, and various Fire Departments wherever he lived.

William was predeceased by his first wife, Betty Cooper Campbell. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Ann Overman Campbell and stepdaughter, Cynthia Autumn Williams; his children, Carolynn Elizabeth Wood (Tommy), Melody Ruth Lee (Keith), and William Vance Campbell, Jr. (Amy); six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren. A memorial service was conducted at Mizpah Moravian Church, Rural Hall, N.C. on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, at 10:00 am and interment followed at Hope Moravian Church God’s Acre, Winston-Salem, N.C..

Rev. Wilfred L. Dreger

Brother Wilfred L. Dreger, Sr. went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 14, 2022, from Moravian Hall Square in Nazareth, PA. Br. Dreger began life in 1921 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He graduated from Moravian College in 1943 and Moravian Theological Seminary in 1945. He was ordained on September 9, 1945, and he and Sr. Lorraine A. Roth were united in marriage November 11, 1945.

Br. Dreger served alongside his wife as a missionary and parish pastor in Nicaragua for four years, starting in 1945, and was then named Warden of The Moravian Church in Nicaragua. As Warden, he functioned as a business manager for the work in Nicaragua, taking care of finances and overseeing building construction and maintenance for the province. He held this position until 1979.

He served as pastor of Bethany Moravian Church on St. John’s, US Virgin Islands, from 1979 until 1983. After 38 years of service, he retired to Winston-Salem, NC, in 1983, and later moved to Nazareth, PA, in 1996.

Throughout his life, Br. Dreger had a kind hello and smile for all he met.

Br. Dreger is survived by sons Wilfred, Jr., and Dennis (Catherine), grandsons Nathan and Seth, and many other family members. He was predeceased by his wife, Lorraine, in 2016.

Ad Policy for The Moravian — The Moravian accepts paid advertising that is consistent with the magazine’s objectives and editorial convictions as they are stated in the purpose and mission of the Interprovincial Board of Communication. Advertisements for activities, services and products of specific interest to members of the Moravian Church have priority. The Moravian does not accept purely editorial advertisements that advocate specific ideas or issues. Articles, columns and letters to the editor are the appropriate vehicles for the presentation of ideas and issues. The Interprovincial Board of Communication is responsible for the content and design of the magazine, including advertisements. Ad rates and specifications are available www.moravian.org

The 2023 edition of The Moravian Daily Texts continues a 292-year-long tradition of offering an inspirational connection to the Holy Scriptures every day.

Each entry in this beloved daily devotional includes “watchwords”—Old and New Testament verses to accompany readers throughout the day—combined with beautiful hymn texts and heartfelt prayers selected and written by Moravians across North America.

The Moravian Daily Texts 2023 hardcover, paperback, large print and journal editions, are in stock for immediate shipment. Ebook versions are available through Amazon.com and Apple Books, too.

Order today at store.moravian.org

A CENTURY OF GRANTING LARGER LIFE TO MORAVIAN MINISTRIES

In 1920, a group of dedicated Moravians established an endowment fund for Northern Province Moravian congregations and agencies. In its 100 years of service, the Larger Life Foundation has distributed more then $13 million to a broad range of Moravian ministries.

Your gift to the Larger Life Foundation helps many ministries and agencies. Through your generosity, we can have far-reaching impact on the life of the Moravian Church.

To learn more about our century of granting Larger Life to Moravian ministries, visit www.largerlifefoundation.org

Larger Life Foundation

MORAVIAN CHURCH NORTHERN PROVINCE

The world’s oldest daily devotional that’s new every morning!