Moravian Magazine • Jan/Feb 2010

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y

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On the cover: The mountains of Nepal, considered “the top of the world” – and home to Moravians.

Photo by Myra Jones.

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y

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24 Christ and him crucified remain our confession of faith In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love

Moravian Youth 5 Moravian Youth Celebrate Jesus at 2010 Rally in New Jersey Congregations in Mission 14 Adopt A Village after five years 16 Nepali Mission Outreach team visits “the top of the world” National Council of Churches 8 A visit with the President 10 National Council of Churches addresses interfaith dialog at Centennial General Assembly Lay Seminary 12 Israel and Palestine: Hope in the Land of Promise

Member, Associated Church Press

Moravian Travels 20 Cruise-goers receive warm welcome from Moravians in Caribbean Consecration Celebration 24 The Rev. J. Christian Giesler consecrated as Bishop of the Moravian Unity

Visit our website at <http://www.moravian.org>.

Letters to the editor, address corrections, and other correspondence may be e-mailed to the magazine at <pubs@mcnp.org>.

January/February 2011

Community Ministries 28 Outreach effort brings “esperanza” to Latino/Hispanic community 30 Renovations brighten Sunnyside’s service to the community In every issue 4 Ponderings: Looking for the warmth and brightness 32 Official Provincial Elders’ News 33 Obituary

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PONDERINGS

(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) January/February 2011, Vol. 42, No. 1 Publications Agreement No. 40036408 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Express Messenger International, PO Box 25058, London, Ontario N6C6A8, email: <emi@exmessenger.com> Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces

Looking for the warmth and brightness These are the shortest days of the year. The sun sets before 4:30 every afternoon, making the nights feel longer and colder. As we enter the doldrums of the winter, the glory of sunshine and green things seems so far off.

Yet as I write this, with Advent in full swing, the lights and hope this season brings are helping to buoy my spirits. The warmth of Moravians’ celebration of Jesus’ birth will go a long way to making the coming winter brighter.

I’m warmed by stories we’re sharing in this month’s Moravian.

These stories illustrate the friendly welcome visitors received from Moravians in the Caribbean and Nepal; the bright light of a youth rally in New Jersey; the shining consecration of a new bishop; a new sunrise at Sunnyside Ministries; and the important work of the National Council of Churches.

My spirit is also brightened by the promise of the coming year and all the blessings and opportunities it will bring. I’m looking forward to cracking open a fresh copy of the Daily Texts, celebrating our congregations doing great things and observing the prayerful work our provinces will undertake to tackle the challenges facing our church.

For the IBOC’s part, 2011 will bring more coverage of the life and ministry of the Moravian Church, the re-fashioning of our denominational website, new ideas for The Moravian and the expansion of the services and resources we offer.

A personal hope of mine? That our readers speak up about their denominational magazine. I’m hoping to better understand the topics and issues you want to read more about. I want to hear from you about how we’re doing with the magazine, what’s missing and what can be improved.

In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this issue of The Moravian and that your new year brings promise and light.

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Mike Riess, editor

Published monthly, except bimonthly January-February and July-August issues, by the Interprovincial Board of Communication, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

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

Michael Riess, Editor Siobhan Young, Advertising Coordinator/ Communication Assistant Interprovincial Board of Communication Paul Knouse, Paul Peucker Chair Adam Pristas Jane Burcaw Richard Sides Jane Carmichael Valerie Wagner Lance Fox Jill Westbrook Gary Kniskern Address all correspondence regarding articles, subscriptions, or advertising to The Moravian, PO Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245 FAX: 610.866.9223 Phone: 610.867.0594 800.732.0591 e-mail: <pubs@mcnp.org> <www.moravian.org>

The Moravian

MORAVIAN YOUTH

MORAVIAN YOUTH

Celebrate Jesus

AT 2010 RALLY IN NEW JERSEY The

second weekend in October has become a time of excitement in many of the metropolitan churches in the Eastern District of the Moravian Church. While most of North America would be looking forward to Columbus Day or Thanksgiving, our younger members and their chaperones are in the midst of enjoying the Metropolitan Moravian Youth Rally. This annual event has all the excitement of the Super Bowl or the last night of American Idol.

It was a glorious weekend and indeed a time of celebration as more than 350 young people from 13 congregations took part in this yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rally with the aim of Celebrating Jesus through music, drama, poetry, dance and fellowship. From the initial welcome to the motivational speaker, the onlooker was

More than 350 young people from New York and New Jersey Moravian congregations participated in the 2010 Rally in October

left with no doubt that something extraordinary was happening.

The setting was unusual this year, as the host, Battle Hill Community Moravian Church, was too small to accommodate the event. The Conackamack Middle School in Piscataway, N.J. was contracted to house the (continued on next page) The Rev. Rosieta Burton is pastor of Battle Hill Community Moravian Church in Union, N.J. An information booklet and other souvenir items from the Rally are available from <drebrowne@ hotmail.com>. Photos provided by Rosieta and the Rev. Michael Johnson.

Youth Rally participants display their banners

January/February 2011

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Quiz Bowl. Though not a competitive event, the congregations went to extreme measures to produce banners that in very creative ways depicted the theme of the event and helped to elevate the celebratory atmosphere.

Winners of this year’s Quiz Bowl receive medals and the Frank Barker Trophy

(continued from previous page) almost four hundred people who were involved. God blessed the efforts as many of our young members made public declarations of their acceptance of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The Chief Elder Celebration in November should take on a greater meaning for their lives.

Praise, worship & motivation On hand was the chorus master par-excellence, the Rev. Leon Matthias, who set the mood for the event with the ever popular ‘Moravians for Jesus’ chorus. The Rev. Chris Giesler, who has become the examiner for the exciting Quiz Bowl, was congratulated on his election to Bishop of the Unity (see story on page 24) and was named Bishop to the Youth.

The motivational speaker usually has them on their feet at various points in the presentation and this year was no exception. When many made public their declaration of faith in the Christ they came to celebrate at the invitation of Rev. Ronald Benjamin.

The time of Praise and Worship was followed by the Presentation of Banners and the 6

The excitement of Quiz Bowl The Annual Quiz Bowl is unquestionably the highlight of the event. As both fun and celebration, the young members worked hard to win the Frank Barker Trophy. Whether they won or not, they cheered each other and enjoyed the fellowship.

This year’s Quiz Bowl was again ably moderated by Sis. Wilma Lewis of Faith Moravian.

The participants and audience were totally captivated as the contest progressed. Many excelled in their knowledge of the Bible and the History of the Moravian Church. Egg Harbor was declared the winner of the Frank Barker Trophy having the highest combined score. John Hus and United were joint second place winners while Battle Hill Community Moravian Church (with the lowest age combined team) finished in third place.

A gala to honor efforts The day’s events were followed by a Gala at the Radisson, Piscataway, where many of the participants in earlier youth events were honored for their foresight and efforts in bringing the youth together.

The honorees included the Rt. Rev. Dr. Stanley F. Thomas, Rev. Charlesworth Edwards. Rev. Leslie McKoy, Rev. Frank Barker, Rev. Leon Matthias, Rev. Mark Breland, Rev. Chris Geisler, Rev. Belfield Castello, Sister Myrna O’Marde, Sister Andrea Moseley, Sister Olivia McCammon, Sister Angie Locke-Scott, Rev. Basil Coward and Rev. Rosieta Burton.

This event also provided a new cultural The Moravian

opportunity for the participants to interact and have fellowship. An upbeat worship service organized by the hosts on Sunday morning set the stage for the grand finale concert, an exposition of talent that personified celebrating Jesus.

A decade of Rallies This year was a celebration of ten years of the Rallies, although to be accurate the events started before that time on a much smaller scale. As part of this year’s rally, Rev. Matthias, who had been instrumental in the development of the Rallies to what they are today, was praised and thanked for his leadership of the youth over a number of years.

However, it was acknowledged that it was well over twelve years ago when the Rev. Mark Breland, a member of the Black Ministers Association, thought of the idea to bring the youth together for fellowship and fun. A Rally was one of the strategies proposed for developing and strengthening congregational ministry in a more creative way.

The objective was to place more emphasis on young people by encouraging their participa-

The Revs. Leon Mathias and Rosieta Burton unveil a banner commemorating ten years of Youth Rallies.

tion in various aspects of congregational life.

Opportunities were to be created which would provide a forum for exchange with young members in other congregations.

These opportunities were made possible through the dedication of a group of committed Youth Workers formally known as the Moravian Youth Council. They, together with significant input from the pastors in the area, organize the Annual Youth Rally. In the beginning the rallies were half day events and limited to those churches in New York City and Indianapolis. Now the rally occupies two packed days of fun, excitement and drama with a unique theme, such as “Youth in Mission,” “Jesus is the Answer” and this year’s “Celebrate Jesus.”

Our congratulations to Egg Harbor, and as host congregation we were proud because our motto was truly pertinent for the time “Come In, Learn the Life, Go Out and Live for Christ.” Our prayer is that the Rallies go from strength to strength, involving more congregations truly celebrating unity in diversity, as we play and pray together and showing through our actions that we are living for Christ. ■

Bell ringers perform as part of the activities

January/February 2011

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NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

A visit with the President National Council of Churches and Church World Service urge focus on common good, fighting hunger and poverty Prominent American Christian leaders met in early November with President Obama to speak for the millions of Americans struggling to find jobs, make their next rent or mortgage payment, and put food on the table.

Leaders with both the National Council of Churches and the global humanitarian agency Church World Service thanked President Obama for passage of historic health reform legislation and robust engagement with the faith community, while also pressing him to take a strong stance on behalf of families facing poverty and hunger.

“It was extraordinary to have 45 minutes with the president,” says Rev. Peg Chemberlin, a Moravian pastor and president of the National Council of Churches, which represents 45 million people and 100,000 congregations in the U.S. “This wasn’t just a 8

‘meet and greet;’ he took our meeting very seriously, listened intently and enjoyed our conversation.”

Peg led the 20-member delegation, which included the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller, president of the Moravian Church Northern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference. The delegation also included leaders from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Episcopal Church, the Greek Orthodox Church of America, the Presbyterian Church USA, the United Church of Christ, the United Methodist Church and a number of other denominations.

During the meeting, religious leaders prayed with the president, expressed their

Photo above: Church leaders meet with President Obama at the White House in November. White House photo

The Moravian

care and concern for Mr. Obama and the first family and discussed being partners with him in building the common good.

“As the economic downturn has battered the middle class, it has been even more devastating to those already living on the economic margins of society,” said Peg in a statement following the meeting. “Our denominations and organizations are on the front lines — providing meals, support, and assistance to those hit hard by the economic downturn — but we know that more needs to be done.”

“This wasn’t just a ‘meet and greet;’ he took our meeting very seriously, listened intently and enjoyed our conversation.”

Church leaders also spoke in a unified voice to inject civility and hope back into the public dialogue. The delegation emphasized the need to work together towards the common good and the power of churches to lead and break down walls of division across the world.

“Our faithful witness is needed now more than ever,” said Rev. Michael Kinnamon, general secretary of the National Council of Churches. “We cannot stand by while people of goodwill are baselessly attacked for their faith, their political beliefs, or their identity.

We have no reason to fear or demonize those who are different from ourselves. Our country needs to come together and reclaim our values of justice and equality.”

Leaders of major Christian denominations joined NCC and CWS leaders to thank the President for his leadership and to urge him January/February 2011

to prioritize a number of issues, including strengthening our fraying safety net, extending unemployment benefits as the economy continues to falter, and lifting people out of poverty with a focus on job creation for those in poverty, job training, and education.

The delegation also discussed religious freedom for religious minorities both here and in other countries, particularly Christian minorities in the Middle East. The discussion was all the more poignant, as a Christian church in Iraq had been bombed the morning before.

The churches of the NCC continue to build relationships among themselves and with leaders to help gain support for the work needed to address religious, economic and political issues. Following the meeting with the president, Peg and a number of other delegates met with officials in charge of faithbased initiatives to extend those relationships and make progress on key issues.

“…We have no reason to fear or demonize those who are different from ourselves.

Our country needs to come together and reclaim our values of justice and equality.”

“It was an honor to be one of two Moravians representing the Moravian Church in this meeting,” said Betsy. “The president was a warm, gracious host who listened to the concerns of the church leaders present and even joked with us. I was humbled by Mr. Obama’s request that we pray for his family.” ■ 9

National Council of the Churches of Christ addresses interfaith dialog at Centennial General Assembly In one community on the east coast, all the churches in town do their baptisms together, rather than as separate congregations.

In one Midwestern city, churches sponsored a public protest when the Florida pastor threatened to burn a Qurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;an.

In another city three congregations with expensive, aging buildings are working toward sharing one building.

In the closing service of the gathering, a female African American bishop preached in the Greek Orthodox cathedral.

These

are a few of the actions we experienced or heard about at the annual General Assembly of the National Council of the Churches of Christ and Church World Service, held in New Orleans November 9-12. About 180 delegates, from 37 member Protestant and Eastern Orthodox churches, and about 30 observers (persons from other nations, representatives of Christian groups that are not members, and non-Christians) attended.

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Some came a day early to work with their hands in the continual process of repairing the damage of Katrina.

The Rev. Peg Chemberlin, Moravian pastor and executive of the Minnesota Council of Churches, presided at most sessions. The gathering marked the centennial of the movement of Christians to join in councils like national bodies and the World Council of Churches.

One of the main themes was the need for interfaith dialogue, especially between Christians and Muslims. When many believe the United States is at war with Islam and many more are convinced that religion has been the basis of many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conflicts, talks among people of different faiths are essential. To be honest, Christians have different perspectives about seeking the conversion of people of other faiths, but I believe we can agree on our need to understand and talk with our neighbors.

Meeting soon after an attack on a church in Iraq, where there has been a Christian presence since the first century, the gathering The Moravian

approved a statement deploring violence targeting religious groups or in the name of God. Another theme was hospitality. Our Lord, born in a stable because there was no room in the inn and then a political refugee in Egypt, spent much of his ministry welcoming those whom others looked down on, like lepers, foreigners and women. Three groups of people with whom Christian churches need to be more intentionally welcoming are youth, those people who are poor and refugees. The gathering welcomed half a dozen representatives from the churches of Cuba.

Study papers prepared for the conference suggested some weighty questions we need to ask as Christians: What is our understanding of unity in an age of diversity? Of mission in an age of interfaith relations? Of war in an age of terror? Of the economy in an age of growing inequality? Of the creation in an age of environmental crisis?

The centrality of relationships was sounded again and again: how good things are done when people work with those they know; our need to talk with people who are different

NCC President Peg Chemberlin presides over the general assembly

Opening procession at the Basilica of St. Louis in New Orleans

from us or with whom we disagree, including some within our congregations and how relationships are much more important than organizations.

Much of our conversation faced honestly that these are hard times for churches in terms of finances and our voice in our communities. We are tempted to focus on “How can we survive?” when we should be asking, “How can we be faithful as disciples of Jesus?” ■ Hermann Weinlick, ecumenical officer of the Northern Province, represented the Moravian Church at the gathering. Photo opposite page: Members of a delegation from the Cuban Council of Churches pose with NCC/CWS heads of communion.

NCC photos by Kathleen Cameron.

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LAY SEMINARY

Israel and Palestine: Hope in the Land of Promise For

more than 50 years, the Southern Province’s Lay Seminary has offered challenging and relevant studies of the Bible, Christian theology, life issue and social issues. Over the years it has evolved into a two or three day time of concentrated study of the chosen topic.

Our most recent Lay Seminary was held November 5 and 6 at Fries Memorial Moravian Church in Winston-Salem. The Rev. Dr. Robert Sawyer, a retired Moravian pastor who is working as Executive Director of Pilgrims of Ibillin and as Interim Executive Director of the Board of World Mission for the Moravian Church, presented on the topic “Israel and Palestine: Hope in the Land of Promises” Br. Sawyer has traveled to Israel/Palestine numerous times since 1988, and he is a strong advocate for peace in the Holy Land and its importance to all people of faith.

The Rev. Dr. Bob Sawyer leads the Fall 2010 Lay Seminary

Our study with Bob was extremely intent and interesting. Throughout the session, Bob shared with us the Wall surrounding Bethlehem, the location of Jewish settlements in Palestine and the life of Palestinians in the West Bank of Israel. He also shared an excellent timeline of events for Israel/Palestine from 1453 to present day along with heartwrenching stories of families and people on both sides of the conflict. There was so much to learn by all of us about this volatile area of God’s world. We were saddened to learn that Christians are leaving the area with a desire to find a safer, better life.

To help us understand if hope and peace would ever come to Israel and Palestine, Bob shared information about international organizations who are working toward peace, including the Prophet Elias High School of Ibillin, where the students are Christian, Muslim and Druze. The school’s founder, Father Elias Chacour began this school under great hardship. He asserts that this is “building peace on the desktops of children,” and says that Jews, Christians, Muslims and Druze are “blood brothers.” His story can be read in his books, “Blood Brothers” and “We Belong to the Land.” Through this discussion, we learned that in these troubled times there is hope for peace in this part of the world.

Mallie Graham is a member of Home Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C. Photos by Tom Haupert.

The Moravian

What is Lay Seminary?

Lay Seminary is learning. It is challenge. It is fellowship. It is growing in the knowledge of God as he leads and blesses His people. In the Southern Province, there are currently two sessions each year: a Fall Lay Seminary over a Friday night - Saturday time frame, and the second is a summer weekend retreat at Laurel Ridge. All topics are chosen with an awareness of personal need and interest of participants as well as denominational challenges.

The form for most of the Seminaries is presentation/discussion and there is often much dialogue between the facilitator and participants. Session leaders come from both within and outside the Moravian Church, we often invite Moravian Theological Seminary faculty. This gives our province opportunities to meet and talk with these people face to face. Attendance is usually between 30 to 40 participants.

Looking ahead for the summer Lay Seminary, we will have the Rev. Dr. Riddick Weber, assistant professor of Pastoral Fall 2010 Lay Seminary participants

The Rev. Patty Garner listens as Elizabeth Sides asks a question during Lay Seminary

Theology at Moravian Theological Seminary to lead us in a Bible Study from the Old and New Testaments. The title is “The Josephs and Their Amazing Dreams.” Br. Riddick will lead us in the study of the “Josephs” and their visions. He will develop a connection between these stories and Bishop Spangenberg’s leadership of the Moravian Church after the death of Count Zinzendorf. This session will be at Higgins Lodge, Laurel Ridge, July 8 - 10, 2011. Please put it on your calendar. ■

BOARD OF WORLD MISSION

Adopt a Village after five years

The Moravian Church of Western Tanzania, our partner province, began a comprehensive AIDS program in 2001. It has three components: prevention, treatment and orphan care. By the summer of 2002, Mama Kimwaga and three women from the Sikonge Moravian Church had enrolled 34 children from the local village and the orphan program began to grow. Within four years, Moravian women were assisting 1700 children in 22 villages and five parishes in the city of Tabora. With its growth, the effort to provide for these children was becoming financially challenged.

The Moravian Board of World Mission 14

launched the Adopt a Village program in 2006. It was formulated with two specific goals: to help fund the continuing expansion of orphan care; and to provide an opportunity for churches in North America to form a relationship with a village in Western Tanzania.

The program has been a success on both measures. Currently 56 churches, church groups and individuals are contributing $1,000 a year for three years to assist nearly 3,000 orphans. This funding provides each child with food, clothing, medical care, school supplies and uniforms, and small personal items such as soap and skin oil.

Remarkably, the cost for each orphan still averages less than $20 per year. This has been possible for three reasons: first, Tanzania is a poor country, and the cost of living is very low. Second, the program does not provide 100 percent of the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support; it supplements what the extended family is able to provide. Third, there is no overhead expense; every cent of every dollar donated goes to Tanzania where it is spent by Tanzanians for Tanzanians.

Primary school, which includes grades one through seven, is free in Tanzania, but secondary school is not. In 2005 the program expanded to include full secondary school scholarships for any orphan able to

Bill Hoffman is a member of Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Photo above: Mama Kimwaga with young orphan.

The Moravian

Orphans from the Mlogolo primary

pass the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entrance exam. Over 400 children are now continuing their education due to Moraviansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commitment to Adopt a Village.

In addition to providing financial support for these children, Adopt a Village has also been successful at facilitating the development of relationships. Multiple Sunday schools in North America have exchanged pictures and letters with their partners in the Sikonge district. Several churches have gone still further, donating funding for wells, schools, school desks and books, and even church construction. Members of at least two congregations have visited their adopted village. The response has been impressive by any standard.

By the start of 2008, The Moravian Church of Western Tanzania, in partnership with the district government, had assumed total financial and medical responsibility for the prevention and treatment arms of the AIDS program. The orphan program, however, still continues to be funded primarily from North America.

Adopt a Village originally requested a pledge of support for three years, but the needs of the orphans are ongoing. The vast majority of churches that originally joined the January/February 2011

program have remained committed to these children beyond the three-year mark, for which the Moravian women providing their care are extremely grateful. These children represent the future of Tanzania. They need our help to realize their full potential and become productive citizens in their developing country.

For more information on Adopt a Village, contact the Board of World Mission office at 610.868.1732 or visit <moravian mission.org>. â&#x2013;

Janet, who is HIV+, with her grandmother

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CONGREGATION IN MISSION

In

Kathmandu and Khokona. The team included Pastor Cynthia Geyer and Linda Thomas of College Hill, Myra Jones from Edgeboro, Craig and Alice Mosebach from Central and Ken Holmberg from Unionville Moravian Church in Michigan.

The Nepali Moravian Outreach Committee, comprised of three Bethlehem-area Moravian churches (College Hill, Edgeboro and

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The Moravian

the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth and in between he stuck Nepal!

In October 2010, a mission team of six from four Moravian churches under the auspices of the Nepali Moravian Outreach Committee set out for Nepal to lend support and affirmation to our Moravian pastors, Brother and Sister Shanti and Vani Pradhan who serve in the mission churches in

Central), has a commitment to support their ministries for three years. This committee was formed while the Pradhans were in Bethlehem serving as interns at these three churches. The vision of this committee is “to share the Good News of Christ through the ministries of the Nepali Moravian Church, transforming lives, educating and equipping people to impact their community and the nation at large.”

This was our first time to this part of the world and we went with no expectations, just faith in our Lord and support of a lot of prayers from our congregations and those in Nepal.

Nepal is a country of 56,827 square miles (roughly the size of Iowa) with China on the north and India on the south with a population of about 30 million. From my observation about half that number of cows, dogs, goats, ducks and monkeys run loose in streets of Kathmandu overcrowded with buses, cars, taxis, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Kathmandu, at about 4,500 feet above sea level, is the largest city (1.4 million people) and the capital of this federal demo-

January/February 2011

cratic republic. The Himalayan Mountains that create Nepal’s northern border with China have 240 peaks over 20,000 feet, eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains, and the tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest, reaching over 29,000 feet into the heavens.

After a very long and tiring travel experience, we had a joyful welcome in Nepal when we arrived late afternoon on Friday Oct. 8.

We began our work almost immediately in the worship services on Saturday at the two churches, Upasana Moravian Church in Kathmandu at 10 a.m. and Khokona in a neighboring village at 4 p.m. Their services last at least two hours followed by tea on the roof top deck.

We read scripture and Pastor Cynthia preached the sermon. The choir, in neat black robes, sang beautifully with enthusiasm accompanied by guitars, drums and even a (continued on next page) Craig Mosebach is a member of Central Moravian Church.

Photos by Myra Jones.

(continued from previous page) violin. The congregation prayed out loud with their individual prayers that rose in common crescendo then slowly fell back to a quiet amen almost as if scripted.

Communion was served to the 120 or so members sitting crossed legged on cushions on the floor â&#x20AC;&#x201D; men on one side of the room and women on the other. The bread, broken in good sized chunks, was served from bowls passed among the congregation. I was one of the first served and took a piece, then noticed too late that their custom is to take a piece, break it again and return the larger piece to the bowl and keep the smaller piece for themselves. I was a little embarrassed.

There are about 350 Moravians in these two churches. We were impressed by the number in attendance at the various services and conferences. They are warm and friendly and we were very inspired by how deeply spiritual they were.

We sensed they understood some English, but whenever our team members gave a presentation it was translated into two of their languages by someone from their congregation. They were quick to try their English lan18

guage skills with us during breaks and at lunch. We on the other hand, were totally lacking in their language and culture.

Whenever we tried our feeble attempts at various common phrases in their language, they gave us loving applause and a few snickers.

But since all of us were Moravian brothers and sisters we were able to share our love of

Jesus Christ in common community. They are wonderful people.

The next day was devoted to a Women’s Conference where Linda Thomas, a registered nurse, and Alice Mosebach presented women’s health issues. At the Men’s Conference the following day Ken Holmberg and I presented our faith journeys.

On Tuesday, the team visited a Nepali private kindergarten, teaching about 70 children from ages 2 through 5. They have a very serious program, because the children must be tested before entering first grade. The better they do in these tests, the better opportunity they have to go to a good private elementary school; there are public schools, but the better schools are private.

Later that day we visited an elementary school in a poor rural area teaching about 200 students from first through tenth grades in an eight-room building. Vani and Shanti conduct a Christian fellowship at this site. We met students who are taught almost entirely in English and seemed very devoted to their school. This school is operated by one of Shanti’s cousins; operating a school has been one of Vani’s long term visions for their ministry in Nepal.

Up until Wednesday it seemed like we were going non-stop. But we must have been going on “spiritual adrenalin” because we never felt tired, but we slept well at night. We finally got a mostly free day on Wednesday, although we turned that into a planning meet(continued on page 34) 19

MORAVIAN TRAVELS

Cruise-goers receive warm welcome from Moravians in Caribbean

Cruise-goers attend services at Greenbay Moravian Church in Antigua

T he song ended, the organ stopped, but the Spirit was moving and we sang it again.

Send the light, the blessed Gospel light; Let it shine from shore to shore!

Send the light, the blessed Gospel light; Let it shine forevermore!

I had the pleasure of enjoying a lovefeast with a small but enthusiastic and spirit-filled congregation in Memorial Moravian Church, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, on Monday, Nov. 1. The lovefeast was served to welcome us, a group of 30 Moravians from around the U.S. and Canada, led by the Rt. Rev. Hopeton Clennon. It was the first day of the “Moravian 553 Cruise” around the Caribbean and this service was just the beginning of what would be a joyous, inspirational, fun-filled, and educational week.

For me, the journey had its roots during 20

the summer at camp at Laurel Ridge. I have always enjoyed the fellowship and good times at camp and hate to let a summer go by without getting to be a counselor for at least one week! It is always a joy and in recent years we have been lucky to have guest campers and counselors from the Eastern West Indies Province.

This past summer I had the pleasure of being at camp when Bishop Clennon was leading the program. At camp, I met Rev. Dr. Cicely Athill-Horsford from Barbados and Angel Barthlett from St. Thomas. During conversation I said how nice it would be to see Sr. Cicely or Br. Angel in the Caribbean sometime and one of them said, “Well, you should come on the cruise this Fall. Br. Hopeton is leading it.” After arriving home, I was reminded of this conversation when I saw an ad for the cruise in The Moravian and showed it to my wife, Jennifer. We started by asking for more information and soon were actively planning to go.

As the time of departure arrived, both our excitement and curiosity were peaking. This was the first time either of us had been on a cruise ship. We were also the only couple from North Carolina. Other cruisers were from Canada, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Texas, Arizona, New York, Florida and Ohio. We really didn’t know what to expect but were eager to find out.

This trip provided ample opportunity for fellowship with many Moravian brothers and sisters, both among our traveling companThe Moravian

prayed, and sang together, which in the case of the lovefeast also involved food and drink.

Among Moravians, there are lots of variations on what is served for a lovefeast. In my limited experience, the best lovefeast bun I have tried yet was the one served that first day in St. Thomas at Memorial Moravian.

Monday began for me when Jennifer excitedly leapt from the bed, exclaiming, “There’s land going past our window!” We then made The Rev. Dr. Cicely Athill Horsford at Mt. Tabor Moravian Church in Barbados

ions and with those who welcomed us to their churches and took time to show us a bit about the islands where they live.

Along the way, I do not think a single opportunity was missed to feed us or shower us with gifts. Of course, we also worshiped,

(continued on next page) Norman Hill of Lewisville, N.C. attends Home Moravian Church in WinstonSalem. Photo below: Cruise participants from North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Texas, Arizona, Florida, Ohio and Canada.

Dale Taylor makes presentation to pastor of Greenbay Moravian in Antigua

(continued from previous page) the mistake of not only drinking coffee but eating breakfast. I say mistake because our first stop after leaving the dock was at Nisky Moravian where we met some of our hosts on St. Thomas and were served local food and fruit. We then proceeded to Memorial where we met more people, heard a bit more about the history of the Moravian Church on St. Thomas and enjoyed the lovefeast together.

From there we went on to New Herrnhut. I was excited about going to New Herrnhut because I knew that was the congregation to which my friend, Angel, belonged. He took us down the hill to Remembrance Rock which was dedicated in 2007 to commemorate the place where our Moravian ancestors first gathered to worship in 1732. New Herrnhut was the first Moravian congregation in the Western hemisphere. It was truly a joy to see this place and see my friend from Laurel Ridge at his home church in St. Thomas.

On Tortola on Tuesday, we were given a wonderful tour of the island traversing some of the steepest roads I have ever seen. The scenery was gorgeous but I know I was not alone in hoping that the transmission and the 22

brakes on our buses were functioning well.

Before returning to the ship, we visited the location where the first Moravian sanctuary in the British Virgin Islands will be built.

Then it was back to the ship and off to Antigua on Wednesday.

In Antigua we visited Spring Gardens Church, the largest Moravian congregation in the Caribbean; it was here that we first saw Moravian schools in action. Also in Antigua we were joined for the day by a Moravian couple from the Netherlands. We enjoyed a worship service in the sanctuary followed by a short visit to the school next door.

We went from Spring Gardens to Greenbay and then to Cedar Hall Moravian. Finally we were taken to Ffryes Beach where we had the opportunity to swim on a deserted gorgeous beach.

Plans changed the following day because of Hurricane Tomas’s damage to St. Lucia — we went to St. Kitts instead. There was no planned Moravian activity on St. Kitts but some of us were fortunate enough to find Zion Moravian Church. We ran into Rev. Hilton Joseph who was on his way out but gave us a newsletter and had someone show us the inside of the sanctuary. I think it was on St. Kitts where Jennifer wondered if every day she would find her new favorite among the islands we visited.

Stone commemorating Antigua’s Moravian history

and supporting education, and the rich heritage of the Moravians in the world. Every day I thought of the words of Psalm 118:23-24, “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Norman Hill reunites with Angel Barthlett at New Herrnhut, St. Thomas

Finally, the end drew near and we spent Friday on Barbados. We were running late because of the lingering effects of Tomas but managed to squeeze in a remarkable amount of touring and a communion service at Mount Tabor Church where another of my Laurel Ridge friends, Rev. Dr. Cicely Athill-Horsford, presided. She then invited us to the porch of her home for refreshments. The remainder of the day was occupied with a tour of Harrison’s Cave — a truly remarkable natural wonder — and a visit to Sharon Moravian Church.

While the touring was wonderful, our time on ship was neither insignificant nor less fulfilling in its own way. It was there that we got to know our fellow “cruisers” better and enjoyed more fellowship and opportunities to debrief each other about our adventures ashore. Finally, after a day at sea, we disembarked in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Sunday and went our separate ways again.

Although this was far different than a mission trip or a trip with a youth group, the spirit of fellowship with our Moravian brothers and sisters was the most prominent aspect of this cruise to me. The time we spent together was full of reminders of our abundant blessings, the importance of education

The time we spent together was full of reminders of our abundant blessings, the importance of education and supporting education, and the rich heritage of the Moravians in the world.

To my eyes, any differences we have, whether it be between members of our own congregation or between people from other parts of the world, those differences are petty in the light of the call of our Lord, Jesus, who calls us to love one another. We as Moravians must love one another and continue to share our love with the world without prejudice. ■

Congregating under a historical tree in Antigua

January/February 2011

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CONSECRATION CELEBRATION

T he Rev. J. Christian Giesler was consecrated as a Bishop of the Unity at a special service at Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, on Nov. 13. The service was officiated by Moravian bishops the Right Reverends M. Blair Couch, C. Hopeton Clennon, Douglas H. Kleintop and Samuel J. Gray; they were joined by the Right Reverend Samuel M. Zeiser, bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).

The special service celebrated Rev. Giesler’s consecration with prayer and music.

Representatives from the ELCA, the Episcopal Church, the Presbyterian Church USA and the Unity Board of the Moravian Church Unitas Fratrum all brought greetings. The Moravian Church Northern Province has full communion relationships with the Episcopal Church and ELCA and a covenant partnership with the Presbyterian Church USA. Bishop Couch, who led the consecration service, delivered a sermon highlighting the significance of the day: November 13 is the celebration of the Festival of Christ as Chief 24

Elder of the Moravian Church. It marks the day in 1741 when the Moravian Church officially proclaimed Jesus Christ as its Chief Elder. Since that day, no human being has been chosen to be the head of the church.

Music played a key role in the service. A trombone choir welcomed guests from the belfry of Central Moravian. Inside, a steel drum ensemble from Grace Moravian Church in Queens directed by Geoffrey Forde, a choir of Bethlehem-area Moravians led by Gayle Justice of Edgeboro Moravian and Central Moravian organist Rebecca Kleintop Owens, and a quartet that included the Rev. Giesler’s wife Tina, son Andrew, daughter Martha and Bishop Gray all demonstrated the rich musical traditions of the Moravian Church throughout the service.

Moravian pastors from both the Northern and Southern Provinces were among the more than 250 who attended the service. The Rev. Gielser was presented for consecration by the Northern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference President the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller; Debbie Smith from Edgeboro The Moravian

ORDERS OF MINISTRY IN THE MORAVIAN CHURCH Moravian representing laity; and Rev. Giesler’s father, the Rev. John H. Giesler, representing clergy.

In the consecration ceremony, Bishop Couch prayed, “Eternal God, in wisdom you govern all things, and from the beginning you have chosen faithful people to serve you in ministry, calling some apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip all your people for the work of ministry and for the building up of the Body of Christ. Now bless and sanctify by your Holy Spirit your servant Chris, whom we, in your name and in obedience to your will, by prayer and with the laying on of hands, consecrate for the ministry of the church.”

As the officiating bishops layed hands on the kneeling Rev. Giesler, Couch continued, “Eternal God, through your Son, Jesus Christ, pour out your Holy Spirit upon John Christian (continued on next page)

The Rev. J Christian Giesler addresses the congregation gathered to witness his consecration as a Bishop of the Moravian Unity.

Photos by Mike Riess

The constituted orders of ministry in the Moravian Church are those of Deacons, Presbyters, and Bishops. Those ordained are authorized to administer the Sacraments in the Moravian Church. The ministry of the ordained is an expression of the ministry of the whole people of God and a response to the call and gifts of Christ who is the Chief Elder of the Church and its ministry. The orders are expressions of service rather than rank. Only one is recognized as having authority in Himself; Jesus the Christ who also served.

The ordination of a Deacon admits a person to the first order of the ministry. Ordination as a Deacon requires acceptance as an approved candidate for ministry in the Moravian Church, a seminary education, the recommendation of the Ordination Review Committee, approval by the Provincial Elders’ Conference, and a call to service in the Moravian Church. The Provincial Elders’ Conference commissions a Bishop to represent the Church in the act of ordination.

The second order of ministry is that of Presbyter. Deacons may be consecrated to the office of Presbyter after a number of years in ordained ministry with the recommendations of a supervising Presbyter and the administrative board being served by the Deacon. After the approval by the Provincial Elders’ Conference, a Bishop is commissioned to represent the Church in the act of consecrating the presbyter.

The third order of ministry is that of the Bishop. The Renewed Unity received the episcopacy as an inheritance from the Ancient Unitas Fratrum. Today we regard the episcopacy in the Renewed Unity in a different way from that of the Ancient Unity. Formerly, a Bishop had a Church-governmental and administrative function. In our day, however, this function is not necessarily linked to the episcopal office. We hold to the understanding, common to both the Ancient

(continued on page 27)

Bishops Samuel Zeiser, Sam Gray, Blair Couch, Hopeton Clennon and Doug Kleintop lay their hands on Chris Giesler

Giesler; fill him with grace and power, and make him a bishop in your church.

“O Lord, give to this your servant the grace and power needed to serve you in this ministry. Bless his proclamation of the word and administration of your sacraments so that your church may be gathered for praise and strengthened for service. Make him a wise pastor, a patient teacher, and a faithful witness. Grant that in all things he may serve without reproach, that your people may be

renewed, and that your name may be glorified in the church; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever. Amen.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”

Following the consecration, Couch offered to Gielser, “One of your life’s goals is for those with whom you have come in contact to find themselves growing more connected to Christ. As a testimony to your service, many of

Betsy Miller, John Giesler and Debbie Church present Chris Giesler for consecration

Sam Gray joins Chris’ family in song during the consecration service

(continued from previous page)

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The Moravian

those here celebrate with Thanksgiving the way you have been a connecting link in their relationship with Christ.”

The Northern Province of the Moravian Church in North America elected Rev. Giesler as bishop during the Provincial Synod held at Moravian College in Bethlehem June 1721, 2010.

In the Moravian Church, bishops are not administrators or executives, nor do they have specific regions they serve. Instead, the office of bishop is primarily that of being a pastor to pastors and having the authority and the privilege of ordaining men and women into the first order of Moravian ministry,

which is deacon, and to consecrate deacons to the order of presbyter. Once consecrated a Bishop, Rev. Giesler will serve the worldwide Moravian Church through the Unitas Fratrum.

Rev. Giesler joins 16 bishops currently serving the Northern and Southern Provinces of the Moravian Church in North America. He is the 281st bishop elected in the history of the Renewed Unity and the 343rd bishop elected since the founding of the Ancient Unitas Fratrum.

You can view the entire Service of Episcopal Consecration for J. Christian Giesler online. Visit the News and Events page on <www.moravian.org>. ■

ORDERS (continued from page 25)

serve his/her normal context of call, exercising episcopal functions as time and occasion allow. A Bishop serves as a pastor to clergy and their families, represents the Church in the act of ordination and consecration, serves the clergy through offering spiritual guidance and speaking to matters of doctrine and practice, consults with the Provincial and District Boards in matters concerning the work which falls within his/her sphere of responsibility, visits congregations for the deepening of their spiritual life, shares in the decisions regarding the training of candidates for the ministry, and engages in intercessory prayer for the Unity and for the Church of Christ as a whole.

Serving as the Pastor of Edgeboro Moravian Church will continue to be Chris’ primary focus of ministry. However, as needs present themselves, Chris will be called upon to respond to requests of the Moravian Church for ministry in the role of a Bishop.

and Renewed Unity, that only Christ is the Head of the Church and pastoral oversight is exercised in responsibility to Him. A Bishop of the Moravian Church is elected at a Provincial Synod from among the Presbyters and consecrated to a special priestly pastoral ministry in the name of and for the whole Unity. The office of Bishop represents the vital unity of the Church and the continuity of the Church’s ministry, although the Unity does not place emphasis on any mechanical transmission of the apostolic succession. The office and function of a Bishop is valid through the Unity as a whole. A Bishop has responsibility primarily for providing pastoral care to pastors and the Church, and assisting the Church in its faithfulness to Christ and to the Gospel.

The Northern Province Synod of 2010 elected the Rev. J. Christian Giesler to the office of Bishop.

Today he becomes the 17th Bishop of the Moravian Church in North America.

An individual elected a Bishop continues to

The Rt. Rev. Douglas Kleintop, a Bishop of the Moravian Unity, is pastor of Palmer Moravian Church in Palmer Township, Pennsylvania.

COMMUNITY MINISTRIES

Outreach effort brings “esperanza” to Latino/Hispanic community In the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania, a group of dedicated Moravians led by the Rev. Tracy Robinson are working to build a Latino Outreach in the community. While work is still underway, Tracy provided an update on some of the exciting activities helping to grow this effort.

Our core team spent an evening examining our identity and how we would like to be understood in the community. We concluded that it is limiting for us to call ourselves “Latino.” The Latino/Hispanic community is varied and multi-racial and we want to reflect that in our name. There are about 25 Latino and Hispanic nationalities in the Bethlehem The Rev. Tracy Robinson leads the “Esperanza for Bethlehem” ministry in Pennsylvania

area, creating challenges for us with regard to language, music, food, even colors and cultural understandings. A better way for us to reflect our multi-ethnic focus is by using both Spanish and English words in our ministry titles.

We identified our purpose as sharing hope with the people we meet. To reflect that idea, we have renamed the Latino Ministry “Esperanza (hope) for Bethlehem.” We have developed a new website at <esperanza forbethlehem.org>.

We originally started ministry activities around College Hill Moravian Church in Bethlehem. We are so grateful to that congregation for their willingness to host us. As the months passed we realized our focus had shifted to the south side of Bethlehem. Our original plan for a base of operation in south Bethlehem at Our Lady of Pompeii’s Church was delayed; at the same time we were introduced by Rev. Walter Wagner to Rev. Gary Langensiepen, the pastor of St John’s Windish Lutheran Church, who has given us space for weekly meetings.

The newly formed VIDA (life) gathering meets every Sunday night at this church. We are now averaging 23 adults and children every week. We talk about community issues, share Bible study, worship together, pray, sing, eat, distribute clothing & food, and have games and crafts for the children.

We continue to be responsive to the requests and spiritual needs of the people The Moravian

attending. Our plan was to start with small group Bible Studies and instead the people attending requested worship events. In recent Sundays, our preaching, music and scripture readings were all in a dual language format.

This means that sometimes our worship might take longer but we want the message to be accessible to everyone.

Our priority was to build relationships through worship and service; our Moravian identity will grow as people get to know us. In November, we began talking more about the Moravian church and its traditions as we entered Advent. During the Sunday nights in Advent our worship included different crafts each week including making Moravian stars.

We used the Advent wreath and readings to teach throughout this season and plan to have a candle vigil and lovefeast this season.

In addition to our theme of Esperanza, our focus is on the children and teens. We have constructed our worship to be welcoming to children. There is a movement called Messy Church which encourages activities and food to be mixed into the worship experience. We

can truly be messy church. One night this fall, we had singing, Bible Study, carving pumpkins, followed by eating and praying!

We continue to have the support from members of El Shaddai Ministries and many Moravians from local churches at both our worship and on the core team for which we are so grateful. Recently we have included in our ministry our own Volunteer Music director and our praise and worship helpers who are all of Hispanic origin. It is important that we intentionally develop more Latino leadership in 2011. We pray that with the help of our church brothers and sisters, the members of the Southside Bethlehem community and the workings of the Holy Spirit, this ministry will grow and touch many lives in the churches and out in the community. Pray for this with us.

We continue to be blessed with this opportunity to care for the people of South Bethlehem.

You are all invited to come and join us in sharing Gods amazing grace and His unconditional love, in music, word and in action.

The people waits! â&#x2013;

We pray that with the help of our church brothers and sisters, the members of the Southside Bethlehem community and the workings of the Holy Spirit, this ministry will grow and touch many lives in the churches and out in the community.

January/February 2011

29

COMMUNITY MINISTRIES

Renovations brighten Sunnyside’s service to the community

Tommy

Cole, the director of Sunnyside Ministry in Winston-Salem, had a vision in early 2009.

As he stood aside and assessed the looks of the facilities at Sunnyside, he decided that people who came into the building on Haled Street were crowded together. When they went into an interview room to ask for assistance, they were scrunched up. There just was not enough space for folks to feel comfortable and relaxed in the midst of their search for such things as food, clothing, and financial help. In addition, the floors and walls all over the place were dingy. His conclusion? Renovations were necessary and a Cole had a vision of what needed to happen.

But as with any vision, getting things done would require planning and funding. A capital campaign for $250,000 was authorized 30

while architect Mark Shaver put together a design. It would be an “inside the walls” project; the capital campaign adopted “Inside the Walls” as its project name.

Specifically, the design called for a reception area double in size. The four existing small interview rooms would be expanded to six. A new conference and workroom would fit in, as would better staff offices for Tommy and his two assistants, Jonathan Barnes and Susan Roediger. The food pantry and clothing closet would also be bigger and better organized, while restrooms would be improved and upgraded in appearance.

The vision, with money and a plan, was underway. But who would do the work with the least possible expenditure?

Henry Ebert took on the responsibility of recruiting the volunteers with the appropriate skills to get the work done. Mark Ebert, who works with the Board of World Mission, mentioned to Tommy that there was a core of experienced volunteers from New Philadelphia Moravian Church. Tommy asked them to help.

Bill Gramley is a retired minister and member of Home Moravian Church.

Photo above: Sunnyside Director Tommy Cole prepares to cut the ribbon commemorating the renovations at Sunnyside Ministries in Winston-Salem, N.C. Photos by Becky Cook.

The Moravian

A Moravian brass band welcomes attendees at the renovation celebration at Sunnyside

Karl Stimpson, a retired contractor, volunteered to work up cost estimates and supervise the work. Todd Transou did the interior decorating and color scheme, including attractive yellow walls to coincide with the “sunny” side name. Joey Transou laid all the carpet and tile with help from others.

The volunteers, too numerous to name, began to work in July, consistently on Fridays and Saturdays so that the ongoing ministry of Sunnyside would not be disrupted. Walls were torn down and debris hauled away. The floors were smoothed in preparation for carpeting.

Carpentry work and rearranging of many items got underway; painting and plumbing work followed. The electrical work was contracted out since a license was required.

A completion date was set for Nov. 14, so the pressure was on to get as much as possible done. The place looked beautiful for the open house held on that day. A Moravian brass band with 44 participants played for 30 minutes to enhance the celebration.

The vision from months before had become a reality. Winston-Salem mayor Allen Joines was on hand along with some 200

other people to note the accomplishments.

As a result of this fine effort, Sunnyside can continue to meet the needs of the residents in southern Winston-Salem and northern Davidson County. By making the facility look better, feel better and function better, this outreach program, begun in 1978, has added an aura of respectability to its clients and itself. Sunnyside’s care-giving continues in an improved setting. ■

Visitors tour the renovated clothing closet at Sunnyside

January/February 2011

31

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Jan. 18-25, 2011 The Moravian Church is privileged to join with Christians throughout the world in prayers for the unity of the Church during the week of January 18-25. The theme for this year, “One in the Apostles’ Teaching, Fellowship, Breaking of Bread and Prayer,” is based on Acts 2:42.

Prayer Day for Retired Ministers, Jan. 30, 2011 The last Sunday in January has been designated as a day of prayer for retired ministers.

This is an opportunity to recognize with gratitude the service our retired ministers and their spouses have rendered to the Church over the years.

Ecumenical Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011 The Provincial Elders’ Conferences request that congregations observe our ecumenical witness in the worship services on Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011. In addition to prayers and themes for preaching, our ecumenical witness is expressed in our participation in local and regional ecumenical service ministries and in councils of churches. Our church supports financially this ecumenical witness with congregational pledges for local and state councils of churches and with support for the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA and the World Council of Churches.

NORTHERN PROVINCE

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Dublin, Ohio Brother F. Jeffrey Van Orden, who has been serving as pastor of the First Moravian Church, Riverside, New Jersey, has accepted an appointment to serve as the intentional interim pastor of the Church of the Redeemer Moravian Church, Dublin, Ohio.

Brother Van Orden will begin his new work Jan. 24, 2011.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Brother J. Christian Giesler, who has been serving as pastor of the Edgeboro Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on a parttime basis, has accepted the call to serve as pastor on a full-time basis effective Jan. 1, 2011. Brother Giesler concluded his work as Director of Youth Ministry for the Eastern Region of the Eastern District effective Dec. 31, 2010.

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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 are available by contacting Siobhan Young at the Communication Office.

The Moravian

Nazareth, Pennsylvania Brother Jeffrey D. Gehris, who has been serving as pastor of the Graceham Moravian Church, Thurmont, Maryland, has accepted the call to serve as pastor of the Nazareth Moravian Church, Nazareth, Pennsylvania.

Br. Gehris will begin his new work Jan. 17, 2011.

Presbyterial Consecration Sister Staci Marrese-Wheeler, presently serving as pastor of the Lakeview Moravian Church, Madison, Wisconsin, will be consecrated a presbyter of the Moravian Church on March 13, 2011. Bishop Paul A. Graf will officiate at the service, which will be held at Lakeview Moravian Church.

Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Eldersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference

January/February 2011

OBITUARY

The Rev. Dorothy F. Burcaw Sister

Dorothy Farnham Burcaw died in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Nov. 11, 2010 at age 77.

Born Jan. 24, 1933 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania she was the daughter of Franklin and Elizabeth (Deardorff) Osterhout.

Sister Burcaw graduated from Penn State University in 1950 with a B. S. in Education.

She received an M. A. in Theological Studies in 1985 and an M. Div. in 1991, both from Moravian Theological Seminary. She was ordained a Deacon in the Moravian ministry May 26, 1991 and consecrated a Presbyter April 28, 1996.

She was united in marriage to Robert T. Burcaw on June 15, 1957.

Sister Burcaw served in specialized ministry as Chaplain at Moravian Academy and Director of the Middle School (1991-95) and as a pastor at Lititz Moravian Church (19952002). She retired from the active call of the church Sept. 1, 2002, but continued pastoral service as Chaplain of Moravian Hall Square Retirement Community until her death.

Her husband, Robert; daughter, Lisa; sons, Robert Jr., Jonathan, and Christopher; and eight grandchildren survive Sister Burcaw.

A memorial service was held Nov. 14, 2010 at Central Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania with the Rev. Carol Reifinger officiating. Burial was in Nisky Hill Cemetery, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

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Nepali Mission (continued from page 19) ing for the two Blessed Family days to follow.

Blessed Family days are Christian festival days during the Nepali national religious holidays of Dashain. The Moravian congregations met again at the churches for worship services, fun and activities. Cynthia spoke on family issues. Our team introduced an American style Lovefeast for the Upasana congregation with juice and cupcakes. Lovefeast was a new experience for them. The mission team even sang for them without rehearsal!

The Blessed Family Days lasted from 10 in the morning until nearly 4 in the afternoon.

Friday, the second Blessed Family day, was at the Khokona church. The team led the participants in interactive sessions centered on the family. We play-acted various skits and then had them gather in small groups to discuss, write and present their feelings about the topic. We were even able to have them mix their groups with men, women and children joining together. We felt this was a major breakthrough from their normal men and women sitting apart for most of the programs.

Saturday came and again Cynthia preached for the two worship services. She has amazing stamina. We had a break on Sunday and were treated to a tour of the city. We were able to see three very fine examples of temples with their characteristic Buddhist or Hindu architecture, some of which dated to the 12th century.

Monday was Youth Day and the youth from both churches gathered as one. The youth groups in the Nepal churches range in age from 14 to 30. With that wide age differential, 34

we thought we would be hard pressed to give them presentations that would keep them interested. But they participated actively and in diversified age and gender groups. We started with a praise and song service followed by a little physical activity through a scavenger hunt before lunch — it is amazing how many different purple flowers you can find in a 20-by40-foot backyard! After lunch, we closed the day with three stations for craft activities — beaded bracelet stringing, Moravian beeswax candle decorating and Moravian folded star making. The stars were a big hit.

The next day Myra Jones, the owner and teacher of a nursery school, a Sunday school teacher and retired public school teacher, led a program for the Sunday school teachers of the two congregations. These teachers were very excited about the new principles and approaches to teaching children. Later that day Ken Holmberg presented an “American food” cooking demonstration for about 20 women from the congregation at Shanti and Vani’s apartment.

The remaining two days were spent in retreat with Vani, Shanti and Nahum, their son, at a mountain top hotel about an hour outside of Kathmandu. It was a beautiful location that allowed us a spectacular view of a sunset over the valley and a sparkling sunrise over the Himalayas. We felt very close to God. We are back, but we still feel close to the blessed people of the Nepali Moravian Churches. We plan to continue to support Shanti and Vani through the Nepali Moravian Outreach Committee. As offered in the committee’s vision statement, we feel we have been transformed, educated and equipped, too.

In the beginning, God… and it is only a beginning! ■ The Moravian

Postmaster please send address changes to: The Moravian, P.O. Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245

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