J U N E / J U LY
2018
Northern Province Synod Recap Consecrating a Bishop An Ecumenical Lovefeast ‌and more!
6th Bethlehem Conference
on Moravian History
& Music
The WalTer ViVian Moses lecTure in MoraVian sTudies
Dr. Winelle Kirton-Roberts “Evangelical Protestantism In Antigua And Barbados, 1834-1914” The MoraVian Music FoundaTion PresenTs
A Night of Chamber Music MoraVian hisTorical socieTy annual lecTure
Rev. Dr. Craig Atwood “Creation of the Modern Moravian Unity in 1957”
October 11th–13th, 2018 Moravian College, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
moravianconferences.org | 610.866.3255 The conference is sponsored by the Moravian Archives, Moravian College, and the Center for Moravian Studies, in partnership with the Moravian Music Foundation, Moravian Historical Society, and Moravian Theological Seminary.
The world’s oldest daily devotional that’s new every morning! The 2019 edition of The Moravian Daily Texts continues a 289-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 2019 are available in paperback, hardcover, large print and journal editions and are expected to arrive in late October 2018. Order yours today!
Learn more at store.moravian.org 2
The Moravian
On the cover: The Rt. Rev. Wayne Burkette and the Rev. Brian Dixon lead opening worship at the 2018 Northern Province Synod. Photo by Mike Riess
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5 Christ and him crucified remain our confession of faith In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love
Moravian Synods 5
Northern Province Moravians “Gather, Grow and Go” at 2018 Synod
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Northern Province Synod legislation leads church forward
14 Northern Province finalizes full communion with United Methodist Church 16 Northern Province elects new leadership
Moravian Music 17 “Irene”—the ship sails again!
Moravian Bishops 18 Southern Province consecrates its first woman bishop
Ecumenical Partners 20 Sharing a lovefeast with Presbyterian educators
Moravian Education 22 Crossroads: The intersection of your life and God’s ministry Visit our website at http://www.moravian.org. Letters to the editor, address corrections, and other correspondence may be e-mailed to the editorial staff at moravianmagazine@mcnp. org.
June/July 2018
In Every Issue 4
Ponderings: Finding time for contemplation
24 Become part of “Create in Me” 25 Moravian Writings: “I am the bread of life” 28 Official Provincial Elders’ Conference News
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PONDERINGS
Finding time for contemplation
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s I pondered this issue’s Ponderings, I found my mind crowded with tasks, ideas, worries, appointments, “gotta-dos,” concerns about my family and the world around me. I was distracted by an article on my iPad, emails on my computer, text messages on my phone, Facebook notifications, even the news on the radio. There’s much written about the rapid decline of time to “just think.” No longer are we finding ourselves undistracted or alone with our thoughts, which, I believe, negatively impacts our ability to think creatively or write convincingly. Don’t get me wrong – I love being connected. It’s amazing to be able to have any piece of information right at my fingertips, to be able to communicate with people around the globe at the speed of light, to fill all of my downtime with something to do. But sometimes, my brain just needs some “alone time.” There’s a quote over my desk from the inventor, Nikola Tesla: “Originality thrives in seclusion, free of outside influences beating upon us to cripple the creative mind.” I’m sure many others have expressed similar sentiments. Finding seclusion in this day and age is admittedly difficult. With the barrage of information flying at us at all times, along with work and family responsibilities, volunteer efforts, overscheduled lifestyles and more, contemplation time has become a premium. The lack of contemplation time impacts not only our ability to think creatively, it affects our prayer lives, too. Some are good at making time for intentional prayer, others are good at weaving prayer into their routine no matter how busy they get. Yet there are many who come to the end of a busy day realizing the constant flow of mind traffic has gotten in the way of their time to have a conversation with God. Seclusion doesn’t mean heading to a cabin in the woods (although sometimes, that’s a good thing…) It can be a 15-minute walk around the block without a cell phone or music player; a lunchtime with nothing but lunch (no reading material, no iPad); or an hour with e-mail turned off. I’m finding that some time to just let my mind wander without distraction can do wonders for creativity, focus and prayer. This morning, as I was thinking of what to write, I put this into practice. A fiveminute commute is far too short for thinking time, so I took “the long way” in – a route that kept me alone in my car for about 20 minutes. I turned off the news, didn’t listen to music, ignored my phone and just drove. About ten minutes in, ideas started flowing. At 15 minutes in, I said a quick prayer. When I arrived at the office, I was ready to write. So after reading this issue of The Moravian Magazine or viewing it on moravian. org, I invite you to find a bit of seclusion yourself. Take just a few minutes to get away from it all – and come back with a refreshed mind and spirit. And if you see me walking the neighborhood or taking the long way in, know that I’m seeking that time to think and pray…and hopefully create better for it. Peace,
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Mike Riess, Editor
(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) June/July 2018, Vol. 49, No. 5 Publications Agreement No. 40036408 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: OnTrac International, 121 5th Avenue NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 email: file@ontrac.com Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces Published monthly, except bimonthly January-February and June/July issues, 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. Periodicals postage paid at Bethlehem, PA. Circulation: 17,000 Postmaster please send address changes to The Moravian, PO Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245. 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, Lance Fox, Paul Knouse, Kat Lehman, Amy Linville, Dan Miller, Jill Westbrook. Design by Michael Riess, IBOC. 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: moravianmagazine@mcnp.org www.moravian.org Contents © 2018, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in America. All rights reserved
The Moravian
MORAVIAN SYNODS
Northern Province Moravians “Gather, Grow and Go” at 2018 Synod
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nder the theme “Gather…Grow… Go!,” more than 220 delegates representing congregations and agencies from across the Northern Province came together in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to do the governance work of the church June 21-25. At the 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church Northern Province, delegates on 13 committees discussed, debated, wrote and revised more than 60 pieces of legislation to help guide the province for the next four years. Delegates spent many hours working on resolutions, offering their input, perspectives and expertise to discern how the church should proceed on a broad range of topics. The 2018 Synod addressed issues like immigration, reducing violence, care and con-
cern for women and girls, elimination of racism and inclusion. The Synod also legislated on guidelines and development opportunities for pastors and lay leadership; supported emerging ministries and spiritual formation; revised clergy health care and benefits programs; approved additional work for healthier congregations; reviewed and revised sections of the Northern Province’s Book of Order; discussed efforts to restructure the Province’s organization; approved proposals for new local and worldwide mission activities and ecumenical relationships; and more. For a summary of the work completed, see the story on page 7. The Northern Province Synod of 2018 approved a full communion relationship with (Continued on next page)
Delegates at the 2018 Northern Province Synod listen as amendments are made to a resolution.
June/July 2018
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Kevin Moyzan of Bethlehem, Pa., leads a “body prayer” during morning worship at Synod. At right: Synod delegates weave prayers into a large net as part of an evening worship service. Below: Greg Weir, Canadian District president, discusses legislation during a committee meeting.
Synod
(Continued from previous page) the United Methodist Church. The Southern Province had approved the proposal in April, while the United Methodists approved it at their General Conference in 2016 (see story on page 14.) In a series of ballots, delegates elected lay members of the Provincial Elders’ Conference and re-elected their PEC president (see story on page 16.) They also elected representatives to boards of the Moravian Theological Seminary, the Provincial Women’s Board, Larger Life Foundation, Moravian Academy and Linden Hall School for Girls. In addition to handling the governance of the Province, attendees worshiped together, learned from agencies and ministries of the church, and spent time renewing old friendships and beginning new ones. The next Northern Province Synod will be held in 2022. n 6
The Moravian
MORAVIAN SYNODS
Northern Province Synod legislation leads church forward
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he 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church Northern Province tackled a wide range of topics facing the church today. Delegates brought more than 60 pieces of legislation to the Synod floor for discussion and deliberation, and approved nearly all of them. This legislation was the work of 13 committees, who reviewed and revised memorials submitted prior to Synod and crafted new legislation during their time together. The committees handled topics including church and society, congregational leadership, emerging ministries, finance, healthcare and retirement benefits for clergy, healthier congregations, identity/purpose/organization, lay leadership development, missional engagement on both local and global levels, relationships with others, spiritual formation and stewardship. In addition to developing legislation, these committees also reviewed and accepted the reports of many of the agencies that work with the Northern Province. To help understand the breadth and scope of the work done at Synod, we’ve prepared this summary of the significant pieces of legislation passed by this highest governing body of the Moravian Church Northern Province. To review the full resolutions, visit www.moravian.org.
Congregational Leadership and Health The 2018 Synod passed a number of resolutions designed to strengthen congregational leadership and the health of our churches. Synod approved a new set of guidelines for congregations and pastors serving together in part-time ministry. As some of our churches can no longer afford a full-time pastor, these guidelines help establish best practices and expectations of part-time clergy. A task force, appointed by the Provincial Elders’ Conference (PEC) following the 2014 Synod, developed the guidelines, which are available at www.moravian.org. June/July 2018
The Rev. Rowan Simmons from Toronto, Ontario, presents a report to the Synod.
In conjunction with the guidelines for part-time ministry, Synod also approved the establishment of a Congregational Training Fund, enabling lay leaders in congregations with part-time pastors to seek training through the Crossroads Program at Moravian Theological Seminary and other sources. Additionally, Synod directed the PEC to set up a Scholarship Fund to assist part-time pastors in acquiring skills and training for finding additional employment outside the church to supplement their part-time pastor pay. Synod also encouraged each district and congregation to place a line-item in their local budgets, or identify other funding, to encourage and financially assist their lay members to participate in the Crossroads Program.
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Synod
(Continued from previous page) To bolster leadership training within congregations, Synod established a Provincial Lay Leadership Training Team of six people – two from each district – to be trained in a variety of lay leadership skills, including Joint Board training, conflict resolution, identification of spiritual gifts, etc. Those team members would then be available to serve congregations by invitation or with the direction of their district board. Synod approved a resolution directing the PEC to consider using licensed ministers as an opportunity to address the challenge of staffing congregations and identified the Crossroads Program as suitable training for this role. In addition, synod directed the PEC to grant the privilege of administering the sacraments to licensed ministers. Note that this resolution does not change the established path to ordination nor the requirements to become a full pastor in the Moravian Church. Synod also approved a resolution to establish a unified, province-wide stewardship effort. To bring this about, the PEC will encourage the establishment of district Stewardship of Life Ministry teams (similar to one already established in the Eastern District), which will work together and with the Moravian Ministries Foundation in America to share resources, identify and share best practices, plan events, etc. Additionally, the Synod proposal
asked the PEC to assess stewardship resources available to the Province, and create a central resource and partnerships to share resources and best practices. Synod also approved the ongoing work of the Northern Province Healthier Congregations Task Force, approving funding for it to continue its efforts to support congregations, share valuable resources and serve to foster a culture of health and vitalitity within Moravian congregations, fellowships and emerging ministries.
Clergy-Focused Legislation As Synods are the highest governing body of the Moravian Church Northern Province, they often decide changes in how the church functions with its pastors. In this vein, the 2018 Synod addressed clergy benefits, housing policies, credentialing, expectations and more. In its first revision since 2002, Synod voted to increase the minimum housing allowance (for pastors who own or rent their own home) and the minimum annual equity allowance (for pastors living in parsonages). This move was designed to ensure pastors continued to receive fair compensation in consideration of the rising cost of housing. Synod also made changes to how the Province will calculate years of experience in its guidelines for minimum salary for pastors serving under call. Prior to this action, pastors serving part-time only received credit toward salary ranges based on
Delegates join in conversation during the closing session of Synod.
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The Moravian
The Identy, Purpose and Organization Committee work through a number of different resolutions prior to presenting to Synod.
the percentage of their call, keeping pastors who serve part-time in lower salary ranges throughout the rest of their careers. With the 2018 Synod change, “Years of Service” for salary purposes will be calculated by the number of years a pastor has served under call or appointment, whether part- or full-time, as well as years a pastor has served under call or appointment in another Moravian province or recognized denomination. Benefits for clergy were also discussed and revised during the 2018 Synod. The Northern Province will change its pension program from a defined benefit to a defined contribution plan. This change replaces the traditional pension plan (defined benefit) with a denominationally managed 403(b) plan in which pastors can manage their retirement investments based on risk tolerance. (A 403(b) is similar in function to a 401(k), but for non-profit institutions). To manage the plan, the Northern Province is partnering with Portico Services, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), a full communion partner. In addition, the Synod directed the PEC and Human Resources and Benefits Commission (HRBC) to urgently consider an increase in the base pension benefit to current pension recipients while maintaining fiscal soundness of the plan for the long term. The 2018 Synod also reaffirmed the Clergy Assistance Fund, which makes financial assistance available to Moravian clergy who find themselves in emergency situations and who need assis-
June/July 2018
tance providing for food, shelter and/or safety. This fund was established based on legislation at the 2010 Synod. On other topics dealing with Moravian clergy, the 2018 Synod voted to encourage the Provincial Elders’ Conference to: • work with the Southern Province PEC to review and seek input on process and policies outlined in the Reception of Ordained Personnel from Other Provinces of the Unity; • continue the work of the Deacon Supervision Task Force, which helps to mentor and supervise pastors in the early years of their ministries and prepare them for consecration as presbyters; and • appoint a task force to review the policies and guidelines that govern the use and care of church parsonages, outlining the responsibilities of both congregations and pastors. Synod delegates also voted to change the Northern Province Book of Order’s section on Standards of Responsible Behavior for Ordained Ministers of the Moravian Church to better define appropriate behavior when it comes to gifts. The revisions advise that “…ordained ministers are careful to avoid even the appearance of using their office to influence or impact parishioners with regard to receiving gifts or personal favors or preferential consideration in the course of daily life or business.” All Book of Order changes require Synod approval.
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Melida Hodgson served as vice-chair of the 2018 Synod.
Synod
(Continued from previous page) Local and Global Missions With the Moravian Church’s missional heritage, it’s no surprise that the Northern Province Synod would deliver a broad range of mission-focused initiatives on both the local and global level. Following up on a resolution passed by the Southern Province’s 2018 Synod, the Northern Province Synod approved the institution of an annual Moravian Day of Service to begin in 2019. The PECs of both provinces will work with the Board of World Mission to designate a mission day in which Moravians across both provinces will be invited to serve in congregations or regional groupings on that day. Planning for this event will begin shortly; more information will be shared as details are arranged. Synod also approved a resolution encouraging local congregations to engage in ministry outside the confines of their church buildings. In the resolution, congregations are encouraged to develop a cluster of three or more Moravian congregations or full communion partners or Canadian counterparts to collaborate on mission opportunities, while clergy members are also encouraged to locate and participate in their community ministerial groups to do the same.
Delegates Nick Noel and David Venditta present a proposal from the Church & Society committee.
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Churches were further encouraged to seek ways to show hospitality to neighbors by opening their buildings as spaces for ministries and community partnerships. This resolution requested that the PEC expand grant opportunities for congregations to defray building and maintenance costs to cultivate ministries of hospitality. In their final report, the Committee on Local Mission Engagement encouraged all congregations to explore their resources and passions, then identify needs in their communities where those resources and passions could be best put to use and develop ministries that can help address those needs. In looking at global mission opportunities, Synod passed resolutions affirming the Northern Province’s role as supervising province for the mission area of Peru, and inviting members, congregations, districts and agencies to consider adopting a ministry in Peru based on opportunities defined by the Board of World Mission. Synod likewise encouraged all congregations to annually designate a “Global Mission Sunday” to focus on opportunities to get involved in global mission endeavors. The Province will work with the Board of World Mission to provide support and materials for this yearly event. The Moravian
Emerging Ministries and new work There are many ways to “be the church” that go beyond the traditional congregation. New and emerging ministries—those expressions of our Christian faith that address community needs—represent opportunities to expand the church’s work in new ways and places. Some examples of current emerging ministries in the Northern Province include Esperanza for Bethlehem in Pennsylvania; Common Ground Community Café in Sherwood Park, Alberta and Tricklebee Café in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The 2018 Synod explored what “Emerging Ministry” means in a Northern Province context. One resolution defined emerging ministry as a “Moravian-led endeavor that is recognized by the Provincial Elders’ Conference, but is not directly affiliated with any one particular Moravian congregation and stands as a new endeavor.” That same resolution called on the PEC to establish an Emerging Ministries Committee, advisory to the PEC, to identify, initiate, implement and oversee new ministries, ranging from church plants to various need-focused ministry endeavors. Synod also called upon the PEC to expand the definition of “the Church” and its various Moravian expressions and requested that the PEC revisit the timetable guid-
ing provincial financial support for emerging ministries. In recognition that a new pastor or seminarian may feel called to serve in a new or emerging ministry, Synod directed the PEC to consider call for ordination to a new or an existing emerging ministry as equal to the call to congregational ministry, based on the current criteria for ordination. This will allow ordination candidates to be considered for a call to a new or emerging ministry, or help develop a specific ministry plan into which they could be called. Synod opened the door to the possible establishment of an Interprovincial Commission on Music and Worship, based on the work of the New Worship Resource Study Committee, who shared their findings in late 2017. The Synod directed the PEC to place the topic on the agenda for its fall meeting with the Southern Province PEC. This new commission would be dedicated primarily to worship and music in the Moravian Church, and include a representative from the Moravian Music Foundation and representatives from each Province. The 2018 Synod also supported ongoing efforts to develop spiritual companioning groups in
(Continued on next page) The Rev. Nigel Powell and the liturgical dance team from United Moravian in New York City.
June/July 2018
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Left: Following the approval of the full communion agreement with the United Methodist Church, the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller presents UMC Bishop Michael Watson the Moravian Daily Texts for his date of birth. Right: Justin Rabbach and Bishop Paul Graf sing during Synod’s closing worship service.
Synod
(Continued from previous page) local congregations by directing the PEC to name a qualified individual to work with congregations to establish spiritual companioning groups and seek scholarship resources for the training of laity and clergy in the field of spiritual direction.
Relationships with Others The Northern Province continued its long tradition of ecumenical activity with several resolutions dealing with relationships with other faiths and faith traditions. First, the 2018 Synod approved a full communion agreement with the United Methodist Church. This agreement, which was approved by the United Methodists in 2016 and by the Southern Province Synod in April, now brings the Moravian Church in America and the UMC into full communion. (see story on page 14). The Moravian Church is also in full communion with the Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and the Presbyterian Church(U.S.A.). Second, Synod recognized a congregation in Downey, California, as a joint ministry of the Episcopal and Moravian Churches. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church opened its doors to welcome Moravians from the Moravian Church of Downey, which closed in 2017. St. Mark’s has since integrated Mora12
vian liturgies, lovefeast and other forms of Moravian practice into its worship and has even changed the its name to St. Mark’s Church: A Congregation Celebrating the Episcopal and Moravian Traditions. Furthermore, Synod asked the PEC to find ways to facilitate and advance the mutual ministry of St. Mark’s. (Watch for an in-depth story on this new partnership in an upcoming issue of The Moravian.) Third, Synod joined the Southern Province in endorsing the statement, “Christian Witness in a Multi-Religious World” from the Unity Mission Conference, which had also been endorsed by the Southern Province at their Synod in April.
Synod Resolutions on Social Issues The 2018 Synod addressed a number of social issues facing our country and communities today. The Synod addressed immigration with a resolution that calls for the church to stand for the humane treatment of those crossing our borders and for the reuniting of families who have been separated at the border. The synod addressed the issue of violence by rejecting violence as a problem-solving method, calling for providing congregations with appropriate tools on non-violence and restorative justice and encouraging the church and its congregations to call on civil authorities to reduce violence. The resolution also addressed concerns over gun violence, but did not call for significant action in this area. The Moravian
Synod also made statements affirming the dignity and rights of women and girls, committing to confront and eliminate discrimination and encouraging a continued ministry of healing and empowerment. The resolution also called on members to become informed about gender inequality and work in every aspect of life to eliminate institutional, systemic, and personal gender bias. In a separate resolution, Synod called for raising awareness of violence against women, encouraging congregations to seek ways to assist victims of domestic abuse and other forms of violence. The resolution also called for training of pastors and others in identifying abuse and how to handle cases of abuse in their congregations, and directs the PEC to implement mandates found in the Church Order of the Unitas Fratrum dealing with gender violence. Additionally, the legislation encouraged clergy and congregations to invite individuals to expand the images of God they use beyond those that are male, as these can be barriers to those seeking comfort within the church who have been abused by men. Synod affirmed the position of the Moravian Church regarding racism—“In the very core of Moravian understanding of humanity, the Godgiven equality of all people is fundamental”—and condemned, in the strongest terms, racism and discrimination in all its forms. This legislation also reaffirmed “A Statement on Racism and the Church” approved by the 1998 Synods of the Southern and Northern Provinces; called for resources on antiracism training; and encourages all members to work in every aspect of life to eliminate institutional, systemic and personal racism. 2018 Synod legislation affirmed the dignity and rights of persons of all gender identities; reaffirmed the Province’s open welcome to all people by specifically recognizing that persons of all gender identities are also under God’s care and can be members of our church because they are children of God and seek to know God’s grace which is freely given to all people who have faith in God. The Province also supports and affirms all gender identities by allowing them to celebrate their lives as individuals, couples and families within the June/July 2018
bounds of the church and under the grace that our Creator imparts to all. Moreover, Synod commended the use of the most recent edition of Resolutions on Social Issues (available online) for use in congregations for direction, study, prayer, discussion and action. This document outlines the positions the Northern Province has taken on a broad range of social issues during past Synods.
Financial Matters In addition to approving the provincial budget for the upcoming year (an important function of each Northern Province Synod), the 2018 Synod approved several other pieces of financially-focused legislation. Along with the budget approval, the Finance Committee of the 2018 Synod provided an open letter to the Moravian Church, encouraging all congregations to consider faith gifts—amounts a congregation chooses to give the Province operating budget above and beyond their calculated common ministries commitment—as a way to support the future programming of the Province. Synod voted to approve the continuation of the Northern Province Finance Committee as an advisory group to the PEC through the next intersynodal period. This committee assists the PEC in financial matters and provides detailed analysis and management to enhance the work of the PEC. Synod also discussed further re-evaluation of how the amounts congregations pay to the Province for Common Ministries are calculated; directs the PEC to review the amounts paid for services to the provincial finance office by districts and agencies that rely on the office for their accounting services; and approved changes in the Larger Life Foundation’s distributions to various entities. Following the five-day, 2018 Northern Province Synod, delegates can look back on an impressive amount of work that will help guide the Northern Province into its next four years and beyond. To read the full resolutions from the 2018 Synod, visit www.moravian.org/Northern. n Synod articles and photos by Mike Riess, IBOC.
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MORAVIAN SYNODS
Northern Province finalizes full communion with United Methodist Church
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he 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church Northern Province approved a relationship of full communion with the United Methodist Church (UMC) on Friday, June 22. The vote occurred at the Northern Province’s 2018 Synod in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The full communion agreement, which was initially approved by the UMC at their General Conference in Portland, Ore., in May 2016, recognizes each other’s ministries, and encourages witness and mission work together. The agreement was also approved by the Moravian Church Southern Province at its 2018 Synod in April. With the Northern Province affirmation, the full communion agreement between the UMC and Moravian Church in North America is ratified. The next step in the implementation of the agreement will be for the two denominations to establish a joint commission for the coordination of the full communion relationship.
The full communion agreement was the result of several years work by the Moravian United Methodist Dialogue team. The team was co-chaired by the Rev. Gary Harke of the Moravian Church and New England Area Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar of the UMC. Other members of the team included the Rev. Dr. M. Lynnette Delbridge and the Rt. Rev. J. Christian Giesler representing the Moravian Church (Northern and Southern Provinces), and Prof. Dr. Ulrike Schuler and the Rev. Dr. Robert Williams representing the UMC. “Serving on the dialog team representing the Moravian Church gave me a chance to form relationships with folks that I had never met before, but yet had known for a long time,” said Bishop Gielser. “This came because my new United Methodist friends represented the legacy born out of the relationship of John Wesley and the Moravians that he had met. For-
The Rev. Gary Harke speaks following the adoption of a full communion agreement with the United Methodist Church.
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The Moravian
The Rt. Rev. Chris Gielser and the Rev. Dr. Lynnette Delbridge present the resolution to join in full communion with the United Methodist Church. The resolution was approved on Friday, June 22.
malizing this full communion agreement was simply making official what has been a reality for many years because we share so very much in common. “Entering into this agreement calls both Moravians and United Methodists to look at each other as dear sisters and brothers in Christ, to work together to meet the needs of a world that needs God’s grace and mercy, and worship together with the aim of building up the body of Christ.” “This agreement demonstrates that we are not alone in the joys, nor are we alone in the challenges of being the Good News to the world,” said Rev. Dr. Delbridge. “God doesn’t want us to do it ourselves; working together with our United Methodist sisters and brothers can help us facilitate our work at all levels.” Following the passage of the full communion agreement, Bishop Michael Watson, UMC Ecumenical Officer, shared, “We need to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation and redemption of the world. We do it better when we do it together, when we hold hands together, when we answer the prayer our Lord prayed that we might be unified, that we might come together so the world might believe that June/July 2018
Jesus is the Christ. We are seeking to do that with you. So thank you again my sisters and brothers in Christ. We are together in the Lord who takes away the sins of the world.” To be in full communion with our United Methodist brothers and sisters means that we mutually recognize and value the diverse gifts present in each church; respect each other as part of the body of Christ in the world today; commit each church to cooperate in common ministries of evangelism, witness and service; recognize the validity of each other’s sacramental life and ministerial orders, allowing for the transfer of membership and the orderly exchange of clergy (subject to the regulations of church order and practice of each church); and commit each church to continuing to work for the visible unity of the church, recognizing that this relationship of full communion is but a step toward the unity to which we are called. With the ratification of the full communion agreement, the Moravian Church, Northern and Southern Provinces, is now in full communion with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the Episcopal Church, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) and the United Methodist Church. n 15
MORAVIAN SYNODS
Northern Province elects new leadership
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t its 2018 Synod, the Moravian Church Northern Province elected the Provincial Elders’ Conference (PEC) to lead the church in the coming four years. The PEC is the Province’s highest governing board, providing administrative leadership to congregations and program agencies. It is made up of four lay members, plus the presidents of each of the province’s three districts (Eastern, Western and Canadian) and the president of the PEC. The Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller was re-elected to a third term as president of the Northern Province PEC. Betsy was first elected in 2010 and has led the PEC since. Lay members elected include Susan Dreydoppel from Nazareth, Pa.; Holly Heffernan from Calgary, Alberta; Valerie Bean Wagner from Waconia, Minn; and Ralph Wanamaker, Jr. from Bethlehem, Pa. All four lay members are new to the PEC, although Sue, Holly and Ralph have experience on District Boards. They join District Presidents the Rev. David Bennett (Eastern), the Rev. Bruce Nelson (Western) and Greg Weir (Canadian) to complete the eight-member board. The new PEC was installed at a worship service on Monday, June 25. They will serve until the Northern Province Synod in 2022. Top: The newly-elected Northern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference (l-to-r): The Rev. Dave Bennett, Holly Heffernan, Greg Weir, the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller, the Rev. Bruce Nelson, Sue Dreydoppel, Ralph Wanamaker and Valerie Bean Wagner. Center: Tellers count ballots during the election for PEC president. Bottom: Tellers collect paper ballots from Synod delegates.
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The Moravian
MORAVIAN MUSIC
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“Irene” – the ship sails again!
n Saturday, September 15, 2018,* you are invited to come aboard the mission ship Irene as she sails to foreign lands bringing the good news of God’s love for us shown in Jesus Christ! The ship is piloted by Captain Garrison, with the assistance (and guidance) of his wife Marianne, accompanied by none other than Count Zinzendorf (seasickness and all). This musical, which features many Moravian hymns like you’ve never heard them before, was originally presented at the First Moravian Church of Dover, Ohio, in the spring of 2013, and then at the 2013 Moravian Music Festival. The musical was written by the Rev. John Wallace, with additional hymn texts by Sharon Benson and Gwyneth Michel, and music written and arranged by Gwyneth Michel and Nola Reed Knouse. This captivating musical-mission-history-inspiration event is the keystone of the Moravian Ministry Journey, where you may spend an afternoon visiting a great many Southern Province and interprovincial Moravian agencies to learn about their ministries. Ports of call include such places as the Board of World Mission, Sunnyside Ministry, the Moravian Music Foundation, Ministry to Immigrant Populations, the Moravian Archives, and other “exotic locales.” The itinerary isn’t complete yet, but know that the voyage will be energizing and filled with joy. Through this journey, you will gain a new gratitude for all the ways that Moravian agencies are contributing to the growth of the reign of God on earth. Each of these ministries has a unique role to play in communicating the goodness of God – through history, music, education, overseas mission, conferences, and throughout all aspects of life. At each port of call you’ll learn about June/July 2018
Musicians record music for the production of Irene—The Adventure Begins in a session at the Moravian Music Foundation.
their mission and ministry, and you’ll come away with ideas for how you can participate in the ongoing ministries of the Moravian Church. You can get a preview of the Moravian Ministry Voyage at the fifth annual Children’s Festival and Lovefeast, at Hope Moravian Church (WinstonSalem), on Sunday, August 19, from 2-5 p.m. During this afternoon, families will travel not by ship but by horse and buggy, as they did in the days Hope was founded, and make their own ports of call. They will learn more about Moravian ships – including seeing a replica of the Irene, along with building their own ship and racing it. Many other activities are planned. At 4:00 p.m. during the closing lovefeast, a small portion of the musical will be performed. Come to this “sneak preview” and then mark your calendars, mateys, to join the intrepid ship Irene and her crew on this Moravian Ministry Voyage! n * The Moravian Ministry Voyage will take place on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Advent Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C. “Ports of call” – agency booths – will be open from 12-1:45 and 3:15-4:30 p.m. “Irene – the Adventure Begins” will be presented at 2:00 p.m. All events are free and open to the public.
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MORAVIAN BISHOPS
Moravian Bishops Lane Sapp and Blair Couch, along with Anne Hodges-Copple, VI Bishop Suffragen of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina and Herman Yoos, Bishop of the South Carolina Synod of the ELCA, join Carol Foltz for her consecration.
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Southern Province consecrates its first woman bishop
n Sunday, June 10, 2018, Trinity Moravian Church in Winston-Salem was filled with people, all gathered to see and take part in the consecration of Carol Foltz as a bishop for the Southern Province. As the Rt. Rev. Lane Sapp said in his sermon, “This is a historic day. In this sacred space Sister Carol, one day shy of 40 years ago on June 11, 1978, was ordained the first female to serve as a deacon in our province. And today, you become the first female to be consecrated to the office of bishop in the Moravian Church Southern Province.” It was a joy to see how many people came out for Carol’s consecration. Not only were the lower sanctuary floor pews filled to capacity, but there was no room left in the upper loft sanctuary pews. According to Bishop Lane, “Sunday afternoons at three o’clock are the hardest times to preach. Especially when it’s warm in the sanctuary.” But despite the heat, many had arrived to see this historic moment.
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The service included a warm greeting from the Unity Board, delivered by the Rev. Dr. Cortroy Jarvis, sharing prayers of wisdom and strength to Carol in the continuance of her service. The service continued with the Liturgy for Consecration, led by the Rt. Rev. Blair Couch, and special anthems sung by the choir, anthems so beautiful and quietly intense that several “Amens” were voiced once the music had faded. Bishop Sapp then stood and delivered a powerful sermon on the duties and responsibilities of bishops, pointing out that pastors have a challenging job to bring comfort and reassurance to God’s people in today’s troubled world, and that they and their families are under a lot of personal stress. Recollecting a conversation he had with a congregation member, Bishop Sapp said that when he needs a listening ear and advice only a pastor can give, he turns to his bishop friends. In the Moravian Church, bishops are the pastors for the pastors. The Moravian
In addition to explaining the duties of bishops, Bishop Sapp gave Carol a few pieces of advice to guide her in her ministry one of which was to take time to be alone. Throughout his ministry, Jesus would take time to pray and contemplate in solitude before embarking on his next step in his journey, and Bishop Sapp urged Carol to do the same. “Following the example of Jesus, your life must be undergirded by solitude and prayer,” he said. “A disciplined prayer life will undergird the life of anyone who would serve in this ministry.” Following the sermon, Carol then knelt before Bishop Couch and Bishop Sapp, joined by Anne Hodges-Copple, VI Bishop Suffragen of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina and Herman Yoos, Bishop of the South Carolina Synod of the ELCA, to receive the laying on of hands and blessing. Bishop Sapp delivered the blessing, asking God to “Make her a wise pastor, a patient teacher and a faithful witness” and to “grant that in all things she may serve without reproach, that your people may be renewed and that your name may be glorified in the church.” As the blessing came to a close, the bishops rose and greeted Carol Foltz as a new bishop with the right hand of fellowship. Once all the bishops had welcomed Carol as a new bishop, Bishop Couch faced Carol to Newly-consecrated bishop Carol Foltz delivers the benediction at her service in June.
Episcopal, Moravian and ELCA bishops bless Carol during her consecration as bishop of the Moravian Unity.
give her a few words of encouragement and blessing. She commented that Carol had chosen the theme for the service to be Christ as the Great Shepherd and that it struck her “that in your passion for training dogs, you exhibit many qualities of a shepherd yourself.” Bishop Couch then prayed, “May each interaction with all God’s creatures remind you of the abundance of Christ’s shepherding in your life.” Carol then took her place behind the pulpit as a soprano sung a solo version of “The Lord is My Shepherd” before leading the gathered congregation in the Festal Doxology as a call and response reading. She then gave the final benediction, which was followed by the whole congregation singing, “Lift High the Cross.” With her consecration, the Rt. Rev. Carol Foltz is now the 367th bishop consecrated since the beginning of the Moravian Church and the 305th bishop consecrated in the Renewed Moravian Church. She was elected along with the now Rt. Rev. Tom Shelton during the 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church Southern Province’s sessions on Saturday, April 21. Anna French, IBOC intern, wrote this article; photos by Andrew David Cox. We will share Bishop Shelton’s service in our next issue.
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ECUMENICAL PARTNERS
Sharing a lovefeast with Presbyterian educators
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very winter, several Moravian pastors and church educators gather with hundreds of other pastors, educators and lay volunteers from around the country who are passionate about Christian education at the Association of Presbyterian Church Educators (APCE) Annual Event. The 2018 event featured the theme “Deep and Wide: Boundless Hospitality,” depicted by open doors. While Presbyterian is in the title of this organization, it is an intentionally ecumenical body with five partner denominations now working together and more groups being added. When we gather, each partner denomination has opportunities to be featured in some way in the worship portions of the plenary sessions. With this year’s theme of Hospitality, the Moravians were invited to share our lovefeast tradition with everyone. The logistics we needed to figure out included: how do you take a Lovefeast into a conference center ballroom? What do you serve and how do you serve it? How do you convey all the different ways that we celebrate lovefeast to folks who’ve either never experienced this tradition or only been to a Christmas Eve service? Jami Vandock, the educator at Raleigh Moravian Church and a lifelong Moravian, summed it up well. In her words, “Adapting to the environment seemed to really strip Lovefeast down to its essen-
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tials. It wasn’t about the buns or the coffee, but rather about the roots of where it all began. For those of us who become really entrenched in those ‘sacred cows’ of tradition, it is nice to remember that those elements aren’t what make Lovefeast worth repeating. It also struck me that the APCE theme of ‘Open Doors’ really hammered home this idea of how bringing the new into the fold might change the way our church traditions look.” Jami’s right; we had to strip the tradition down to its essential elements because we couldn’t assume anything about what those worshipping with us knew or understood about lovefeast. We knew we had to find a way to tell the story of the origins of lovefeast—tell it in a way both quickly and powerfully—and we needed to tell such a story to a room full of educators! To tell the story of August 13th, we decided to use the Godly Play method with a script that Gil Frank created for congregations. Godly Play uses scripts based on scripture and employs wooden figures, backdrops and fabrics to invite children to engage with the story through imaginative play. Gil had developed a script and a set of these figures and backdrops to tell about how the different people with different backgrounds and perspectives who had sought out refuge in Herrnhut, came together through prayer and conversation. The story conThe Moravian
cludes with the Communion service on August 13, 1727, at the Berthelsdorf church, and the shared meals that followed—the first lovefeast. Now, a Godly Play circle of children can get a little crowded at about 20 kids. For a worshipping congregation gathered in pews facing a communion table, maybe 200-300 can have a good view. We had a few more hundred than that…so stop-motion animation seemed a good choice as it could be projected to the large screens around the ballroom. For the lovefeast, we chose hymns that exemplified themes of hospitality and reconciliation to be sung. During the service, we highlighted that lovefeasts rely on proclamation through congregational song. Dieners were drawn from Moravians, Lutherans, and Presbyterians attending the event. As everyone shared in the lovefeast of cookies and lemonade, we asked them to discuss the reflection questions from the Godly Play script: • How might it feel to be harmed for your religious beliefs? • How might it feel to meet new people who have different opinions from you? • Have you ever had disagreements and arguments over things you think or believe? • Can you remember a special time in your life in which peace, love and joy were especially present? Now you might ask, why is it so important that a small delegation of Moravians attends this large
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gathering of ecumenical pastors and educators? Beth Hayes, Director of Congregational Resources & Ministries at the Board of Cooperative Ministries, shares the following. “I have had many APCE colleagues who, knowing my association with the organization and being Moravian, have commented on how it enlightened them to our denomination in a truly unique way. So many think of the lovefeast as a great idea especially around the Christmas season and have asked for odes and orders of worship. This made them realize that lovefeast is much more and has deep meaning to the roots of our denomination. I hope to see these ecumenical ventures go even further in the coming years as it enriches not only Moravians but other denominations also.” You can view the worship service and the other plenaries and worship services of 2018 APCE at http://www.apcenet.org/2018-videos-page. The Moravian stories collection of Godly Play scripts and patterns are available through the Board of Cooperative Ministries. We are working to make the stop-motion video I created of the August 13th script available upon request. n The Rev. Christy Clore, a Moravian pastor certified in Transitional Ministry and Christian Education, serves on loan in the PC(USA) at First Presbyterian Church of Reidsville, N.C.
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MORAVIAN EDUCATION
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Crossroads: the intersection of your life and God’s ministry
n August, 2009, Moravian Theological Seminary (MTS) held an info session for our-soonto-be launched Crossroads Lay Leadership program. Not knowing how many would come, we were surprised when 17 people, from a variety of denominations, showed up. After a brief description of what we had planned for the first year, the people in the room started their own conversations, getting to know each other, sharing their frustration over church and their desires to learn more and do better at their responsibilities. It was so exciting! The initial culture of Crossroads was forged that day by those potential participants. A month later, our Compass course, designed to help people brush up on basic skills and discover and articulate their sense of call as a lay person, was attended by almost all of those original 17 who continued the initial conversa-
tions. Many of them have now graduated from the program and are doing significant ministry in their congregations and in the community. Since that beginning, over 150 people have taken Crossroads courses. The Crossroads Program at MTS features 16 courses including Old & New Testament, Church History, Leadership, Culture & Change, Discipleship, Preaching, Teaching, Congregational Ethics, Worship, Care, Outreach, Formative Spirituality, Theology, World Religions and Compass. The program also includes a Community Missional Experience where people learn about ministry in the community with an at risk segment of the population, along with how non-profit ministries are funded. Crossroads is here to serve the learning community of the church so we encourage people to take the courses that are of greatest interest Dr. Jill Peters leads the Crossroads program at Moravian Theological Seminary.
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The Moravian
to them in the order that works best for them. These courses are offered through the Continuing Ed Department and have CEU’s available for those who want to audit. By completing two Pass/ Fail assignments for each course, Crossroads credits are awarded making participants eligible to receive the Certificate of Completion. Although Crossroads was started for laypeople who desire more skills and knowledge, the program has added some new directions. In addition to training lay people for work in their congregations, pastors and church staff people come to sharpen their skills, brush up on a subject, or learn practical skills. We have trained lay pastors and church planters from at least five local denominations. Some of our graduates are now serving as lay pastors, preaching, giving care, and involved in the administration and visioning in their congregation. Technology allows participants to be anywhere in the world and attend our courses using an internet connection, their phone or computer, a mic and a video camera. Many people outside our local region are successfully using a system called “Zoom” to attend our courses, be part of the classroom discussions, present reports and most important, get to know each other. Several people have emailed and called each other after class to keep the conversations going. Some people use this distance option for the whole course, but others have used it for just a night or two. One person “attended” in while they were on a business trip to Asia, another could not travel right after eye surgery, another was out of state helping a sick relative. Zoom gives Crossroads participants flexibility to attend class when being there in person just is not possible. Students in the Crossroads program will enter a dynamic learning community, work hard, have thoughts about the church challenged, expand theological and biblical knowledge, forge great relationships with wonderful co-travelers
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and instructors and have fun learning. There are opportunities for team and solo work. We stress the importance of sharpening communication skills so students’ writing and presentation skills will improve. And students learn about different forms of devotions that can be shared with their congregations. There are no prerequisites, so participants can take the courses of most interest to them. Courses are offered in a two year rotation, usually on Monday and Thursday nights from 6-9 p.m.
Students in the Crossroads Program will enter a dynamic learning community…forge great relationships with wonderful co-travelers and instructors, and have fun learning. Eastern Time. Many people come to take one or two courses; others decide to complete the whole program. The program is flexible, allowing participants to complete it on their own terms. Crossroads participants range in age from mid-20’s to mid-80’s, with most participants being 45-65. We are evenly split between men and women. There are no entrance requirements. We have also been able to accommodate several participants with learning disabilities. To learn more, visit the Crossroads website www.moravianseminary.edu/crossroads to see which courses are offered this year and to register online. For questions, contact Jill Peters at jpeters@moravian.edu. Dr. Jill Peters is missional leadership developer at Moravian Theological Seminary. The Crossroads program was named as an approved lay leadership training program by the 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church Northern Province.
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CREATE IN ME
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Become a part of “Create in Me”
n the beginning of 2018, Rev. Brian Dixon and I started to solicit articles and reflections about worship to share in The Moravian Magazine. We believe that worship is central to our lives of faith and also that it is not just for Sunday mornings in our sanctuaries. We longed for a place to have a conversation with others about how worship, in its many forms, informed our lives. These conversations started in earnest around the table of the New Hymnal Exploration Committee and the survey of the Moravians in North America. There seemed to be a hunger to dig deeper into our practices of worship and to explore the wonderful resources that we have and that are currently being created. So we started a new program called “Create in Me” to share new ideas for worship and music. In our first pieces for Create in Me, we learned how to set the table of worship in order to inspire and encourage tangible connections to the worship moment from Rev. Maggie Wellert. Along with Rev. Bruce Nelson, we contemplated the importance of creating music and how to set aside time to write. And most recently, we read about how gardening and working with God’s green earth enables us to worship God with soil under our nails and the sun on our faces. We also introduced several hymns from “Sing the the Lord a New Song,” a songbook published with current hymn writers contributing to the Moravian music catalogue. There are so many more stories, hymns and ideas we want to explore with you. Here are some things we are thinking about: • Starting a podcast to expand on topics and ideas in the Moravian Magazine and to just talk about the inspiring, creative ways that
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MUSIC • LITURGY • ART • PRAYER
Create inMe
MORAVIAN WORSHIP RESOURCES our lives are informed by the practices of worship. • Encouraging more lay people to contribute articles about how you worship and what it means to you. • And we’d love to hear about liturgical dance ministries, creative Christmas and Advent ideas, new songs you are writing, and much more! Since we have begun we have rejoiced with every submission of poetry and creations from you. Keep them coming! Email us at moraviancreateinme@ gmail.com with things you are working on and creating in your worship of God. Here are some wise words from William Temple, author of Nature, Man and God, that inspire us; we hope they will inspire you too! “To worship is to quicken the conscience by the holiness of God, to feed the mind with the truth of God, to purge the imagination by the beauty of God, to open the heart to the love of God, to devote the will to the purpose of God.” n Rebecca Craver is pastor of Edmonton Moravian Church in Edmonton, Alberta. The Moravian
MORAVIAN WRITINGS
“I am the bread of life…” Messages on John 6:24-35 Each week, Moravians across the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean share a common message through their Sunday bulletins. This month, we share writings based on John 6:24-35. This Bible text is for “Proper 13” in Lectionary Cycle B of the Revised Common Lectionary used by the Moravian Church.
“Give us this bread always” by Staci Marrese-Wheeler, pastor, Lakeview Moravian Church, Madison, Wisconsin • August 5, 2018
The book Sleeping with Bread: Holding What Gives You Life begins with the story of children orphaned after bombing raids in World War II. Many were safe and cared for in refugee camps, but could not sleep because of the magnitude of what they had lost. Their fears of waking up with no home and no food were so great that someone suggested giving them a piece of bread to take to bed with them. When they held the bread, they could finally sleep. The bread reminded them that they had been fed that day, and they had the security of knowing they would eat again the next day. June/July 2018
The authors of the book—Dennis, Sheila, and Matthew Linn— use this story as a metaphor to introduce a prayer method called the Examen, which originated with Ignatius. In the Examen you reflect upon each day as it ends, with two questions: “For what am I most grateful?” “For what am I least grateful?” When used daily, these questions can help identify moments when we are most aware of God’s presence in our days and most in need of God’s presence in our days. This prayer practice can deepen one’s spiritual life and help discern one’s call. After Jesus fed the five thousand on the lakeshore, the crowds followed him and asked him for signs that he was from God. Jesus knew they were looking not for spiritual answers but for more physical food. Like the orphaned children, they could not believe they would be fed again without seeing more bread. The crowds wanted proof of God to quell their fears and doubts. And so it is with us at times. Hold on to what gives you life—Jesus, the bread of life—and you will rest in his love always. (Continued on next page) 25
I am the bread of life (John 6: 24-35, NRSV)
So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.” Then they said to him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” 26
Comfort Food By Willie Israel, pastor, Rolling Hills Moravian Church, Longwood, Florida • August 16, 2015
Our fond memories often involve food. When we’re stressed, we are inclined to crave the food that comforted us when we were children, safe at home. These comfort foods fill our bellies, and they also satisfy the emotional hunger that has resulted from the worries of our adult lives. Our comfort foods are different for each one of us, but they often involve some kind of bread: the smell of Mom’s homemade yeast rolls fresh from the oven or of hot biscuits dripping with butter are a couple of examples. Bread is a basic element in the diet of nearly every culture; so Jesus’ words, “I am the bread of life,” evoke an image that resonates with followers of Jesus Christ worldwide. But while bread may be a comfort food for us, those words were far from comforting for the skeptical, questioning crowds to whom Jesus spoke. Jesus, who often used rich poetic images in his teaching, was introducing a new “menu item” to the spiritual diet of his listeners, and a lot of them weren’t sure they wanted to sample the offered feast. Those words were shocking! “Eat his flesh? Drink his blood? No thanks! Let’s stick with what we’re accustomed to.” But Jesus didn’t intend for his words to be comforting. Jesus wanted his listeners––and he wants us––to understand that his own life and his own sacrifice have to be the fundamental elements of our spiritual diet. If we continue to take comfort in what the world offers, our spirits will starve. Psalm 34:8 gives us the words, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” When we recognize that Jesus is basic to our lives, we will always crave the “comfort food” he has prepared for us.
The Moravian
Manna in the wilderness David Merritt, pastor, Hope Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, N.C. • August 3, 2003
Jesus calls himself the Bread of Life. We can touch bread. We can eat bread. Surely Jesus knows how important bread is. By calling himself the Bread of Life, Jesus identifies his ministry with a basic component of life. Even more important is the role of bread to the chosen people, the Hebrews. Bread in the wilderness was life. Without it, the nomadic travelers would have withered from the desert heat. Manna, a mysterious feathery substance, offered enough food value to sustain the people of God. Now Jesus declares he is more than rabbi, prophet, king, or miracle worker. He is bread. He is the manna in the wilderness. One day while I was working at King Outreach Ministry, a mother and a small child came to us for help. The presenting problem was an overdue light bill. The bill had been overdue for so long that the client would have to reapply for service. The need was greater than our resources. It seemed as though the request would be denied. As we discussed alternatives, the client expressed the need for food until she “could work something out.” As we walked to the food room, I took the child’s hand in mine and told her to choose any food items that she wanted. Her eyes became wide with anticipation. She reached from shelf to shelf to choose from our newly stocked pantry—macaroni and cheese, spaghetti, fruits, fresh bread and pudding. And with each choice in hand, I told her she had come to “God’s Grocery Store,” that Jesus had given us the food to share with those in need. Jesus became the Bread of Life for that struggling family that afternoon. As the New Testament reveals, Jesus lives through the acts of his people.
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The Bread that Satisfies Forever By Norman E. Prochnau, pastor, First Moravian Church, York, Pa. • August 7, 1994
When I was growing up on the farm in Alberta, Canada, Saturday was usually the day mother (or a sister) baked bread. She would prepare the dough, put it in the bread pans to rise, fire up the kitchen wood stove, and place the pans in the oven. Ah, the aroma that would ascend, first from the oven, and then from the fresh loaves of bread after their removal from the oven! Tasting, eating, and being filled with fresh bread was even more satisfying. There was only one problem. That satisfaction didn’t last. It never does. So it is with all the food we consume. It nurtures our physical existence but nothing more. By contrast, the bread which Jesus offers satisfies human hunger and thirst forever. Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry” (John 6:35). What a claim! What a promise! I like the way William Barclay adds meaning to this claim: “Bread sustains life. Bread is the staff of life. Bread is that without which life cannot go on. Bread is the essential to life.” That is precisely what Jesus is to the believer. Moreover, Jesus gives life a new dimension––a spiritual dimension. This life expands far beyond mere physical existence; it enables us to have a new, spiritual relationship with God. Such a relationship fully satisfies and lasts forever. If we truly desire the real bread of life, all we have to do is beg Jesus to give it to us all the time. Let us accept his offer and invitation. Let us come to him often in faith, love, obedience, prayer and the breaking of bread. Lord, I hunger only after thee; Feed thou me, feed thou me. Amen.
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OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS NORTHERN PROVINCE
Ordination Brother James J. Heroux, a May 2018 graduate of Moravian Theological Seminary, was ordained a deacon of the Moravian Church on June 16, 2018. Bishop Paul Graf officiated at the service, held at Sturgeon Bay Moravian Church, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
Appleton, Wisconsin Brother James J. Heroux has accepted the call to serve as pastor for Freedom Moravian Church, Appleton, Wisconsin. Brother Heroux was installed July 8, 2018. Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference
Obituary: Mrs. Naomi Case Sister Naomi (Robinson) Case died in Chesapeake, Va., May 12, 2018 at the age of 88. She was born June 27, 1929, in New York City, N.Y., a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Robinson. Sister Case was united in marriage to Brother John H. Case on September 5, 1964 at Bainbridge, Md. She served alongside her husband in pastorates in Labrador (Hopedale), California (Morongo), and New Jersey (Toms River). Daughter, Debra; son, John; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren survive Sister Case. She was predeceased by her husband, John, on March 1, 2014 and daughter, Katrina, in 2017. Burial was June 5, 2018 at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery, Wrightstown, N.J. 28
Obituary: The Rev. Larry D. Wetzel Brother Larry D. Wetzel died in Sun City, Ariz., on May 19, 2018 at the age of 77. Born November 12, 1940 in Bethlehem, Pa., he was the son of Paul and Marguerite (Kresge) Wetzel. Brother Wetzel graduated from Moravian College in 1963 and received a Master of Divinity degree from Moravian Theological Seminary in 1966. He was ordained a Deacon in the Moravian ministry June 12, 1966 and consecrated a Presbyter July 28, 1974. He was united in marriage to Janet Vanhorn January 9, 1965, in Easton, Pennsylvania. Together they served pastorates in Pennsylvania (Philadelphia Third, East Hills, Newfoundland), Wisconsin (Saratoga, East Side, Wisconsin Rapids), Ohio (Sharon), Arizona (Morning Star), and mission service in the Alaska Province (Bethel). Br. Wetzel also served the church as president of the Pacific Southwest Moravian Board. He entered into retirement Jan. 1, 2005. Brother Wetzel is survived by a daughter, Michele; a son, Christopher; and two grandchildren.
Obituary: Mrs. Rudolph Schulze Sister Mildred (Stoltz) Schulze died in Watertown, Wis., on June 26, 2018, at the age of 97. She was born December 23, 1920 at Edmonton, Alberta, a daughter of August and Elizabeth (Goerlitz) Stoltz. Sister Schulze was united in marriage to Brother Rudolph H. Schulze on July 28, 1943 at Waconia, Minnesota. The Moravian
She served alongside her husband in pastorates in Alberta (Calgary and Edmonton), Minnesota (Bethany, Chaska), Wisconsin (Rudolph, Saratoga, Kellner, Veedum, Watertown, Wisconsin Rapids), North Dakota (Fargo, Bethel), and Michigan (Unionville). Daughters, Kathryn, Joanne, and Marilyn; seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren survive Sister Schulze. She was predeceased by her husband, Rudolph, on September 25, 1996. Memorial services will be held August 25, 2018 at Watertown Moravian Church, Watertown, Wisconsin, with the Rev. Kurt Liebenow presiding. Burial will be in the Watertown Moravian Cemetery. Memorials are gratefully received for Marquardt Manor and/or Watertown Moravian Church. SOUTHERN PROVINCE
continued in pastoral ministry at Community Fellowship, in Welcome, N.C., from 1997 until his death. He never met a stranger, and enjoyed carving wooden canes, playing the banjo, working in the garden and Vera’s home cooking. Jack was active in the ministry of Laurel Ridge, Yokefellow Prison Ministry, the Boy Scouts, and also served as chaplain at the Brian Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Jack was preceded in death by an infant son, Jack Todd Nance. Surviving are his wife of 67 years, Vera Kirkman Nance; one son, Rodney Nance; one daughter, Kashemi Lambeth (Kim); two grandsons, three great grandsons; two brothers, and three sisters. A memorial service was held at Community Fellowship, April 23 with the Rev. John D. Rights and the Rev. David Merritt officiating. Burial followed in God’s Acre at Moravia Moravian Church, Summerfield, NC.
Obituary: The Rev. Jack T. Nance
Obituary: The Rev. John F. Fry
The Rev. Jack Thomas Nance, 88, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April, 16, 2018. He was born on April 20, 1929 to Patty Lane Nance and Ethel Aaron Nance in Pelham, N.C. After service in the U. S. Army and working for Burlington Industries, Jack responded to a call to ministry, and completed studies for a certificate in theology at Moravian Theological Seminary. He was ordained deacon June 27, 1965 at Moravia Moravian Church (his home congregation) by Bishop Herbert Spaugh, and was consecrated a presbyter February 11, 1973, also by Bishop Spaugh. Together with his wife, Vera Kirkman Nance, Jack served pastorates at the Providence, Mizpah, Hopewell, and Union Cross congregations. Jack retired in August 1996 and
The Rev. John F Fry, 92, joined the heavenly church triumphant Wednesday, June 13, at Forest Heights Senior Living, Winston-Salem, N.C. He was born in Davie County, N.C., October 28, 1925, a son of George and Laura Wood Fry. He attended Clemmons School, and served in World War II with the U.S. Army 3rd Division in the infantry, artillery, special services and intelligence units. In 1947, he married Edith West Fry, and enjoyed 65 years of marriage until her death in 2012. John worked for 19 years in the blacksmith shop of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., and was an active lay person and supply preacher. After a prescribed course of study, he was ordained a deacon February 27, 1966, at Macedonia Moravian Church by Bishop Kenneth G. Hamilton, (Continued on next page)
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Obituaries
(Continued on next page) and was consecrated a presbyter March 4, 1973, also by Bishop Hamilton. He served as lay pastor, then “student pastor,” and the first full-time pastor of the Fulp Moravian Church, Walnut Cove, retiring in 1991. He continued in pastoral ministry part-time at Mt. Bethel for 14 years beginning in 1994. John served the wider church through involvement with the Board of Christian Education and Evangelism, the Moravian Clergy Association, and in junior camps at Laurel Ridge. He was preceded in death by a son, Eric, and his wife Edith; and is survived by a son, Rick; a daughter, Kathy; a daughter-in-law, Rebecca; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held Sunday, June 17 at Fulp Moravian Church, with Pastor Chuck Harmon officiating. Burial followed in the church’s God’s Acre.
Obituary: The Rev. John H. Giesler The Rev. John H. Giesler, 87, of Winston-Salem, passed into our Lord’s more immediate presence on June 7, 2018, at the Salemtowne Retirement Community in Winston-Salem. He was born in Green Bay, Wis. on April 3, 1931, to the late Laura Louise (Dickey) and Carl Giesler. John was educated at Milwaukee State Teacher’s College, Moravian College, and received a Bachelor of Divinity degree from Moravian Theological Seminary in June 1958. He married Barbara L. Gordon Aug. 17, 1957. John was ordained a deacon in 1958, by Bishop Mewaldt, and consecrated a presbyter in 1965, at Bilwaskarma, Nicaragua, by Bishop Hedley Wilson. After 11 years of missionary service in Nicaragua, the Giesler’s returned 30
to United States, where John was pastor of the Friedberg, King, and Bethabara congregations in North Carolina, and the New Hope congregation, Miami, Fla. After his retirement in 1996, he served the Willow Hill congregation in Cana, Va. John had a great passion for serving the Moravian Church with a deep interest in its history and musical expression. In addition to his pastoral work, he was a president of the Board of Trustees of the Moravian Music Foundation, member of the Moramus Chorale, participant in many Moravian Music Festivals, president of the Hymn Society of America, and a member of the committee that published the 1995 Moravian Book of Worship. He and Barbara enjoyed taking hundreds of interested Moravians on tours to historical Moravian sites all over the United States and Europe. John was preceded in death by five siblings, and a daughter, Becky Morgan. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Barbara; two daughters, Debby Pyatt and Cindy Meier; a son, the Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler; a son-in-law Derrick Morgan; eight grandchildren and 4 greatgrandchildren; and, one sister, Ann LaFortune. A memorial singstunde was held Saturday, June 16, at Fairview Moravian Church, WinstonSalem, with the Rev. Scott Venable officiating. Burial followed in God’s Acre, Salem.
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June/July 2018
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