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The 24th Moravian
Music Festival July 14-20, 2013 in Bethlehem, Pa.
Join us for a week-long celebration of the spirituality, heritage and beauty of Moravian music. The 24th Moravian Music Festival is a unique opportunity to lift up your voice, blow your horn, ring your bells and make a joyful noise with musicians, fans and friends of this inspirational music. For registration and program information, visit www.MoravianMusicFestival.org
Come to sing, play, learn or just listen!
“This is the way it’s supposed to be.”
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Nazareth, PA
WWW.MORAVIAN.COM
610.746.1000
Cover photos by Mike Riess
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In this issue: Studying Theology at Lay Seminary Reaching Inactives Coordinating Full Communion And more!
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13 Christ and him crucified remain our confession of faith In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love
Commentary 6 A ministry of Stewardship and Education to those less active or inactive A Moravian Reflection 8 A Moravian Life begun at the kitchen sink Full Communion 10 Moravian-Episcopal Coordinating Committee meets to strengthen full communion Lay Seminary 13 Lay Seminary seeks to answer “Moravian Theology— what is it today?” Moravian Music 17 Sing…Play…Listen…at the 24th Moravian Music Festival!
Member, Associated Church Press
In Our Congregations 20 Open House shares old Moravian traditions in a creative new way 22 Charlotte-area Moravian women share “Springs of Life” Adopt-a-Village 24 Orphan Education in the Sikonge District In Our Communities
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.
April 2013
26 Organization honoring Moravian missionary plans bicycle trail and park system In Every Issue 4 28 29 30
Ponderings: Ordination uplifts a Sunday afternoon Official Provincial Elders’ News Obituary: The Rt. Rev. Milo A. Loppnow Upcoming Events
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PONDERINGS
(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) April Vol. 44, No. 3 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 Published monthly, except bimonthly January-February and July-August 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.
Ordination uplifts a Sunday afternoon As I’m sure it is for many of you, finding inspiration and strengthen-
ing of faith comes in many forms and events. Sunday morning worship, reading the Daily Texts, working in our communities or on a mission trip, helping others, studying the Bible or simply contemplating the beauty and splendor of nature all help to refresh the spirit. On a Sunday afternoon in February, I experienced an event that I need to add to that list. For me, Sunday afternoons are times to decompress, relax, enjoy time with my family, reflect on the week past and prepare for the one upcoming. So when I was asked to participate in a Sunday afternoon event, I was a little hesitant to give up that time. However, the event that afternoon was to be something I hadn’t yet experienced personally as a Moravian—the ordination of a new pastor —and it meant I got to play guitar with some of my favorite people. And I admit, after the colorful and beautiful service that I witnessed and participated in, I’m glad I put aside my Sunday afternoon to witness Rhonda Robinson’s entry into the service of the Lord. Rhonda, who graduated from Moravian Theological Seminary last spring, was recently called to serve with her husband, the Rev. Tracy Robinson, at Esperanza for Bethlehem, a Moravian outreach on the south side of the city. The Sunday afternoon service was to be both her ordination and installation; it was also to be the first ordination performed by Bishop Chris Giesler, the Northern Province’s newest bishop of the Moravian Unity. The service was held at St. John’s Windish Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bethlehem (where Esperanza meets), a setting different
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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: 17,800 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 Siobhan Young, Communications Assistant Jodi Bortz, Customer Relations/Business 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 Design by Sandy Fay, Laughing Horse Graphics, Inc. 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 Contents © 2013, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in North America. All rights reserved
The Moravian
than typical Moravian churches. The sanctuary of St. John’s is a colorful place with beautiful stained-glass windows, brightlycolored murals, religious statues, marble pillars and a vaulted ceiling. Just entering this place of worship signaled that the day would be unique. People from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds packed the pews, joined by more than 20 Moravian pastors in white surplices. Past and present players from The Edge (our band at Edgeboro Moravian) provided the prelude music. The Rev. Grace Olson, interim Lutheran pastor at St. John’s, welcomed us and shared her excitement and honor to be a part of the service. In the choir loft, members of Schoeneck Moravian Church’s choir (Rhonda was a student pastor there) were joined by singers from other churches and denominations. Once we were done playing I picked up my camera (I try not to miss any opportunity to photograph church events). As I moved around the sanctuary that afternoon documenting the event, I witnessed many beautiful moments… …like when those gathered sang hymns in both Spanish and English – at the same time! Or when the children and youth of Esperanza performed for the congregation. I heard the proud words of Rhonda’s father, the Rev. Steadman Bent, and watched as he and the Rev. John Giesler, who had known Rhonda since childhood, outfitted her with a new surplice. Through the viewfinder, I watched as Bishop Chris performed the ordination rite and the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller presented Rhonda to the congregation. I smiled as Rhonda’s husband and Esperanza partner Tracy presented her with a new Bible to guide her work. Seeing the swarm of clergy and lay people laying on hands to bless Rhonda in her work was inspiring. Following the ordination and installation parts of the service, Rhonda had the opportunity to address the gathered congregations for the first time as an ordained Moravian pastor. Her joy and spark came through with every word and gesture. As the ceremony came to a close and all in attendance worked their way to the fellowship hall to celebrate, there were hugs, handshakes and high-fives. The joy in the room was stratospheric; one couldn’t help but smile. As I moved through the ornate doors at the back of St. John’s, I was thankful that I hadn’t missed this wonderful gift of celebration. Yes, Sunday afternoons are for reflection and getting stuff done, but having an afternoon turn into an uplifting experience is a blessing I would never want to miss. Peace.
COMMENTARY
A Ministry of Stewardship and Education to Those Less Active and Inactive In the back of each year’s November issue
of The Moravian Magazine, the Interprovincial Board of Communication shares the annual listing of the “Statistics of the Moravian Church in the U.S. and Canada.” We are drawn to review the list in some detail each year, knowing the churches pretty well after 30 years of ministry in Districts and Provinces. Some of what we see in these numbers is, well, troubling, and thus this commentary. For most of the churches that offer their statistics regarding membership and attendance, it is clear there is a general “norm.” Not only is average worship attendance less than membership, which is not surprising, but average worship attendance is generally about one-third of membership. There are several churches that report their average worship attendance closer to half of membership. But in each setting there is certainly room for growth, especially with those who would be considered less-active or inactive. A question looms; what is a ministry of “stewardship” and “education” to those less active or inactive? If we believe a ministry of biblical stewardship and education begins
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with those who are members of the church, we therefore believe that all who at one time joined the church are vital, especially a church that is healthy. From our studies, churches that are most vital and healthy record 60 - 80 percent of their members attend worship on a weekly basis. How do they do that? The answer is…strategically. Very few of our churches have a specific strategy to reach out to, visit, invite, encourage and raise the bar when it comes to worship attendance by those less active and inactive. Indeed, it is not easy and does take work, but it is possible. To increase the percentage of those regularly attending worship, consider these points: Gary Marsh is the director of stewardship for the Northern Province; Marie Couts is the Eastern District director of Christian Education. A strategic ministry to “inactives” is available from both Marie and Gary and you may contact either of them at gmarsh@mcnp.org or mcouts@ sbcglobal.net. The Moravian
Effective, strategic and successful ministries to reach those less active are based upon our Moravian tradition of relationship and care for the individual and commands found within biblical testimony. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20) These words of Jesus are meant for all believers, not only those who regularly attend worship services. We believe that it is a command to nurture even those less active. “If a shepherd has 100 sheep and one of them has gone astray…go in search of the one that went astray…it is not the will of your Father in Heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.” (Matthew 18:12-14) We do not wait for one
whom at one time was with the flock to return to the flock on his/her own. We are called to search and make an effort to bring them back. We must also recognize that bringing back may mean to encourage and assist, as necessary, the inactive member(s) in finding a faith community in which they may actively participate in their life-long faith journey. As part of our ministries of Stewardship and Christian Education, we believe that we can achieve success and that average numbers can increase. We agree that it is very difficult to reactivate those who are inactive for many years, but it is critical to make the effort. If we reach out to them in the early stages of inactivity, it is far easier to bring them back into active participation and, thus, with the potential of becoming disciples and committed followers of Jesus. (continued on page 9) Gary Marsh and Marie Couts discuss ways to minister to less-active or inactive church members.
A MORAVIAN REFLECTION
A Moravian Life begun at the kitchen sink I n the summer of 1956, a young mother whose newborn son was about to have minor surgery paced back and forth in the kitchen of the small apartment she shared with her husband and their two other children. The operating room was booked, the surgeon was scheduled, the pre-op procedures were completed, but nagging deep memory told her that she could not offer this precious gift to the surgeon’s knife without first offering him to the Lord through the grace of baptism. The last time she was in the church of her childhood was the day she presented her first born daughter for baptism some eight years before. There was no time now for repentance nor reconciliation, she needed grace and she needed it today. The Rev. Michael Eder as a toddler (above) and preaching at the 2012 Western District Synod (right).
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Less than two blocks away was a small brick church with an odd name and a newly installed pastor. Racked with guilt, fear, and anxiety, her hands trembled as she dialed the phone; 448-4000. Ten minutes later, the young pastor stood in her kitchen bringing comfort, acceptance, and the words of grace that accompany the sacrament of baptism. Impossible to ignore was the precocious, inquisitive four year old brother whose relentless energy filled the room. Pastor Albert The Rev. Michael R. Eder is pastor of Chaska Moravian Church in Chaska, Minn.
Haupert surveyed the young miscreant and queried, “What about that one? Has he been baptized?” And so, in the kitchen sink of a two bedroom apartment across the street from a church I’d never set foot in, I was given to the Lord on July 24, 1956. Not surprisingly, my mother eventually joined the congregation that loved her before they even knew her, that responded to her need without asking anything in return. We went to Sunday school, youth fellowship, and church camp at Chetek and Inmormindo. Like so many other young people, I was confirmed and quickly thereafter discovered girls and rock ‘n roll and faded from the sight of my Moravian extended family. Thirty or more years came and went before my siblings and I returned to that familiar old sanctuary to celebrate the life of the woman who first brought us there. Again, we returned as strangers seeking grace and again the community responded with grace abundant. A dozen years later, I found myself kneeling at the front of that very same sanctuary and felt the grace flow as Bishop Kay Ward laid her hands on the same thick skull that had been so generously sprinkled in a kitchen sink a few hundred feet away so many decades ago. Grace upon grace upon grace, these are the hallmarks of my Moravian journey. If there is anything that I can do to help you on yours, I can be reached five days a week at 952.448.4000. ■
Ad Policy for The Moravian — The Moravian accepts paid advertising that is consistent with the magazine’s objectives and editorial convictions as they are stated in the purpose and mission of the Interprovincial Board of Communication. Advertisements for activities, services and products of specific interest to members of the Moravian Church have priority. The Moravian does not accept purely editorial advertisements that advocate specific ideas or issues. Articles, columns and letters to the editor are the appropriate vehicles for the presentation of ideas and issues. The Interprovincial Board of Communication is responsible for the content and design of the magazine, including advertisements. Ad rates and specifications are available www.moravian.org.
April 2013
Ministry
(continued from page 7) A successful strategy is based upon a series of visits made by leaders within the church trained to make such caring and encouraging visits. • A first visit is made after a person misses six consecutive weeks of worship attendance. • A second visit is made after missing three consecutive months of worship attendance. • A third visit is made after missing six consecutive months of worship attendance. • A fourth visit is made after missing one full year of worship attendance. • A fifth visit is made after missing two full years of worship attendance. This strategy, as well as others, is effective in activating less active members especially when people are reached in the early stages of inactivity. Finally, we recognize that we are called to minister to all God’s people — members and non-members alike — and attention to the inactive members is in no way intended to neglect the outreach to new members or the care and feeding of active members. Ministry to “inactives” is one component of the total ministry of the Church. Our hope is when we see the statistics listed in 2013, we will see some positive changes. We think this is very possible. We also believe that those not yet involved in a church, those seeking a relationship with Christ through the church, will look first at those churches healthy and vital, those that have more members attending than fewer. Again, the health and vitality we all desire for our churches is possible, and a part of it may just demand our reconsideration of our ministry to those less active and inactive. ■ 9
FULL COMMUNION
Moravian–Episcopal Coordinating Committee meets to strengthen full communion The full communion between the Moravian Church (Northern and Southern Provinces) and the Episcopal Church in America has been strengthened with the establishment of the Moravian Episcopal Coordinating Committee (MECC), which first met in January. “Finding Our Delight in the Lord,” the proposal accepted by both denominations establishing full communion, called for the creation of such a group “to assist in joint 10
planning for mission.” The Northern and Southern Provinces approved full communion between the Moravian Church and Episcopal Church during their 2010 Synods. Promoting Awareness In its first meeting on January 16 and 17, 2013 in Home Moravian Church in WinstonSalem, N.C., committee members discussed ways to promote awareness of the meaning The Moravian
of full communion in local congregations and reviewed resources available to aid in this promotion. Considerable time was spent exploring the meaning of ordination, the functions of the clergy, and the processes for placing pastors in local congregations within the two denominations. How these issues might impact the exchange of clergy between the two traditions was also reviewed. The Rev. David Guthrie, President of the Southern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference, met with the Committee to review the process whereby Moravian pastor, the Rev. Carl Southerland, has been installed as Rector of an Episcopal parish in western North Carolina (as reported in the November 2012 Moravian magazine). In the future the Committee will undertake the appointment of a task force including several committee members and others to deal with issues surrounding the exchange of clergy. This group will be charged with writing a document outlining the procedures to be followed in such an exchange modeled after the process already in place for exchanges (continued on next page)
A greater unity The full communion relationship of the Moravian Church and the Episcopal Church brings a greater unity to the Christian church. “We seek this relationship of full communion so that our mission as Christ’s church will be more effectively fulfilled and each of our denominations might be more complete because of the spiritual treasures of the other,” reads Finding Our Delight In the Lord: A Proposal for Full Communion Between the Episcopal Church; the Moravian Church Northern Province; and the Moravian Church, Southern Province. “We do this for the sake of the world so that the world may believe.” Full communion also provides for the sharing of ministry and worship. With this agreement, ordained clergy in each denomination will be able to serve in the other, allowing for the orderly interchange of ordained ministers (subject to the approval of the receiving denomination), joint worship and the celebration of Holy Communion. On a practical level, the full communion provides opportunities to share resources and mission work. Full communion agreements bring mutual cooperation and laboring together in mission work, church planting, clergy education, disaster relief and other areas of common endeavors. The communion also of(continued on next page)
The Rev. Dr. David A. Schattschneider, dean emeritus of Moravian Theological Seminary, is a member of the MoravianEpiscopal Coordinating Committee. He lives in Bethlehem, Pa. Photo at left: a stained glass panel showing a symbol familiar to Moravians from the Cathedral Church of the Nativity Episcopal Church in Bethlehem; Photos in sidebar from the ceremony marking the MoravianEpiscopal full communion. April 2013
(continued from previous page) fers opportunities to enhance the life and ministry of local congregations. In pursuing full communion with another church, both denominations remain faithful to Christ’s will for his church. It is important to remember, however, that “full communion” is not a merger. There will still be differences between the denominations, just as there are differences in individual churches, provinces and dioceses of any denomination. Differences in structure, doctrine, liturgy and positions on social and ethical issues may require each church to speak for itself at times. This full communion maintains what makes each denomination special or unique to its members; it is about the unity of Christ’s church, not the uniformity of practice. The two will mutually recognize and respect each other as part of the one holy Christian and apostolic church, which affirms its faith through the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed. They will also cooperate in common Christian mission through full communion in faith, life, and witness. In addition, both denominations mutually recognize each other’s practice of the dominical sacraments, thus allowing for joint worship, eucharistic fellowship, and exchangeability of members. They also recognize the validity of the ministerial orders of the other church, allowing for the orderly exchange of ordained ministers subject to the regulations of church order and practice of each church. ■
(continued from previous page) between Moravian pastors and those of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Coordinating Committee Members The Rev. Janel Rice (pastor, Central Church, Bethlehem) and the Rev. Dr. David A. Schattschneider (Dean Emeritus, Moravian Theological Seminary) are Northern Province committee members. The Southern Province members are the Rt. Rev. Wayne Burkette (retired PEC President) and Ms. Liz Leonard (Wake Forest Medical School administrator). Episcopal Church members include Ms. Josephine Hicks (attorney from Charlotte, NC), the Rev. Jonah Kendall (Rector, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Durham, NC), the Rt. Rev. Steven A. Miller (Bishop of the Diocese of Milwaukee), and the Rev. Maria Tjeltveit (Rector, Episcopal Church of the Mediator, Allentown, Pa. and Ecumenical Officer for the Diocese of Bethlehem). Bishop Miller and Rev. Tjeltveit were members of the original Theological Dialog group which wrote the full communion proposal so their involvement brings continuity to this new effort. The Rev. Margaret Rose of the Episcopal Church Center staff also helped facilitate this initial meeting. Miller and Schattschneider will serve as Committee co-chairs. As the Moravian-Episcopal Coordinating Committee continues its work helping the two churches live into their full communion relationship, they will share findings and initiatives. In addition, we at The Moravian Magazine are interested in hearing more about how full communion is happening on a congregational level. We invite you to share your stories through pubs@mcnp.org. ■ The Moravian
LAY SEMINARY
Lay Seminary seeks to answer “Moravian Theology—What is it today?” For nearly 50 years, the Lay Seminary pro-
gram has brought knowledge of church, theology, the Bible and more to interested Moravians in the Southern Province. The Fall Lay Seminary, “The Big Picture: A View of Modern Moravian Theology,” continued that tradition with an overview of modern Moravian theology from the Rt. Rev. Wayne Burkette.
Mallie Graham, Chair of the Lay Seminary, Member of Home Church, Winston-Salem. “I guess this is my last article about Lay Seminary,” says Mallie. “I have enjoyed the work that the committee has done. Rick Sides and I worked very closely over the last few years for some very interesting topics. New learning experiences are on the way through the Comenius Learning Series!” Photo above: Bishop Wayne Burkette leads the Fall 2012 Lay Seminary at Fries Memorial Church in WinstonSalem, N.C. April 2013
Working to answer the question, “Why study theology?” Bishop Burkette, former PEC president, former Salem Academy and College administrator, scholar, pastor, and minister, led a discussion of Moravian theology and where we are with it today. Most of the critical issues of our day, including topics ranging from war and peace to human sexuality, are informed by our understanding of God and the scriptures, and how we interpret them. The Lay Seminary session was opportunity to take a closer look at Moravians today and what we believe. A document review Using documents from North American Synods, statements from the Moravian Interprovincial Faith and Order Commission, the Ground of the Unity and the Covenant for Christian Living to lead our thinking, Bishop (continued on next page) 13
(continued from previous page) Burkette led the day-and-a-half session with humor and insight. “A conclusion that I came to is that it is in Scripture that we find the base of our beliefs. From the Ancient Unity until the present age this appears to be truth,” says Mallie Graham, a member of Home Moravian Church and the chair of the Lay Seminary committee. “But we were also reminded that Scripture is interpreted in many ways and that no one interpretation is the only prescribed way.” “This year the topic caught my attention so I decided to attend because I wanted to know more about the trends in modern Moravian theology,” said Carole C. Martin of Raleigh Moravian Church in Raleigh, N.C. “The discussions challenged me to think deeper about some of the belief we take at face value; professing, but never really thinking about. “As Christians living in the 21st century, we deal with people who will question our beliefs so we need to know what we as Moravians believe and why,” continued Carol. “To be effective Christians in the 21st century, we must not be afraid to question and be open to discussions with others’ belief systems. We must think critically, pray, study the scriptures diligently, and be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit so that the love of Jesus can be shared with others.”
Carol Martin, Raleigh Moravian
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Essentials, non-essentials During his teaching, Brother Burkette continued that in our Moravian Church we often talk about the essentials and nonessentials of our Faith. The essentials we find in scripture to be our belief in the Grace of God, the saving worth of Jesus Christ and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Moravian
A second category was added, that is ministerial which would be the ministry of the church pointing us toward salvation through Jesus Christ. And then the nonessentials or incidentals which are those things like traditions of Lovefeast and the coffee and the bun, decorations, etc, all the things that help us to feel comfortable in our worship experience and church life. Don Frey of the Home Church congregation writes, “My understanding of Moravian theology has been from reading Moravian history. So, I was eager to learn about recent developments, and discovered that they have reaffirmed the best insights of the older theology. Our speaker noted the recent return to speaking of essentials, ministerial and incidentals, instead of just essentials and nonessentials. The ancient Unity talked this way, and it provides a way to avoid sharp either/ or polarizations. “There was a lengthy discussion on what was deemed essential, and what was ministerial, especially in regard to the role of scriptures. (Note: the word ministerial dates back to the Ancient Unity.) We are all attached to the biblical record, and it is a great comfort to us, both in our studies at church and in our homes. The Bible is our guide.” “I pondered the Bible being ministerial. Clearly Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the Word made Flesh—manifest. I thought of being marooned on a desert island. What book would I want, and if I could only have one? Clearly, I would want a Bible.”
Shirley Bovender of Konnoak Hill Moravian
Wayne Burkette discusses Moravian theology
Nancy Miller, Calvary Moravian
Grounded in Scripture More than 40 Southern Province Moravians attended this Lay Seminary, hosted at Fries Me(continued on next page) April 2013
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Nancy and Charlie Miller, Calvary Moravian
Elizabeth Sides, Home Moravian
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morial Church in Winston-Salem. Throughout the day and a half presentation, Bishop Burkette injected his perspective and insights to help explain the theological underpinnings of recent Moravian resolutions and the work of the Faith and Order Commission. At the same time, he used those same documents to clarify a view of current Moravian theology. “It is interesting that respondents and I centered our comments on theology being grounded in the scriptures through the ages,” said Faye Gardner, Oak Grove Moravian. “Also, that throughout our history our scholars have longed for the Lord’s leading through the Holy Spirit to “fine tune” our theology. I believe that this Lay Seminary, limited to only three sessions — about seven hours — confirmed our continual seeking truth, truth that will bring us into a closer relationship with the Savior, Jesus Christ.” New name, expanded program The Lay Seminary has served our Southern Province with varied educational opportunities for more than 50 Years. As this article goes to press Lay Seminary is getting a new name and expanded program. You will now want to look forward to The Comenius Learning Series (CLS). The next event sponsored under this umbrella is “ShareFest: These Our Greater Gifts.” This program will take place at Advent Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, on May 18, 10 a.m. till noon. This will be followed by the CLS Summer Conference: “Comenius for a Complicated World,” July 5 - 7 at Laurel Ridge. Featured speakers are the Rev. Dr. Craig Atwood and Dr. Diane Lipsett. For more information, contact the Board of Cooperative Ministries, 336.722.8126. ■ Faye Gardner, Oak Grove Moravian and Fran Huetter, Home Moravian
The Moravian
MORAVIAN MUSIC
Sing…Play…Listen… At the 24th Moravian Music Festival! Only three months remain before the 24th Moravian Music Festival in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, July 14-20! A lively volunteer committee chaired by Rebecca Kleintop Owens is working hard to ensure that the Festival experience for attendees will be even better than hoped for! Here are a few highlights to whet your appetite: For the younger crowd The Children’s Program at this year’s Festival will feature a new musical highlighting the story of Moravian missions around the world. Come along as we travel by ship with Count Zinzendorf to various corners of the world and experience different Moravian customs and musical styles. The musical text for this exciting new piece was written by Brother John Wallace (pastor of First Moravian Church in Dover, Ohio), with Sisters Sharon Benson and Gwyn Michel providing the song texts. Sister
Myra Jones will coordinate the children’s program. (Note: The Moravian Music Foundation and Interprovincial Board of Communication are exploring publishing the musical for use by congregations in the future.) While Youth will participate in the Festival chorus or band, there will also be additional (continued on next page) Don Kemmerer will lead the trombone choir at the 24th Moravian Music Festival.
The Rev. Dr. Nola Reed Knouse is director of The Moravian Music Foundation. April 2013
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(continued from previous page) activities for young people guided by Sister Lynnette Delbridge and Brother Andy Meckstroth. Thanks to generous grants from the United Brethren’s Church of Staten Island and Bethlehem Area Moravians, there is no tuition charge for the children’s program or youth program, and meals will be partially subsidized. However, children and youth still need to register, so we can plan for meals and activities. Singing and Playing The Festival Chorus will present two concerts this Festival — one will consist solely of the first modern performance of the Easter Cantata by Ernst Wilhelm Wolf, and the other of Moravian anthems, solos, and instrumental music. While Wolf was not a Moravian, his works were popular among the 18th- and 19th-century Moravians, with movements of his Easter Cantata found in Moravian musical collections as far away as South Africa and Labrador, as well as in Bethlehem and Winston-Salem and in the Moravian congregations of Europe. His Easter Cantata is a major work, and will
be presented in a new edition by Brother David Blum. The Festival Chorus will be directed by Dr. John Sinclair and accompanied by Sister Susan Keck Foster, along with an orchestra which includes many Moravian members! Music for the Festival Band is still being selected by conductor Allen Frank. It will reflect a wide variety of styles and sources, and include several pieces written on Moravian themes. In addition, Festival-goers may choose to participate in one of four activities, including the Festival Handbell Choir; the Festival Trombone Choir; Instrumental Chamber Music; or Choral Music Reading Sessions. Each track will offer participants a chance to learn new music, rehearse with musicians from around the globe and perform for Moravianmusic lovers. Learning and Worshipping Festival Seminars and Workshops are designed to broaden the knowledge and appreciation of Moravian music. A variety of topics provide historical background as well as useful “how to” techniques to improve one’s musical abilities. In 2013, Festival participants have the opportunity to improve their singing and choral conducting, hone worship planning and leadership skills, learn more about Finale and Sibelius music software and more. Worship and devotions each morning will be led by the Moravian bishops from the Lehigh Valley area. A treat for the ears If you can’t participate during the entire week or aren’t musically inclined, please plan to come to the evening concerts, which will include an opening Lovefeast, an organ recital by Rebecca Kleintop Owens, a concert by Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass, two
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The Moravian
Sing to the Lord a New Song Each person registering for the Festival will receive a copy of Sing to the Lord a New Song: A New Moravian Songbook. This is the publication you’ve been hearing about for about three years now, and will include some 80 newly-written songs by Moravian composers and songwriters. Designed to present a fresh look at what “Moravian Music” means, Sing to the Lord presents works selected to represent a broad spectrum of Moravian music. Old-style hymns, worship and praise songs, camp tunes and everything in between are represented in the new songbook. Several poems, liturgies and other performance pieces are also included. Sing to the Lord a New Song will be produced and sold by the Moravian Music Foundation and Interprovincial Board of Communication. Watch for more information on this exciting new work in July. In photo above, Nola Knouse, Gwyn Michel and Tina Giesler review selections for the new Moravian songbook with other committee members via computer.
choral/orchestral concerts, the Festival band concert, and a closing Singstunde featuring the festival trombone choir, handbell choir, and chamber music ensembles. The concert schedule is available on the Festival website. (All concerts are free except for Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass; separate tickets will be available for this concert.) Registration Registrations are rolling into the Moravian Music Foundation office—register soon to request your preferred workshops (and preApril 2013
ferred suitemates, if you’re staying on campus)! Registration information is available on the Moravian Music Festival website or by mail from the Moravian Music Foundation office. Call either office (Bethlehem 610.866.3340; Winston-Salem 336.725.0651) for more information or to receive your registration materials in the mail! Please register by June 1 so we can be sure to be ready for you! Please visit the Festival website for more information and frequent updates — www.MoravianMusicFestival.org. We’ll see you in Bethlehem! ■ 19
IN OUR CONGREGATIONS
Open House shares old Moravian traditions in a creative new way
Editor’s note: Yes, this is the kind of story I’d typically select for November or December. However, when I read Sue Koenig’s description of Graceham Moravian Church’s Christmas event this year—and the planning time it took to make it happen – I thought it would be a good add for now to get others thinking about it. Enjoy!—Mike
In July of last year, members of the Grace-
ham Moravian Church met to begin planning A Moravian Christmas Homecoming. Mike and Myra Miller envisioned an “open house” to which members and their guests, and people from the community, would come for an afternoon of hands-on learning about Moravian Christmas traditions, and provide an opportunity to get acquainted with the Moravians. Mike and Myra, who have a heart for evangelism, wanted to involve as many people as possible from the congregation,
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and encourage them to invite others to participate. There would be something for every age group to learn, experience and enjoy. The Millers offered the gift of their home for the event which was held on Saturday, December 8. Each room of their three-story, handicapped-accessible home, the porch and the garage, were “learning centers” decorated in a Moravian motif. Twenty-four docents, teens and adults, some in Moravian attire, welcomed visitors and enthusiastically explained the symbols, traditions and activities in their assigned area. Other members baked sugarcake and cookies. An extensive collection of Moravian artifacts was assembled from among the personal collections of the Millers, members of the congregation and from the church. Moravian brass music played to greet visitors as they approached the front door of the Miller home. In the entrance hall and sitting area of the living room, visitors received a brief overview of Moravian history, and what to expect as they were directed from room to room. On the first floor, 18th
The Moravian
century trombones from the church were on display, along with a desktop putz in the study; large Moravian stars of various styles were presented in a bedroom where several teens told the history of Moravian stars. Moravian china inscribed with the words of the Moravian blessing and motto, an Advent wreath, a Chrismon tree with handmade ornaments and a paper Moravian star treetop, awaited visitors in the dining area. Moravian sugarcake and beverages were served with gracious hospitality in the kitchen, and then it was off to the adjoining garage to discover how Moravian candles are made. The lovely fragrance of beeswax greeted visitors who watched experienced candlemakers pour melted beeswax into metal molds strung with wicks, and then carefully remove the candles from the molds. Everyone was invited to do a bit of polishing of the newly-pulled candles. Upstairs, docents explained the feather and pyramid trees, made by Mike Miller, and decorated with Moravian Christmas symbols created by Myra Miller; a woven quilt made in Graceham in 1835; and old children’s toys. There were trees trimmed with tiny Moravian stars, afghans, books, handcrafted dolls, paintings and photographs, and a child’s baptismal gown, all placed in nooks and crannies, across beds and stair railings, to the delight of all who came. A video April 2013
recording of children from the congregation singing Morning Star provided an inspiring background. Children were “right at home,” on the lower level, where they were invited to make wooly sheep, create a bookmark with Moravian symbols, and dress in traditional 18th century Moravian attire for picture-taking in front of a real Cookie Tree. Other members shared lots of smiles and laughter while demonstrating folding Moravian stars and trimming candles. Members from Covenant Moravian in York, Pa, and Castleton Hill Moravian, Staten Island, were among those who came to visit. At the conclusion of their Moravian Christmas Homecoming tour, everyone received a hearty and heart-felt “thank you,” a trimmed Moravian candle in a silver clip candleholder, and an invitation to the congregation’s Christmas services. Sharing Christ’s love and hospitality was at the heart of A Moravian Christmas Homecoming. It was a joy for the Graceham congregation to share the deep meaning of our Christmas symbols and traditions, and to welcome others home to the Moravian Church. ■ The Rev. Sue Koenig is pastor of Graceham Moravian Church in Thurmont, Md.
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IN OUR CONGREGATIONS
Charlotte-area Moravian women share “Springs of Life” Saturday February 16th started out with a spring snow in North Carolina but it did not dampen the festive hearts of the women from area Moravian churches that gathered in Huntersville, N.C. to share a Woman’s Day. The first one had been held just a year ago and was so well received, it was almost certain that there would be another one this year. New Beginnings, Peace, New Hope and The Little Church on the Lane Moravian churches as well as The Palmetto and Morning Star Fellowships were represented this year. Each woman received a spring decorated bag to help keep up with the goodies they gathered through the day. Over a continental breakfast, participants gathered and met new friends and renewed acquaintances from prior meetings. Pastor Chris Thore welcomed the women and his wife Charlotte had a warm welcome for the ladies too. 22
In opening devotions led by Joyce Vance from Peace Moravian, we considered having a clean heart and were reminded that our triune God is our very own cardiologist and that only He can open the spring of life that flows from our heart. Keynote Speaker Lucetta Zaytoun, a professional life coach, speaker, writer and founder of Your Life In Bold, LLC., spoke about how she recreated her life after having raised six children. She took the opportunity that God had given her and traveled for a year through 13 developing nations and worked closely with a Masai tribe in Africa helping to create a micro loan system for women there. In her talk, Lucetta told us that if you enabled a man you would help him and his family and maybe even his village. If you enable a woman, she is going to teach her children and her grandchildren and she is going to The Moravian
educate her daughters. Girls are often not educated because they are married off at an early age and all that she is and all that she has will belong to the man she is married to or to his family. Part of the morning was spent investigating our values and who we are as individuals. Our speaker reminded us that God wants us to live a life of joy and a life that He has designed especially for each of us. He has given each of us everything that we need to do that. We are created to be in fellowship and we need to get comfortable being uncomfortable. We discussed things and ways that we can take what we have into the world around us for Christ so that our lives will make a difference. Julie Flowers, a North Carolina Cooperative Extension Horticulture Agent (with the perfect name for her job) led a lunch time session on creating an edible spring pot. Each participant received a packet of seed to take home and plant. Rev. Betty Helms from New Hope Moravian Church led the closing devotion “Guard Your Heart” from Proverbs 4:20-27. Through her devotion, we were encouraged to seek a clean heart and be willing to share that heart guarded against the world but willing to be stretched in service to Christ. The women of New Beginnings Moravian Church are to be thanked for spearheading this event. There are already requests to have another one next spring. Watch for it! ■
Julie Flowers of the N.C. Cooperative Extension teaches a session for Moravian women.
Helen Gulledge is a member at The Little Church on the Lane in Charlotte, N.C. Photo above opposite: left to right, Paddy Wigney, Charlotte Snyder, Betty King, Betty Helms, Barbara Garwood, Tamra Thomas, Malissa Bumgardner and Helen Gulledge. April 2013
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ADOPT-A-VILLAGE
Orphan Education in the Sikonge District
An update from Bill Hoffman of Adopt-a-Village Orphans are a social and financial liability
in the developing third world, both to their families and to their country. If ignored or abandoned, these children will become an increasing burden on their surrounding society. Because of their large numbers, they will make a significant impact on the future of Africa. The Moravian Church of Western Tanzania’s orphan program began in 2001. Functioning as both Christian outreach and an effort at evangelism, it provides food, clothing, medical care, and educational assistance to all orphans regardless of religious affiliation. Unlike most African nations, primary school (grades 1-7) is free in Tanzania, but the students are responsible for purchasing their own uniforms and school supplies. The program provides these items to the orphans, thus enabling many who were previously unable to take advantage of a free primary education to do so. Most encouraging, several children in their mid teens, in spite of their age, have returned to grade school. In 2005, Rehema Salumu finished the seventh grade and became the first orphan to pass the government’s secondary school entrance exam. The tuition and additional fees required for secondary education are beyond
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the reach of most Tanzanians, but recognizing this child’s potential, Mama Kimwaga, the head of the orphan program, asked if a donor could be found to allow her to continue her education. Central Moravian’s Busy Workers generously provided the necessary funding. One year later Dr. Benedict Ruhamya, speaking to a large gathering of Moravians in Bethlehem, made an impassioned plea to include secondary school scholarships as a routine part of the orphan program. Central’s Twenty Minute Society agreed with his sentiments and donated the necessary funding to begin. With additional support from the newly created “Adopt-a-Village,” secondary school education became an standard part of orphan care. Four years ago Asha Mikadadi, a Muslim orphan, began attending a secondary school for specially gifted girls located over two hundred kilometers from her home. She did exceptionally well, and this year became the first girl in the program to enter high school. While unique in her achievement, she is only one of 439 orphans who are using these scholarships to continue their education beyond primary school. Lenard Sindano and Paulo John both graduated from high school in 2010 and became The Moravian
the first orphans eligible to enter the university. After discussion with local leader Mama Kimwaga and review of the program’s finances, it was decided to fund students’ ongoing education needs as long as they fulfilled the government’s continuing education requirements and were enrolled in a government school. In April of this year Lenard Sindano graduated from teachers college; he will begin his career as a secondary school teacher this summer. Paulo John will finish his three year program in education next spring. Not all students that finish primary school continue on an academic track. Like many others, Justin Oscar, an orphan from the village of Lembeli, passed the secondary school entrance exam and enrolled at the vocational educational training authority, known as VETA. After three years of training he graduated in 2010 as a professional driver, an important and well paid position in Tanzania. He now has a secure job working for a corporation in the city of Tabora. Orphans account for over 15 percent of the Tanzanian youth population. Due to the country’s poverty, which is exacerbated within these broken families, they rarely experience opportunities equal to those of their nonorphaned peers. By providing these children with the financial resources necessary to remain in school, the orphan program gives them the chance to become productive citizens, advancing not only their own lives but contributing to their country as well. ■ Bill Hoffman is a member of Central Moravian Church and leads the Adopta-Village program. He provides frequent reports on the work of the church in Tanzania, home to more than half of the Moravians worldwide. April 2013
IN OUR COMMUNITIES
Organization Honoring Moravian Missionary Plans Bicycle Trail and Park System Moravian missionary David Zeisberger for-
ever changed the history of Ohio when he founded the state’s first town, Schoenbrunn, on May 2, 1772. In the village located near New Philadelphia, Ohio, Zeisberger and fellow missionaries built the first church and the first school where they ministered to Native Americans of the Delaware tribe. Evidence of Zeisberger’s work remains today with six Moravian churches within Tuscarawas County, Ohio, and the state’s longest running outdoor historical drama, Trumpet in the Land. Other villages founded by the Moravian missionary are still active communities and include Gnadenhutten and Goshen. The legacy left by Moravian Missionary David Zeisberger continues with a group of individuals, Moravians and others, who seek to better their communities and honor the area’s history by creating a new bicycle and walking trail and park system. The group, Zeisberger Trails and Parks (ZTAP), formed in January 2011.
In honor of Zeisberger ZTAP is dreaming big, but will start small. “Our plan includes trails in the Village of Tuscarawas, Warwick Township, the Village of Gnadenhutten, a connecting trail between the two villages and a new 25-acre park in the Village of Tuscarawas,” said ZTAP president, Joe Krocker. “Thanks to local donors who have contributed over $13,000, we were able to hire the Floyd Browne Group, a design firm that has developed much of the Towpath Trail in Ohio, to create a comprehensive plan.” A 25-acre park will be constructed near 26
the Snyder’s Landing Boat Launch, along the Tuscarawas River near the village of Tuscarawas, and will include a pavilion and picnic tables, fishing areas, restrooms and more. Later, two baseball fields, a multi-use field for football or soccer, playground, and other trails will be added. ZTAP has partnered with many agencies to complete their goal including local government officials, the Friends of Tuscarawas County Parks and the Tuscarawas County Historical Society to name a few. The Ohio and Erie Canalway Coalition has been working with ZTAP to develop the plan and will be assisting with the building process. OECC has worked with many communities to build the approximate 100-mile Towpath Trail, which has been recognized by the U.S. Congress as a National Heritage Area. “We need to raise $100,000 in local grants and donations,” said Krocker. “This will allow us to apply for state and federal grants. With a lot of hard work from our volunteers, careful planning and successful grant writing, we will be able to build 2.15 miles of trail and start working on the 25-acre park in this phase.” “Our overall goal is to create a network of trails and parks between New Philadelphia and Newcomerstown, linking the communities of Goshen, Wainwright, Tuscarawas, Gnadenhutten, Lock Seventeen and Port Washington along the way,” added Krocker. “This network will enhance recreational opportunities, tourism, healthy lifestyles and property values as already demonstrated in many communities across the country.” The Moravian
A close-up of the stone which marks the grave of Moravian Missionary David Zeisberger. Zeisberger is buried at the site of his last mission, Goshen, which is near New Philadelphia, Ohio.
Another project the group may focus on in the future is the extension of the Tappan-Moravian scenic byway to connect with ZTAP trails to highlight the Moravian history of the area. The Tappan-Moravian scenic byway currently encompasses 55 miles along roadways that wind through beautiful landscapes and around the 2,350 acre Tappan Lake. ZTAP has also participated in the annual spring cleanup at the Goshen Mission Cemetery where Zeisberger is buried. They rode bicycles in area parades to gain public awareness and will be organizing several fundraisers in 2013. Like Zeisberger, who persevered through many disrupting events to his mission work due to the Revolutionary War, ZTAP hasn’t let the dwindling economy deter them from their goals. Their most immediate concern is securing funds to have a stretch of potential trail surveyed so that work can begin. More information on ZTAP can be found at their website at www.ztap.org. ■
A winter view of some of the restored cabins at Schoenbrunn Village which was founded by Moravian Missionaries working with the Delaware tribe.
Some young cemetery clean-up volunteers hold the ZTAP banner which is used by the group when they participate in local parades and festivals.
About the authors: Cindy Davis and Teri Stein are sisters with an interest in history. They grew up in Tuscarawas County, Ohio near the final resting place of David Zeisberger in Goshen and the other towns he founded in the area including Schoenbrunn and Gnadenhutten. They are members of the Zeisberger Trails and Parks group. Photo right: Joe Krocker, ZTAP organizer, presents the groups’ plan to build new trails and parks at a community meeting. April 2013
OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS Moravian Music Sunday April 28, 2013 The fifth Sunday of Easter, April 28, 2013, has been designated as Moravian Music Sunday. The purpose of this observance is to help all congregations become more familiar with our rich heritage of Moravian music. Music is an expression of faith, and thus continuing creativity is to be encouraged.
NORTHERN PROVINCE Presbyterial Consecration Brother Kurt Liebenow, presently serving as pastor for Christian Faith Moravian Church, DeForest, Wisconsin will be consecrated a presbyter of the Moravian Church on June 23, 2013. Bishop Paul A. Graf will officiate at the service, which will be held at Christian Faith Moravian Church. Retirement Brother William Surber requested and was granted permission to retire from the active call of the Moravian Church effective October 1, 2013. Brother Surber was ordained a deacon of the Moravian Church December 18, 1977 and has served the church in pastorates in New York (Tremont Terrace) and Ohio (Fry’s Valley, Uhrichsville). The church is grateful for his thirty-seven years of faithful service. Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference 28
SOUTHERN PROVINCE Ordination Zachary Dease, a candidate for ordination who completed his M. Div. at Moravian Theological Seminary in May 2012, has accepted the call to become pastor of Mayodan Moravian Church, Mayodan, N.C. He was ordained by bishop Sam Gray, Sunday, March 17, at New Philadelphia Moravian Church (his home congregation), and installed as pastor at Mayodan on Sunday, March 24. Retirement Brother Tom Shelton has requested and been given permission to retire from the active ministry of the Moravian church effective June 30, 2013. After graduating from the Moravian Theological Seminary, Tom was ordained a deacon June 11, 1978 at Clemmons Moravian in Clemmons, N.C. where he served as Associate Pastor for 2 years. Brother Shelton served as pastor at Rolling Hills in Longwood, Fla. for four years. He was consecrated a presbyter on October 14, 1984 at Friedberg Moravian in Winston-Salem, N.C. where he has served faithfully for 23 years. Tom was a member of the Provincial Elders’ Conference from 1998-2006. The Provincial Elders’ Conference expresses gratitude to Tom and Lillian for their dedicated service to the Moravian Church over the past 35 years and wishes them many blessings in retirement. The Moravian
OBITUARY
The Rt. Rev. Milo A. Loppnow
Brother Milo A. Loppnow died at Watertown,
Wisconsin, February 4, 2013, at the age of 99. Born January 13, 1914 in St. Charles, Min. he was the son of William and Doretta (Penz) Loppnow. Brother Loppnow attended public schools in Minnesota and graduated from Moravian College and Theological Seminary in 1940. He was ordained a Deacon in the Moravian ministry September 1, 1940 and consecrated a Presbyter September 26, 1945. He was elected bishop of the Moravian Unity and consecrated on October 4, 1970.
He was united in marriage to Gertrude Stoltz February 6, 1942 in Edmonton, Alberta. Together they served pastorates in Wisconsin (Rudolph, Veedum, DeForest, Lakeview, Lake Mills) and Minnesota (Waconia, Zoar). Brother Loppnow also served as Chaplain and Director of Development for Marquardt Manor as well as Interim Director for the Wisconsin Council of Churches. He further served the Moravian Church Northern Province as a member of the Western District Executive Board (1955-1965) and president of the Western District Executive Board and vice-president of the Provincial Elders’ Conference (1965-1978). In 1980 he received the John Hus Alumni Award from Moravian Theological Seminary. He entered into retirement June 30, 1981. His sons, Donald, Bruce and David; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren survive Brother Loppnow. He was predeceased by his wife, Gertrude. A memorial service was held February 16, 2013 at Watertown Moravian Church, Watertown, Wisconsin with the Rev. Barbara Berg officiating. Burial was in the Ebenezer Moravian Church Cemetery in Watertown. ■
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To order online, visit store.moravian.org or call 1.800.732.0591 ext. 38 April 2013
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UPCOMING EVENTS April 12-13 • Youth Ministry Weekend Moravian Theological Seminary, Bethlehem, PA For anyone working with youth and young adults (especially leadership teams including young people themselves!), the event includes the 2013 Zeisberger Memorial Lectures on Sustainable Youth Ministry, on Friday April 12, and “Catch and Release: Youth Ministry in Church and Community” conference on Saturday, April 13. in the Bahnson Center of Moravian Theological Seminary. For more information and to register, visit www.moravianseminary.edu or call 610.861.1516. April 19-21 • Southern Province Latino Ministries Conference New Beginnings and Peace Moravian Churches, Charlotte, NC The 2013 Latino Ministries Conference brings together Moravians from across the province to share and learn with each other about this ministry. Speakers will include Phil and Eunice Raiford, Rev. Russell May, Friedberg Youth Mission Team, and Joyce Brooks, among others. An open forum near the end of the conference will allow attendees to share hopes, dreams, and concerns for Latino Ministries. For more information, visit www.moravianbcm.org. Saturday, May 18 • ShareFest Sponsored by the Southern Province Board of Cooperative Minisitries Come & share the bright spots in your church’s ministry! See what other congregations are doing in their faith communities. Connect with other Moravian congregations & RCCs, share your “greater gifts” of ministry and discover great 30
ideas to take home with you. 10 a.m. to noon at Advent Moravian Church in Winston-Salem. For more information, visit www.moravianbcm.org or call 336.722.8126. May 17-19 • Proclaiming the Moravian Story Mt. Morris Camp & Conference Center The Western District Executive Board is offering “Proclaiming the Moravian Story.” Hosted by noted Moravian scholar and Seminary professor the Rev. Dr. Craig Atwood, this two-day, district-wide workshop explores the foundation of Moravian theology and tradition and its application today. Workshop attendees will also learn how to share that story— and their own personal faith stories—with their families, their congregations, their communities, and the world! For more information, contact Karen Buchholz at Karen@mcnp.org, or visit www.moravianwest.org. May 28-31 • Interprovincial Moravian Ministers Retreat Harrisonburg, Virginia All active and retired Moravian clergy are invited to attend, as well as lay and clergy members of the Provincial Elders’ Conferences and District Boards. Our three days together will include several sessions with the Rev. Dr. Will Willimon, a recipient of an honorary doctorate from Moravian Theological Seminary and who is known as one of our time’s most effective preachers. The event will also feature times of worship, optional afternoon small group sessions, and plenty of time to build new relationships and renew older friendships. For more information, visit www.moravian.org. The Moravian
God’s legacy is the GIFT OF LOVE. What will yours be?
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S A PEOPLE OF FAITH, Moravians know our work can serve God far beyond our lifetimes. With careful planning, our money can do the same. The Moravian Ministries Foundation’s GiftLegacy program helps individuals, churches and agencies create plans for giving that support the ministries they care about most — now and in the future. GiftLegacy offers confidential consultation to individuals and tools to help meet personal and charitable financial goals. For churches and agencies, GiftLegacy helps structure planned giving programs that resonate with congregations and supporters. In keeping with our mission, the Moravian Ministries Foundation GiftLegacy services are always offered free of charge. Contact us today to discuss your charitable legacy.
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