Moravian Magazine • November 2010 by Mike Riess

On the cover: Thoughts, words and work from the 2010 Southern Province Synod are shared during the weekend’s final worship. Photo: Mike Riess

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

Member, Associated Church Press

In This Issue Special Feature: Southern Province Synod 2010 8 “Behold, God Is Making All Things New” Southern Province Synod 2010 10 Synod resolutions address Province’s financial, constitutional, human resource needs 13 Moravian Church, Southern Province enters full communion with Episcopal Church 15 Moravian Church enters Covenant Partnership with the Presbyterian Church USA 16 Southern Province Covenant Teams develop statements of the future 18 Southern Province implements new Provincial Structure 22 David Guthrie elected president Southern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference Moravian Music 5 Once He Came in Blessing: Moravian brass equivalent of a men’s chorus sounds forth again Our Clergy 6 Northern Province clergy share Cup of Covenant in Wisconsin Environmental Stewardship 24 SunCatcher brings cutting edge greenhouse to Laurel Ridge

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>.

November 2010

Moravian Archives 26 Artists put modern twist on “The Health of Thy Countenance” In Every Issue 4 Ponderings: Miles offer time to think 27 Official Provincial Elders’ News 30 Obituaries 34 Statistics of the Moravian Church in U.S. & Canada

PONDERINGS

(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) November 2010, Vol. 41, No. 9 Publications Agreement No. 40036408 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Express Messenger International, PO Box 25058, London, Ontario N6C6A8, email: <emi@exmessenger.com>

Miles offer time to think On the 610-mile trip from Bethlehem to Black Mountain, N.C., I had a lot of time to think. Sure, the radio offered the occasional interruption. But for the most part, the hours driving the Interstates through beautiful scenery had me lost in my thoughts. As the miles went by, my mind settled on the work that was to come. I was on my way to the Southern Province 2010 Synod — four days of discernment, discussion and decisions by delegates from the congregations and fellowships that make up the Moravian Church in the southern U.S. I was looking forward to meeting many new people and re-connecting with others who had welcomed me during my first four months. As I drove on, the central theme of the upcoming Synod came to mind: “Behold, God Is Making All Things New.” At a special Synod last year, the Province had agreed to restructure itself. The coming weekend would see many discussions that would help prepare the Province for these changes and develop a strategic vision for the future. I knew going in that there were many topics that required resolution, from ecumenical partnerships to financial considerations, constitutional changes to human resources structures. This was going to be work — but important work that would have long-reaching implications for the health and growth of the Province. Three months earlier, I had attended the Northern Province Synod and learned so much about our Church. The further I drove toward the South, the more I was looking forward to gaining additional perspectives and knowledge of Moravians. And the weekend didn’t disappoint. As I wound the rental car back down the long driveway of Blue Ridge Assembly for the drive home, I knew I had been in the right place — the right place to learn, the right place to meet, the right place to watch firsthand as the Southern Province discerned what God meant when he said, “Behold, I make all things new.” 4

Mike Riess, Editor, The Moravian

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. Make checks payable in U.S. funds to The Moravian. 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: 17,800 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, Advertising Coordinator/ Communication Assistant Interprovincial Board of Communication Gary Kniskern, Paul Peucker Chair Adam Pristas Jane Burcaw Richard Sides Jane Carmichael Valerie Wagner Lance Fox Jill Westbrook Paul Knouse Address all correspondence regarding articles, subscriptions, or advertising to The Moravian, PO Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245 FAX: 610.866.9223 Phone: 610.867.0594 800.732.0591 e-mail: <pubs@mcnp.org> <www.moravian.org>

The Moravian

MORAVIAN MUSIC

Once He Came in Blessing The Moravian brass equivalent of a men’s chorus sounds forth again! The warmth of spring can make it hard to think about Advent and Christmas music. But the Moravian Music Foundation found ways to get into the spirit to create a new disc full of beautiful music for the Holidays. Recorded over the unusually warm spring weekend of April 23-25 in the Smith Saal at Salemtowne, this new recording of Advent and Christmas tunes is the Moravian Music Foundation’s latest release. “Once He Came in Blessing” features 38 tunes, ranging from “Ave Hierarchia,” a tune from Michael Weisse’s 1531 Gesangbüchlein, long associated with Jan Roh’s text “Once He Came in Blessing” to “Advent,” J. Fred. Wolle’s 1888 tune for the same text; from “Nicht So Traurig,” a 17th-century tune by Johann Georg Ebeling sung to “Veiled in Darkness Judah Lay,” with text by Douglas LeTell Rights, to “Pfohl,” a tune composed by Bessie Whittington (Mrs. J. Kenneth) Pfohl for that same text. Of course you hear the Moravian favorites, “Morning Star,” “Softly the Night Is Sleeping,” and “Hosanna;” and you also hear more widely known carols like “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear,” “Joy to the World,” and others. Some even feature descants! The 58 players on the recording represent November 2010

15 Moravian congregations, two Methodist, and one Christian (Disciples of Christ) congregation. The recording was truly a Moravian Music Foundation “event,” with director Nola Reed Knouse on the podium; Assistant Director Gwyn Michel as producer, in the recording truck ably operated by MMF Trustee Frank Martin. MMF Office Manager Margaret Brady played in the alto section, and four other MMF Trustees played as well, along with several former Trustees and even one former President of the Board! While it was hot in the hall (Salemtowne graciously provided staff to turn off the air (continued on page 31) The Rev. Dr. Nola Reed Knouse is director of the Moravian Music Foundation 5

OUR CLERGY

Northern Province clergy share Cup of Covenant in Wisconsin I t’s

a yearly Northern Province celebration that goes largely unnoticed by most Moravians. It’s a time for fellowship cherished by many. It’s an opportunity for Northern Province clergy to re-commit themselves to their work, to each other and to our Moravian Church. It’s the annual Clergy Cup of Covenant — and, this year, it was a whole lot bigger and better! Our Moravian observance of the Cup of Covenant began in the early years of the renewal and was adopted by the General Synod of 1775 as a formal institution. According to archivist Paul Peucker, while the Cup of Covenant somewhat resembles Communion, it should not be confused with the Sacrament. Instead, the Cup is considered an expression of unity and dedication, as well as a commitment to continue to work in Christ’s service. Various Provinces celebrate the Cup of

Revs. Betsy Miller, Staci Marrese-Wheeler and Maggie Wellert share a light moment at the Northern Province Cup of Covenant retreat

Covenant at different times and circumstances. In the Northern Province, clergy typically gather in small, local groups and share the Cup — usually on or around September 16th. These small gatherings have often been described by clergy as opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and to praise and worship God. But in August of 2009, the Northern Province PEC had an idea: provide all Northern Province clergy the opportunity to gather in one place at one time to share the Cup of Covenant. To this end, they asked our bishops to plan a Province-wide gathering of clergy for the 2010 Clergy Cup of Covenant. Bishops Hopeton Clennon, M. Blair Couch, Paul Graf, Doug Kleintop, and Kay Ward — as well as Bishop-elect Chris Giesler — were instrumental in the organization of a five-day Cup of Covenant retreat at the Mount Morris Camp and Conference Center in Wautoma, Wisconsin. At the Bishops’ invitation, a variety of facilitators shared their expertise, inviting pastors to explore new facets of their ministries. These included Sr. Dawn Capilupo (Franciscan), Rev. Carm Aderman (ELCA); and Dr. Thad Rutter — each of whom spoke on spiritual formation. Others included Rev. Lynn Scott (United Methodist), who shared her expertise with Reike and labyrinths; Ralph Middlecamp, who gave insights into urban ministries; and Rev. Justin Lowe (United Methodist), who offered a Taize-style worship service. Pastors were also treated to The Moravian

an open-forum discussion, led by PEC President, Rev. Betsy Miller, and a presentation by Rev. Peg Chemberlin, Moravian pastor and current President of the National Council of Churches. And there was plenty of opportunity for clergy to relax. The Mt. Morris recreation resources were available — including hiking, kayaking, Frisbee golf, and carpet ball. Massage therapist, Sue Larson, gave free massages, and evening entertainment included a campfire and bluegrass concert. The Retreat culminated on the night of September 16th with the sharing of the Cup among clergy. Not all Northern Province pastors were able to attend the Retreat. PEC resources, which helped subsidize travel expenses, were limited; thus, many of our retired pastors and bishops were unable to attend. Likewise, some clergy were simply too busy at home to make the trip. As our clergy at Mt. Morris made the Covenant with one another, these absent brothers and sisters were remembered — and missed — and included in many commitments made to serve one another and Christ. As Bishop Blair Couch said, during the closing worship “We are, all of us, as branches on the one vine, which is Christ our Lord.” Or to paraphrase Peg Chemberlin: We are blood kin — made so, not by any choice of our own, but by the blood of our Savior, Jesus Christ! In this spirit of unity, our Northern Province clergy stood renewed and stand ready to serve. ■

The Revs. Chris Giesler and Kerry Krauss lead the group in song

The Rev. Rowan Simmons participates in an exercise during the retreat

The Rev. Lance Fox is pastor of MorningStar Moravian in Coopersburg , Pennsylvania. He also serves on the IBOC. Photos by Lance and Michael Johnson. The Rev. Lance Fox joins others in prayer

November 2010

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

the picturesque mountains outside of Asheville, North Carolina, more than 200 delegates from across the Southern Province came together to prepare for the future. By the time those delegates headed back down the mountain on Sunday afternoon, the Southern Province had a new vision for the next four years and beyond.

Themed â&#x20AC;&#x153;Behold, God is Making All Things New,â&#x20AC;? the Moravian Church in America Southern Province Synod of 2010 offered many opportunities to see that work in action. Delegates discerned, discussed, debated, questioned and resolved a wide range of topics important to the structure and doctrine of the Church. The Rev. Joe Moore serves communion to the Rev. Bill McElveen; photo far left Delegate David Daggett shares a point during a plenary session; photo near left

A Province-wide restructuring was at the center of the 2010 Synod. Much of the work undertaken by delegates was to prepare the province for implementing the new structure initially approved at a Special Synod last year. Financial, constitutional and human resources issues all made their way through the Synod process. Ecumenical partnerships also played a big role at this Synod. In a two-hour session, delegates debated the merits of a full communion partnership with the Episcopal Church. Although not all agreed, the full communion was adopted. In addition, a covenant partnership with the Presbyterian Church USA and a dialogue process with the United Methodist Church were also approved. But the bulk of the work by Synod delegates was to help develop a strategic vision for the Southern Province. In workinggroup sessions throughout the weekend, clergy and lay delegates worked together to formulate their vision and ideas on how to make those visions a reality. The result is a preliminary body of work that the new Provincial Elders’ Conference and Provincial boards will use to build a strategic plan for the future. Of course, this Synod wasn’t all work. The four days were filled with worship, song and prayer. Delegates renewed relationships and made new friends. And all were welcomed to plenary sessions by the sounds of horns and woodwinds playing traditional Moravian tunes. On the following pages, you’ll find articles about many of the activities from the Southern Province Synod. As you’ll see, the delegates have gone a long way to making many things new. ■

Roman Brady sings during worship

Tellers Teresa Cude and Gladys Stimpson provide election counts to Jerry Smith

Top left: Members of the newly-elected Provincial Elders’ Conference are installed during the closing session of the 2010 Synod. Synod photos by Mike Riess. The Rev. Nola Knouse leads Moravian Brass players welcoming delegates

November 2010

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Synod resolutions address Province’s financial, constitutional, human resource needs This year, Synod resolutions dealt with a variety of financial and “constitutional” issues. One of the earliest resolutions passed dealt with the duties and functions of the Provincial Synod. This resolution was brought to the floor to better define and clarify the powers of the Synod. (See sidebar “The Powers of Synod” on page 12.)

Delegate Tommy Reed takes notes during a plenary session

Synods are opportunities to bring clergy and lay people from across the Province together with a very specific purpose — to pass legislation that makes the Province work. With the new organizational structure of the Southern Province passed at the Special Synod in Sept. 2009, a broad range of resolutions at the 2010 Synod centered around enabling those changes. 10

Addressing financial concerns With this resolution passed, the Synod turned its attention to addressing financial concerns. These included the continuation of the Cornerstone Campaign, a program that assists new congregations in the purchase, construction and renovation of church facilities; the establishment of a capital campaign for Laurel Ridge for debt reduction and to make necessary renovations to the summer camp kitchen; and the charge to the PEC to look into Limited Liability Corporation status for Laurel Ridge. Synod delegates also reviewed the methods for allocating Provincial support from individual congregations. In recent years, this level of support for Provincial ministries and operating expenses — and how it is calculated — has become a concern for many churches. The resolution approved at Synod called for the PEC, in conjunction with the yet to be appointed Provincial Support Services Board, to review, evaluate and develop a potentially new methodology for allocating Provincial support from congregations. The Moravian

And as part of the new Provincial structure (see page 18.), the Synod officially disbanded the Provincial Financial Board to be replaced by the Provincial Support Services Board now in development. Constitutional/Book of Order changes The Synod also addressed the changes to the Southern Province’s Constitution and Book of Order necessary to ensure a smooth transition to the new Provincial structure. These changes included: • A change that no longer limits the age of the Provincial Elders’ Conference president to 65, in recognition of continued health in years past age 65, the experience in church leadership that can be a vital asset and the increasing age for retirement and Social Security • Constitutional changes that better defined the role of the Provincial Synod and the ability to authorize a duly convened synod to amend the Constitution • A clarified definition of conferential government and • Revisions to the structure and definitions in the Book of Order, the Province’s “bylaws,” along with new guidelines for updating the Book of Order as necessary. Human Resources legislation The Synod also took up human resourcefocused legislation. These important topics included sabbatical guidelines, clergy compensation and benefits, director of Christian Education (DCE) benefits and compensation guidelines and provincial appointment of Church Educators. Like other aspects of this Synod, these resolutions were aimed at addressing ongoing November 2010

Delegates complete ballots for Provincial Boards

concerns, providing direction to both the Province and to congregations and laying the groundwork for the Province’s new structure. The final resolution addressed by the Synod paved the way for prayerful discernment of the topic of homosexuality. The measure resolved that the Southern Province begin a careful process of study and discernment regarding homosexuals in the church in (continued on next page) Patricia Staton and the Rev. Patty Garner discuss legislation during Synod

THE POWERS OF A SYNOD In North America, Moravian Church Provinces hold Synods every four years. Synods bring together delegates from churches across the provinces to conduct the business of the Church and to develop strategic plans for the future. At the Southern Province Synod 2010, delegates passed a resolution clarifying and updating the definition of Synod. Delegates agreed that a Southern Province Synod shall have the power to: a. carry out the principles of the Moravian Church (Unitas Fratrum) laid down by the Unity Synod for constitution, doctrine, worship and congregational life; b. examine and oversee the spiritual and temporal affairs of the Province and its congregations; c. legislate in regard to constitution, worship and congregational life for the Province; d. provide the vision, direction and expectations for Provincial mission and ministry and to review the results thereof; e. elect the Provincial Eldersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference which shall constitute the administrative board of the Province and which shall be responsible to the Synod for the management of the affairs committed to it; f. elect representatives to inter-provincial agencies, boards and such other entities as it deems appropriate; g. elect Bishops; h. elect Delegates to Unity Synod; i. act as the final court of appeal to hear and redress grievances; and, j. perform such other acts as shall be designated to it by the Rules and Regulations and such other acts as shall be lawful under its Articles of Incorporation.

(continued from previous page) preparation for the 2014 Synod; that the PEC appoint a task force with a balanced representation of differing views to lead this process of study and discernment; that includes opportunity for members of the Southern Province to discuss this issue openly and honestly; that accurate information on homosexuality, Moravian doctrine, biblical interpretation and authority, and sexual ethics be provided to congregations; and, that this period of study and discussion be conducted according to the principles of conflict resolution already approved by PEC. A complete listing of resolutions passed at the Southern Provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2010 Synod are available at <www.mcsp.org>. â&#x2013;

The Rev. Adam Spaugh speaks during Synod debate

The Moravian

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Moravian Church, Southern Province enters full communion with Episcopal Church Following

a two-hour debate, delegates of the Moravian Church, Southern Province voted to bring the Province into a relationship of full communion with the Episcopal Church. The proposal, brought to the floor of the Southern Province’s 2010 Synod held at Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, NC., was approved by a vote of 121 to 74. “This is an important action for our churches, both Moravian and Episcopal,” said the Rt. Rev. Dr. Wayne Burkette, Moravian bishop and outgoing Provincial Elders’ Conference president. “Full communion acknowledges our essential unity as disciples of Jesus Christ and enhances our witness to the world.” “This is truly a blessing,” said Rev. Steven Miller, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee and co-chair of the dialogue that

produced the full communion agreement. “The action of the Southern Province in adopting ‘Finding Our Delight In the Lord’ is the culmination of years of work by many faithful servants. We now begin the tasks of living more fully with the unity while the Lord gives us in common mission to the world He loves. May God watch over us as we go forward together.” A greater unity The full communion relationship of the Moravian Church, Southern Province 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 (continued on next page)

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.

(continued from previous page) 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 offers opportunities to enhance the life and ministry of local congregations. Discussion and Concerns While the full communion was eventually ratified by Synod, a number of delegates at Synod disagreed that full communion was an appropriate step to take. Throughout the floor discussion, delegates expressed concern about being perceived to be in full agreement with the practices and doctrine of the Episcopal Church in the United Sates. Opponents to the full communion cited differences in doctrine; theological interpretations; actions and positions on social and biblical issues; the role of bishops 14

in each church; and other areas of disparity between the two denominations. By approving the full communion, opponents said, the two denominations would appear to be approving of each other’s positions and that we cannot be perceived as supporting things we do not support. Still others shared that a full communion agreement isn’t necessary to work together with brothers and sisters in the Episcopal Church. Celebrating Differences 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 (continued on page 32) The Moravian

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Moravian Church enters Covenant Partnership with the Presbyterian Church USA W hile

the resolution on full communion with the Episcopal Church garnered much more attention during the Southern Province’s 2010 Synod, another important ecumenical milestone was achieved in September: The Moravian Church Southern Province Synod of 2010 adopted a resolution to form a Covenant Partnership with the Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA). The Covenant Partnership with the Presbyterian Church USA is the result of conversations between Moravians in the South and North and the PCUSA that took place between 2002 and 2007. Participants chose the language of “Covenant” since both Moravians and Presbyterians make common and frequent use of that term. Hardly a week passes that we do not speak of God’s Covenant with Israel or the New Covenant of

Presbyterian Church USA Representative Robina Winbush greets Synod delegates

our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We both practice “covenant baptism” and we Moravians practice “the Cup of Covenant.” The following areas of cooperation are taken either from the working document, “An Invitation to the Table: A Proposal for Moravian/Reformed Covenant Partnership,” or from the action on the proposal taken by the 218th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA in 2008. The language is abbreviated. A similar agreement was adopted by the PCUSA and the Moravian Church Northern Province at their Synod in June. As Covenant Partners the PCUSA and the Moravian Church Southern Province will: • Recognize each other as churches in which the gospel is rightly preached and the sacraments rightly administered according to the Word of God in the Scriptures. (This does not mean that we agree on all points of doctrine and practice.) • Recognize each other’s ordained ministries as valid, and develop processes and procedures for the orderly exchange of ministers. (In past we have sometimes exchanged ministers. The covenant partnership gives the process more (continued on page 33) 15

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Southern Province Covenant Teams develop statements of the future In its effort to discern in what ways “God is making all things new,” The Synod of 2010 of the Moravian Church in America, Southern Province began a process of strategic planning to guide the direction of the Province during the next four-year intersynodal period. In work teams called Covenant Partner Groups, delegates worked diligently to discern the will of Christ, followed the leading of the Holy Spirit and developed a strategic vision and priorities for the Province. Their recommendations and reports were presented to the Synod and will be used by the Provincial Elders’ Conference in developing the actions that the Moravian Church in America, Southern Province will take moving forward. Through Healthy Congregation Lenses Over three days, each of the Covenant Partner Groups worked to discern a strategic vision and future for the Southern Province from the perspective of one of the eight characteristics of a healthy congregation. Using those characteristics as their central themes, each team identified how they saw God leading the Church and developed a statement to express that vision. The teams also identified priority initiatives that can help bring that vision to life and took stock of the supporting resources and assets that the church has to enable the initiatives. The results of their efforts lay the foundation for the work of the PEC, provincial 16

ministries, congregations and members during the next four years and beyond. While these are preliminary ideas that will require additional work to bring to fruition, they provide a strategic direction that can lead the church to health and growth. Vision Statements from the Moravian Church Southern Province 2010 Synod: The 2010 Synod beholds God making all things new in the following ways in the eight characteristics of a healthy congregation: (Note: These are preliminary and in no particular order of importance.) • With respect to LEADERSHIP, we see God leading to recruit, develop and nurture leaders among the laity, boards and professional staff; with a sense of discipleship, mission and community; and equipped with communications, conflict management and other spiritual disciplines Covenant Partner Group facilitators deliver the sum of their work — flipcharts, notes, computer files and more — during closing worship

The Moravian

to lead small groups, congregations and our Province as guided by God’s Holy Spirit. • With respect to GROWTH, we see God leading to grow in spirit and numbers. Churches need to focus on a few specific core ministries that are intentional in growing members and participation in number, in discipleship and in relationship; and be intentional with connecting visitors to the congregation. • With respect to WORSHIP, we see God leading to worship that encompasses all of life and deserves our fullest attention in education, preparation, leadership and full-hearted participation. • With respect to STEWARDSHIP, we see God leading to a deeper understanding of our discipleship and baptismal identity. • With respect to COOPERATION, we see God leading to sharing freely, facing and resolving conflict, making the whole greater than the sum of the parts and cocreating a safe, open place for interaction. • With respect to MINISTRY, we see God leading “Down and Out,” tapping more deeply into the assets God has given us so we can look and reach outward in mission. • With respect to RELATIONSHIP TO CHRIST, we see God leading to teaching and building a strong Christian Foundation in order to create new relationships with Christ and an ongoing atmosphere of revival, renewal and rededication. • With respect to MISSION, we see God leading to intentionally discipling, equipping, resourcing and using the gifts of youth to prepare them to minister to their peers (e.g. ages 18-30). November 2010

The Rev. Bert Hebbert Chin discusses a point during a Covenant Partner Group session

Presented to the PEC During the Saturday afternoon session, the Covenant Partner Groups each presented their work to the entire Synod. As part of each presentation, delegates had opportunities to ask questions, offer ideas and gain clarification on the Groups’ work. During the closing worship service on Sunday, members of the Covenant Partner Groups brought all of their work — written notes, flip charts, computer flash drives and more — as an offering to Synod. All of this material was collected and presented to the incoming PEC. ■ The Rev. Kelly Moore votes on vision statements generated by her team

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Southern Province implements new Provincial structure The Southern Province is changing its structure to build a stronger tomorrow for the Moravian Church. This new structure, proposed and adopted at a special Synod in September 2009 and further implemented at September’s 2010 Synod, changes the way the Southern Province will manage the “business” of running the Church. This new structure was first mandated at the 2006 Southern Province Synod. Resolution 55 stated that, “the PEC appoint an impartial task force that will be charged with systematically and critically examining all aspects of our provincial administration and ministries including the PEC, boards and agencies, and their relationships with local congregations.” Following two years of study and analysis, the Provincial Administration/Ministries Task Force recommended a new framework for the Province that would best address the issues at hand. The Southern Province PEC approved the new structure plan in December 2008. After months of meetings with Provincial groups and a number of “town hall” meetings in different regions of the Province, the new structure was approved by the Special Synod in September 2009. The new structure replaces a number of existing boards and services with three new entities — Provincial Support Services, the Board of Cooperative Ministries and the Regional Conferences of Churches. Each of these, along with the Provincial Elders’ 18

Conference, is designed to provide the leadership and expertise required to help the Province move forward. Board of Cooperative Ministries The Board of Cooperative Ministries will provide support to congregations and the Regional Conferences of Churches (see below) to develop and maintain a high level of health and growth. Its key role will be to develop and implement specific ministries as directed by the Provincial Elders’ Conference to support the strategic vision from Synod. The BCM will also recommend staffing needs, structure, professional staff and special commissions, committees and taskforces to the PEC. The Board will have the oversight of provincial ministries and programs. The Board of Cooperative Ministries will ultimately consist of 27 members, including the PEC president, a representative of each of the 13 Regional Conferences of Churches and 13 members appointed by the PEC. The PEC has appointed four members from each of the former Board of Evangelism and Home Mission and the Board of Christian Education including Rev. Matthew Allen (Oak Grove), Rev. Jon Boling (Ardmore), Don Britt (Covenant), Ruth Burcaw (Unity), Paula Hall (King), Rev. John G. Rights (New Philadelphia), Tim Ward (New Philadelphia) and Katherine Wilkerson (Raleigh). The PEC will appoint the final five members during the The Moravian

PROVINCIAL STRUCTURE

PROVINCIAL STRUCTURE The new provincial structure reflects our Moravian polity: The new provincial structure reflects ourgoverning Moravian responsibility policy: collaborative discussion and discernment, with collaborative discussion and discernment, with governing responsibility and authority vested in conferences. and authority vested in conferences. SYNOD Strategic Direction

PEC Leadership/Administration/Oversight

Provincial Support Services (PSS)

Affiliated Boards • Laurel Ridge • Sunnyside

Treasurer’s Archives

CONGREGATIONS

Board of Cooperative Ministries (BCM)

Ministry & Mission Areas

Human Resources Regional Conference of Churches (RCC)

(Lines of Authority)

next few months to place individuals that may have specific gifts and skills appropriate to help the BCM carry out the strategic plans developed by Synod. Provincial Support Services Provincial Support Services includes the Treasurer’s Office, Human Resources and the Southern Province Archives. These three functions provide the financial, human resources, archival and risk management services required to keep all levels of the Province running smoothly. Bringing these functions together offers opportunities for sharing resources and improving efficiencies and service. November 2010

(Lines of Communication & Cooperation)

The Provincial Support Services Board will include two members of the Board of Cooperative Ministries, two members at large appointed by the PEC, and three members of the PEC (including the PEC president). The Province’s finance, human resources and (continued on next page) Gary Kniskern is Chairman of the Implementation Steering Committee and was elected to the Provincial Elders’ Conference in September. He is also on the Interprovincial Board of Communication and a member of Grace Moravian Church in Mount Airy, N.C. 19

Bet t

r is

ent

vice of C h

PSS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Supportive in all efforts BCM

Board of Cooperative Ministries

Develop, staff & support ministries

un i t y

(continued from previous page) archive staffs will report to the Provincial Support Services Board. Regional Conferences of Churches A new and important part of the revised Provincial structure are the Regional Conferences of Churches (RCCs). These local groups bring together four to six congregations to help improve communication, build unity and expand community throughout the province. The RCCs will serve as a resource for input to the BCM on local congregationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs and perspectives and help the BCM provide practical and professional assistance. They will also promote sharing of the strengths, gifts, assets and best practices of each congregation and help congregations 20

cla ri

the

m align

S er

Communicate, promote, facilitate ministry

Synod Establish direction & define measures of success

ge eng a

Organized er

for

RCCs Regional Conference of Churches

pa rti c on ati ip

t en

Congregations Engage, conduct ministry/outreach, participate, provide feedback

PEC Identify, prioritize & fund ministries

connect in shared ministries and initiatives. As they work to strengthen both their groups and their individual congregations, members of the RCCs will use the Characteristics of Healthy Congregations to identify their strengths and needs. They will then work together to support each other in meeting their needs. The RCCs also allow for more mission opportunities. Working together, the congregations in an RCC can mount more significant mission activities where individual congregations may not have been able. There are currently 13 RCCs, which began meeting this spring. Getting to the new structure Last October, a Provincial Implementation Steering Committee began to address the structural changes called for by the September The Moravian

2009 Special Synod. The Steering Committee met at least twice a month to address the formation of the Provincial Support Services, the Board of Cooperative Ministries and the Regional Conference of Churches. During the first few months of its work, the Steering Committee met with representatives from the Board of Christian Education, the Board of Evangelism and Home Mission, the Financial Board, Human Resources and the Archives. The Steering Committee also met with representatives of other boards and agencies impacted by the Provincial restructuring such as Laurel Ridge. Early in 2010, the Steering Committee began focusing on the development of the Regional Conferences of Churches (RCCs). During January and February, members of the Committee met in small groups with pastors under call to churches. In these meetings, the Committee solicited input regarding the size of RCCs, the principles to be used in establishing groupings and other roles and responsibilities that should be considered for RCCs. Pastors under call to a provincial agency or specialized ministry, retired pastors and Christian Educators had an opportunity to provide input to the overall structure at meetings held in March. The Steering Committee also made two presentations at Moravian Ministry Association meetings where those in attendance had an opportunity to ask questions or provide input. During March and April, the Steering Committee’s main focus was on the actual organization of the RCCs. The Committee communicated with churches and pastors, appointed churches to a Regional Conference, and helped organize their first meetings. The first meetings of the Regional November 2010

Conferences took place during May. These meetings were the beginning of what is anticipated to be a great movement of ministry and mission that will spread across the province and beyond in the coming years and decades. A team approach Members of the Implementation Steering Committee include Gary Kniskern, Chair, Mike Hurd, John D. Rights, Tamra Thomas and Joyce Vance (elected by Synod); Sandy Baldwin and Neil Routh (appointed from the Task Force on Provincial Administration); and Wayne Burkette and Donna Hurt (Provincial Elders’ Conference). The Steering Committee appreciates all the prayers of the Province for wisdom, patience, and understanding during this important time in the history of our province. The Steering Committee expects to remain engaged for as long as necessary after the 2010 Synod to help facilitate the transition to the new organizational structure. The Steering Committee also appreciates the work of the Board of Cooperative Ministries Implementation Team. This team provided the Steering Committee with a report that was the basis of the information for the Board to begin their work. The team was chaired by Ed O’Connor and was composed of the following: David Berrier, Becky Cook, Mallie Graham, Hazel Hooker, Brenda Peoples, David Guthrie (ex-officio) and Rick Sides (ex-officio). One of the first orders of business for the new Southern Province PEC will be the continued implementation of this structure. For more information on the work leading to the development of this new structure, visit <www.moravianstructure.org>. ■ 21

SOUTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

David Guthrie elected president, Southern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference Delegates

at the 2010 Moravian Church Southern Province Synod elected the Rev. David Guthrie as president of the Provincial Elders’ Conference. David was elected on the fifth ballot. “I love the Lord Jesus Christ, I love this Church,” said David upon his election. “It’s been my privilege to serve it for the past 24 years and the Lord helping me, I will serve as PEC president.” “People asked me how does it feel,” said David. “I respond, ‘I went to the mountains with some really good friends for a long weekend and I came back down and my life was totally changed.’” “But then I thought, ‘That’s not just you — that’s true for everybody.’ God has not

yet made all things new, but God certainly has a good start amongst us Moravians this weekend.” David is concluding his service as executive director, Board of Evangelism and Home Missions of the Moravian Church, Southern Province. He is a member of New

The new Southern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference includes (below) Gary Kniskern, the Rev. Ray Burke, the Rev. David Guthrie (president), Joyce Vance, the Rev. Chris Thore, the Rev. Dr. Neil Routh and Betsy Bombick (right)

“As I look through the work you’ve done this weekend to build a strategic vision for our future, a number of words pop out — verbs like developing, nurturing, equipping, leading, growing, connecting, deepening, sharing, resourcing, co-creating, teaching, building, discipling — all of which will help us get where we want to be…” Philadelphia Moravian Church and a resident of Winston-Salem, N.C. Prior to his current role, David was pastor at Rolling Hills Moravian Church in Longwood, Fla. from 1994-2003 and at Prince of Peace Moravian Church in Miami, Fla. from 1986-1994. He attended Moravian Theological Seminary and was ordained in 1986.

• The Rev. Ray Burke, pastor of Clemmons Moravian Church in Clemmons, N.C. • The Rev. Christopher Thore, pastor of New Beginnings Moravian Church, Huntersville, N.C. • The Rev. Dr. Cornelius (Neil) Routh, pastor of Christ Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, N.C.

Provincial Elders’ Conference David joins other members of the PEC elected by Synod delegates. The Provincial Elders’ Conference for the Southern Province consists of three clergy and three lay people in addition to the PEC president. These seven will provide leadership of all church ministries and administer the polity of the Southern Province. The three elected lay members of the PEC include: • Betsy Bombick of Winston-Salem, N.C. Betsy is a scientist/manager and a member of Home Moravian Church in WinstonSalem. • Joyce Vance of Charlotte, N.C. Joyce is the director of Christian Education (DCE) for Peace Moravian Church in Charlotte. • Gary Kniskern of Mount Airy, N.C. Gary is a retired chief financial officer and vice president of administration and a member of Grace Moravian Church in Mount Airy. The three elected clergy members of the PEC include:

Getting to work “As I look through the work you’ve done this weekend to build a strategic vision for our future, a number of words pop out — verbs like developing, nurturing, equipping, leading, growing, connecting, deepening, sharing, resourcing, co-creating, teaching, building, discipling — all of which will help us get where we want to be,” David told Synod delegates. “I ask for your prayers for the new PEC — Joyce, Chris, Gary, Betsy, Ray, Neil and me — as we take up the new things this Synod has asked us to pay attention to,” said David. “We’re going to be faithful in those things for you.” Following the election, the Synod expressed its appreciation of the outgoing Southern Province PEC, including the Rt. Rev. Dr. Wayne Burkette, Donna Hurt, the Rev. Rick Sides, the Rt. Rev. Lane Sapp and Kathy Sparks. While the new PEC has already begun work, David’s official term begins in early November. He and Wayne, the former PEC president, are working together on the transition with the PEC. ■

November 2010

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

In the last few years, Laurel Ridge Camp and Conference Center expanded its “green” mission and now wants to include developing a local, sustainable food supply for the camp and conference center and eventually for the community at large. To help make this happen, a passive solar greenhouse is being constructed at Laurel Ridge to demonstrate, educate and research ways to maximize energy efficient, year-round food production in more extreme winter growing conditions. Thanks to an anonymous donation and Laurel Ridge’s George Andreve Fund, a fund that matches gifts given to aid environmental education at Laurel Ridge, a 12’ x 24’ hobbysize passive solar greenhouse is being built on the camp’s property near the Tise Building. Laurel Ridge is partnering with Terry Carroll and his associates at SunCatcher Design Group in this exciting endeavor. “The SunCatcher™ will be a wonderful addition to the Laurel Ridge Camp property,” says Mike Warren, director of Laurel Ridge. “As we move forward with increased environmental education programming, the SunCatcher™ will give us an opportunity to show the latest in greenhouse technology and 24

its benefits to growing food year round.” Why build a passive solar greenhouse rather than a conventional one? Conventional greenhouses use the sun’s light while ignoring its heat contributions, meaning they often require additional heating on cold nights and cloudy winter days or mechanisms for cooling the greenhouses on hot, sunny winter days. Rising fuel prices are rendering most conventional greenhouses uneconomical to operate and are virtually eliminating yearround use in some regions such as our own southern Appalachian mountains. Based on years of work and research, SunCatcher Design Group has developed a variety of energy efficient passive solar greenhouse. SunCatchers help farmers and growers in the same ways conventional greenhouses do, but without extra heating. They have the ability to directly harness the sun’s thermal energy and make it available for heating the SunCatcher at night and on overcast winter days. Designs like the Laurel Ridge SunCatcher will provide at least a 90 percent energy savings and be usable for increased plant growth year-round. With the help of Mike Warren, Rick Sides, The Moravian

the staffs of SunCatcher Design Group and Laurel Ridge, as well as a number of great volunteers like Tommy Reed, Russ May and Scott Brent, the construction of the first hobby SunCatcher at Laurel Ridge has begun. Having been one of the M-Boys during the 1960s, Terry Carroll has had close ties to Laurel Ridge since its beginning, and anyone who has discussed this venture with him knows how excited he is to be able to offer this opportunity to the camp. “I cannot express my excitement about Laurel Ridge and SunCatcher Design Group working together to help improve people’s lives while helping the earth become a better place for all of us to live,” says Terry. “Laurel Ridge is an excellent location with the facilities and capabilities to hold conferences, workshops, school field trips, and other tours. The ability of Laurel Ridge to grow and serve fresh, locally-grown food, year round, as well as be involved in the research needed to improve SunCatcher design, construction and operation will be an excellent addition to the camp’s green mission.” Rick Sides agrees wholeheartedly, noting, “Campers and users of Laurel Ridge will be able to learn about what is possible when we harness solar power, and in this case they will see what we can raise to provide yearround food items for Laurel Ridge use. Hopefully, as we get the SunCatcher built and operating, we will grow even more food for Laurel Ridge’s use, as well as model a bit of what our Moravian ancestors did with raised beds and rotating crops. The dream is to once again become more of a ‘living farm’ on the mountain.” With the help of volunteer labor and donations of materials, we hope to have the SunCatcher completed by late November and November 2010

beds planted by early December. A ribboncutting ceremony and the first public tours of the SunCatcher will be part of the exciting activities lined up for Laurel Ridge’s annual Moravian Mountain Christmas, held on December 11. Additionally, in March, Carroll and his associates will hold a conference at Higgins Lodge that will be open to anyone interested in passive solar greenhouse design and yearround food production. Carroll hopes that this will be the first of many programs that Laurel Ridge can host in conjunction with the SunCatcher, noting that “the ability of guests to visit our SunCatchers year round will be a special treat that few other camps can offer.” “We have in Laurel Ridge a resource to help people learn how to live in a rapidly changing environmental world,” says Rick Sides. “It won’t be long before we won’t have many places ‘set aside’ like Laurel Ridge, and we want that ‘set aside’ quality to help shape and inform how we live as Christians who are called into the stewardship of all of God’s world.” Find more information about SunCatcher Design Group at <www.suncatcherdesign Igroup.com>. For information about general conference information and for donating materials or funds, contact the conference coordinator Debbie Good at 336.416.6080 or <mooonbaby@yahoo.com>. ■

Erin Zimmerman is a life-long Laurel Ridger, having been a camper, counselor, M-Staffer, and Board member. Photo upper left: An example of a SunCatcher greenhouse. A smaller version is being built at Laurel Ridge this fall. 25

MORAVIAN ARCHIVES

Artists put modern twist on “THE HEALTH OF THY COUNTENANCE”

The exhibit space at the Moravian Archives in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is filled with faces — paintings and photographs from the 1700s through today. And while the technique and the style are important, the real focus of this exhibit are the facial expressions and what they tell about the person behind those expressions. “The Health of Thy Countenance,” an exhibit assembled by Assistant Archivist Lanie Graf, studies the relationship between facial expressions and a relationship with Jesus. To honor the 250th anniversary of the death of the Moravian leader Count Nicholas Ludwig von Zinzendorf, the Moravian Archives developed the exhibit based Zinzendorf’s sermon regarding “The Health of thy Countenance.” Zinzendorf believed that facial expressions reveal the state of our souls and our relationship with Jesus Christ, and that true Christians should “never be out of countenance.” “The health of our countenance must always betray the inward happiness of our heart; because He who is our common head, our Savior, is our common health, too, and the health of our countenance,” wrote 26

Zinzendorf. “If our body and soul is always in good health, then our Countenance will be correspondent to it.” The exhibit displays drawings, painting and photographs which help illustrate this ideal. To help bring this ideal into today, the Archives sponsored an art contest to accompany the exhibit. The contest drew works from more than 20 artists. Through a variety of media, including paintings, drawings and photographs, artists sought to demonstrate how facial expressions reveal something about the person within. At a ceremony on September 21, the juried art contest awarded prizes for the best works. The three works chosen as winners included the painting “Mary Ann” by Sandra Corpora of Bethlehem; “Elizabeth Blum,” a painting by Heather Reinert of Bethlehem; and “Anticipation,” a photograph by Emily Bross of Nazareth, Pennsylvania. The submitted artworks are now part of the exhibit, which is viewable during the Archives’ open hours through the end of 2010. For more information, visit the Archives website at <www.moravianchurch archives.org>, or call 610.866.3255. ■ The Moravian

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS

Prayer Watch The Moravian Church has experienced spiritual renewal and strength through a covenant of prayer. In 1727, the church in Herrnhut, Germany, covenanted for an “Hourly Intercession” which continued for one hundred years with a great blessing to the entire Moravian Church. The Unity Prayer Watch established in 1957 (the quincentenary of the Unitas Fratrum) has continued to bless us. The 1988 Unity Synod affirmed the importance of this experience for the worldwide Moravian Church.

Under the schedule adopted by the 2009 Unity Synod, December 1-31 is assigned to the Northern Province and January 1-18 to the Southern Province. Each Provincial Board will supply assignment of specific dates to individual congregations, with suggestions for prayer topics.

Prayer Day for the Bible Society, November 21, 2010 On Sunday, November 21, we will join with churches of many other denominations in emphasizing the importance of the Bible. Our church is part of the American and Canadian Bible Societies, which do much to publish and distribute the Word of God. World AIDS Day, December 1, 2010 The Synods of 2006 resolved to recognize World AIDS Day on December 1 and proclaim it as a day of commemoration and prayer by our Moravian churches. Congregations are encouraged to schedule an AIDS Awareness Day and to find a way to support an AIDS ministry focusing on areas of education, prevention and ministering to caregivers, orphans and those living with HIV. (continued on next page) Ad Policy for The Moravian — The Moravian accepts paid advertising that is consistent with the magazine’s objectives and editorial convictions as they are stated in the purpose and mission of the Interprovincial Board of Communication. Advertisements for activities, services, and products of specific interest to members of the Moravian Church have priority. The Moravian does not accept purely editorial advertisements that advocate specific ideas or issues. Articles, columns, and letters to the editor are the appropriate vehicles for the presentation of ideas and issues. The Interprovincial Board of Communication is responsible for the content and design of the magazine, including advertisements. Ad rates are available by contacting Siobhan Young at the Communication Office.

November 2010

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NORTHERN PROVINCE Moravian Women’s Sunday, November 7, 2010 The first Sunday in November has been designated to especially recognize the work of the Moravian Women in local congregations throughout the Northern Province. Some congregations may choose a different Sunday for this observance if there are conflicts in scheduling. Prayer Day for Moravian College and Moravian Theological Seminary November 21, 2010 On Sunday, November 21, congregations of the Northern Province are asked to remember in prayer all who share in the important work of Moravian College and Moravian Theological Seminary. Let us pray for the administration, the faculty, and the students. Consecration for Episcopacy Brother J. Christian Giesler, pastor of Edgeboro Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and Director of Youth Ministry for the Eastern Region of the Eastern District, will be consecrated a bishop of the Moravian Unity on Saturday, November 13, 2010. Bishops M. Blair Couch, C. Hopeton Clennon, and Douglas H. Kleintop will officiate at the service of consecration, which will be held at Central Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Brother Giesler was elected to the office of Bishop at the June synod of the Northern Province. 28

Green Bay, Wisconsin Due to declining membership and in accordance with ¶1019 of The Book of Order, East Side Moravian Church, Green Bay, Wisconsin closed effective October 12, 2010. A final service of worship and celebration was held on October 10, 2010. Rudolph and Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin Sister Christine Stack has accepted an appointment to serve as part-time pastor of Rudolph Moravian Church, Rudolph, Wisconsin and Kellner Moravian Church, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. Both appointments were effective September 6, 2010. Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference

SOUTHERN PROVINCE Retirement Brother Wayne Burkette has requested and been given permission to retire from active ministry of the Moravian Church effective December 1, 2010. Brother Burkette was ordained a deacon on June 1, 1969 at Trinity Moravian Church. He was consecrated a presbyter June 1, 1975 and as a bishop on July 21, 2002 at Home Moravian Church. Brother Burkette graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Morehead Scholar in 1966. He earned his M.Div. at Moravian Theological Seminary in 1969 and his doctorate at Union Theological Seminary in Virginia in 1978. Brother Burkette and his wife, Nancy, served congregations at Olivet, Home as associate and senior pastor, and Fairview Moravian Churches in the Winston-Salem area. He served as Chaplain at Salem Academy and The Moravian

College, Head of School of Salem Academy, and Vice President of Salem Academy and College; Head of the Academy in WinstonSalem, N.C. He served on the Provincial Eldersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference from 1983-1989 and as President from 2006-2010. He is a published author and has served on numerous academic and religious boards and committees. We express deep appreciation to Wayne and Nancy for their faithful and dedicated service to the Moravian Church and wish them many blessings in retirement.

14K Gold Moravian Medallion 13/8 inches in diameter $495.00 ppd* Sterling Silver $125.00 Designed and handcrafted by

SHIRLEY T. MARRIOTT 425 Fairfax Dr., Winston-Salem, NC 27104 ph: 336.794.3447 email: SMARRIOTT@triad.rr.com A percentage of proceeds will be donated to Sunnyside Ministries *(Price subject to Gold Market)

Retirement Brother Bob Hunter has requested and been given permission to retire from active service as Assistant to the PEC President of the Moravian Church effective September 30, 2010. He has served in that position since 1998 giving assistance to PEC Presidents Wayne Burkette and Robert Sawyer along with many of the pastors, church boards, and congregations of the Southern Province, as well as candidates for ordained ministry. Before his employment with the Moravian Church, Brother Hunter worked in human resources and management in several corporate and non-profit organizations including the YMCA. He earned degrees from Southern Seminary in Louisville, Ky. and Georgetown College, Georgetown, Ky. as well as completing the Executive Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Brother Hunter has served the Moravian Church with integrity, wisdom, and true Christian grace for the last 12 years and we wish for him and Sarah a long, happy, and healthy retirement. D. Wayne Burkette, Provincial Eldersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference November 2010

OBITUARIES

Sister Janet Outten Amos 1921-2010

The Rev. William A. Cranford 1924-2010

Sister Janet Outten Amos, 89, passed away on

Brother William A. Cranford passed away on

August 27, 2010 in Winston-Salem, N.C. She was the widow of Richard F. Amos. Sister Amos was a resident of Salemtowne, the Moravian Retirement Community in WinstonSalem, N.C. She attended Moravian College for Women and after graduation was employed by Moravian College and Theological Seminary. In 1946 she married Richard Amos and together they served Moravian Churches at Friedberg-Enterprise in Winston-Salem, N.C.; Central in Bethlehem, Pa.; Bethania-Olivet; Ardmore; Friedland and Home in WinstonSalem, N.C. Her husband served as President of the Provincial Elders’ Conference for eight years as well. Home Church was her home congregation. During their service to the Moravian Church Brother and Sister Amos traveled on mission trips to Nicaragua and other destinations in the Caribbean and they attended the 1981 Unity Synod in Herrnhut, Germany. Sister Amos loved music and was involved in many musical organizations. Her burial was in God’s Acre in Salem. A memorial service was conducted at Salemtowne in Smith Saal on August 30, 2010.

October 1, 2010 in Winston-Salem, N.C. Bill, as he was known, was born June 23, 1924 and grew up as a member of Christ Moravian Church in Winston-Salem. He felt the call to pastoral ministry in high school. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1946 and the Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem, PA in 1949. He married Wilhelmina Breedlove in 1951 and was married 52 years until her death in 2004. Together they shared in ministry serving Calvary, Wachovia Arbor, Rural Hall, Fulp, Enterprise and Hopewell Moravian Churches in the Winston-Salem area. He worked on the Moravian Archives staff part-time. They also served the Fry’s Valley and Dover South Churches in Ohio, along with Palmyra Moravian in Cinnaminson, N.J. and Newfoundland Moravian in Newfoundland, Pa. They retired in 1988 and returned to the family home place in Winston-Salem. Brother Cranford enjoyed music as an integral part of his life and was an avid reader. He will be remembered for his integrity, humility, quiet service, deep faith and love of family and friends. He is survived by five sons and a daughter, 10 grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Burial took place in God’s Acre in Salem on October 23, 2010 followed by a Memorial Service at Home Moravian Church.

The Moravian

He Came in Blessing (continued from page 5) conditioning while we were recording, and turn it back on every time we took a break), the sounds — and the décor — were decidedly “cool”. There was a Christmas tree in the corner. Refreshments were on a red tablecloth with beeswax candles. We even ran a holly garland up and around Frank’s video monitor, and placed a Santa hat on top! And then there was the “Christmas horn,” all painted up in red and green, with ”Merry Christmas” on the outside and candy canes inside! The Moravian Lower Brass is a wonderful new manifestation of our centuries-old brass tradition, and like so many of our musical

November 2010

traditions, it arose in a purely grassroots fashion: from friends getting together to see what it sounded like to play four-part chorales all on trumpets, and then deciding just for fun to switch to “big horns”! The ensemble is open to players of all levels, the only requirements being that you know how to hold a big horn: baritone, trombone, or tuba, and that you want to play Moravian chorales and some other music! This is the Lower Brass Ensemble’s second CD; the first, Church, Rejoice! was released in August 2008. Both are available from the Moravian Music Foundation, 457 S. Church Street, Winston-Salem NC 27101 or 41 W. Locust Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018, or through our web site: <www.Moravian Music.org>. ■

Full communion (continued from page 14) 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. Moravians and Episcopalians recognize and value the distinctive gifts present in each historic but separated part of the Body of Christ, thus believing they have contributions which they can make to each other. The Northern and Southern Provinces of the Moravian Church recently celebrated the tenth anniversary of their full communion with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The Episcopal Church in the U.S. also has full

communion with the ELCA. This is the first time three denominations have come to full communion agreements on their own. The full communion is the result of many years of work between the two churches. Bishop Graham Rights, the Rev. Dr. Bill McElveen and Don Frey led the full communion dialogue for the Southern Province; talks began in 1994 and the full communion was first proposed in 1999. Since then, ecumenical representatives from both denominations worked to reach the accord. The 76th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, meeting July 8-17, 2009, adopted Finding Our Delight in the Lord unanimously. The Northern Province elected to affirm the full communion at their Synod in June by a near-unanimous vote. â&#x2013;

The Moravian

Covenant Partnership (continued from page 15) structure. In the Moravian Church the PEC will continue to function as in the call of a pastor already serving in our denomination.) • Cooperate in mission — locally, regionally, and nationally. Such efforts may include sharing models of existing cooperation, as well as creating new opportunities for common witness and mission. • Cooperate in developing resources, as appropriate. Such resources may include but not be limited to Christian Education curriculum, mission education resources, and liturgical resources that may serve to officiate mutual understanding.

November 2010

• Invite one another to participate in governance and other activities. This means that we will regularly invite one another to participate in church-wide assemblies, synods, and councils, etc. (We had a delegate from the PCUSA at our 2010 Synod.) The idea of “Covenant Partnership,” seems more modest than the idea of “Full Communion,” yet the effect is virtually the same. It offers the partners a wonderful opportunity of working together as we jointly profess our faith in Jesus Christ before the world. It goes without saying that we will continue to recognize and value our independent existence, and our Diversity and the Diversity of gifts — which we hope to share with one another. ■

The Moravian

November 2010

The Moravian

November 2010

The Moravian

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

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