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Maintaining the Unity in a Diverse World Moravian Youth Stand Tall Blessings in Tanzania Gifts of Change And More!
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On the cover: The Quiz Bowl team from New Dawn Moravian celebrates their victory at the 2014 Youth Rally. Photo by Mike Riess
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Maintaining the Unity in a Diverse World Moravian Youth Stand Tall Blessings in Tanzania Gifts of Change And More!
10 Christ and him crucified remain our confession of faith In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love
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In Our Congregations 5 God shines on the Moravians Moravian Unity 6 Lecture addresses challenge of maintaining Unity in a diverse world Camping Ministry 10 Unity Lodge Grand Opening at Van-Es 17 Laurel Ridge offers a Moravian Mountain Christmas Moravian Youth 13 Moravian Youth “Give their all and stand tall” at 2014 Youth Rally 22 Get ready for the Moravian Young Adult Convo this summer! Full Communion
Member, Associated Church Press
16 Moravian-United Methodist Dialogue Team moving forward with full communion Moravian in Mission 18 Blessings in Tanzania: Walking hand-in-hand in mission In Ministry 21 Pastors recommit through Cup of Covenant Special Sections
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 2014
24 Blessed to Be a Blessing: Board of World Mission Gifts of Change 30 Statistics of the Moravian Church Northern & Southern Provinces In Every Issue: 4 Ponderings: Seeing the Moravian world through many lenses 28 Official Provincial Elders’ News
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PONDERINGS
Seeing the Moravian World through many lenses As a wearer of eyeglasses since age five and photographer since age
15, I have looked at life through a variety of lenses. I’ve imagined the optimists’ view through rose-colored glasses, focused on details through magnifying glasses and recorded the world through a variety of viewfinders. In my work as editor, it’s important that I see the Moravian Church from as many different lenses as possible. But when I think of my personal experience with our Moravian faith, my perspective is often from a single viewpoint. I worship at a church in Bethlehem, a place where “Moravian” doesn’t need much of an explanation, with people from similar social and economic backgrounds as me. I work with many across North America with similar viewpoints and understandings of our church. But I need to remind myself that this is only one, close-in view of the Moravian Church and that my experience in the church is very different from 95 percent of those in the Unitas Fratrum. The Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler drove this point home during the Walter Vivian Moses lecture in early October. Over the course of two hours, he reminded the audience that the majority of our church — and nearly all of the growth — is happening someplace other than North America (see story on page 6). Working with the Board of World Mission on their Second Mile giving project, I get an even deeper sense of just how different my everyday viewpoint of the church can be (see the special section after page 23). And closer to home, watching the youth from Eastern District churches at the annual Youth Rally demonstrated how metropolitan and Caribbean influences on the church add to the diversity and vitality of our Moravian church (see story on pg. 13). Dr. Bøytler said it best in his lecture: A body is a unity of diversity – many different and unique parts working together as a whole. While I really like my corner of the Moravian world, I welcome the chance to see the rest of the world through different lenses. Peace,
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(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) November Vol. 45, No. 9 Publications Agreement No. 40036408 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: OnTrac International, 121 5th Avenue NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 email: file@ontrac.com Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces Published monthly, except bimonthly January-February and 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. 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 Renee Schoeller, Communications Assistant Arlene Clendenning, Customer Relations/Business Assistant Interprovincial Board of Communication Lance Fox, Paul Peucker Chair Adam Pristas Jane Carmichael Ginny Tobiassen Peggy Carter Jane Weber Gary Kniskern Jill Westbrook 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: moravianmagazine@mcnp.org www.moravian.org Contents © 2014, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in North America. All rights reserved
The Moravian
IN OUR CONGREGATIONS
God shines on the Moravians While sitting in a pew at the West Side Moravian Church in Green Bay, Wis., you can see the huge Jumbotron in the Green Bay Packers’ stadium. And, from the Packers’ stadium, you can see the shiny, spectacular, new, copper roof on West Side Moravian Church. I was wondering how I was going to be able to see the entire roof that we so painstakingly, but enthusiastically, planned for and continue to raise funds for. To my surprise, while at a recent Green Bay Packer game, I felt a sense of pride as I gazed northwest while in the stadium. A fellow member reminded me that the bowl at Lambeau Field was being dug for the new stadium at the time our building was being constructed in an area that at the time was open fields. So, pondering this coincidence, I recall how the Packers organization recently spent millions remodeling their stadium this past year while we were installing a brand new copper roof. Bricks and mortar wear out. Roofs need to be replaced. Facilities outgrow their capacity crowds. Newer designs, earth-friendly materials, added insulation… so many reasons to make necessary changes. However, the one difference is that the November 2014
Green Bay Packers have stockholders and lots of fans! They are also publicly-owned. When the Packers want to make changes, they are wholeheartedly supported. We also are loved and adored by our members and when we want to make repairs or upgrade services, we too are wholeheartedly supported. We just have to raise the funds to make these changes. Our roofing project was a huge undertaking for our small congregation. The new roof was recommended and needed, due to many years of rain damage in our sanctuary in several different areas that damaged ceilings, walls, stained glass windows and the roof. We had no choice but to replace the roof. But, with the Packer season just getting started and our roof just getting completed, we are renewed with a sense of pride and ownership to get the roof paid for and for the Packers to win a Super Bowl! ■ Cheryl Weber, Fund Raising Committee, West Side Moravian Church, Green Bay, Wis. Photo above: West Side Moravian sports a gleaming new copper roof. 5
MORAVIAN UNITY
Lecture addresses challenge of maintaining Unity in a diverse world While it may not appear so in the Northern
and Southern Provinces of North America, the Moravian Church is growing by leaps and bounds around the world. During the past quarter-century, explosive growth of church membership in the developing countries of Africa have pushed the number of Moravians in the world to more than 1.3 million. To provide perspective on this growth and how it is changing the face of the Moravian Church around the world, the Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler, business administrator of the Unitas Fratrum, presented a lecture titled “Unity in Diversity: Challenges to the Worldwide Moravian Church” in the Saal of Moravian Theological Seminary. About 100 people attended the lecture, which was part of the program for the 2014 Bethlehem Conference on Moravian History and Music in early October. Dr. Bøytler’s lecture focused on the globalization of the Moravian Church, especially the phenomenal growth of the church in Western Africa since 1957 and how this is changing the nature of the worldwide Moravian Church. “The history of the Moravian Church is 6
normally divided into two main parts: the Ancient Moravian Church and the Renewed Moravian Church,“ said Dr. Bøytler. “The Ancient Moravian Church existed in a defined period, from 1457 to approximately 1630. After a period, the Renewed Moravian Church was formed in the new settlement Herrnhut, and the official date of founding is August 13, 1727. The time between the disappearance of the Ancient Moravian Church and the reappearance of the church, Moravians call ‘the time of the Hidden Seed.” In his lecture, Dr. Bøytler suggested the idea of a third period of the Moravian Church, beginning in the middle of the twentieth century, when former Mission-Provinces became Unity Provinces. In this period, the Moravian Church went from consisting of two Moravian provinces — the European and the American with a central leadership in Europe — to consisting of more (and more) provinces, most of them now in the former mission-fields. “This is a paradigm-shift,” said Dr. Bøytler. “This third period of our history is when the Moravian Church moved from being a WestThe Moravian
ern church doing mission overseas to being a globalized church with a growing constituency in the ‘Global South’ and a stagnating number of members in the north.” Today more than 90 percent of the 1.3 million members of the Moravian Church in the world live in Africa, and the growth curve of the church there is almost exponential. The size of the church has doubled in just twenty years and now there are ten provinces in Africa, including six in Tanzania. Bøytler’s research demonstrates that the Moravian Church in Africa has become an indigenous church with a character quite distinct from the Moravian Church in Europe and America. Challenges of diversity Dr. Bøytler’s lecture discussed many of the “growing pains” of the worldwide Moravian Church and the challenges that growth in different parts of the world brings. Coming to grips with the differences among the 21 Provinces in polity, theology, worship practice, culture, worldview and traditions while maintaining the Unity presents serious challenges. “It is not too hard to find challenges to the Unity within the diversity of the worldwide Moravian Church,” said Dr. Bøytler. “It is neither true nor correct to just focus on a discrepancy only between the smaller Moravian Provinces in the North and the more populated Southern Hemisphere Moravian Provinces. In each cultural context, the church develops, influenced by many culturally–rooted factors.” In his lecture, Dr. Bøytler highlighted some of those challenges. He discussed the need to review the structure of the Unity, includThanks to Dr. Bøytler and the Rev. Dr. Craig Atwood for their assistance with this article. November 2014
ing how Provinces are represented on Unity Board, at Unity Synod and in committees. He outlined proposals that could be studied that take into account membership numbers and resource strength to create a more meaningful and proportional representation. He also discussed the challenges of being a global Unity: one church consisting of many provinces. How do you form a common identity, being a member of one worldwide church while living in different parts of the world? How can 20-plus Provinces, each governed by a synod and a church constitution, be identified as one Church governed by a Unity Synod and the Church Order of the Unitas Fratrum, which is not even a legal entity? What is the authority of Unity Board and Unity Synod? How does the Unity deal with theological issues that are controversial? How do we deal with human issues that are defined differently in different cultures? And how do we reconcile traditions developed over centuries in particular parts of the Unity that are understood as the one and only way to be (continued on next page)
Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler
(continued from previous page) Moravian, while new or adjusted traditions are understood as not being Moravian? Dr. Bøytler’s lecture also discussed the challenges of the growth of the church in some parts of the world and stagnation in other parts of the world; the uneven distribution of resources across the Unity, being one church consisting of some affluent brothers and sisters in Christ and of others less affluent; and how conflicts within Provinces can be devastating, whether the conflicts are rooted in genuine theological differences or in personal or political issues. Other challenges highlighted in Dr. Bøytler’s research include: • Different worldviews: Moravians living on five different continents in more than 30 countries have very different worldviews. • Theological issues: understanding of Scripture; “tradition” versus “renewal”; the charismatic movement; same gender issues; understanding of baptism, Holy Communion and spirituality; and political theologies (liberation theology, the more recent ecological theology etc.) • Defining what belongs to essentials and what belongs to non-essentials • Understanding of the role of ministry, including the bishop’s office • Mission Theology and mission strategy Despite the challenges that diversity brings to the Unitas Fratrum, Dr. Bøytler posits that it is that diversity that makes the Moravian Church what it is today. “Unity in Diversity is a challenge, a goal,” said Dr. Bøytler. “Diversity in Unity is self-evident and diversity is a task and a gift. Diverse convictions, groupings, theologies and ideas are all parts of the Moravian identity. Unity is 8
a spiritual issue. For Moravians around the world, Christ is the head and the church is the body. A body is a Unity of Diversity!” Supporting the Unity In bringing his lecture to a close, Dr. Bøytler highlighted some of the factors that can support the ongoing unity of the Unitas Fratrum: • Recapture the basic calling of the Moravian Church: bringing the Gospel to those who are not Christians. That could easily mean going to new parts of the world, including Asia, where, according to the Pew Forum, only 10 percent of the population are Christians. In other words, consider going to places where the Moravian Church has not yet been. • Re-introducing Moravian forms of living in contemporary contexts, based on the original Moravian ideas of living in congregational fellowships. Should we form new settlements with communal living styles? • A continuous dialogue concerning the Moravian Identity, starting with focusing on the core values of the Moravian Church. The present, ongoing work aimed at presenting and distributing a common Moravian curriculum for Moravian Theological Institutions around the globe is important. • Dialogue in earnest concerning working towards a more true redistribution of wealth. • Continuous dialogue in cross-cultural encounters to increase understanding of the differences in opinions concerning difficult issues within the Unity. Overall, the wider, the deeper, the broader the ongoing contacts between the different parts of the Unity are, the more unity will be built up. • The structure of the Moravian worldwide Unity must continuously be nourished The Moravian
and developed. This can happen through regular Regional meetings; placing a high priority on Unity Synod and Unity Board meetings; functioning and active standing committees of the Unity, including Unity Committee on Theology (UCOT), Unity Mission and Development Board (UMDB), a Unity Youth Steering Committee (UYSC); the operation of the Unity Women’s Desk (UWD) and the creation of a Unity Youth Desk (UYD); and increased use of social media, communication and the development of staff exchange programs. “Inspiration from the August 13th experience, focusing on the fact that ‘they learned to love,’ could also help create unity,” concluded Dr. Bøytler. “It is difficult to love people, whose culture, language, worldview, theology, tradition and lifestyle is different from mine. Perhaps it is time to realize that only in loving respect for the otherness, the difference of my fellow Moravian far away, I am able to live in unity.”
an Church in 2006. He is serving the Christiansfeld congregation and served on several Moravian boards in the Continental Province before assuming full time duty as the business administrator. The Moses Lectures are named for Bishop Walter Vivian Moses who became dean of Moravian Theological Seminary in 1930. Dr. Moses taught Latin, Old Testament History, Archaeology, Pastoral Theology, and Comparative Religion at Moravian College and Theological Seminary from 1910-1946. After his retirement in St. Augustine, Florida, Bishop Moses took an active role in promoting civil rights in his community. The Moses Lectures are offered annually. Since 2002 the annual lectures have been published in The Hinge and since 2011 they have been made available on-line. Dr. Bøytler’s complete lecture can be viewed online at www.moravianstudies.org; it will also be the subject of an upcoming issue of The Hinge. ■
About the Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler Dr. Bøytler assumed his duties as the Unity business administrator in 2010. Because of his work, he has a unique knowledge of the issues facing Moravians in many parts of the globe. He earned his PhD at the University Aarhus in Denmark in 2009 with a dissertation focusing on the different understandings of Moravianism in Tanzania and Europe. Bøytler began his vocation as a carpenter and builder, and in 1982 he took these skills to Tanzania as a missionary under the auspices of the Danish Moravian Mission. He returned to his native Denmark in 1996 and began studies that led to his ordination as a deacon in the Moravian Church in 1998. He was consecrated a presbyter of the MoraviNovember 2014
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MORAVIANS IN CANADA
Unity Lodge Grand Opening at Van-Es Close to 200 people attended Van-Es Camp
on Sunday, September 28 to celebrate the grand opening of the Unity Lodge. The Rev. Matt Gillard began worship in the Memorial Chapel and concluded at the new Lodge with a ribbon cutting joined by Van-Es Chair, Alice Sears, along with Dave Quest, member of the Legislation Assembly, and Rosanne Carr, mayor of Strathcona County. Tours of Unity and a barbecue followed worship. But getting to this fun afternoon had been years in the making. A year-round lodge suit-
Roseann Carr, Alice Sears and Dave Quest cut the ribbon opening the new Unity Lodge.
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able for all ages was a long time dream of the Moravian Church in Canada. The 2008 District Synod directed the VanEs Board to conduct a feasibility study and bring a design to the 2012 Synod. The design for a 12-bedroom lodge with kitchen, boardroom and great room was approved unanimously by 2012 Synod. A $1 million fund raising campaign commenced and Moravians responded generously, raising $700,000 (which Synod directed to be raised before construction could begin.) In the spring of 2013 the Van-Es Board awarded the project to Homes by Twin R, owned and operated by identical twins Randy and Ron Adam. Randy Adam had worked on the design of the lodge that was brought to Synod. In August of 2013 ground breaking and construction commenced. God graced Van-Es with good weather and Unity was completed in May of 2014 within budget and a month ahead of schedule. Great emphasis was placed on sustainability. Unity had to be energy and water efficient, durable, low maintenance and attractive. To meet this need, we installed in-floor heating The Moravian
through polished concrete floors, LED lights that cost pennies to run and low-flow toilets and showers. Unity has triple pane windows, a high R-factor and a metal roof, which keeps it warm in the winter and cool in the summer. There are 12 semi-private bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and shower. Two bedrooms have full wheelchair access and can be used as family rooms each with a double bed and twin bunks. Fully occupied, Unity will sleep 28. Interior design, facilitated by Berniece Adam, took its influences from the Memorial Chapel (built in the 1950s) with a modern twist. Open trusses and the rock fireplace reflect the chapel while modern cabinetry and stainless steel appliances give Unity an industrial yet rustic look. Great attention was given to detail and Twin R’s craftsmanship and quality is seen throughout the lodge. Unity has a full residential-style kitchen with a large island. It is fully equipped and suitable for making meals for groups of 20– 28. Larger groups are encouraged to use VanEs’s catering services. The great room has two large sitting/lounging areas with an adjoining coffee bar and a large gas fireplace surrounded in floor-toceiling stone. The board room seats 12 with nesting tables and chairs that can be configured as a board table or classroom style. There is a
Committee members work on the resolution that approved the new Unity Lodge.
(continued on next page) Lynne Hennig is a member of the Canadian District Board of Elders and a member on the Van-Es Board. Lynne also chaired the Unity Lodge Fundraising committee, purchased all the furniture for Unity Lodge and supervised the move-in. November 2014
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(continued from previous page) built-in projector and sound system and a full-wall whiteboard for use with dry erase markers. Barn doors from Bill and Rita Brese have been refinished and hung to create a striking feature wall and are complimented by an oil painting by artist Maggie Pringle. Each bed in the Unity Lodge has a quilt that was made by the women in the District. The Unity Quilters under the guidance of Karen Gibbs met for a series of quilting bees. The result is 30-plus quilts which add a warm, welcoming touch to the bedrooms. The surrounding grounds were landscaped with trees and shrubs from Millcreek Nursery. It took four days to install furnishings and crews of volunteers came to help and worked long and hard getting everything ready and into place. During construction, Moravians kept giving and with donations, pledges and a $125,000 grant from the Government of Alberta, a grant from the Melton Foundation and a gift from the Northern Province PEC, the funding targets were met. In response to this generosity, the Van-Es Board commissioned a donor rec-
ognition wall, which was created by awardwinning commercial artist, Wei Yew. As well as a venue for Moravian events and groups, Unity Lodge is available for rental to groups from outside the church. The revenue from the rentals goes towards the overall operating costs of Van-Es. Renters have responded well and the calendar is full of bookings. There are times on the calendar reserved for Moravian Church use. Thanks be to God for working through the many donors, volunteers and supporters of the Unity Lodge to bring us to this celebratory time. We pray that this new addition to our beautiful property will help continue the ministry of Van-Es and the vision of those who long ago saw the potential of Camp Van-Es and Conference Centre. ■
The Widow’s Society of Bethlehem Annual Report • June 30, 2014
ASSETS Cash in Banks $ 3,386 Investments at cost 342,701 Total Assets $346,087 Investments at market: $1,194,001 EQUITY Membership Fees $ 84,554 Accumulated Capital Gains and Losses 180,091 Accumulated interest 3,000 Legacies and Bequests 76,143 Unexpended Income 2,299 Total Equity $ 346,087 Distributions Paid: 12/16/13 72@ $306 $ 22,032 06/23/14 74@ $304 22,496 Total $610 $ 44,528 Members as of June 30, 2014: Ministers:103; Laymen:122; Total:225 Membership in the Society is open to any married man who is a member of the Moravian Church or whose wife is a member, for a one-time membership fee of $100 up to age 50; slight additional fees added for each year to age 60. For further information write or call: The Widow’s Society of Bethlehem 561 E. Market St., Suite #1, Bethlehem, PA 18018-6323 Phone: 610.866.1841
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The Moravian
MORAVIAN YOUTH
Moravian Youth “Give their all and stand tall” at 2014 Youth Rally In what has become an anticipated annual tradition, youth and youth leaders from more than a dozen Eastern District churches came together for a weekend of fun, music, worship and fellowship at the 2014 Youth Rally. This year’s Moravian Youth Council Youth Ministries Weekend, themed “Giving My All and Standing Tall,” included youth teams from congregations in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Toronto. The weekend brings people together as a spiritual catalyst for reenergized ministry involvement at the local level. The sanctuary of Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem (the host for this year’s event) was ablaze with a rainbow of colorful t-shirts, as each congregation wore a different color. The sanctuary rang with music, laughter, prayers and cheers throughout the event. Along with worship and music, the youth teams each presented colorful banners representing their congregations. The annual “Parade of Banners” gave each group an November 2014
opportunity to share something about their congregations and their thoughts on the weekend’s theme. In addition, the youth participated in the highly anticipated Quiz Bowl. The Bowl tested each team’s knowledge of Count Zinzendorf and First Corinthians with questions prepared by “Quiz Master” Bishop Chris Giesler in a role he’s held for many years. As the Rev. Cynthia Rader-Geyer read each multiple-choice question, the teams had 30 seconds to answer. The team from New Dawn Moravian Church in Toronto, Ontario won this year’s competition. The weekend also featured a social event held at Moravian College, Sunday worship at Central and a celebratory concert on Sunday afternoon. Led by the Rev. Dr. Michael Johnson, the youth affirmed their Youth Rally Pledge: “I count it as a privilege to be a participant in the 2014 Moravian Youth Ministries Weekend (continued on next page) 13
Top: Youth Rally Quiz Bowl champions from New Dawn in Toronto.
(continued from previous page)
Middle & Bottom: Excitement during the Quiz Bowl
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which seeks to promote the active presence of Jesus Christ in the lives of our young people. I acknowledge that the success of this rally will be measured primarily by the depth of our experience rather than the number of participants. As a participant, I pledge to do everything in my power to ensure that our time together will further the cause of Christian fellowship and witness. In the friendly competitions, I will seek to honorably give glory to God for the gifts given to me and my fellow Moravians. Additionally, I will endeavor to add one new person to my circle of friends. In the time we are together, I will seek to enjoy every moment, be a good witness and create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime, as I continue to give my all and stand tall.” Emmerline Nelson of Vanderbilt Avenue Moravian Church, shared her thoughts on the weekend: “This was Vanderbilt Avenue Moravian Church’s first time participating in the Moravian Youth Ministries Weekend. The Youth Rally was a time of worship, knowledge and gathering in the name of the Lord. We worshiped his name through prayer and song. We studied year round to fill ourselves with knowledge of Moravian history and Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians to compete in the Quiz Bowl. We gathered as not only individual churches, but also as a people of Moravian faith united. “My home church, Vanderbilt Avenue Moravian Church, is a small congregation. However, I was not overwhelmed with the mass of people from the other congregations because everyone was welcoming and full of joy—especially when it was VAMC’s turn to present our banner that we had forgotten at home. Each Youth Ministry group created a banner The Moravian
Youth Rally participants display their congregations' banners.
reflecting the theme “Giving My All and Standing Tall.” All the banners were beautiful and well-explained. It was clear that each congregation took their time and put all of their efforts into creating their banners. Technology did save the day for VAMC. We were able to email a picture of our banner to the operator of the projector and project it onto the screen at the front of the church for all to see. “We were greeted with big smiles and a loud round of applause. Our interpretation of the theme was based on Galatians 5:22– 23 which says, ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol. Against such things there is no law.’ We included footprints to show that all nine of these fruits will help us face any obstacle that is placed before us on our journey to success in whatever it is that we aim for. “My team had a blast during the Quiz Bowl. It was such an adrenaline rush. All teams worked extremely hard and in my eyes, we are all winners for participating and believing in ourselves. Following the Quiz Bowl was the banquet. We all dressed in our finest dresses and suits to share a meal and honor youth who have done extraordinary work in their churches and communities. I was one of these youth and I am thankful to have been given such an honor. The food was great, the fashion show entertainment showcased a journey of styles, and the DJ was rather impressive. “I was unable to attend the church service and the youth concert, but saw many videos of all the talents that my Moravian brothers and sisters are blessed with, ranging from amazing singing voices to wonderful movement in dance. We are a truly blessed people. “I, along with the other VAMC youth, am anticipating next year’s event!” ■ November 2014
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FULL COMMUNION
Moravian-United Methodist Dialogue Team moving forward with full communion The Northern and Southern Provinces of the Moravian Church in America continue their ecumenical work, as a potential full communion relationship with the United Methodist Church is almost a reality. Over the past two years, a team of representatives of the Moravian and United Methodist Churches have been gathering for a dialogue about the possibility of entering into a full communion agreement between our denominations. We held four extended face-to-face meetings, and did a lot of work in between to come to the point where we are today. At our most recent gathering, held September 11–13, 2014 in Winston-Salem, N.C., we put together the final draft of a document indicating our strong conviction that an agreement of full communion is not only warranted, but in fact would be formalizing a relationship that has been in existence for many years. This document will now be forwarded to the Northern and Southern Provinces of the Moravian Church for consideration at 2018 Synods, and to the United Methodist Church and its next General Conference. Prior to this latest meeting, the dialogue team has explored matters relating to our history, doctrine, church practice and daily life in our local congregations. As a result of these discussions the committee found no churchdividing issues, hence our recommendation to move forward with the process without delay. 16
To be in full communion with our United Methodist brothers and sisters means that we mutually recognize and value the diverse gifts present in each church; respect each other as part of the body of Christ in the world today; commit each church to cooperate in common ministries of evangelism, witness and service; recognize the validity of each other’s sacramental life and ministerial orders, allowing for the transfer of membership and the orderly exchange of clergy (subject to the regulations of church order and practice of each church); and commit each church to continue to work for the visible unity of the church, recognizing that this relationship of full communion is but a step toward the unity to which we are called. The dialogue team has been co-chaired by Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar, of The United Methodist Church and the Rev. Gary Harke of the Moravian Church. Other members of the team include Prof. Dr. Ulrike Schuler, and the Rev. Dr. Robert Williams representing The United Methodist Church, and the Rev. Dr. M. Lynnette Delbridge and the Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler repre(continued on page 23) The Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler is a Moravian Bishop and pastor of Edgeboro Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pa. The Moravian
CAMPING MINISTRY
Laurel Ridge offers a Moravian Mountain Christmas Start a new family tradition this year at Mora-
vian Mountain Christmas at Laurel Ridge! Join us December 5–7, 2014, for a wonderful time of holiday celebration. Stay the entire weekend or join us for a day. The weekend will be filled with activities like craft making for families, sounds of the season by various musical talents including the Junior Appalachian Musicians and lots of vendors on hand to offer you the opportunity to purchase that special gift you’ve been looking for! Other festive activities include hayrides throughout the mountainside, a Kids Corner with great stories of the season, a family gingerbread house creating contest, and a special appearance by Santa Claus on Saturday morning! Join us Sunday morning for a worship service that will be followed by a time of fellowship at brunch. Make this a winter getaway with your family and take advantage of our special rates at Higgins Lodge! Higgins offers 48 hotel-style lodging rooms and a full-service dining room. The Bishop Wing has 20 rooms with semi-private bathrooms and 4 rooms with private baths. The Salem Wing offers 20 double rooms and 4 ADA rooms, all with private baths. Rates for the Moravian Mountain Christmas are $55 a night in the Salem Wing, $45 a night in Bishop Wing, and $60 a night for 2 adjoining rooms in the Bishop Wing. Rooms may fill Terry Rausch is assistant director at Laurel Ridge. November 2014
fast, so call today to make your reservation: 336-359-2951 ext. 221 or email to info@ laurelridge.org. Lodging and meals, except Saturday lunch, require reservations. Meals will be available at an additional cost. As a bonus, when you stay a night at Higgins Lodge you will receive a coupon for 10% off the purchase of a Christmas Tree at Lil’ Grandfather Mountain Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Farm, located only 1.5 miles from Laurel Ridge! We truly hope you decide to make Moravian Mountain Christmas at Laurel Ridge a part of your family tradition! We are located at 124 Pendry Drive in Laurel Springs, N.C., just 2 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway! Find out more at www.laurelridge.org. ■
MORAVIANS IN MISSION
Blessings in Tanzania: Walking hand-in-hand in mission “Katika mauti ya Yesu Kristo, nakubatiza wewe…Into the death of Jesus I baptize you…”
I had the privilege to repeat this phrase as I baptized more than 130 infants, youth and adults while visiting 10 congregations in the southern district of the Western Province of the Moravian Church in Tanzania (MCWT) this past September. I travelled with Gillian Taylor, the chair of the British Province, and we were hosted by Bro. Ezekiel Yona, chair of MCWT and Bishop Isaac Nicodemo. It took five days of sometimes long travel over mostly dirt roads to visit the different villages and congregations. The Board of World Mission presented this motorcycle for pastors to reach far-flung congregations.
We went through some areas of game reserve, giving us a new appreciation for why many pastors in Tanzania would benefit from a motorcycle to help them make timely visits to the outstations of their parish, which are led by evangelists. We heard of a pastor visiting one of his outstations using a bicycle who quickly turned back when he saw lions on the road ahead of him. Some congregations that we visited were doing well financially, but several were quite poor and in an area of the country dealing with limited water and isolation that made marketing produce difficult. Some had no electricity. Yet, all of the worship services were filled with people of all ages, with large numbers of children sitting together on the floor or
Baptisms, celebrations and worship in Tanzania
ground near the front. Persons from the outstations also came and their choirs would take turns bringing the joy and energy of their music to worship. During our trip, buildings were dedicated and pastors installed. Pastors’ spouses were installed alongside their husbands and throughout the trip it was evident that the pastor’s wife had an important role in the ministry—not only in making sure that meals were prepared for the guests, but also in participating in meetings, bringing greetings to the congregations and in leading prayer. Bishop Nicodemo shared with us that the primary purpose of MCWT is evangelism. In addition to their outreach to the Sukuma population that has migrated into Moravian areas in Western Tanzania, the church has outreach in Burundi, Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda. They previously supported work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Lake Tanganyika, which are now Unity Provinces. In fact, some of those we baptized were new converts from Islam. MCWT shares the gospel in both word and deed. At each congregation we visited, the provincial leaders strongly emphasized the education of children. The province has schools at Bishop Kisanji Girl’s School, and the Bible College and Lusangi Seminary in Sikonge. The schools struggle to maintain the buildings and provide the resources needed for learning. At Kisanji, a new dormitory has the outer walls completed; both the British province and individuals from the US Southern Province helped in this effort; but a major crisis recently has been the limited water supply (continued on next page) Judy Ganz is Executive Director of the Board of World Mission in North America November 2014
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(continued from previous page) to the school. They are developing a strategy by which to meet this need. In addition to education, the province has long supported efforts to provide health care to its people, although the current hospital at Sikonge and other Moravian dispensaries in various communities are financially strapped and in need of renovation. It is hoped that an assessment can be done of the Sikonge hospital to help with decision-making about its future. MCWT would love to renovate the Kitunda Mission dispensary as well, and is working on a plan for these efforts. We were told that our visit to these commu-
Touring the new dorm at Kisanji
nities was very important because no foreign partner had yet visited these congregations. They spoke of ongoing needs for motorcycles, solar energy, and musical instruments that we hope to add to our Second Mile project list. Scholarships for education might also be a way to help. Bishop Nicodemo stressed to me the importance of our partnership. Sometimes it feels like the definition of “partnership� is related to providing funds. But back in the 1990s I recall that Bishop Nicodemo (then not a bishop but chair of the MCWT province) came to a partnership consultation with the Board of World Mission. Of all present he gave the best image of partnership, with two persons holding hands and walking together (not one in front of the other, he said). Partnership is mutual. I wonder if the Moravians in Tanzania realize the tremendous gift that they are to us, with their energetic worship and expressions of faith, as well as their persistent evangelism in the midst of sometimes very difficult circumstances, including increasing tension with those of the Muslim faith. Walking hand-in-hand to me is true partnership, and I am grateful that in spite of many differences between the Tanzanian church and the North American church, we can still walk together in mission. ■Moravian-themed Items for Christmas and Other Times by Linda Wickmann www.lilycreations.net 610-746-0788 Photo note cards Matted prints ready for framing Photo coasters Featuring Moravian Star & Candle Collection note cards
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The Moravian
IN MINISTRY
Pastors recommit through Cup of Covenant In quiet observances throughout the Northern and Southern Provinces, Moravian pastors both current and retired gathered on September 16 to recommit themselves to their work, to each other and to the Moravian Church. The Moravian observance of the Cup of Covenant began in the early years of the renewal, and for more than 200 years, Sept. 16 has been observed as a Covenanting Day for Moravian church leaders around the world. However, according to Customs and Practices of the Moravian Church by Adelaide Fries, The Cup of Covenant, or Cup of Thanksgiving, was used for the first time in Herrnhut in 1728 to “prepare the heart for the communion which could not be held just then.” In the early years of the renewed Moravian Church, the Cup was used frequently “to give thanks for special manifestations of grace and to covenant together for new faithfulness in the service of Jesus.” 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 November 2014
continue to work in Christ’s service. The General Synod of 1775 adopted Cup of Covenant as a formal institution. September 16 commemorates the day in 1741, when during a synodal conference in London, leaders of the Moravian Church recognized Jesus Christ as Chief Elder of the Moravian Church. Today, Moravian pastors gather to share the Cup of Covenant in simple services and activities. Each gathering included prayer, reflection and a recommitment to their work as pastors. For example, Winston-Salem, N.C. area ministers in the Moravian Ministers Association came together for a special service on the evening of Sept. 16th. In Central Wisconsin, pastors gathered for an outdoor service on the front lawn of Wisconsin Rapids Moravian Church. Pastors in southern Pennsylvania and Maryland also met outdoors at Graceham Moravian Church in a celebration that included potting new plants as part of the reflection. And in Bethlehem, pastors from area churches met at College Hill Moravian for a prayer and music service, preceded by a talk by Bishop Doug Kleintop sharing his insights as a recently-retired pastor. ■ 21
MORAVIAN YOUTH
Get ready for the Moravian Young Adult Convo this summer! Every four years, Moravian young adults in
North America have the opportunity to come together for a Moravian Young Adult Convocation. Nearly eight years ago the participants for the Moravian Young Adult Convo 2007 traveled to the Czech Republic and Germany to see many of the historic Moravian sites and to find inspiration and vision for current ministry. All Moravian young adults ages 18 through 26 are invited to attend this summer’s Moravian Young Adult Convo 2015 which will return to the Czech Republic and Germany. The dates for the trip are July 5–13, 2015. This trip is built on the same theme as the earlier Convo: “Make the Moravian Journey Home and Catch a Vision for Our Future!” One of the members of the Convo 2015 Planning Group is the Rev. Josh Viste, Pastor of the Millwoods Community (Moravian) Church in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, who was also a participant at Convo 2007. Josh shares the fol-
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lowing thoughts about this upcoming Convo: “It is a privilege to assist with the planning of Convo 2015. I had the privilege of attending Convo 2007 in Prague and Herrnhut, and it continues to transform my appreciation for the rich history and tradition of the Moravian Church. “Prague captures the imagination as an ancient city with such diversity of language, culture, tradition and historical influences. Between Prague Castle, the Golden Lane, Old Prague Square, and Bethlehem Chapel, you are bound to find something that catches your eye and inclines your ear to listen to the eons of stories embedded in this beautiful city. You’ll hear about the pre-Reformation movements of people like Jan Hus, and our unique claim that all people should have access to the rituals of the faith. “Then journey to Kunwald where you’ll hear the stories of the first Moravians who esThe Moravian
tablished a movement which was the ancient unity. Next, to Chalice Rocks where you’ll not only see the landscape of the 2005 film The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, but also a sacred place that gave refuge to persecuted Christians who fled to this rugged woodland to escape persecution. “And then of course there is Herrnhut— your true spiritual home. Not only will you hear of the renewed Moravian tradition of the early 1700s, but you’ll also hear about the diversity of religious expression, the intentionality of reconciling differences and the renewed Mission movement of the Moravian Church. This is a place where you will not only learn, but you will also experience the warmth and vitality of not only the historic church, but also the truly living church community. Between community games, tours, singstundes and worship services; you’ll fall in love with the people, and you are bound to make many lifelong friends. “Convo 2007 forever changed my understanding of the historic and modern Moravian traditions, and has deepened my faith and appreciation for God’s steadfast presence in the church throughout the ages. I trust that Convo 2015 will be a true blessing to every camper and chaperone as you learn about the history, reclaim our identity and grow in the Spirit with all the new friends you’ll meet. I hope you’ll take advantage of this tremendous opportunity!” For more information about Convo 2015, please check its website at http://convo2015. wordpress.com/ or call (336) 722-8126. ■ The Rev. Doug Rights is director of Youth, College and Young Adult Ministries for the Southern Province Board of Cooperative Ministries. November 2014
Full Communion (continued from page 16) senting the Moravian Church (Northern and Southern Provinces). The committee received staff assistance from Dr. Glen Alton Messer, II from the Office of Christian Unity and Interreligious Relationships of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church. Reflecting our desire to work in union with other Christian denominations, it is worth noting that the Northern and Southern Provinces of the Moravian Church are already in full communion with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, The Episcopal Church, and are in a covenant partnership with the Presbyterian Church (USA). ■
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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 23, 2014 On Sunday, November 23, 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, 2014 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. 28
NORTHERN PROVINCE Moravian Women’s Sunday, November 2, 2014 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 23, 2014 On Sunday, November 23, 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. Unionville, Michigan Sister Jane Gehler, who has been serving as pastor for Ebenezer Moravian Church, Watertown, Wisconsin, accepted the call to serve as pastor for Unionville Moravian Church, Unionville, Michigan. Sister Gehler will be installed in her new work December 7, 2014. Edmonton, Alberta Sister Carol Vogler concluded her ministry at Rio Terrace Moravian Church, Edmonton, Alberta, as of September 22, 2014. Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference The Moravian
SOUTHERN PROVINCE On September 28, the Come and Worship outreach worship ministry began meeting at Bob’s Subs and Pub at 901 Reynolda Rd (corner of Reynolda and Northwest Blvd, across from Hanes Park) in Winston-Salem, N.C. Worship time will be 10:00. For the past six years C&W has been meeting at Chelsee’s Coffee Shop on Trade St. Pastoral Transitions David Merritt, pastor at Friedland Moravian Church, has accepted a call to three-quartertime service as pastor of the Bethania congregation. He concluded ministry at Friedland September 28 and was installed at Bethania on October 12. Aaron Linville, a candidate for ordination, has accepted the call to become pastor of the Rural Hall Moravian Church. He was ordained on Sunday October 12 by bishop Sam Gray, at Union Cross Moravian Church— Aaron’s home congregation. He completed a one-year pastoral internship at the end of October, and was installed as pastor at Rural Hall on November 2. Margaret Leinbach requested and has been granted permission to retire from active service under call, effective September 8. She was ordained in 2004 and served as an intentional interim pastor for Fries Memorial, First (Greensboro), and also for the Sharon (OH) congregation in the Northern Province. Margaret also was interim pastor of the King congregation during a call process. Her service to the church includes: the Spiritual Life Commission, Church and Society Commission (chair), Provincial Women’s Board, Synod Planning Committee (2010) and delegate to the North Carolina Council of Churches. David Guthrie Provincial Elders’ Conference November 2014
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.
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Statistics of the Moravian Church Northern & Southern Provinces CF = Confirmed Communicants T = Total
AVG = Average Worship Attendance * = No membership statistics received for 2012
The Northern Province • Statistics December 31, 2013 Eastern District
CONGREGATION
CF
T
AVG
DIST. OF COLUMBIA Washington, Faith
128
166
91
Bevon White
MARYLAND New Carrollton, Trinity Thurmont, Graceham Upper Marlboro, St. Paul’s
115 290 143
163 342 187
58 97 68
Tammie L. Rinker Sue Koenig William T. Andrews
NEW JERSEY Cinnaminson, Palmyra Egg Harbor City Riverside, First Union, Battle Hill*
122 274 183 39
158 337 223 56
51 74 50 33
Adam Spaugh Bruce Weaknecht Richard L. Bruckart Lillette George
NEW YORK Bronx, Tremont Terrace* Brooklyn, Fellowship Brooklyn, John Hus New York City, First New York City, United Queens, Grace Staten Island, Castleton Hill
141 62 293 101 447 197 178
173 109 369 119 659 317 239
89 45 268 50 194 152 70
Staten Island, Great Kills Staten Island, New Dorp* Staten Island, Vanderbilt Ave.
112 235 81
149 286 109
45 100 51
Desna Goulbourne Wellesley Ferguson Michael E. Johnson Charles C. Harewood Nigel Powell Earl Goulbourne Andrew Meckstroth M. Lynnette Delbridge Margaret Wellert Duane E. Ullrich Wellesley Ferguson
OHIO Dover, First Dublin, Redeemer Gnadenhutten, Heckewelder Lewis Center, The Promise New Phila., Fry’s Valley New Phila., Schoenbrunn Tuscarawas, Sharon Uhrichsville, First
486 66 282 34 77 105 300 109
572 79 321 39 91 127 355 134
203 45 102 32 34 57 107 54
John B. Wallace Jay Petrella Darrell F. Johnson Darryl C. Bell Christine S. Johnson Tracy A. Pryor Rebecca J. Sisley William A. Rinderknecht
ONTARIO Toronto, New Dawn*
122
158
120
Rowan Simmons
PENNSYLVANIA Allentown, Calvary Bethlehem, Advent Bethlehem, Central
179 297 825
205 351 984
79 114 356
Bethlehem, College Hill Bethlehem, East Hills
262 465
296 556
88 129
M. Blair Couch Laura Gordon C. Hopeton Clennon Janel R. Rice David C. Geyer Derek A. French
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PASTOR
The Moravian
Bethlehem, Edgeboro Bethlehem, West Side Canadensis Coopersburg, MorningStar Easton, First Easton, Palmer Township Emmaus Hellertown, Mountainview Lancaster Lebanon Lititz
313 135 40 140 163 585 461 130 115 109 669
401 150 48 168 208 717 538 149 129 153 779
136 52 25 54 57 197 100 31 63 53 270
Nazareth Nazareth, Schoeneck Newfoundland Philadelphia, Redeemer Reading York, Covenant York, First
390 398 88 77 78 126 107
497 474 99 84 117 139 127
121 177 40 47 43 66 56
10,874 13,406
4,694
TOTALS
J. Christian Giesler Keith K. Harke Gregg C. Schafer Lance E. Fox Patricia D. Honszer Melissa L. Johnson Kevin J. Henning Jodie Lean Harney Dean Easton Lloyd Gooden Mark V. Breland Dean R. Jurgen Jeffrey D. Gehris, Sr. Terry L. Folk Gregg C. Schafer Vacant Ronald Rice Jeffrey Coppage Sayward E. Lippincott
Western District CALIFORNIA Banning, Morongo Downey
84 110
113 155
40 38
ILLINOIS West Salem
229
271
101
Jason O. Andersen
INDIANA Hope
374
499
148
Andrew Kilps
MICHIGAN Daggett Unionville Westland, Grace*
43 225 55
50 279 79
27 82 46
Gary Straughan Vacant Vacant
MINNESOTA Altura, Our Savior’s Chaska Maple Grove, Christ’s Com. Northfield, Main Street St. Charles, Berea Victoria, Lake Auburn Waconia
113 125 98 32 96 95 309
141 147 130 34 129 106 368
72 73 54 24 49 58 80
David W. Sobek Michael Eder Jennifer Moran Vacant Franklin Jones Brian R. Dixon Amy Gohdes-Luhman
NORTH DAKOTA Davenport, Canaan Durbin, Goshen Fargo, Shepherd of the Prairie Leonard, Bethel
142 120 67 80
184 158 82 97
43 35 36 27
Beth Rohn-Habhegger Reid Lauderman Eric D. Renner Reid Lauderman
November 2014
Vicki Jens-Page Christie Melby-Gibbons
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WISCONSIN Appleton, Freedom Cambridge, London DeForest, Christian Faith Ephraim Green Bay, West Side Lake Mills Madison, Glenwood Madison, Lakeview Pittsville, Veedum Rudolph Sister Bay Sturgeon Bay Watertown, Ebenezer Watertown Wisconsin Rapids, Kellner Wisconsin Rapids, Saratoga Wisconsin Rapids TOTALS
173 89 118 134 242 566 74 139 53 23 125 541 172 203 38 83 236
211 105 148 138 317 645 85 146 58 30 135 624 205 271 42 104 272
58 36 55 77 77 156 34 43 27 19 72 160 76 88 20 29 86
5,406
6,558
2,146
Vacant Jane Follmer Zekoff Kurt S. Liebenow Dawn E. Volpe Marian Boyle Bruce J. Nelson Katie Van Der Linden Staci Marrese-Wheeler Wanda Veldman Christine Stack Kerry D. Krauss Matthew R. Knapp Jane Gehler Barbara A. Berg Christine Stack Vacant Mary Louise Plummer
Canadian District ALBERTA Bruderheim Calgary, Christ Calgary, Good Shepherd
130 113 135
153 196 169
56 77 71
Edmonton Edmonton, Millwoods Edmonton, Rio Terrace Sherwood Park, Good News
89 117 105 38
108 126 142 49
43 66 52 25
37
40
23
764
983
413
S. Edmonton, Heimtal TOTALS
Vacant Stephen A. Gohdes Richard Beck Wendy Beck Rebecca Craver Joshua R. Viste James Lavoy Ian D. Edwards Eileen Edwards Matthew J. Gillard
Northern Province Recapitulation Eastern District Western District Canadian District
CF 10,874 5,406 764
T 13,406 6,558 983
AVG 4,694 2,146 413
Total Province 2013 Total Province 2012
17,044 17,052
20,947 21,011
7,253 7,565
-8
-64
-312
Increase/Decrease *Not Available for 2013
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The Moravian
The Southern Province• Statistics December 31, 2013 CONGREGATION FLORIDA Longwood, Rolling Hills Miami, King of Kings* New Hope* Prince of Peace West Palm Beach, Palm Beach* GEORGIA Stone Mountain,First Church* NORTH CAROLINA Advance, Macedonia Bethania Charlotte, Little Church on the Lane Peace Clemmons Durham, Christ the King Eden, Leaksville Greensboro, First Church Huntersville, New Beginnings Kernersville, Good Shepherd Kernersville King Lewisville, Unity Lexington, Enterprise Mayodan Mount Airy, Grace Newton, New Hope Oak Ridge, Moravia Raleigh Rural Hall Mizpah Rural Hall Walnut Cove, Fulp Wilmington, Covenant* Winston-Salem, Advent Ardmore Bethabara Bethesda Calvary Christ November 2014
CF
T
AVG
PASTOR
91
105
66
56 75 418
97 83 625
55 54 255
26
41
34
Frank Barker, Interim
113
120
50
Stephen Weisz, Interim
210 276
256 289
97 92
R. Jeff Carter Russell May, Interim
248 141 495 124 88 202 154
248 172 550 194 93 261 200
125 65 215 167 47 92 77
Rusty Rushing, Interim James L. Doss Q. Ray Burke Francis P. Venable Robert E. Peterson John R. Rainey Christopher C. Thore
54 438 341 194 42 122 345 84 117 454
61 622 424 217 51 149 399 105 129 551
36 212 183 97 22 63 142 56 66 178
Judy M. Knopf John G. Rights Cornelius B. Routh Stuart N. Zimmerman Vacant Zachary Dease Jeannie Leake Hemrick, Interim Betty Helms Russell Williams Craig S. Troutman
161 249 139 111
182 284 164 132
59 120 80 41
Vacant Vacant Vacant Rachel Connelly
278 183 99 24 329 265
324 207 118 24 413 314
144 95 40 19 159 108
Timothy G. Sapp Jonathan E. Boling Jeffrey Jones Richard G. Spaugh Lane A. Sapp David A. Marcus, Jr.
Wilma E. Israel Gregorio Moody Vacant Joseph E. Nicholas
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Fairview Friedberg
298 875
317 1,017
143 384
Friedland
421
492
216
Fries Memorial
122
142
69
Home
1,241
1,524
288
Hope Hopewell Immanuel New Eden Konnoak Hills Messiah New Philadelphia Oak Grove Olivet Pine Chapel Providence St. Philips Trinity Union Cross
130 173 82 226 141 1,091 183 482 83 43 42 212 323
130 210 86 247 164 1,288 217 557 93 59 47 231 400
85 77 43 101 81 514 96 193 45 22 18 106 172
C. Scott Venable III James C. Newsome Dan Nelson Carol A. Foltz David H. Merritt Joseph L. Moore Kelly H. Moore Richard L. Sides Virginia Tobiassen Andrew Heil Walter Bishop Cheryl Cottingham John D. Rights Vacant Worth N. Green Matthew W. Allen Vacant James Demby Robert Peek Vacant John P. Jackman Donald W. Griffin
Southern Province Recapitulation Total Dec. 31, 2013 Dec. 31, 2012 Increase/Decrease
CF 13,084 13,102
T 15,639 15,703
AVG 6,219 6,456
-18
-64
-237
*Not Available for 2013
Statistical Summary of the Sunday Church Schools December 31, 2013 Northern Province: Eastern District Western District Canadian District Totals: Northern Province: Southern Province: Grand Total
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Pupils
Staff
Totals
1,893 1,062 116
420 186 21
2,313 1,248 137
3,071 3,549 6,620
627 627 1,254
3,698 4,176 7,874
The Moravian
GROWING FAITH takes inspiration. Growing funds takes expertise.
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EADING THE WORK OF MORAVIAN MINISTRY is a divine gift — but it requires financial gifts as well. That’s why leaders of faith in our churches and agencies are often called to be leaders in fundraising. Fortunately, Morning Star Campaign Services is here to help. As a program of the Moravian Ministries Foundation, Morning Star provides full-service advice and support for capital campaign fundraising, stewardship education and development, and long-range planning to help you build a solid financial platform for doing the work of faith. From understanding the fundraising possibilities to capturing their full potential, Morning Star can help you grow the resources needed to continue growing our faith.
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