Schwenkfeldian Fall 2013 Issue

The

HARVEST HOME We shall come rejoicing bringing in the sheaves.

T R A D I T I O N S

The

FALL

2013

VOLUME

Editor: Gerald A. Heebner Business Manager: Joanne Jalowy Design: Robin Hepler, robindesign@rcn.com Artist: Frank Batson Photographer: Lee Schultz Reporters: Linda Schmidt, Central Rev. Edward O. Winslow, Missionary Karl Nyce, Olivet Karen Kriebel, Palm Diana Weir-Smith, Perkiomen School Lena Johnson, In Retrospect

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In this Issue

Publication Committee Rev. David W. Luz, Chair Jean S. Ross, Secretary Publication Office Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center 105 Seminary Street Pennsburg, PA 18073-1898

BETWEEN TWO WORLDS Living abroad: a Dutch view of America and notes on the Netherlands.

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CREATIVE CONNECTIONS Joining forces to serve and invest in the future of the local community.

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THE SCHWENKFELDIAN is published during the Winter, Spring, and Fall quarters by the General Conference of the Schwenkfelder Church, under the direction of the Publication Committee, in the interest of the churches.

Material presented in this magazine does not necessarily represent the beliefs and teachings of Schwenckfeld or the Schwenkfelder Church.

$12.00 per year, $5.00 per copy. Free to each Schwenkfelder Church member household.

COME THANKFUL PEOPLE Harvest home observances are rooted in German traditions.

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ABOUT OUR COVER When anthropologists study civilizations, one of the areas that they examine most closely are special acts of celebration because what is remembered and how it is celebrated provides a good idea of the dominant values and beliefs of a culture. As we commemorate the harvest, let us remember God’s material and spiritual fruitfulness in our own lives, react with generosity and humility, and respond in worship and gratitude by passing on some of our blessings to those who need them today. Like the harvest itself, we are gathered to God.

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GENERAL CONFERENCE Fall and Spring reports from the boards and committees.

CHURCH BRIEFS News and updates from Central, Olivet, and Palm.

PERSONAL NOTES Marriages, births, and deaths from Central, Olivet, and Palm.

IN RETROSPECT Looking back at the accomplishments of members.

USHERS LEAGUE CHORUS Remembering the Towamencin minstrel performers.

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FOLKLIFE SYMPOSIUM Dutch scholars.

• Pennsylvania • Lunch included.

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ISSN 0036 8032

If you move, please advise us promptly, giving both your old and new addresses to ensure uninterrupted delivery. To discontinue mailings, email info@schwenkfelder.com or call 215679-3103.

Between

Two Worlds

B Y H E N RY W I L L I A M S

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here are many reasons for an American Schwenkfelder to understand Western Europe; important among them are the interdependence of the American and European economies, common cultural heritage, and, of course, the historical roots of the Schwenkfelder denomination and America as a whole. This article, however, will aim to foster what is perhaps the greatest benefit of knowledge about foreign cultures—renewed reflection on one’s own culture. To this end, I have split the article into two main blocks: one introducing the Netherlands, where I have lived for the past eight years, the other presenting a Dutch view of America.

Notes On The Netherlands The Netherlands is a country about the size of Maryland with around 16 million inhabitants. It is situated between Germany, Belgium and the North Sea. The most prominent part of the country, Holland, gives the Netherlands its second name.

MORALITY AND THE CHURCH Many Americans are quick to identify the Netherlands as one of the most morally progressive countries on earth.

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Prostitution, marijuana, and euthanasia are all legalized, and thus the streets of Amsterdam and other cities contain, among other establishments, brothels and coffeeshops (for marijuana smoking). The country has been coming under pressure from a large amount of Muslim immigrants to accommodate Islamic marriage practices.

These trends are directly linked to the decline of Christianity in the Netherlands. In a country once recognized as a part of Christendom, the church has lost an enormous amount of adherents, social authority, and political and economic sway. Church attendance has now dwindled to around two percent per Sunday, a large proportion of this coming from immigrants. Despite the lack in church membership, the church still faces conflict from within. Differences in musical and ethnic preferences, along with disagreements on doctrine and focuses further beleaguer the Dutch church.

YO U T H A N D S C H O O L I N G Since around the 1960s, many Dutch parents have effaced the notion of authority in parenting. This affects how Dutch children view their elders (increasingly more address their parents with grammatically informal pronouns), the amount of independence, sway and mobility that teens claim for themselves, and the focus and maturity of the Dutch culture in general. My father will often go in one day from the seminary, where he is addressed as “Sir” or “Dr.” by international denominational leaders, to the baseball field, where he is addressed as “Drake” by Dutch ten-year-olds!

For all this, the Dutch maintain an excellent educational system. Students are tested at key points throughout their schooling career, and thereby tentatively divided into several different tiers, which are aimed at different levels of the economy.

Many Dutch students will have good command over several foreign languages (almost always English, oftentimes

German or French) by the end of their time in high school. Recently, a new group of higher educational institutions called university colleges has become popular in the Netherlands. These provide English language humanities education to good Dutch students, and witness to the English capabilities and international mindsets of the current generation of budding scholars.

I N T E R N AT I O N A L C O M M U N I T Y I choose the word international over the word expat intentionally, because the Dutch have always been very internationally minded.

Indeed, given the language capabilities of the country as a whole, it is not too far of a stretch to call the average, purebred Dutchman an international.

The Netherlands, as a whole, has historically been very involved in international business. A couple hundred years ago, the famed Dutch East Indies Company provided the Netherlands with the foundation of its current wealth. Nowadays, the Netherlands boasts several bigname international companies, such as Siemens, Shell and Philips.

The country also benefits from the Schengen zone, which allows for customs-free import and export among select European Union nations.

This is certainly not to say that the Netherlands lacks a true expat population! Immigration laws are, on the whole, more relaxed than in the states, allowing for a significant population of western as well as southern immigrants. A significant amount of international outlets (including American specialty shops and a sizeable bazaar) are available to make foreigners feel at home.

America Through Dutch Eyes Over the eight years that I’ve lived in the Netherlands, I’ve returned to the United States for support raising and family vacation. I’ve experienced what’s known as reverse culture shock—rediscovering one’s own culture after having been in another—with some regularity. Here are likely some of the more pertinent peculiarities that a European would see in the States.

C O N S U M P T I O N C U LT U R E To the rest of the world, the United States is often represented by the sheer amount of stuff that we collectively possess. Certainly, it is right to wonder at the amazing disparity between the archetypal well-fed American child and the archetypal starving African child. But what often goes overlooked is the fact that (North) Americans are not only bigger consumers than those in the global south, but that they are bigger consumers than the rest of western inhabitants (i.e., Europeans).

Sizes of almost everything seem to be bigger in the States. Food portions are larger here, as well as cars (contrast the SUV, a largely American phenomenon, to the large amount of hatchbacks in the Netherlands).

American houses, casinos, supermarkets, cinemas, and skyscrapers are all well larger than their European counterparts. And, even though Europe is the continent of cathedrals, many American church buildings and church grounds are surprisingly large.

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There also seems to be more of everything in the States. There are more cars per household than in the Netherlands. More after-school activities are offered to children, thus creating the largely American stereotyped soccer mom. I’ve also wondered at the greater information intake of Americans.

The idea that one would, in addition to watching the featured game, keep tabs on every single sports game in progress, is foreign to the Dutch mind. The Dutchman might also be surprised by the amount of television–computer screens in a home, the vast amount of (local or national) newspapers and news programs available, and the massive amount of public focus given to celebrities (and their diets, prison sentences, sleazy dresses, opinions or lack of them, faux pas, endorsements, affiliations, and so on, ad nauseum).

S PAC E A N D S PAC E M A N AG E M E N T The Netherlands and America differ wildly in their approaches to space. According to the web site worldatlas.com, the Netherlands ranks fourteenth worldwide in population density, over countries such as Japan, India and the Philippines. By contrast, the United States ranks at 142, under Madagascar, Liberia and Latvia.

A lot of the difference comes down to residential space management. In the Netherlands, almost all of the houses are row homes. There are few sprawling yards or private pools—and virtually no properties that are measured in acres. Also, there are very few unused rooms; no unfinished attics or basements, because the Dutch oftentimes use every square meter, with the help of popular space-maximizing furniture firms such as Ikea.

As with many differences between the States and the Netherlands, the question is not which country has the right approach. Reflection on space management and other issues is aided by the idea that the governments and the populace have implemented models, however imperfect, which suit their own geographical constraints, come from their own minds, and foster the implementation of their own distinct modi operandi.

PAT R I O T I S M A N D P O L I T I C S The United States is a country which places notably more emphasis on patriotism than the Netherlands. American flags seem to be ubiquitous, visible at stadiums, offices, houses and even churches.

It seems that most not only quickly identify themselves as being American, but are proud of their American nationality (and perhaps their ancestral roots in Germany, the U.K., Ireland, etc.). This contrasts with the Dutch attitude to patriotism; most of the Dutch only adapt any sense of national pride at select occasions, such as King’s Day and big international football matches (compare the annual rendition of ‘Rule Brittania’ at Britain’s famed Last Night of the Proms).

What’s more, the States seem to have integrated political thought into their society more than the Dutch. While there are news talk shows which treat political questions, political discussion among most of the Dutch is limited to a cynical “it’s all ridiculous anyways.” Coming back to the States this time, I’ve been confronted by the amount of self-identification by one’s political opinions.

Americans seem to want to be described as republican, democrat, independent, conservative, or liberal. I wonder if this has played a part in the creation of the two-party polarization of American politics, as opposed to the re-implementation of the European coalition model of government.

For all this, the Dutchman might still notice that there is a lack of exposure of the average American to global issues. This may come from the United States’ status as a world superpower, remnants of historic American isolationism or the lack of American involvement in a strong supranational union (such as the E.U.).

The Challenge To Think Globally As I have experienced in my time in Europe, understanding a new culture is a challenging thing.

It can involve learning a difficult language, being confronted with new forms of human sin, and sometimes suffering depression caused by the sheer difference—cultural, linguistic, religious, behavioral— between one’s own culture and the new culture.

For all this, I can testify to the fact that living abroad has been an immensely worthwhile experience for me. It has exposed me by immersion to new cultures, ideas and habits. However, it does not take years abroad for an individual to be concerned about global opinions and issues. Thanks to the internet, popular international news channels (such as the BBC) and the increasing popularity of international Christian leaders in the States (see Ravi Zacharias), the American church has a wealth of international resources available. The time is right for it to use them. n

Schwenkfelders & The Dutch Abraham, Isaac, and John Von Byuschanse were three brothers who owned a mercantile house in Haarlem, The Netherlands.

Little has been written about the large contribution that they offered the Schwenkfelders departing Europe in 1734 on their way to Pennsylvania. Judge Christopher Heydrick notes in his “Historical Sketch” recorded in the Genealogical Record of the Schwenkfelder Families that they not only refused any payment by the small band of emigrants but insisted such funds be spent on the poor in Pennsylvania after their arrival.

The brothers gave shelter and accommodations to the Schwenkfelders during their brief two week respite in Haarlem on the trek to Pennsylvania. They may even have been among those who advised the Schwenkfelders that Pennsylvania would be more suitable to their needs than other locations.

The Von Byuschanse’s final act of generosity was to underwrite the cost of transporting the Schwenkfelders to America.

Henry Williams, the son of Dr. H. Drake Williams, III, has had the opportunity to view both Dutch and American cultures and offers his viewpoint of how they differ. He provides a look at modern Netherlands, or Holland. Henry is returning to the United States to attend Wheaton College in Illinois this fall.

Dr. H. Drake Williams, III, has been supported by the Schwenkfelder Missionary Board, and the Central Schwenkfelder and Olivet Schwenkfelder Churches. He is an author of several books and a professor at Tyndale Theological Seminary in the Netherlands.

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Come Ye Tha Raise the song of harvest home; all is safely gathered in, ere the winter storms begin.

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ankful People

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B Y R E V. L E S L I E K E A R N E Y

he season of harvest home is upon us. Traditionally, it is a time of decorated sanctuaries, special mission offerings, and canned goods displayed at church altars. But what is harvest home? How is it different from Thanksgiving? The history of this holiday is unique to the German settlers in Pennsylvania, including early Schwenkfelders.

Harvest Home is actually a Pennsylvania German religious tradition, brought to this country by German Protestants.

It was an autumn festival held anywhere from August to October, in celebration of God’s goodness and plenty.

For these Pennsylvania German settlers, Harvest Home was a time of thanksgiving for the fruits of the earth, as well as recognition of the need to share them to secure God’s continued blessings. Harvest Home services were especially common among Lutheran and German Reformed churches, but also Schwenkfelder congregations.

On Harvest Home Sunday, the Pennsylvania German Christians held a special service with a harvest sermon (Erntepredigten), “harvest thank offerings,” and beautiful autumn displays.

Parishioners brought the best from their own fields, gardens, and kitchens.

The sanctuary was hung with wreaths and crosses made of grasses and grain. Tall cornstalks, sunflowers, pumpkins, fruits, vegetables, sheaves of wheat, and loaves of bread decorated the church altar and pulpit. The harvest items gathered for the display were usually presented to the minister and his family, to a church orphanage, or to a home for the aged. In addition, the harvest thank offerings became common, with the monies being donated to church boards, missions, education, or other benevolences. In some congregations, the Sunday school hosted a picnic consisting of a meal and “processions and recitations.”* The Harvest Home service had its own liturgy and hymns and was a joyous time for the congregation to recognize the goodness and rich bounty of God and offer appropriate thankfulness.

One should be careful not to confuse Harvest Home with the holiday of Thanksgiving. Harvest Home was not associated with what was then called the “New England” or “Yankee” Thanksgiving. On the contrary, many early Pennsylvanians considered the Presidentially-recognized Thanksgiving holiday “pure and simple a New England custom whose purpose (in New England) was to provide a substitute for Christmas, which was forbidden by the Puritans.”* In fact, some of our German Reformed clergy actually argued for a National Harvest Home Festival in early October, in lieu of the November Thanksgiving holiday! By 1900, Thanksgiving Day had become part and parcel of the Pennsylvanians’ church calendar. Nevertheless, Harvest Home lingered on as part of our local religious experience.

Today, some of the Schwenkfelder congregations still celebrate Harvest Home. Palm Schwenkfelder Church hosts a Harvest Home service at the end of September. Members are encouraged to bring in canned goods for a local food pantry, and a Harvest Dinner is held the following week. At Olivet-Schwenkfelder UCC, the congregation commemorates Harvest Home in November, in conjunction with Thanksgiving observances. They, too, collect non-perishable food items for the poor, and all are welcome to attend a Harvest Home breakfast. Although not the spectacle of harvests past, such services continue to remind the local Schwenkfelders of their German immigrant roots. n

*Yoder, Don H. “Harvest Home.” Pennsylvania Folklife. IX:4 (Fall, 1958), pages 2–11.

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Ushers L

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he men of Central Schwenkfelder Church who ushered at the Towamencin and Worcester meetinghouses decided that they could increase their group size and better serve the congregation if they would be organized. Therefore, the Ushers League was established more than 80 years ago. Most of the young men were farmers working at home on their dad’s dairy farm. The church buildings were surrounded by farm properties owned by descendants of the exiled Schwenkfelders.

In addition to establishing schedules for ushering, they assumed other duties such as removing dead tree limbs from the parking area and driveways. Minor repairs were made to the horse sheds and, because the parking area was not large, they assisted drivers looking for parking spaces on special occasions and at large funeral services.

The Ushers League also became a social group. They organized deep sea fishing trips and collected old magazines. Once a year, Elmer Reiff delivered the collection to a Sailor’s Institute in Philadelphia. They helped organize Sunday school picnics which always included a baseball game with the married men pitted against the single fellows. Monthly meetings, in the summer, were held on member’s farms.

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League Chorus L Refreshments may have included watermelons or chocolate milk cooled in a large milk can set in the farm’s water trough.

A small group of singers from the Towamencin Ushers League decided it would be a great idea to form a chorus of men to sing at various church functions and perhaps put on a program for neighboring congregations. The small baker’s dozen of men included tenors Morris Krauss, Robert Krauss, Ralph Kriebel, Norman Nyce, Amos Rothenberger, and Curtis Weigner. The bass section consisted of Ellis Anders, Floyd Hileman, Claude Monroe, Roland Kriebel, Warren Kriebel, and Raymond Stong. John Snyder became the musical director and Miss Cleta Kriebel (later Cleta Kerper) the pianist. Every Tuesday evening, they rehearsed in the Sunday school room of the Towamencin Meetinghouse. It is presumed that was also the site of their first public musical performance held on November 1, 1936.

By 1939, they held concerts at the Bethel Hill Methodist Church and at the Lansdale Youth Alliance. They also performed at the Christ Reformed Church in Mainland, Phoenixville Reformed Church, Zion Mennonite Church of Souderton, St. John’s Reformed Chapel in East Greenville, plus several other places in the local area.

From the very beginning, many other singers joined the group including from the Central Schwenkfelder congregation: Burton Allebach, Harold Allebach, Herman Bobb, Daniel Courter, John Fisher, Curtis Heebner, Rodger Heydt, Ellis Kriebel, Floyd Kriebel, William Kriebel, Abram Kulp, Merritt Overholtzer, Earl Price, and Rolland Reiff. The Lansdale Schwenkfelder Church contributed Charles Ellis, Paul Rosenberger, and Paul Snyder.

From the surrounding area, Jonas Kriebel and Lester Kriebel of Wentz’s Church and Samuel Smith of Bethel Hill Methodist Church were added. They welcomed Edward Leight and Orvis McKendrick from Kulpsville and Oliver Shelly came down from East Greenville.

Eventually, two additional pianists accompanied the group— Esther Allebach and Doris Bobb. Robert Krauss took on the job of Assistant Musical Director.

B Y E L L I S W. K R I E B E L

To raise money for the organization it was decided early on to put on concerts in a school or other public buildings. The music portion would include well-known songs from operettas and ballads from popular radio programs of the day. A humorous portion was added by including comedians who were to tell amusing tales—funny, but untrue stories, about local individuals or members of the congregation. The good, clean ribbing, or teasing was not to be offensive.

The public programs began in 1934 in the Worcester Community Hall and continued there annually up to World War II. The Hall was not large enough to handle the crowd, so, from 1941 to 1948, the shows were held in the Lansdale Public School on York Avenue. Sellout crowds forced them to finally move to the Senior High School on Penn Avenue, in Lansdale, for the performances.

There were instrumentalists in many programs. Floyd Hileman and Curtis Weigner played saxophone duets and Ralph Kriebel and Warren Kriebel played musical saws. Gerald Kriebel played solos on his cornet and Randall Kriebel performed accordion pieces. Current ballads of the day were sung by Bob Krauss. Songs from operettas were sung by Norman Nyce and Raymond Stong. Raymond also joined Doris Rothenberger in singing duets with her. Humorous songs were sung by Norman Kriebel and Ellis Anders, and four “end men” sang their own lyrics to “Sioux City Sue.” On March 12, 1936, Raymond Stong gave his first performance of “Old Man River” from the musical Showboat. The resulting standing ovation lasted for such duration that it became a fixture in every show through 1948. It was the high point of the show and those who heard his rendition of the song remember it to this day.

Bob Krauss conducted about a dozen remaining members for one last singing of the male chorus at a church service held in the current Central Schwenkfelder Church.

The Ushers League faded out of sight and was eventually replaced by the Men of Central organization. n

See page 19 for a photograph of the 1947 Ushers League chorus members who performed at one of the organization’s annual minstrel shows.

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A

Creative Connect

dvanced Living Communities (ALC) has firmly established its presence in Montgomery County as an accomplished and compassionate provider of affordable residential housing for seniors. The organization has built upon the strong foundation laid over fifty years ago and has reached far beyond its original scope while still maintaining its commitment to its core mission.

Over the years, the lives of many have been enriched. Lessons have been learned and strong bonds formed—not only with the seniors who reside in an Advanced Living Community, but with those who live and work in Lansdale and the surrounding North Penn region.

The vision of Advanced Living continues to take on new meaning and direction with a focus this year on collaboration, partnership, and fostering creative community connections. The greatest example of this is evident as the dream of constructing the North Penn Commons has now become a reality.

The vision for this unique project began several years ago when the North Penn Community Health Foundation (NPCHF) approached prominent agency leaders to discuss a potential collaboration which would add both value to Lansdale Borough’s revitalization plan and streamline community support and services. A joint venture partnership was formed among Advanced Living Communities, the PEAK Center, Manna on Main Street, and the Lansdale Area Family YMCA —bringing together four nonprofit organizations to share their expertise and resources in order to serve a broader population.

North Penn Commons, which will accommodate all of the partners under one roof, will offer 60 units of affordable housing on the former LansBowl site on Main Street, now owned by the YMCA. The PEAK Center and Manna on Main will fully relocate their programs and services to the $18 million, four-story facility and the YMCA, which will undergo extensive renovations, will link to the other organizations via a shared public space. While each partner will clearly benefit from

the economies of scale, they will also be able to share vital resources, such as volunteers, and will support their constituencies from what promises to be a vibrant community center.

Advanced Living was recently awarded PHFA tax credits which will cover nearly $12 million of the total project cost and a collaborative fundraising campaign entitled One Four All is currently underway to secure an additional $5 million which will close the funding gap. Other funds have been raised through private donations, grants, gifts, and pledges from generous supporters.

According to Bill Brown, Advanced Living’s President and CEO, “We believe that the business model for North Penn Commons will serve as a blueprint for others to follow in the future. The concept of investing beyond your own organization, to join forces with others and invest in your local community for the greater good—that is actually quite consistent with the work of Advanced Living. We are excited to play a role in this innovative partnership and remain equally committed to the work we do each day to provide services and support to those already in our care.”

“Construction for Derstine 2 is nearly complete with a wait list of more than 250 seniors in need of affordable housing. Advanced Living continues to grow to meet the changing needs of our aging population,” said Brown. ALC will host a ribbon cutting to announce the grand opening of Derstine Run 2 in late September and residents should begin to move in shortly thereafter.

Now a licensed home care provider, the organization launched its

North Penn Commons—a joint venture partnership of Advanced Living Communities, the PEAK Center, Manna on Main Street, and the Lansdale Area Family YMCA—was designed

by Kramer & Marks Architects.

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tions

BY KYLE MCKESSY

own agency in May 2013. Advanced Living Home Care (ALHC) was established to enrich the quality of life and provide support to clients so they can remain healthy and independent for as long as possible.

These services are available not just to those who live in an Advanced Living property, but also to other members of the community. The organization is upholding a new standard of aging-in-place based on strengths rather than succumbing to a loss of independence. In-home care is a safe and cost-effective alternative to extended hospital stays or placement in a skilled nursing or acute rehabilitation facility for many who are facing a chronic illness, recuperating from surgery, or experiencing challenges in performing routine activities.

In January 2013, Advanced Living, in partnership with Montgomery County, opened 220 South Line Street—a five-unit apartment building designed to provide transitional housing for individuals and families, especially those who are homeless or at risk for homelessness.

The project is a component of the County’s Roadmap for Housing

Stability plan intended to transform emergency and supportive services for those in need of affordable housing and also lets Advanced Living extend its reach beyond serving seniors.

Despite many changes and much growth, Advanced Living continues to remain true to its deep roots. The organization recently enjoyed its tenth annual summer concert series, a community outreach event, hosted by ALC along with support of generous donors. The annual dinner, which exclusively supports the Residents’ Benevolent Fund, was another great success and the board and staff continue to gather routinely to work and socialize in order to strengthen the proverbial ties that bind.

Advanced Living Communities manages the Schwenckfeld Manor, Schwenckfeld Terrace, and Derstine Run retirement communities located in Lansdale, PA. Contact ALC’s main office at 215-362-0227 or visit their web site at www.advancedlivingcommunities.org for more information. n

Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision.

It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.

—Andrew Carnegie

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General Conference

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oderator Drake Williams called the Fall General Conference to order on October 21, 2012, at 4:45 p.m. The meeting was held at Central Schwenkfelder Church. Rev. Ed Winslow and Rev. Alfred Duncan opened the meeting with devotions. A total of 81 people were in attendance—36 members from Central, 30 from Palm, 6 from Olivet, and 9 from Missionary.

Executive Council Report Executive Council has examined and approved the budget for 2013. The minutes for Spring General Conference 2012 will be presented for approval at the Spring General Conference in 2013.

Old Business PERKIOMEN SCHOOL Drake Williams briefly reviewed the history of the Perkiomen School question and presented handouts on the subject. Then, he introduced attorney Tom Boulden who discussed the October 15, 2012, session with Judge Murphy. Judge Murphy questioned why the school had not gone through the Court as they had done in 1916. This is one of the steps in the state of Pennsylvania. The Attorney General was not present. The Judge expressed concern as to why the Attorney General had not already taken a position.

There was discussion about reversionary funds. If this issue would arise these funds would have to be designated for charity. Both sides were given the opportunity to present their positions. The Judge will confer with the Attorney General and give a decision in the future. Tom Boulden advised Conference that it would be wise to wait for the Court’s decision before taking any further action. Attorney Tom Boulden and Moderator Drake Williams accepted questions from General Conference members.

Rev. Ed Winslow addressed the meeting in his capacity of Conference Minister. He then moved that we postpone any decision on the two tabled motions proposed at the Schwenkfelder General Conference meeting held on May 20, 2012, until the Judge of Orphan’s Court renders a verdict on the Schwenkfelder Church’s petition. Everett Tyson seconded the motion.

Moderator Drake Williams asked each Executive Council member to express his/her feelings and thoughts on this issue. Luanne Stauffer declared her intention of abstaining from the vote and gave her reasons for her actions.

The question was raised whether once the Judge has made her ruling would General Conference be informed and made part of the decision making process? Drake Williams answered that the bylaws gave Executive Council the authority to make any such decision. Of course, General Conference would be kept informed and part of the process as much as possible.

Darlene Jones discussed the difficulties ahead in the decision making if the Judge rules for the church. Shirley Miller pointed out that Executive Council members are elected by each congregation to represent them. They attempt to keep their congregations informed and heed them so that they can act appropriately.

Sandy Williams called for the question and the motion was passed unanimously with one abstention. n

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oderator Drake Williams called the Spring General Conference to order at 3:10 p.m. on May 19, 2013. The meeting was held at Olivet Schwenkfelder UCC. Rev. Leslie Kearney led a period of devotion. A total of 44 people were in attendance.

Minutes The minutes of the Spring General Conference held on May 20, 2012, appear on pages 2 through 6 of the Annual Report. Jim Faber expressed concern over the tenth paragraph on page 4 of the minutes. He did not recall making a motion to table a previous motion.

No one present remembered anyone else making that motion. Rev. David Luz moved that the minutes be accepted as presented. Barry Simpson seconded the motion. The motion was passed.

The minutes of the Fall General Conference, held on October 21, 2012, appear on pages 6 and 7 of the Annual Report. In the third paragraph the word “revisionary” should have been “reversionary.”

Gerald Heebner moved acceptance of the minutes as corrected.

Rick Jones seconded the motion. The motion was passed.

Treasurer’s Report Treasurer Pat McGinnis was not present. In his absence, Moderator THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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GOVERNING BODIES General Conference Officers H. Drake Williams, Moderator Darlene Jones, Vice Moderator Leah Tyson, Secretary Patrick J. McGinnis, Jr., Treasurer

Drake Williams reported that the meeting of the Auditing Committee has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 25, 2013. The treasurer’s report and the Auditing Committee’s report will be sent to the churches following this meeting.

Executive Council Report

Executive Council At-Large Members Central: Bruce Rothenberger, Barry Simpson Missionary: William Dill Olivet: Nadine Reiff Palm: Richard Hoffman, Shirley Miller Conference Pastor: Rev. Ed Winslow Local Moderators & Pastors Central: Vernon Seipt, David McKinley, William Kalajainen, Julian Scavetti Missionary: William Dill, Edward O. Winslow Olivet: Vincent Nyce, Leslie Kearney Palm: David Woodward, Nicholas Pence, Ronald E. Krick (Emeritus) Exile Society David W. Luz, President Laura S. Heebner, Vice President Rebecca C. McBrien, Recording Secretary Sara B. Borr, Membership Secretary Martin L. Kriebel, Treasurer Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center Gerald A. Heebner, President Kenneth Clemens, 1st Vice President George Meschter, 2nd Vice President Kathy Lesieur, Secretary H. Drake Williams, Jr., Treasurer

Drake Williams introduced the officers and members of Executive Council. There were no questions for Council. The report is on page 8 of the Annual Report.

Committee Reports AU D I T I N G C O M M I T T E E The committee will meet on Saturday, May 25, 2013. The Auditing Committee of Ron King, Karen Phillips, and Rick Jones audited the books of the various boards and committees for 2012 and found them to be in order. The report was submitted subsequent to the meeting.

N O M I N AT I N G C O M M I T T E E An additional sheet listing nominations for Perkiomen School Board of Trustees was handed out. The report is on page 10 of the Annual Report.

P U B L I C AT I O N C O M M I T T E E Drake Williams praised the Publication Committee for their excellent work bringing out two revised projects this year. Rev. Dave Luz displayed the new publications. He offered special thanks to the tour booklet planning committee—Linda Grisdale, Jean Ross, Luanne Stauffer, and Everett Tyson—for their work on Schwenkfelder Heritage Sites in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Rev. David Luz presented each church with a box of the new, updated pamphlets titled “A Brief Statement” introducing the churches. The report is on page 11 of the Annual Report.

Special Reports A D VA N C E D L I V I N G , I N C .

Barry Simpson discussed the fundraising dinner held recently and described how these funds are used. The report is on page 11 of the Annual Report.

Perkiomen School James E. Schulz, Chairman Barry Forman, Vice Chairman James Nallo, Secretary Norman Olson., Treasurer Christopher Tompkins, Headmaster

S C H W E N K F E L D E R L I B R A RY & H E R I TAG E C E N T E R Rev. David Luz spoke of the Penn Dry Goods Market, the Library’s first antique show and sale. It appears to have been a success. He discussed “Caspar’s Corner” which appears in church newsletters. Rev. David Luz, Dr. Allen Viehmeyer, and Dr. Peter Erb prepare these articles monthly. The report is on page 13 of the Annual Report.

Board of Advanced Living Jerome Potter, President Kenneth Clemens, 1st Vice President Barry Simpson, 2nd Vice President Shirley Miller, Secretary Steve Woelkers, Treasurer

SCHWENKFELDER MINISTERIUM

Board of United Choirs Dennis Alderfer, President Vacant, Vice President Cheryl Walborn, Recording Secretary Vacant, Corresponding Secretary Laurie Hart, Treasurer

Pastor Leslie Kearney took the opportunity to describe the Mission 4/1 Earth project and invited everyone to participate by bringing 3.5" software diskettes to the Olivet Schwenkfelder Church on Friday, May 24, 2013. The report is on page 14 of the Annual Report.

PENNA. COUNCIL OF CHURCHES Rev. Gary Harke, executive director of Pennsylvania Council of Churches, addressed the meeting. There were no questions. The report is on page 22 of the Annual Report.

C H U R C H S TAT I S T I C A L R E P O R T S Membership (as of Dec. 31, 2012) CHURCH

Central . . . . . . . . 1,393 Missionary . . . . . . . . 58 Olivet . . . . . . . . . . 192 Palm . . . . . . . . . . . 576

SUNDAY SCHOOL

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 312 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

2012 Church Budgets OPERATING

Central . . . . . . $ 962,166 Missionary . . . . $ 38,000 Olivet . . . . . . . $ 452,252 Palm . . . . . . . $ 265,661

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MISSSION GIVING

. . . . . . . $ 174,793 . . . . . . . . . . $ 500 . . . . . . . . $ 10,982 . . . . . . . . $ 32,466

UNITED SCHWENKFELDER CHOIR There were no questions or comments. The report is on page 23 of the Annual Report.

VIEHWEG Rev. David Luz announced that we are close to half way to our financial goal already. It is hoped that work on refurbishing the Viehweg monument will begin in June. The report is on page ?? of the Annual Report.

M I G R A N T WO R K E R K I T S Lorraine Montanez of Chester County Migrant Ministries thanked the General Conference for our faithfulness and help. Bob Walton described some of the trials of the past year. Rev. Nick Pence offered a prayer of dedication.

New Business ELECTION OF OFFICERS Rev. Karen Gallagher is retiring from Executive Council. Moderator Drake Williams thanked her for her years of service.

Officers of General Conference: There were no nominations from the floor. Nominations were closed. The vote was unanimous in favor of the proposed slate.

Executive Council Members at Large: There were no nominations from the floor. Nominations were closed. The vote was unanimous in favor of the proposed slate.

Advanced Living Inc.: There were no nominations from the floor. Nominations were closed.

The vote was unanimous in favor of the proposed slate.

Perkiomen School Board of Trustees: A sheet listing the proposed slate had been handed out.

There were no nominations from the floor. Nominations were closed. The vote was unanimous in favor of the proposed slate.

• • • •

Old Business PERKIOMEN SCHOOL Moderator Drake Williams brought Conference attendees up to date on what has happened since the last meeting. He described his attendance at the Perkiomen School Board of Trustees meetings and his attempts at offering an olive branch. Attorney Tom Boulden discussed the legal actions the School has taken. He pointed out that the speed with which the Judge made her decision seemed to indicate the strength of the Church’s position.

Gerald Heebner inquired how the provisionally elected Board members would take office.

Tom Boulden responded that he has been keeping the Court informed of these provisional members all along. When the legal issues the School has presented to the Court are settled, the Church can petition the Court to have these people installed.

Darlene Jones expressed concern about where she stood as an elected provisional Board member. Tom Boulden discussed how we would proceed.

Al Koehler questioned whether the School knew of the people we had elected and asked what members the new ones would be replacing. Tom Boulden reassured him that he has been keeping the School’s attorney informed of election results and once the Court issues have been settled, it will be possible to straighten out the rotation.

Rev. David Luz pointed out that, in 1996 and 2004, attorneys advised us not to revise the School’s bylaws, indicating that the Schwenkfelder Church would permit the Perkiomen School to submit eight nominees to be elected by the Church.

Jim Faber inquired if the School had sent any communications in February reaching out to us. Tom Boulden replied that the only communications received simply described the duties of the Trustees.

Barry Simpson suggested that perhaps Jim Faber should notify Drake Williams or Tom Boulden if he became aware of any overtures made by the School. Drake Williams described the demand for secrecy made by School Board officials and suggested that Jim Faber just wanted information and clarification.

Jim Faber described his feelings of responsibility for fulfilling his duties as a board member for Perkiomen School. He offered some thoughts on the progress the School has made and what, in his opinion, might be best for the School.

Drake Williams responded by describing the efforts he had made to reach out to the School which met with no response.

Rev. Leslie Kearney, pastor of Olivet Church, led us in prayer asking for guidance and healing as we dealt with this issue.

TA B L E D M O T I O N S Scott Schultz had moved at last year’s Spring General Conference that the Church withdraw its petition. The motion had been tabled. This is now a moot point as the Judge has since reached a decision. Rick Jones had submitted a written motion which had also been tabled.

There was no request to take it off the table.

Rev. Ed Winslow closed the meeting with a prayer. The meeting was adjourned at 4:30 p.m. n Copies of the printed Annual Report, as distributed at the May 19, 2013, Spring General Conference, are available by request to the Secretary of Central Schwenkfelder Church. Payment of postage is requested.

G E N E R A L C O N F E R E N C E D AT E S Salford Pilgrimage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2013 Gedächtnistag (Missionary) . . . . . . Sept. 22, 2013 School of Christ (Central) . . . . . . . . . Oct. 20, 2013 General Conference (Missionary) . . . May 18, 2014 GENERAL CONFERENCE R O L L C A L L M AY 1 9 , 2 0 1 3 Central Schwenkfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Olivet Schwenkfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Palm Schwenkfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Schwenkfelder Missionary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 FINANCIAL REPORTS 2012 General Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Receipts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . .

$ 22,352.32 $ 20,494.96 $ 25,322.05 $ 17,525.23

2012 Education Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,509.95 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5.72 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,515.67 2012 Student Ministers Seminary Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 22,235.30 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6.30 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,550.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . $ 18,691.60 2012 Silesian Graveyard Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,897.77 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.21 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,897.98 2012 Conference Mission Board Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 915.04 RECEIPTS Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13,200.00 Olivet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,100.00 Palm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,480.00 Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.22

Total Receipts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 18,781.22 Total Disbursements (Missionary) . . . $ 19,000.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 696.26 2012 Charity Board Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 4,879.07 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 4.90 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 4,883.97 2012 Chestnut Hill Cemetery Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6,093.02 RECEIPTS Contribution . . . . . . . . . . 8,500.00 Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.13

Total Receipts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 8,506.13 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,990.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . $ 10,609.15 THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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sitespecific Church Briefs

16

The youth have been quite active this quarter. Wired and Crave students participated in a teen bash, sponsored

by Christian Endeavor Mid-Atlantic, on April 13, held in our Community Center and church grounds. Competitions included flag football, a sing off, Bible quiz, cake decorating, basketball tournament, as well as many other fun and challenging activities. Youth in grades 6 through 12 took part in a service project in Mt. Airy, PA, on April 26-28. “Philly Blitz” was organized by Ray Garcia and the Philadelphia Project. Joined by youths from two other churches, they were housed in the Mt. Airy Presbyterian Church and worked on a home of a local resident. Starting in early June, the youth attended several pool parties at Sally House’s home. SYLO (Sing Your Lungs Out, Swim Your Legs Off) brought our youth together for fun, swimming, and singing. A group of 24 headed to Creation and the congregation happily supplied food items which helped defray the cost of the trip. During the summer, all youth, starting in 6th grade, participated in a night of “Fris-tastic” fun. Frisbees and beverages were provided.

Thirty work camp volunteers spent the week of July 14 in Supply, NC, staying at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. Work Camp 2013 was hosted

by Christian Endeavor Mid-Atlantic. Workers broke into groups and assisted at several sites located in one of the most poverty stricken areas in the North–South Carolina region.

They replaced floors in trailer homes, repaired ceilings and roofs, and replaced dry wall. One

group also emptied out the home of a woman who had not thrown anything away in nearly 30 years. Speaker Chuck Jewel and the music group 3 Shades of Blue led worship.

Women’s Christian Fellowship (WCF) held a tea for 104 attendees on April 18 at noon.

Entertainment was provided by the stringed instrument orchestra of St. Vincent DeSales School in Philadelphia. The annual mother– daughter banquet, catered by Wegman’s, was held on May 13. Carol Spacht and Candace Perry, Curator of Collections at Schwenkfelder Library and Heritage Center, presented a first person interpretation of Flora Heebner, missionary to China from 1904 to 1942. Candace described what it was like to be a missionary in China in the early 1900s and Carol gave a first-hand account of what it was like for her to be in China. Candace brought some items for show-and-tell and some of the younger attendees participated in the presentation. A baby shower was held on April 21 to benefit the North Penn Resource Clinic. Monetary donations and baby items were collected and appetizers and desserts were served. The first annual WCF yard sale–bake sale was held in June on the church parking lot. Participants sold items they were no longer using and the table rental fees helped with the work of WCF. Vacation Bible School hosted almost 100 children from ages 3 to 12. The week’s theme was “God’s Big Backyard.” Bible stories, crafts, songs, and other activities provided a wonderful learning experience. A huge thank you to Kathy Texter, Sherri McGonigle, and Amy and Andrew Ramsey for heading up this wonderful week, along with the many volunteers.

On Patriotic Sunday, May 26, a recognition service was held during the Sunday school hour. Veterans from all branches of the armed forces were honored during a very moving musical rendition of theme music from each service organization. Special music was provided and Kathy Casey had a children’s message that resonated for all in attendance.

Central’s Heebner family provided wonderful, familiar sacred music at the Franconia Mennonite Church on April 27, prior to the hymn sing which was led by a number of local churches. Each church provided special musical presentations, as well.

Rachel Chu was dedicated in a formal worship service in April. Her parents are William and Kelly Chu of our congregation.

Pastor David McKinley began a sabbatical in June during which time he will complete the necessary work for his final project for the degree of Dr. of Ministry. During his absence, special speakers participated in our Sunday services. We were also privileged to have Dr. Drake Williams and his family in our congregation once again and to hear Dr. Drake preach. He also provided help in the office and with some of the Friday teas. Pastor Bill has been acting Sr. Pastor during Pastor David’s absence. Pastor David is to return on Sept. 3.

A special congregational meeting was held on June 16 regarding the purchase of a neighboring property on Steelman Road. In order to pursue purchase of the property, a congregational vote was needed. This was attained and due diligence was begun. Closing on the property will take place on October 2. The property will provide additional storage space in the

Central Schwenkfelder 2111 Valley Forge Rd., Lansdale, Pa. 19446 610-584-4480 www.centralschwenkfelder.com Worship: 9:00 a.m., 11:15 a.m.

Church School: 10:00 a.m.

Olivet-Schwenkfelder United Church of Christ 619 Township Line Rd., Norristown, PA 19403 610-539-7444 • www.osuccpa.org Worship: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m.

Church School: 9:00 a.m.

Palm Schwenkfelder P.O. Box 66, Palm, PA 18070 215-679-5321 www.palmschwenkfelder.com Worship: 10:15 a.m.

Church School: 9:00 a.m.

CHURCH PHOTOGRAPHS BY JERRY HEEBNER

our facilities

CENTRAL

A P R I L – J U L Y 2 0 13

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barn and will also provide additional meeting space and housing for visiting missionaries and others who may need temporary housing. ✞

OLIVET At Olivet-Schwenkfelder Church, the month of April brought the promise of springtime weather as well as a chance to make a difference. Our church joined with other Schwenkfelder churches during April and May to collect items for Chester County Migrant Ministry. The CCM offers clothing and personal care items for migrant workers.

The Women’s Fellowship also sponsored a Capt’n Chucky’s week from April 14–20 and received 15 percent of all sales generated during that week.

“Mission 4/1 Earth” began on Integrity of Creation Sunday (April 21). For 50 days, UCC churches across the country began in the shared resurrection witness for planet Earth.

As Pastor Leslie stated, this is a “sustained, aggressive, and collective mission opportunity for our fragile planet.”

On April 27, it was a night for spaghetti and arena football. First up, our Men’s Group held a dinner featuring spaghetti with homemade meatballs and desserts. It was a rousing success.

Many thanks go out to the men, especially the Meacham family, for a job very well done. And once visitors were full from dinner, they were able to take part in the Mind, Body and Philadelphia Soul Awareness Night (sponsored by Northern Children Services) at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, the Jack-

sonville Sharks defeated the Philadelphia Soul 55 to 53. We ended the month of April with the baptism of Eliorah Jane Y. Thacker on April 28.

The beautiful baby girl is the daughter of David and Xarisse Thacker.

In May, the Women’s Fellowship sponsored a round Italian zep sale. The church also held an electronic media recycling event in conjunction with the “Mission 4/1 Earth” project. We collected over 800 items such as old DVDs, CDs, and floppy disks that will be recycled and helped keep the landfills clear.

This year, the spring General Conference of the Schwenkfelder Church was held on May 19 at OSUCC. The meeting began at 3:00 p.m. and was followed by a light meal.

The annual meeting business included the election of officers, reports on the Conference activities, and an update on the status of the legal proceedings between the Schwenkfelder Church and the Perkiomen School. Also, on May 19, our own Meghan Williams performed a solo concert in the Chapel at Dock Woods.

On May 28, as part of our May mission project, five volunteers painted the break room at Habitat for Humanity in Norristown.

We opened up the month of June with the usual warm and humid Pennsylvania weather and our annual pilgrimage to the Salford Meetinghouse. On June 2, attendees enjoyed an evening of fellowship at the Meetinghouse followed by ice cream in the pavilion. The next Saturday, volunteers participated in our monthly mission project to assist in an outreach dinner at All Saints Episcopal Church in Norristown. We also donated 40 Bibles and prayer sheets to the Curren Fromhold Cor-

rection Center ministry. We ended another year of Sunday school on June 9 and also celebrated the graduation of our Li’l Angels to kindergarten on June 14.

In July, we began our summer hours, combining our 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. services into one joint service at 9:00 a.m. It’s a wonderful time of the year to reconnect with old friends and enjoy the combined service. The first Sunday of July also saw the beginning of our new confirmation class. We’re thrilled to have two of our youth (Alex Nyce and Greg Briggs) begin their journey towards church membership and expanding their knowledge about the Christian faith.

We also began a Garden Give n’ Take where members can bring in extra produce from their gardens to share with the congregation.

Women’s Fellowship held a bakeless cake sale where you can send a check to help out the Women’s Fellowship instead of overtaxing yourself in the heat of a kitchen. We ended the month by beautifying the church. On July 27, Women’s Fellowship participated in a successful kitchen and sanctuary clean up project. The church looks terrific. ✞

Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center 105 Seminary St., Pennsburg, PA 18073 215-679-3103 www.schwenkfelder.com Mon.: Closed • Tues., Wed., Fri.: 9–4 Thurs.: 9–8 • Sat.: 10–3 • Sun.: 1–4

Schwenckfeld Manor– Advanced Living Communities 1290 Allentown Rd. Lansdale, PA 19446 215-362-0227 www.advancedlivingcommunities.org Office Hours: Mon.–Fri. 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

PA L M The spring season started off at Palm with a trip by our youth to a Philadelphia homeless shelter. The trip, taken April 5–6, took the group to the Old First Reformed U.C.C. Our youth helped to set up and distribute clothes to the shelter residents. Then, they prepared and served a

Schwenkfelder Missionary 2010 Reed St. Philadelphia, PA 19146 215-334-4658 Worship: 10:45 a.m.

Church School: 9:30 a.m.

Perkiomen School 200 Seminary Street Pennsburg, PA 18073 215-679-9511 www.perkiomen.org

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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spaghetti dinner for the grateful residents.

Our thanks to the youth who shared their hearts and hands in service.

On April 13, the Palm Church Relay for Life team held a “Blue Grass for a Cure” concert at the Seisholtzville Fire Company.

Two blue grass bands—the Carroll County Ramblers and Chester Johnson and the Foggy Mountain Grass—performed at this fund raising event. In addition to the concert, our Relay for Life team held several other fund raising events during the year. The team also did a great job at raising money for cancer research and supporting the cause during the annual Upper Perkiomen Relay for Life held on the weekend of May 18–19 at the Upper Perkiomen High School.

During the month of May, our congregation collected items for the Chester County Migrant Ministry. Many supplies were donated by our church members to be distributed to the migrant workers in Chester County. We thank everyone who helped out these hard working people.

Sunday, June 2, was Youth Sunday at Palm Church. Our young participants led the congregation that morning in prayer, readings, music, and collections. We are very proud of all of the young people in our church family who participated and did a great job! The next Sunday was the last day of our normal Sunday School session. That day, following our church service, we held a picnic to celebrate the ending of another school season.

Fortunately, the weather was perfect. Games were played and the aroma of great food and hot dogs filled the air!

Nine goodie boxes were compiled and mailed out this season to our young members who are attending college or serving in the armed forces. Thanks to everyone who included a personal note in the boxes and also to those who made cash donations to offset the costs involved.

This year, our Vacation Bible School was held on July 14–18. The theme was “Kingdom Rock, Where Kids Stand Strong for God!” On Sunday, July 21, the children at Palm integrated some of the music from Vacation Bible School into our church service. There was also a performance of some of this music and the bible readings at the Frederick Mennonite Community on Saturday, July 20. ✞

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personal notes MARRIAGES John Campisi to Ashley Krupp at Central Schwenkfelder Church on April 6, 2013. (Central) Brandon Stauffer to Clair Sundquist in Bethlehem, PA on June 1, 2013. (Palm)

BIRTHS Chase Matthew Lindley, son of Matthew and Megan (Stauffer) Lindley, June 14, 2013. (Palm) Gracie Michele Snyder, daughter of Peter and Rebecca (Neff) Snyder, April 3, 2013. (Central) Owen Michael Werley, son of Rusty and Jacklyn Werley, April 26, 2013. (Central)

DEDICATIONS Rachel Mae Chu, daughter of William Wei-Li and Kelly Leigh Chu, April 28, 2013.

(Central)

BAPTISMS Dylan Thomas D’eramo, son of Greg D’eramo and Kara Walter, May 19, 2013. (Palm) Michael David Kennedy, son of David and Elizabeth (Gerhart) Kennedy, May 5, 2013. (Palm) Eliorah Jane Thacker, daughter of David and Xarisse Thacker, April 28, 2013.

(Olivet) Sheila Meredith Werth, daughter of David and Elizabeth (Gerhart) Kennedy, May 5, 2013. (Palm)

DEATHS Stanley S. Anders, age 88, husband of the late Alice (Munro) Anders, of Lansdale, formerly of Norristown and Plymouth Meeting, April 6, 2013. Services were private; interment at Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Ruth P. (Slabey) Hoffman, age 87, wife of the late Robert G. Hoffman, of Worcester, formerly of Lower Gwynedd, April 25, 2013. Services May 6, 2013; interment at Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Floyd K. Kriebel, age 91, husband of the late Florence (Anders) Kriebel, of Lansdale, April 20, 2013.

Graveside services April 23, 2013 at the Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Naomi R. (Shelly) Kriebel, age 90, of Frederick, May 31, 2013. Services were private. (Palm) Wilbur Landes, age 93, husband of the late Cleta (Kriebel) Landes, of Frederick, June 23, 2013. Services were private. (Central) John F. Lawlis, Jr., age 89, husband of Patricia (Palmer) Lawlis, of Worcester, July 8, 2013. Services July 12, 2013; interment at Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Raymond J. Middleton, age 81, husband of Barbara (Householder) Middleton, of Blue Bell, May 15, 2013. Services May 20, 2013; interment at Garden of Memories in Worcester.

(Central) Kenneth W. Moyer, age 62, of Bechtelsville, April 12, 2013. No services scheduled. (Palm) Lorraine (Wambold) Pfister, age 81, wife of the late James R. Pfister, Sr., of Green Lane, formerly of Mainland, May 7, 2013. Services May 14, 2013; interment at Towamencin Schwenkfelder Cemetery. (Central) Claire (Coleman) Schweiker, age 81, wife of Richard S. Schweiker, of McLean, VA, April 28, 2013. Services May 24 and 25, 2013; interment at Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central)

heritage In Retrospect 50 YEARS AGO Funeral services were held in Central Church, on April 11, for Rev. Harvey Heebner, pastor of the Philadelphia Church for 57 years, editor of The Schwenkfeldian for 40 years, and secretary of the Schwenkfelder Mission Board for 50 years.

Rev. Robert J. Gottschall, pastor of the Norristown Church for 53 years, announced his retirement effective May 1. Joan Hunsberger, missionary to Brazil, spoke to the Central Church school on April 7.

Central Church presented the “Church of the Air” WCAU-radio program on March 3.

The Dorian Choir, directed by Mrs. William Wolf, provided the music and Rev. Braund delivered the sermon.

A $30,000 budget for 1963 was approved at the annual congregational meeting of the Norristown Church. Attorney George Brecht, moderator since the first session in 1904, conducted the meeting United Schwenkfelder Youth Fellowship held a summer outing at Perkiomen School beginning on June 21. Fifty junior and senior high school students attended this first retreat.

Registration was $1.00.

A planning committee to oversee the establishment of Advanced Living, Inc. was selected with Vincent Nyce as General Chairman. It was hoped that Advanced Living, Inc. would

BY LENA JOHNSON

fill the needs of older people as an important phase of Christian responsibility. ✞

25 YEARS AGO On May 22, the Lansdale congregation celebrated the 75th anniversary of the church building organized as a mission church and the 50th anniversary as a church in the Schwenkfelder General Conference.

On May 7, Central Church hosted the U.S. premiere of the feature film “God’s Outlaw” which depicts the story of William Tyndale who, in 1525, due to the passion he had to get the Bible into the hands of the common people, had the first complete translation of the New Testament printed in England.

On Sunday, June 5, the Central Church dedicated the new Anders Park with a day of festivities including two softball games, a silent auction, and a picnic lunch.

Norristown Church entertained residents of Schwenckfeld Manor with a party which included a musical program presented by Rev. Stebbins and James Vogelman.

In April, the Palm congregation enjoyed a slide presentation of their trip to Japan by Rev. Ron Krick and his wife Joyce. They wore typical Japanese clothes during the narration.

Central Church member, Lt. Col. Robert Krauss, Jr., was serving as chaplain at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois. ✞

10 YEARS AGO On July 23, the committee composed of Grant Gebbie, Rev. Dr. Drake Williams, and Christian Williams completed the translation of one of Caspar Schwenckfeld’s final catechisms known as “A German theology for the God fearing laity from the Lord Jesus Christ and on the Christian teaching of Godliness.” The project, funded by the General Conference, was initiated with the hope of raising the teachings of Schwenckfeld to a more prominent place, thus bringing greater unity among the churches.

Palm Church celebrated the 25th anniversary of participation in the Upper Perkiomen Valley CROP walk. Peg Jacobs, Palm Church organist, led a unique Bible study during the month of May titled “Seeing Through the Scriptures.” It was a survey of the Bible message in words and symbolic illustrations.

The highlight of a pilgrimage to the Polish towns of Osiek and Twardocice, the home of the original Schwenkfelder immigrants, was the rededication of the Viehweg monument remembering the Schwenkfelders who were buried there. The group of 22 descendents and friends was led by Jerry Heebner. This was the culmination of five years of work by the General Conference Viehweg Committee.

On a chilly April night, the annual Passion Play was presented at Freddy Hill Farm. ✞

The Ushers League of Central Schwenkfelder Church, under the musical direction of John Snyder (pictured right front) performed annual minstrel shows.

First Row: Lester Kriebel, Burton Allebach, Paul Rosenberger, Floyd Kriebel, Curtis Weigner, Norman Nyce, Paul Snyder, Michael Oberholtzer, Charles Ellis, Samuel Smith. Second Row: Abram Kulp, Jonas Kriebel, Warren Kriebel, Raymond Stong, Roland Kriebel, Robert Krauss, Earl Price, Rolland Reiff, Curtis Heebner, William Kriebel. Third Row: Herman Bobb, Harold Allebach, John Fisher, Rodger Heydt. See pages 8-9 for a brief history of the organization.

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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Folklife Symposium

• STUDYING

THE PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH •

Scholars of the Oral, Written & Material Culture

Nov. 2, 2013 • 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $40.00 (includes lunch)* Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center 105 Seminary Street, Pennsburg, PA ❖ Bruce D. Bomberger The Making of Museum Makers: The Landis Brothers ❖ Mark L. Louden Documenting the Pennsylvania Dutch Language ❖ Don Yoder Marion Dexter: Learned Pioneer in Pennsylvania Dutch Studies ❖ Linda Dyke Henry Mercer: His connections with Pennsylvania Dutch Culture around the turn of the 20th Century ❖ Hedda Durnbaugh Abraham Cassel: Self-Taught Historian and Bibliophile ❖ Iren Snavely Samuel W. Pennypacker: Legacy of His Writings on Pennsylvania *Registration due by Oct. 25, 2013. Make checks payable to and mail to: Goschenhoppen Historians, P.O. Box 476, Green Lane, PA 18054. Register online at www.goschenhoppen.org.

Presented by the Goschenhoppen Historians and the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center.