The Schwenkfeldian Fall 2011 Issue

The

TAUFSHCEINS Hand-colored birth & baptismal certificates

T R A D I T I O N S

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V O L U M E

Editor: Gerald A. Heebner Business Manager: Michelle Pritt Design: Robin Hepler, robindesign@rcn.com Artist: Frank Batson Photographer: Lee Schultz Reporters: William Potts, IV, Central Rev. Edward O. Winslow, Missionary Leah Tyson, Olivet Karen Kriebel, Palm Diana Weir-Smith, Perkiomen School Glenna R. Fulmer, In Retrospect

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In this Issue

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

PASTORAL LEADERSHIP Earnest and eloquent speakers of the Schwenkfelder Church.

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MISSION IN ACTION Derstine Run residential retirement community opens.

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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.

TAUFSCHEINS Unique and decorative expressions of itinerant scriveners.

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SPRING CONFERENCE Reports and financial updates from the boards and committees.

CHURCH BRIEFS Updates from Central, Olivet, and Palm.

ABOUT OUR COVER

The taufschein, or certificate of birth and baptism, became a characteristic form of Pennsylvania-German illuminated writing.

In an area where there was, as yet, no bureau of vital statistics this certificate also took on legal significance. Such certificates of birth have only been found in Pennsylvania and were made by or for members of religious groups who did not practice infant baptism. Therefore, the geographical scope of the Pennsylvania taufschein was limited, both religiously and spatially, to those people belonging to sects practicing adult baptism.

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PERSONAL NOTES Marriages, births, and deaths.

IN RETROSPECT Looking back at the accomplishments of members.

THE BIBLE An ancient treasure for our spiritual understanding.

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YOU ARE INVITED Dinner to benefit the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center.

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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.

Pastoral Leadership

B Y R E V. D AV I D W. L U Z

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id you know that one of our mid-nineteenth century Schwenkfelder pastors was elected to serve as pastor, but while he readily accepted the call, his father was so opposed that he virtually disowned him? This same pastor, the Rev. Joshua Schultz, then continued in faithful service to the Upper District of the Society of Schwenkfelders for approximately fifty years. Rev. Schultz brought organization to the Society of Schwenkfelders, for up to the 1850s they regulated their organization by creating rules at annual or special conferences.

Rev. Schultz pulled the rules together and saw to it that they were printed—our first bylaws. Printed in German in 1851, the bylaws were translated into English by Rev. Schultz and reissued in 1882. His ministry ended when he died in the pulpit of the Kraussdale Meeting House while conducting a funeral service for a member of the Church—the very same pulpit where he’d preached his first sermon some fifty years earlier.

Rev. and Mrs. Joshua Schultz THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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The stories of our Schwenkfelder pastors are varied and fascinating, especially the lay pastors of the years prior to the turn of the twentieth century. At that time, transition to our modern churches rapidly took place, and one of the many changes to appear involved the clergy. Schwenkfelder clergy up to this time were usually self-taught. While many attended schools, formal schooling, with some excepRev. Levi S. Hoffman tions, usually concluded about the eighth grade.

Also, clergy were not paid by the congregations, although we are told they were kept from living impoverished lives. They were serving the church as an avocation while they worked at a full time job, many times that of farming. But this didn’t mean they were not faithful nor well informed—on the contrary, our clergy have always been strongly read in the scriptures while being eloquent and fervent speakers.

In those days the calling or election of a pastor usually came from within the community rather than arising from an individual’s Rev. George K. Meschter sense of call, as we think of a pastoral call today. As a need arose for a leader or teacher (which is what they most likely were calling the pastors in the eighteenth and early nineteenth century) the Schwenkfelder House Fathers would begin discussions either in small groups or at a formally assembled meeting. A need usually arose from a pastor dying or becoming seriously ill, or perhaps as a long serving pastor aged, it was becoming apparent that he (and it was always a he at that time) needed help in performing his duties. Another way a pastor might have been called from within the church Rev. William S. Anders body could have come about from the total opposite circumstance. A young man might have shown especially earnest knowledge of the scriptures or have been very spiritual in his life and actions. This living witness could then have drawn the attention of his elders and they would then specifically select him, raising this faithful man to a leadership position.

The very earliest pastors, George Weiss and Balthasar Hoffmann, were selected for a very specific reason. Apparently, if a religious group in colonial Pennsylvania had their own clergy, they could regulate marriages within the group.

Rev. Oscar S. Kriebel If they did not have their own clergy, then they must meet regulations imposed upon them by the Commonwealth.

Rather than submit to regulation, they decided to elect from within their members leaders who would perform this task, therefore, they could regulate this important act among themselves. The election of these two early leaders was apparently a relatively easy task among the Schwenkfelders, as they were two very highly respected and very learned men within the community. In addition to conducting the marriage services, these two first leaders were well known for their

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educational concerns and work among the youth. This, too, was a critical need among the first generations of American Schwenkfelders, and the clergy was frequently, but not always, the person of their group responsible for catechizing the youth of the church.

Another important task was the preaching of sermons. During the first few decades after arrival, this task was mostly centered on annual Day of Remembrance messages. However, regular, if not weekly services in homes included time for sermons. If the elected pastor of the group was in attendance, it was naturally his responsibility to preach. If he was not in the home of a Sunday worship service— and because the group was spread across such distances, this was a common enough possibility—then a sermon was usually read from a book of sermons. Many of the annual Day of Remembrance addresses were noted, especially the scriptures used, and kept down through the years. We have preserved at the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center many summaries of these Rev. Jacob Meschter addresses and of the topics presented at the annual Day of Remembrance services.

Following Balthasar Hoffman’s time as pastor, the two districts of the Schwenkfelders group began to emerge. Christopher Schultz became the next pastor following Hoffman’s resignation. He served all the people until the society was formed in 1782. However, this may not be quite as clear-cut as it may seem at first. Records of marriages he performed begin in 1766, within two years of his being elected as pastor. But Christopher Kriebel began Rev. Harvey K. Heebner performing marriages in 1770. So beginning with these two, we enter a time where more than one leader served the Schwenkfelder group at one time, and, although it doesn’t always ring true, there seemed to be emerging a pastor for the Upper District and a pastor for the Lower District— with some overlap of responsibilities.

Christopher Kriebel was elected pastor sometime around 1770 when he began performing marriages, but he actually had been conducting catechetical classes for some years prior to that date. We are told Rev. Elmer E. S. Johnson he held bible classes in his home in Lower Salford Township every two weeks beginning in 1764. His home was also the place where many Schwenkfelder families met for worship services and congregational meetings or conferences. His home was a gathering place until his request to be relieved of his duties as a pastor in 1796— four years before his death in 1800. He was a much respected voice in Schwenkfelder Church discussions. Much earlier than his Rev. George Meschter

Schwenkfelder Pastors

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE SCHWENKFELDER LIBRARY & HERITAGE CENTER

(To 20th Century)

Rev. Daniel Kriebel Rev. Edwin S. Anders involvement as pastor or leader of the Schwenkfelders, he was an active member of the Friendly Association meetings seeking peace with Native Americans in 1756.

Recordkeeping for defining the terms served by the Schwenkfelder clergy were at times very vague. Terms of service frequently overlapped as a number of the elder pastors served in some capacity until their deaths.

The Genealogical Record of the Schwenkfelder Families (GR), so precise in so many other ways and a wonderful resource for genealogists today, stated in numerous instances that a pastor served for “many years.” David Kriebel, Melchior Kriebel, Melchior Schultz, Balthasar Heebner, Daniel Kriebel, and Reuben Kriebel—all are mentioned as serving faithfully for “many years” or “some length of time.” Starting dates may have been vague due to a probationary practice. In at least one incident, that of the Rev. William S. Anders, we read he began as “probationer to ministry” and then was called as pastor. The term of probation appears to be a year, but it isn’t clear and it isn’t stated in other cases.

Sometimes, the GR, which lists most Schwenkfelder pastors as “Rev.,” omits this designation. One of these, Abraham Heebner, is named in a list of Schwenkfelder pastors, but then there is no further information that we can find at this time. Heebner is listed with other clergy in a separate list in the Genealogical Record, which the Schwenkfelders printed in 1879, but then his name isn’t found anywhere else in the book. In another instance, Twentieth Century Schwenkfelders, by Kyrel Meschter, 1984, states that Elmer A. Yeakel served as pastor of the Middle District in 1908 (“only briefly”). However, the Genealogical Record provides no mention of him being a pastor. Then, in Levi Hoffman’s autobiography, The Carpenter’s Son, printed shortly before his death in 1970, we read that Hoffman enrolled in Hartford Theological Seminary in 1907 in part because Yeakel was interested in serving as pastor of the Middle District. In issues of The Schwenkfeldian from 1907 and 1908, we read that Yeakel was called as pastor in May 1907, while a student at Drexel Divinity School. He served as pastor only a little over one year when he resigned, as a note in the November 1908 issue of The Schwenkfeldian tells us.

Another interesting situation is two Schwenkfelder pastors who left the Upper District and served in the Evangelical Church of that region in the early part of the nineteenth century. One we know little about,

BIRTH & DEATH

NAME

YEARS SERVED AS PASTOR

DISTRICT OR CHURCH SERVED

1687-1740

George Weiss

1734-1740

All

1684-1775

Balthasar Hoffman

1740-1763

All

1718-1789

Christopher Schultz

1764-1784*

Upper District

1724-1800

Christopher Kriebel

1782-1796*

Middle-Lower District

1732-1805

George Kriebel

1788-1803*

Upper District

1727-1804

Christopher Hoffman

1784-1799*

Middle-Lower District

1746-1833

Melchior Kriebel

Many Years

Lower-Middle District

1756-1826

Melchior Schultz

Many Years

Lower-Middle District

Unknown

Andrew Kriebel

Unknown

Unknown

1786-1837

Andrew Yeakel

An Unknown Short Period of Time**

Upper District & Minister of Evangelical Association

1772-1827

John (Johannes) Schultz

1804-1827*

Upper District

1777-1843

Christopher Schultz, Jr.

1819-1843

Upper District

1770-1848

Balthasar Heebner

Many Years Until His Death in 1848

Middle District

1787-1848

David Kriebel

Some Length of Time

Middle-Lower District

1796-1855

Daniel Kriebel

Many Years

Middle-Lower District

1808-1892

Joshua Schultz

1842-1892*

Upper District

1812-1850

David Schultz

Only A Short Time

Upper District

1806-1890

William Schultz

1845-1890

Upper District

1808-1887

George Meschter

1845–1886*

Middle-Lower District

1829-1890

Reuben Kriebel

Many Years

Middle-Lower District

Unknown

Abraham Heebner

Unknown

Unknown

1818-1891

Jacob K. Meschter

1854-1891

Upper District

1840-1907

William S Anders

1871-1907

Middle-Lower District

1841-1882

John B. Kriebel

1868-1882

Middle-Lower District

1840-1910

George K. Meschter

1883-1908

Middle-Lower District

1875Unknown

Elmer A. Yeakle

May 1907November 1908

Middle-Lower District

1857-1937

Edwin Anders

1886-1910*

Middle-Lower District

1863-1932

Oscar S. Kriebel

1892-1932

Upper District & Palm

1872-1959

Elmer E.S. Johnson

1902-1904

Philadelphia & Mennonite

1875-1970

Levi Hoffman

1910-1959*

Middle District, Lansdale, Central Church

1877-1963

Harvey Heebner

1906-1963

Philadelphia

1887-1968

Robert Gottschall

1915-1963

Norristown

*Different sources list slightly different dates of service. **See History of the Evangelical Association, 1858, 289.3 ORW1, pg. 219, 220.

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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Rev. David Schultz, except that he served a “short time” as a minister in the Society of Schwenkfelders. Rev. Schultz died rather young at the age of 38 after only eleven years of marriage. Tragically, his wife died just seven years later at the age of 39. The other pastor, Andrew Yeakel, is written up in the History of the Evangelical Association, published in 1858. We read that “Brother A. Yeakel had, in his earlier years, been a preacher among the Schwenkfelders, in Upper Milford, Lehigh County, Pa., and had been universally esteemed for his uprightness and honesty.” But, after an apparent disagreement sometime around the turn of the nineteenth century, he left, along with “some of his fellow believers.”

Many of the eighteenth and nineteenth century Schwenkfelder pastors were farmers. But we are frequently told they were “earnest and eloquent speakers.” Rev. Jacob K. Meschter, who served 1854-1891, was such a speaker who “prepared his sermons behind the plow,” apparently while working hard and thinking strongly.

But not all of the pastors were farmers. Rev. George Weiss was a weaver, but it is not clear that he did any weaving while in Pennsylvania.

Rev. Christopher Hoffmann was a bookbinder, while maintaining a “gentleman farm” as was the practice of the day. Rev. Daniel Kriebel was a teacher in addition to his avocation as a Schwenkfelder minister. We are told that Rev. Reuben Kriebel was a broom maker, although if this was his full time occupation, we are not told. And finally, we hear about Rev. George K. Meschter, son of the Rev. George Meschter, who practiced medicine in Worcester, and following his acceptance of the call to minister in the Middle District upon the death of Rev. John B. Kriebel, served as pastor for 25 years.

Like Rev. George K. Meschter, the son of a Schwenkfelder pastor, a few other pastors who served our churches also had fathers as pastors before them. Rev. Christopher Hoffmann was the son of Rev. Balthasar Hoffman in the eighteenth century. Rev. Christopher Schultz, Jr. was actually the grandson of the eighteenth century pastor Rev. Christopher Schultz. Rev. David Kriebel who served the Middle District was the son of Rev. Melchior Kriebel, and his wife was the daughter of Rev. Melchior Schultz.

Rev.William Schultz, serving the Upper District, was the son of the Rev. John Schultz. While most of the eighteenth and nineteenth century Schwenkfelder pastors had families, a few had no children and one, Rev. Daniel Kriebel, remained unmarried, serving as teacher and pastor for “many years” until his death in 1855. n

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Martin Wetzler (active c. 1854-1888), known as the Jewish Dindamann, often included a star of David or signed his taufscheins in Hebrew. He made the letter “d” backwards and frequently added confirmations and marriages to birth and baptismal records already filled out by others. Bible entries are also in his hand.

BY DEL-LOUISE MOYER

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rinted birth and baptismal certificates were in use as early as the 1780s when both Henrich Dulheuer and Henrich Otto had forms printed in Ephrata, PA. However, between 1785 and 1805, most folks preferred the more colorful handpainted taufscheins. Scriveners and their families decorated the printed forms during the winter and only needed to fill in the dates and names as they went about peddling them.

After 1810, the custom-made, hand-painted taufcheins became more scarce and printers’ graphic versions came to the fore. It’s not surprising that the number of printers and variety of forms increased rapidly.

Itinerant scriveners depended on local ministers to find out which families had celebrated marriages, births, confirmations, and deaths. Then, they walked from home to home and, for room and board or a small fee, entered records into Bibles or hand decorated and completed printed birth and baptismal certificates. For those tracing their heritage, these records are invaluable resources. They’re also a delight to behold and treasure as examples of scriveners’ ingenuity and creative spirit. Examples of this informational art form are housed in the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center, in Pennsburg, PA, and the Goschenhoppen Historians Museum, in Green Lane, PA.

August Baumann (active c. 1879-1905) used a distinct crimson ink, and always accompanied his entries with a bust in profile of a baby, child, man, woman, or couple, depending on the entry. He signed and dated most of his works in an exquisite calligraphic hand. J. George E. Franck (active c. 1878-1912) was a prolific penman who filled out Bibles, birth and baptismal certificates, bookplates, confirmations, and marriage records. His green and pink floral flourishes and four-petal pink flowers are his trademark. Franck usually signed his works with blue, black, green, and metallic gold inks.

Take, for instance, Emmeleine Wittmer’s birth and baptismal certificate. Martin Wetzler is the penman. Notice his backward “d,” signature, and typical decorative elements opposite the birds. Wetzler hand-colored the form, which was printed in Allentown, PA, by Blumer, Busch & Co. Eduard J. Wittmer, son of John and Rachel (Jones) Wittmer, was born October 13, 1833, in Quakertown, PA, and died January 24, 1912, near Finland, Marlborough Township, Montgomery County, PA. He married Lydia Amanda Kline on February 25, 1854. She was the daughter of Philip and Lydia (Markly) Kline, and was born March 26, 1826, in Pennsburg, PA, and died March 30, 1925, in Red Hill, PA. Emmeleine, born on February 6, 1855, was their first child.

Allen Raymond Schantz’s taufschein is the work of August Baumann and was printed by Trexler & Hartzell of Allentown. All of Baumann’s attributes are evident on this form—the distinct crimson ink, profile of a young boy, and his signature and date in a fine, elegant hand.

Allen Raymond Schantz was born September 1, 1891, in Geryville, Milford Township, Bucks County, PA, and died August 6, 1947, in East Greenville, PA. The son of John Ambrose Kline and Sara Jane Kline,

he married Katie Ella Wasser on January 2, 1909. They had 11 children.

The last example is from the Goschenhoppen Historians Museum in Green Lane, PA. George E. Franck decorated and entered the birth and baptismal information on Lizzie Sybilla Rothermel’s taufschein, which was printed by the Eagle Bookstore of Reading, PA. J. Franck signed, dated, and indicated where he was living at the time; hand colored the document; and added his trademark green and pink floral flourishes, as well as the four petal flowers.

Lizzie Sybilla Rothermel, born February 2, 1900, was the daughter of Henry William Rothermel and his wife Amanda Spohn Rothermel.

She was baptized on March 10, 1900, by Pastor Henry K. J. Banner.

Lizzie died on June 30, 1905, aged 4 years, 11 months and 21 days.

While many local residents considered professional scriveners not much better than tramps, peddlers, or vagabonds, they were frequently better educated than the clientele they served. Not only did these professional penmen leave valuable records for present day genealogists, but they also made sure we will never forget their unique contributions to this art form. Both collections are available to the public for research purposes by appointment. n

Wittmer family photographs are available at http://www.krishocker.com/familytree/photo_archive/witmer_lydia_img.html.

Further information about the Schantz family is available at http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/g/e/s/Candy-J-Gessat/GENE9-0004.html.

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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An

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AncientT reasur

How often do we fully appreciate the treasure we hold in our hands when we pick up a copy of the Bible? The apostle Paul’s words should come to mind when we think of what our estimation of the scriptures ought to be: “Now we have received not the spirit of the world but the Spirit that is from God, so that we may understand the gifts bestowed on us by God” (NRSV 1 Cor 2:12).

W E L L - AT T E S T E D B O O K The first thing that we should know about the Bible is that it is the most well-attested book of antiquity. It’s important to realize, however, that the original manuscripts of the biblical books no longer exist. It’s the same for any ancient book, though. The papyrus or wax tablet or piece of bark they were written on have long since ceased to be. Thankfully, copies of those ancient books have been made and preserved. And it is the job of the field known as textual criticism to research and judge the purity of the existing copies in relation to the original manuscripts.

Now in three crucial areas, the reliability of the existing biblical manuscripts exceeds all others. First, in the sheer number of copies of the biblical manuscripts that were made and preserved, the amount is substantially greater than for any other ancient book. For example, 5,487 full and

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partial Greek manuscripts of the New Testament exist, according to Dr. Robert Cara of Reformed Theological Seminary. By comparison, he notes, there are less than 10 for many of Aristotle’s books.1 In the second place, in relation to the interval between the date that the author wrote and the earliest existing manuscript of his work, the Bible is again superior. New Testament scholar John Wenham illustrates why that parameter is important: “Philosophers feel justified in laying great weight even upon minute turns of phrase in Plato in spite of the 1,300 year gap. In the case of the New Testament,” however, the gap is only “100 to 150 years.”2 Thirdly, the Bible exceeds all other ancient books to the degree that it reckons with difficulties spanning scriptural family trees and in dealing with textual errors between manuscript copies. In the case of the New Testament, an enormous amount of variant readings exist for the slight errors that textual critics have determined were made by copyists and thus not considered part of the original writings. “A mass of material,” advises Wenham, “has been

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B Y R E V. W I L L I A M D . K A L A J A I N E N collected and made readily available for us in the critical editions of the Greek Testament.”3 Many people wrongly assume that the existence of these numerous slight errors poses a serious problem for the reliability of the New Testament manuscripts. However, Wenham explains that the case is actually the opposite: “The existence of more than 100,000 small variants is not in reality an embarrassment, except in the sense that it is an embarrassment of riches. The multitude of variants is simply the result of the multitude of manuscripts, of which there are several thousand still in existence which antedate the printing press. The problem of New Testament textual criticism arises from the gigantic scale of the task, if all materials are to be used to the full.”4 Though the task is great, our confidence level should rise in view of the sophisticated art and science of New Testament textual criticism.

Technically speaking, “textual criticism is the study of copies of any written work of which the autograph (the original) is unknown, with the purpose of ascertaining the original text,” according to New Testament (NT) Greek scholar J. Harold Greenlee.5 Greenlee admits that “the greater the number of manuscripts the greater will be the number of variants and hence the greater the complications in determining the true text from among the variant readings of the manuscripts.”6 However, he asserts that the New Testament’s reliability is bolstered by the contributions of textual criticism:“In the NT and in other ancient literature as well, there is no question concerning the reading of most of the words. Textual criticism needs to operate in only a limited portion of the text. When one is engaged in this study, and the number and importance of the variants are made the center of attention, it is well to remember that the main body of the text and its general sense are left untouched and that textual criticism engages in turning a magnifying glass upon some of the details.”7 In the case of the Old Testament, according to Dr. Ellis Brotzman, textual criticism takes on another shape altogether: “The focus of Old Testament text criticism is different from the practice of text criticism of the New Testament or of classical Greek or Roman authors.

In the New Testament, the emphasis is on the study of variant readings, but Old Testament text criticism deals principally with perceived textual difficulties.”8 The actual critical text of Old Testament agreed to today by an overwhelming number of biblical scholars is a very reliable text. Its transmission to us has been carried on by the ablest scribes and scholars of the Hebrew text over a vast period of time. However, certain errors by scribes have found their way into the text. But Brotzman assures that “the vast majority of the Old Testament text is certain, and the variants that do exist can in most cases be resolved into primary and secondary readings.”9 He further explains that “a primary reading is the reading that represents the original. A secondary reading is one that developed from the original through various imperfections of scribal practice.”10 Wenham sums up the state of the current Old Testament text in this way: “We have a number of converging lines of evidence to show that the preservation of the text, even in the centuries BC, was of a very high order, and that for practical purposes our present text is a dependable guide.”11

A DIVINE AND HUMAN BOOK However, the second thing we should know about the Bible, by its own testimony, is that it is a divine as well as a human book. Two human conveyors of God’s revelation make that very case. The apostle Paul declares that “all scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (NRSV 2 Tim 3:16).

Likewise, the apostle Peter points to the ultimate source of all of the writings of scripture: “No prophecy ever came by human will, but men and women moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God” (NRSV 2 Peter 1:21).

The writings and prophecies Paul and Peter were referring to in these passages are almost universally understood to be the Old Testament scriptures. However, two instances relating to these two men, respectively, establish that there were to be additional writings classified as scripture: Paul, in quoting Jesus’ words from Luke 10:7, in which he quotes Deuteronomy 25:4, as “for the scripture says” (NRSV 1 Tim 5:18), and Peter, in classifying Paul’s “letters” with “the other scriptures” (NRSV 2 Peter 3:16).

A B O O K A B O U T A L I V I N G S AV I O R Now, the third and final thing that we should know about the Bible is that it is a book about a living Savior. From the same well of scripture writers we have already drawn from, we learn that we receive spiritual understanding concerning our relation to the Lord Jesus through the light that the scriptures bring to our minds. Timothy, the young minister, was reminded by Paul that “from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (NRSV 2 Tim 3:15).

Peter, also, within a letter which exalts in the hope that is ours through our living Savior (see 1 Peter 1:3-12), specifically attributes our reception of spiritual life to the means of God’s eternal word: “You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God” (NRSV 1 Peter 1:23).

What a treasure we hold in our hands! What a greater treasure we hold in our hearts! n 1Robert

J. Cara, “Modern English Bibles: An History and Explanation,” class lecture #1: “Autographa and Ancient Manuscripts,” Reformed Theological Seminary, January 6, 2002).

2John Wenham, Christ and the Bible, 3rd ed. (Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, 1994), 178.

3Ibid., 182.

4Ibid., 178.

5J. Harold Greenlee, Introduction to New Testament Textual Criticism, rev. ed.

(Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1995), 1.

6Ibid., 3.

7Ibid., 6.

8Ellis R. Brotzman, Old Testament Textual Criticism: A Practical Introduction (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 1994),123.

9Ibid., 24.

10Ibid., 24, n. 18.

11Wenham, Christ and the Bible, 177.

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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M DERSTINE RUN TIMELINE JUNE 2007 JULY 2009 Property Purchase Funding Award (28-acres for $2.2 million) (Building 1)

ission in

APRIL 2010 Groundbreaking Ceremony

AUGUST 2010 Construction Start (Building 1)

A ct

JUNE 2011 Grand Opening Ceremony

JULY 2011 Opening (Building 1)

O

n June 30, 2011, Advanced Living Communities opened its third residential retirement community, Derstine Run in Hatfield. At first glance, Derstine Run appears to have everything you’d expect from a brand new retirement community. Its river rock and plank exterior is both impressive and inviting. There’s plenty of parking and nicely landscaped grounds. The lobby, hallways, and community spaces are bright and comfortable with a generous amount of natural light, overstuffed furniture, and home-like decor. The apartments have ample storage space, an open floor plan, energy-efficient appliances, and state-of-the-art safety and security features.

“It truly is a beautiful building,” said Bill Brown, President and CEO of Advanced Living Communities.“We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished. And I know that many seniors are proud to call Derstine Run home. It’s one-of-a-kind.”

What truly sets Derstine Run apart from other retirement options is the unique founding principle of its parent company. Advanced Living Communities believes that every person, as created in the image of God, deserves to be treated with grace, dignity, and choice—especially as they age and regardless of financial means. That’s why Advanced Living Communities has been committed to providing those less fortunate with everything they need to live and age in place at a price they can afford since its founding in 1962 by members of the Schwenkfelder Church.

“Christ Himself said we will always have the poor with us,” said Brown. “We shouldn’t be surprised that we meet them every day. But we should be ready to help them.” More than 14% of Americans and

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as many as one in six seniors (over the age of 65) are considered by the U.S. Census to be “poor,” making less than $11,000 a year. “By providing access to affordable housing and home care, Advanced Living is helping people who oftentimes have nowhere else to turn.”

Advanced Living currently operates three residential retirement communities in the North Penn area where the residents’ rent is based directly on their income. In addition to the affordable housing at Schwenckfeld Manor, Schwenckfeld Terrace, and now Derstine Run, residents also have access to a variety of features and amenities, like wellness and transportation services, that improve their quality of life at little or no cost to them.

“It takes creativity and a committed community to be able to do what we do,”said Brown.“We’re constantly thinking outside-the-box and looking for new opportunities to make people’s lives better. But to make them work, we need the partnership and support of the local community.”

tion

BY KAREN BARBROW

Advanced Living Communities management and board of directors officially open Derstine Run with PHFA Executive Director Brian Hudson.

Derstine Run lobby.

Derstine Run community room.

JULY 2011 Funding Award (Building 2)

JANUARY 2012 Anticipated Construction Start (Building 2)

NOVEMBER 2012 Anticipated Opening (Building 2)

Of course, it takes architects, engineers and contractors to build a building like Derstine Run. But it also takes investors and financial advisors to pay for the project as well as a host of service providers committed to serving the residents that now live there. As Advanced Living has grown, so too has its network of partners.

In recent years, Advanced Living Communities took a hard look at itself and its effectiveness in fulfilling its purpose within the local community. Under the leadership of its board of directors (more than half of which are members of the Schwenkfelder Church), Advanced Living revised its mission statement and drafted a vision statement which both broadened and defined the scope of its efforts.

M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T The mission of Advanced Living is to provide affordable housing and services for elderly and disabled persons while they are aging in place and others needing transitional housing.

V I S I O N S TAT E M E N T We, the board and management of Advanced Living Communities, will manifest our love of Jesus Christ by providing affordable living facilities in our region for a diverse population. We will develop affordable, secure, attractive, and well-maintained communities. We will provide programs and services to our residents, and with the communities at large, which will ease life transitions.

ROOM TO GROW “We intend to build upon our successes,” said Brown.“We do affordable housing and services for seniors well. And there will continue to be a growing demand for both as the population ages. But seniors aren’t the only ones that need help. We’ve seen a need in our area to reach out to those with disabilities as well as those without immediate housing.

We’ve literally made it our mission to serve them as well.”

Advanced Living is currently pursuing its home care license as well as its Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) certification to position itself to serve these specialized groups. In addition, the board of directors and management team are actively seeking additional land sites as well as corporate and private funding to put their mission statement into action.

Lately, there’s been much activity at Derstine Run, similar to a college orientation, as dozens of seniors arrive, get acquainted and settle into their new home. A few hundred yards away, bulldozers and dump trucks move mounds of dirt in preparation for construction of the second building. Funding in the amount of $9.7 million was recently awarded and construction is expected to begin by the first of next year.

“We’re constantly moving,” said Brown. “Even after 50 years, there’s still work to be done and room to grow. We’re excited about what God has in store for the future of Advanced Living.” n 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 Executive Council At-Large Members Central: Karen Gallagher, Bruce Rothenberger Missionary: William Dill Olivet: Nadine Reiff Palm: Anne Goda, Shirley Miller Conference Pastor: Rev. Ed Winslow Local Moderators & Pastors Central: Carl Sensenig, David McKinley, William Kalajainen, Julian Scavetti Missionary: William Dill, Edward O. Winslow Olivet: Janet Heller, 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 Patricia Marburger, Secretary H. Drake Williams, Jr., Treasurer David W. Luz, Executive Director Perkiomen School James E. Schulz, President Barry Forman, Vice President Marcia Barone, Secretary Norman Olson., Treasurer Christopher Tompkins, Headmaster Board of Advanced Living Jerome Potter, Chairman Kenneth Clemens, 1st Vice Chairman Barry Simpson, 2nd Vice Chairman Shirley Miller, Secretary Steve Woelkers, Treasurer Board of United Choirs Dennis Alderfer, President Vacant, Vice President Cheryl Walborn, Recording Secretary Vacant, Corresponding Secretary Laurie Hart, Treasurer 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 Jan. 1, 2010) CHURCH

Central . . . . . . . 1,414 Missionary . . . . . . 60 Olivet . . . . . . . . . 189 Palm . . . . . . . . . . 587

SUNDAY SCHOOL

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 275 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 ............... 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

2010 Church Budgets OPERATING

Central . . . $ 918,316.00 Missionary . . $ 38,000.00 Olivet . . . . $ 348,989.00 Palm . . . . . $ 370,442.00

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MISSSION GIVING

. . . . . . $ 181,737.00 . . . . . . . . . $ 500.00 . . . . . . . $ 10,686.00 . . . . . . . $ 30,873.00

T

SpringGeneral

he Spring General Conference of The Schwenkfelder Church was called to order on May 15, 2011, at 3:10 p.m. by Conference Moderator H. Drake Williams, Jr. Devotions were led by Rev. David McKinley. Luanne Stauffer noted that a comment attributed to her in the minutes of the Fall General Conference was not correct. The sentence “Luanne Stauffer, trustee on Perkiomen School Board, stated that Perkiomen School was now so successful that it did not need the Schwenkfelder Church support any more” will be deleted and the next sentence will be changed to read “Luanne Stauffer, trustee on Perkiomen School Board, listed the Schwenkfelder trustees who were present at the meeting when the vote took place.” The Moderator declared the minutes accepted as corrected.

Treasurer’s Report Doug Wallinger asked Treasurer Pat McGinnis where the money for legal fees for the Perkiomen School concerns came from. Treasurer Pat McGinnis reported that this money came from the operating fund which is not restricted. There were no further questions for the Treasurer. The Moderator declared the Treasurer’s Report accepted. The entire report is found on page 7 of the Annual Report.

C

C

onference

Budget for 2011 The budget report is found on page 8 of the Annual Report.

CEEN NTTRRA ALL SSC CH HW WEEN NKKFFEELLD DEERR •• M MAY AY 1155,, 22001111 C

N O M I N AT I N G C O M M I T T E E

Moderator Drake Williams pointed out a typo. In the third sentence the word “purpose” should have followed the word “intended” and not the word “which.” Drake Williams introduced the members of Executive Council. There were no questions. The report is found on page 9 of the Annual Report.

The Committee reported two At-Large candidates and four officer candidates for the Executive Council. Also nominated were three candidates for Advanced Living Board and four candidates for Perkiomen School Board. Drake Williams discussed the slate in regard to the Perkiomen School trustees. He has consulted with legal counsel and read a statement from Thomas H. Boulden giving recommendations on how to proceed. There were no questions at this time. The report is found on page 12 of the Annual Report.

Trustees Report

P U B L I C AT I O N C O M M I T T E E

Executive Council

• The report of the Moderator of Central Schwenkfelder Church is found on pages 20-21 of the Annual Report.

• The report of Palm Schwenkfelder Church is found on page 22 of the Annual Report.

Committee Reports AU D I T I N G C O M M I T T E E Ron King, Karen Phillips, and Rick Jones audited the books of the various Boards for 2010 and found them to be in order. The report is found on page 11 of the Annual Report.

Rev. Dave Luz described the work being done on the booklet From One Place To Another. He thanked the committee members and reported that they hoped to have this completed by the end of the year. Rev. Luz discussed the work being done on a brochure introducing The Schwenkfelder Church. It’s scheduled to be completed within a few months. He also mentioned the ongoing computerization of the Corpus Schwenkfeldianorum. Dave Woodward asked about the rationale behind maintaining the Publication Committee under General Conference. Drake Williams discussed the provisions under the new bylaws. Rick Jones elaborated on the process of combining boards under the new bylaws.

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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G E N E R A L C O N F E R E N C E D AT E S Salford Pilgrimage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 5, 2011 Gedächtnistag (Palm) . . . . . . . . . . Sept. 25, 2011 School of Christ (Central) . . . . . . . . . Oct. 16, 2011 Spring General Conference (Central) . . . Spring 2012 GENERAL CONFERENCE R O L L C A L L M AY 1 5 , 2 0 1 1 Central Schwenkfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Olivet Schwenkfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Palm Schwenkfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Schwenkfelder Missionary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 FINANCIAL REPORTS 2010 General Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . .

$ 34,382.48 $ 37,742.43 $ 32,109.60 $ 40,015.31

2010 Education Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,297.90 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 197.76 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,495.66

Luanne Stauffer reported on discussion within the Publication Committee and their adoption of new bylaws for the committee under Conference’s new bylaws. There were no further questions.

The report is found on page 13 of the Annual Report.

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

A new facility, Derstine Run, is scheduled to open summer of 2011. This consists of 59 onebedroom apartments for low-income seniors. Funds are being sought for three additional buildings on that site. An Adult Day Services Center, under the direction of the North Penn Visiting Nurse Association, is scheduled to open spring 2011. They are now licensed to operate a Home Care Agency to assist activities of daily living. Advanced Living’s 50th anniversary is approaching. The report is found on page 14 of the Annual Report.

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 Executive Director Dave Luz noted the organization’s assistance to preserve church archives, answer genealogical questions, and offering of help in regard to the history or heritage of the individual churches and The Schwenkfelder Church. He also listed the exhibits and activities that were featured during the past year. The report is found on page 15 of the Annual Report.

2010 Student Ministers Seminary Fund

PERKIOMEN SCHOOL

Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 27,081.83 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 116.03 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . $ 27,197.86

No report was submitted.

2010 Silesian Graveyard Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,122.38 Total Receipts (Donation, Interest) . . . . . $ 775.31 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,897.69 2010 Conference Mission Board Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,452.99 RECEIPTS Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13,200.00 Olivet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,000.00 Palm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,480.00 Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98.88

Total Receipts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 18,778.88 DISBURSEMENTS Missionary Church . . . . . 19,000.00 Chester Co. Donation . . . . 1,000.00

Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 20,000.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ (1,221.12) 2010 Charity Board Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,167.02 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 197.76 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,364.78 2010 Chestnut Hill Cemetery Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,602.65 Total Receipts (Interest) . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 474.50 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,364.78 2010 David Anders Fund Balance Jan. 1, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . $ 47,132.02 Total Receipts (Div. & Cap. Gain) . . . . . $ 1,681.11 Total Disbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 0.00 Market Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 4,363.28 Balance Dec. 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . $ 53,176.41

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VIEHWEG The major thrust of this committee is still to establish a reliable contact in Twardocice that can keep us apprised of what is happening at the Viehweg monument. This will allow us to confirm that the monument is being taken care of properly. The 2010 Heritage Tour visited the monument and tried to establish contacts in the area. The report is found on page 25 of the Annual Report.

SCHWENKFELDER MINISTERIUM Rev. Edward Winslow, Conference Minister, stated that the procedure of ordaining and licensing ministers within The Schwenkfelder Church has been completed and turned over to Executive Council for approval. The full report appears on page 16 of the Annual Report.

CHURCH MINISTERS

• Rev. David McKinley had nothing to report.

• Rev. William Kalajainen is actively involved with the Discipleship Committee in conjunction with Church Council’s third goal of 2009. He is also training adult small group leaders.

• Rev. Nicholas Pence identified the personnel changes that took place during the preceding

year at Palm Church and noted that the Church will be entering its 100th anniversary in 2011.

He is now on the Board at Advanced Living and is learning about their ministry.

Rev. Ed Winslow noted that their lunch program is moving into other parts of the city and they are working with a union group that is trying to train people in learning new job skills.

They are also participating in a youth “say no to drugs” program.

Rev. Leslie Kearney identified some repairs, refurbishing, and additions at Olivet Schwenkfelder Church during the past year. Two worship services are now available on Sunday morning and a bell choir has been started.

The full reports appear on pages 16-19 of the Annual Report.

• •

P E N N S Y L VA N I A C O U N C I L O F C H U R C H E S Executive Director Rev. Gary Harke reported that the centennial for the Council will occur with a celebration at Trinity Evagelical Lutheran Church in Camp Hill, Pa., in October 2011. Four areas that they focused on in 2010 were to be a witness for social justice and civic engagement; have involvement in traveler ministry, including truckers; to assist in parks and recreation ministry at campgrounds; and the continuation of educating clergy and other church workers.

UNITED SCHWENKFELDER CHOIR The 82nd annual concert was presented on December 5, 2010, with 78 voices representing 36

community churches participating. The concert featured traditional sacred choral anthems and seasonal Christmas music. The choir was joined by 21 instrumentalists, all under the direction of Ed Bieler. The program also included an organ piece as well as a two piano duet.

The full report appears on page 24 of the Annual Report.

M I G R A N T WO R K E R K I T S Bob Walton and Lorraine Martinez, representatives of the Chester County Migrant Workers Ministry, presented a brief overview of their activities. Rev. Dave Luz read a list of the items donated and led a prayer of dedication for the migrant worker kits.

Old Business PERKIOMEN SCHOOL Moderator Drake Williams opened discussion with a brief history and update on the status of this issue. Rev. Leslie Kearney questioned what the hopes were for a final outcome, assuming a favorable ruling for the Church—maintain the status quo or have the school repeat the process legally? Drake Williams responded that we needed to know the outcome and then take a fresh look at these concerns. Jim Faber reminded Conference that, in January, the Board members who were Schwenkfelders wrote out their feelings on this matter and gave these reports to Executive Council. Ed Bieler raised the issue of possible large legal fees in the future and suggested that Conference needed to consider what our relationship with the School would be in the future. Rick Jones pointed out that the issue of severance of the school had come up before General Conference in the past and that General Conference had overwhelmingly said no. Executive Council has been acting in accordance with this decision. Drake Williams clarified that the meeting was in October 2004 and the vote was 136 to 14. Rev. David Luz further clarified this issue by pointing out that, at that time, the School did not wish to sever connections with the Church, but wished to change their bylaws. At that time, General Conference was overwhelmingly in favor of maintaining the status quo. Drake Williams spoke of legal issues discussed with an attorney in 1995-96 following a fire at the School and mentioned a report from a meeting at Palm indicating that, at that time, they wished to maintain the status quo with the School.

It was at this time that the School was granted the privilege to name more trustees. Luanne Stauffer explained her feelings about her vote as a Perkiomen School Board trustee and her opinions about a lawsuit. She expressed the opinion that there should have been more general discussion of this action before a lawsuit was filed. Darlene Jones responded that Executive Council had filed a petition, not a lawsuit. Luanne Stauffer disagreed with this terminology. George Shenkle expressed his concern about ownership of the land and whether or not the students were Christians. Drake Williams answered that not all the students are Christians. Doug Wallinger pointed out that Conference’s main concern should be what was best for the students. He moved that we vote today on whether to accept the amendment proposed by the School. Drake Williams responded that the School had not asked us to approve these changes. Therefore, we could not vote on them. Al Koehler reminded Conference of the loss of Lansdale Church and First Philadelphia Church. He discussed changes in society and expressed the opinion that we needed to be patient and wait

to see what the decision of the Court was before proceeding further.

Rev. Ed Winslow expressed the view that we all want what’s best for the Church and the School. Executive Council is only trying to resolve the issue of legality. He reminded us that we are a family of God. We should be praying over this, not quarreling over it. Dave Woodward asked if the Church owned the School or only had a controlling interest and whether the School had been chartered as a Christian school.

Drake Williams responded that the Church owned the School by virtue of a controlling number of the trustees and noted the opinions of Ky Meschter and Rick Unger. The Charter did not state it was a Christian school, but resolutions from past Conferences did state that the School was to be Christian. Luanne Stauffer named several Schwenkfelder trustees who had attended Perkiomen School. She pointed out that the Church had problems finding members to serve as trustees. She discussed her hopes and feelings. Rev. Leslie Kearney reminded us that we are the embodiment of Christ. We have a unique opportunity to set an example and to value human relationships. She hoped that we would remember this as we pondered this matter. Shirley Miller expressed the hope that we would have a meeting of General Conference to decide the next step when we get the Court’s ruling. Luanne Stauffer suggested that we need to consider our intent and the possibility of harm. She stated that Treasurer Pat McGinnis had told her that the Church was going to sue the School and seek damages. Pat McGinnis chose not to respond.

New Business A slate of officers for positions in the current organization was presented.

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL—OFFICERS (2 year term) Moderator H. Drake Williams, Jr. Treasurer Patrick McGinnis Vice Moderator Darlene Jones Secretary Leah Tyson EXECUTIVE COUNCIL—MEMBERS AT LARGE (3 year term) Bruce Rothenberger (Central, 2014) Nadine Reiff (Olivet, 2014)

Jerry Heebner moved the nominations be closed. Dave Luz seconded the motion. The motion was passed.

BOARD OF ADVANCED LIVING (3 year term) Nicholas Pence (Palm, 2014) Jerome Potter (Central, 2014) Barry Simpson (Central, 2014)

Ann Goda moved the nominations be closed. William Dill seconded the motion. The motion was passed.

PERKIOMEN SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES (4 year term) Karen Gallagher (Central, 2015) Darlene Jones (Palm, 2015) Patrick McGinnis (Central, 2015) Edward Winslow (Missionary, 2015)

Pat McGinnis moved the nominations be closed. Barry Simpson seconded the motion. Luanne Stauffer, Diane Dunn, Dave Woodward, Carol Woodward, Scott Schultz, Doug Wallinger, Jim Faber, and Bob Krohl abstained. The motion was passed with these abstentions and one no vote. n

Copies of the printed Annual Report, as distributed at the May 15, 2011, Spring General Conference, are available by request to the Secretary of Central Schwenkfelder Church. Payment of postage is requested.

THE SCHWENKFELDIAN

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our facilities

CENTRAL

16

A P R I L – J U LY 2 0 1 1

On Palm Sunday, April 17, the traditional service was the musical presentation “At the Ninth Hour,” performed by the Chancel Choir, Chancel Bell Choir, and Instrumental Ensemble.

Rev. David McKinley narrated. The soloists were Keith Maurer, Cheryl Walborn, Norman Lepping, Gail Davis, and Marcy Shenkle. The instrumentalists were Allison Smith, Alicia Kalb, Valerie James, Matt Jandzio, Jake Skrzat, Robin Lohse, Chris Krupp, Karen Dix, Patricia Simpson, and Wayne Wurtz.

Holy Easter week services continued with the Maundy Thursday service of communion and tenebrae. Leadership was provided by Central Church’s three pastors. They were assisted by the Chancel Choir and organist Donald Eby. Soloist Patricia Simpson sang the American spiritual “Were You There?”

Good Friday community communion service was conducted at noon with Pastors William Kalajainen and Julian Scavetti officiating. They were assisted by Rev. Antonio Villareal from Wentz’s United Church of Christ. Two solos were provided by Patricia Simpson accompanied on piano by Dottie Heebner. Holy season services continued with the Easter morning sunrise service. The sermon, entitled “Our Redeemer Lives,”was presented by Youth Pastor Julian Scavetti.

Mother’s Day was celebrated on Sunday, May 8. During the service, Youth Pastor Julian Scavetti presented Christian Nellett with the annual James Russ Award for loyal Christian service within God’s church and the surrounding community. During the Sunday School

hour in Fellowship Hall, senior recognition Sunday was hosted by Pastor Julian Scavetti.

Graduating high school seniors recognized were Will Berardelli, Amy Gowing, Christian Nellett, PJ McGinnis, Olivia Ost, Danielle Schanbacher, Stacey Pellechia, Drew Schmitz, Chrissy Smith, Danielle Weidman, and Meg Palmer. Also recognized were Drew Bundschuh, graduating from Bucknell University; Kristen Gowing, graduated from Washington College, Md.; Jason Rothenberger (grandson of Central member Zelda Rothenberger), receiving a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri; Julie Stevenson, graduated from the University of Richmond; Chad Kriebel, graduate of the University of Maryland; and Tom Palmer, graduated from Lehigh University.

During the Sunday morning traditional service on May 22, students Megan Berardelli, Anthony Camasso, Tyler Eckardt, Stephen Kelly, Adrian Grow, Halle Krosskove, Lauren Hunt, Bailey Peart, Carley Pellechia, Alyssa Qahash, Eric Rothenberger, and Kyle Weidman were baptized or confirmed by Senior Pastor David McKinley.

May 29 was designated as patriotic Sunday.

Past and present U.S. servicemen/women were recognized for their sacrifices to America.

Allen Koehler, U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, delivered the message entitled “In His Service.” Following the second service, folks were invited to enjoy the Church picnic held in Fellowship Hall.

One week later, Pastor David McKinley, assisted by Moderator Carl Sensenig and ViceModerator Vernon Seipt, held the reception of new members which consisted of Gary and Karen Dix and those recently baptized.

Pentecost Communion Sunday was June 12.

Scott and Jennifer Tibbetts, missionaries to Thailand, presented a “Mission Moment” and Scott preached the sermon during the traditional service. Afterwards, during the Sunday School hour, a Children’s Day marionette show entitled “David and Goliath” was presented. Special thanks are due to Scott Alloway for organizing the show.

Traditional Church service attendees were treated to two special duets on June 26, presented by Central’s music director Sally House and guest tenor Shane Magargal. Vacation Bible School, also, commenced that evening.

During the Summer Sunday School hour, Peter Colvin began the Discipleship Committee’s program about our Church’s focus on discipleship.

Central Church members welcomed Rev. Roger Wambold to our Church on Sunday, July 3. Rev. Wambold, General Director of the Hebrew Christian Fellowship, presented the sermon entitled “The Human Mandate.”

During the Sunday School hour, Roger spoke about his pamphlet, “Heart’s Desire,” and its contents about Jewish stereotyping.

A group of 52 youths and adults launched this year’s Work Camp project, Sunday, July 10, departing from Central Church, at 5:00 a.m.

Their destination, for approximately one week, was Pulaski, VA, where they assisted families whose homes were damaged or destroyed earlier this year by a tornado. Three weeks later, on Sunday, July 31, James Stevenson, Central Intern Jeremy Behne (who read a statement by participant Kerri McGann), Sam Beatrice, and Youth Pastor Julian Scavetti provided information of their experiences in Pulaski.

Worship: 9:00 a.m., 11:15 a.m.

Church School: 10:00 a.m.

Worship: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m.

Church School: 9:00 a.m.

Worship: 10:15 a.m.

Church School: 9:00 a.m.

Central Schwenkfelder 2111 Valley Forge Rd., Lansdale, Pa. 19446 610-584-4480 www.centralschwenkfelder.com

Olivet-Schwenkfelder United Church of Christ 619 Township Line Rd., Norristown, PA 19403 610-539-7444 • www.osuccpa.org

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Palm Schwenkfelder P.O. Box 66, Palm, PA 18070 215-679-5321 www.palmschwenkfelder.com

CHURCH PHOTOGRAPHS BY GERALD HEEBNER

sitespecific Church Briefs

Our thanks to Linda Rothenberger and her search committee which assisted the Board of Ministries in the selection of Juli Apple as the new Activity Center Coordinator beginning on August 15. Best wishes, Juli! ✞

OLIVET The start of April meant Easter was just about here. Our Pastor Leslie was the preacher at the April 6 Lenten service at Bethel Hill UMC. Next, we welcomed the little ones on April 9 for a community Easter egg hunt lead by Doug and Cheryl Emerson. Once again, we celebrated Palm Sunday with ecologically friendly palms from Mexico and Guatemala. Then came the beautiful, but mournful, service on Maundy Thursday when communion was followed by the sacred act of foot washing. Our Good Friday service was one of tenebrae and gave members an opportunity to hammer a nail into Christ’s cross. On Easter Sunday, all enjoyed a delicious breakfast before entering the sanctuary filled with lilies and hyacinths for the joyous service.

On a lighter note (or heavier depending on how much candy was purchased), Women’s Fellowship again offered homemade peanut butter and coconut eggs for sale. In addition, chocolate covered pretzels were offered. Sara Posen led the candy team which consisted of Sandy Christman, Leah Tyson, JoAnn Mill, Nadine Reiff and Audrey Haimbach. Youth Serve may be a small group, but its members are dedicated and hard working. Michael Schrack, Cassie Thacker, Greg Briggs, and Alex Nyce gave their all and raised $82 at the

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

baked ziti dinner which went toward the purchase of an AED. Our Mission focus for the month was items for health kits to go to the Chester County Migrant Ministry. Members also gave donations to the UCC Wider Church Ministries to help those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in the Pacific.

On Saturday, May 21, more than 30 vendors and crafters participated in Olivet’s first craft show under the leadership of Steve and Paula Thacker. Proceeds went to benefit the capital campaign fund. The month’s Mission project was collection of items for hygiene kits to be sent to Church World Service.

The women of the Church got a night out on Friday, June 3, when yoga instructor Karen Cox, of Bethel Hill UMC, led a class. Our organizers were Debbie Ragusa and Karen Tornetta. Women’s Fellowship held a zep sale on June 10. Although Women’s Fellowship knitters continued to produce helmet liners for our armed forces and caps for the OB units at local hospitals, those who sew took center stage in June. They made baby blankets, pillow cases, and many other items. Those who were unable to sew donated material or funds to purchase material. So far, we have donated 34 pillowcases to ConKerr for children with cancer, 7 flannel blankets to Children’s Hospital NICU, and other assorted items. In July, we focused on providing bottles of fragrancefree detergent for Project Hope.

We held another vendor/craft sale on Saturday, July 9. This time, a live appearance by the Flower Power Band and a car show were added.

The dunk tank was a huge success with Pastor Leslie herself leading a brave team. Her fellow dunkees included Maryann Mitchell,

Director of Preschool; Kyle Sachamota; Dottie Nyce; and Michael Schrack. Once again, Steve and Paula Thacker did a great job. Our choir took a Summer vacation, but the music went on. Soloists included Director of Music Ministries Tony Godorecci, Audrey Haimbach, Beth Slating, Jenny Smith, Lore Slough, Flora Tiblis, and Larry Tiblis.

Play Ball! On July 23, forty members attended a Reading Phillies game complete with buffet and fireworks. Our Mission emphasis for the Summer months was Interfaith and Project Hope. ✞

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 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 At Palm, Easter season was upon us with a flurry of activity. The congregation helped to fill plastic Easter eggs so there were many eggs for the children to search for on Palm Sunday. The weather cooperated and it was a fun time for all.

The Ladies Aid held an Easter candy sale after the Church services on April 10 and April 17. Volunteers gathered beforehand to help prepare the candy which looked wonderful and tasted even better—raising money for the Church never tasted so good!

The Lenten season ended with our Easter dawn worship service at 7:00 a.m. on April 24.

A covered dish breakfast followed immediately after at 8:00 a.m. We also held our regular Easter communion service at 10:15 a.m. that day. What a great way to celebrate the day with our Church family.

The Youth of Palm Church participated in a spiritual walk from New Goshenhoppen

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Church to St. Mark’s Church on Good Friday, April 22. Following the walk, a church service was held and, after the service, all the participating youth were treated to a water ice at the Secret Spot.

A knotting and quilting party was held by our Ladies Aid Society on April 30. The activity started at 9:00 a.m. with the ladies working on several quilts at a time. The party attracted volunteers with all levels of quilting skills (even none at all). A covered dish lunch was served to the hard working ladies as well.

May 14 marked the day for our annual Relay for Life event. Our Church team raised a great deal of money for cancer research throughout the preceding months through various fund raisers, raffle ticket sales, luminary sales, and much more.

A family game night was held in Palm’s Fellowship Hall on May 20 for our youths aged 2 years through 5th grade. Participants brought their favorite board games to play and share as well as a snack for energy. A fun time was had by all.

On June 5, during our Church service,

spotlight Personal Notes MARRIAGES Eddie Dorazio to Colleen Werley in West Chester, Pa., on April 30, 2011. (Central) Jason Seipt to Alexa Kriebel at Central Schwenkfelder Church on July 22, 2011. (Central) Justin Stitt to Erica Sabitini at Palm Schwenkfelder Church on June 18, 2011. (Palm) Adam Walter to Megan Devitis in East Greenville, Pa., on April 9, 2011. (Palm) Wayne Whitney to Susan Cassel at Central Schwenkfelder Church on April 15, 2011. (Central)

BIRTHS Mason John Anders, son of Jack and Jolene Anders, July 2, 2011. (Central) Sean Mills Brenn, son of Jeremy and Beth (Sensenig) Brenn, June 22, 2011. (Central) Evangeline Rose Cairns, daughter of Zachary and Whitney (Simpson) Cairns, April 13, 2011. (Central) Finley Rae Cornish, daughter of Geoffrey and Angela Cornish, May 5, 2011. (Central) Kaiden Earl Hare, son of Gabrielle Ann Hare, July 21, 2011. (Central) Madison Alexa Hunt, daughter of Kevin and Laura Hunt, July 9, 2011. (Central)

DEDICATIONS

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A P R I L – J U LY 2 0 1 1

April 10, 2011. Services April 16, 2011; interment private. (Lansdale) Harold Badman, age 86, husband of Verna (Schultz) Badman, of Pennsburg; April 15, 2011. Services April 17, 2011, in Pennsburg; interment private. (Palm) Eleanor (Miller) Baumer, age 93, wife of Donald E. Baumer, of Emmaus; June 26, 2011. Services July 1, 2011; interment at Palm Schwenkfelder Cemetery. (Palm) G. Marion Bernhard, age 90, of Worcester; June 12, 2011. Graveside service July 2, 2011, at Boehm’s UCC Church Cemetery in Blue Bell, Pa. (Central) John Taggart Dodsworth, age 83, husband of Jean Dodsworth, of McDonough, Ga., formerly of Worcester; July 13, 2011. Services July 15, 2011; interment at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga. (Central) Ralph Eschbach, age 90, of Pennsburg; May 27, 2011.

Services June 1, 2011; interment at Palm Schwenkfelder Cemetery. (Palm) Evelyn (Kriebel) Heydt, age 90, wife of the late Linwood H. Heydt, of Zionsville; May 30, 2011. Services June 2, 2011; interment at Palm Schwenkfelder Cemetery.

(Palm) Jean (Benner) Hildebrandt, age 88, wife of the late Raymond Hildebrandt, of Lebanon, Pa., formerly of Lansdale; March 25, 2011. Graveside service March 31, 2011, at Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central)

DEATHS

Ralph S. Kriebel, age 99, husband of the late Jean (Darmstadter) Kriebel and Dorothy (McMoran) Hanlon Kriebel, of Harleysville; May 9, 2011. Services May 14, 2011, at Peter Becker Community; interment Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central)

Emma (Hildebrandt) Anders, age 94, wife of the late Arthur N. Anders, of Lansdale, formerly of Franconia;

Della (Harrison) Kromer, age 86, wife of the late Kermit K. Kromer, of Schwenksville, formerly of Kunkle-

Evangeline Rose Cairns, daughter of Zachary and Whitney (Simpson) Cairns, June 19, 2011. (Central)

FA L L 2 0 1 1

we recognized the members of Palm Church who would be graduating from high school, college, or graduate school during the coming weeks. We extend our congratulations to all those who have reached this milestone in their lives!

This year, the Men of Palm held their Spring chicken barbeque on June 11. Church members assisted with all of the preparations, sales, and clean up. Once again, many people were able to enjoy the best barbeque east of the Mississippi. Our thanks to everyone who contributed to the success. ✞

town, Pa.; June 21, 2011. Graveside service July 23 at Gnaden Huetten Cemetery in Lehighton, Pa.; Memorial service August 2, 2011, at Central Schwenkfelder Church. (Central) Florence (Kratz) Kronberg, age 85, wife of the late Arthur H. Kronberg, of Lansdale; May 11, 2011.

Services May 16, 2011; interment Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Esther (Kriebel) Kulp, age 87, wife of the late Abram R. Kulp, of Towamencin Township, formerly of Kulpsville, Pa.; April 22, 2011. Services April 29, 2011, at Dock Woods Community; interment Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Marie (Wesner) Little, age 81, wife of the late George J. Little, of Cedars, Pa.; April 19, 2011. Services were private. (Central) Stephen Andrew Schmitz, age 17, of Towamencin Township; June 8, 2011. Services June 14, 2011; interment Garden of Memories in Worcester. (Central) Marion (Mathews) Schnaithmann, age 89, wife of the late William H. Schnaithmann, of Worcester; June 13, 2011. Services June 21, 2011; internment private. (Central) J. Howard Shelly, age 78, husband of Claire (Miller) Shelly, of Zionsville, Pa.; May 7, 2011. Services May 12, 2011; interment at Palm Schwenkfelder Cemetery. (Palm) Carol (Whitney) Warner, age 82, wife of Dr. Robert N. Warner, of Bally, Pa.; April 16, 2011. Services April 30, 2011. (Palm) Hazel A. (Marshall) Wright, age 91, wife of the late Howard Schultz, and also wife of the late George W. Wright, of Casa Grande, Ariz., formerly of Norristown, Pa.; July 24, 2011. Services August 1, 2011; interment at Riverside Cemetery, Norristown, Pa. (Olivet)

heritage In Retrospect 50 YEARS AGO Michael Roy DeMas, member of the Palm Church, was valedictorian of the graduating class at Perkiomen School, culminating a secondary school career in which he received many scholastic honors.

The Central Church congregation elected Rev. Eric T. Braund of Swarthmore as minister of the congregation and director of religious education. He assumed his duties on July 16, 1961.

The 10th anniversary of the dedication of Central Schwenkfelder Church was observed with two special services held on Sunday and Monday, June 11 and 12.

The annual Montgomery Country Christian Endeavor convention was held in the Lansdale Schwenkfelder Church on Saturday, April 22, 1961.

Pennsylvania Folklore Society members were guests on the campus of Perkiomen School on April 29. More than 200 visitors held their formal meeting in the Schwenkfelder Library, visited the historical museum, and were served a Pennsylvania Dutch dinner in the school dining room. Members of the Junior Choir from Palm Church sang three traditional Schwenkfelder hymns in German at the meeting.

Miss Blanche Schultz, assistant professor of mathematics at Ursinus College, was awarded a National Science Foundation Fellowship to study at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Me., this summer.

On July 3 and 4, LaRue Quade and Glenna Kelly of the Lansdale Church were present at the Schwenkfelder exhibit at the Kutztown Folk Festival. They wore traditional outfits copied from photographs of Schwenkfelder matrons of earlier years.

Members of the Palm Ladies Aid enjoyed a day of fellowship and quilting with members of the Ladies Aid Societies of the sister churches on Tuesday, August 8. There were 22 from Central, 7 from Lansdale, and 3 from Philadelphia who attended.

During the summer, extracurricular activities at Perkiomen School included a performance at the Valley Forge Music Fair, a

TO

BY GLENNA FULMER

picnic supper at Dorney Park in Allentown, a Phillies baseball game in Philadelphia, an afternoon at the Hatfield stock car races, and a swim at the [Upper] Montgomery County Park twice each week.

Dr. Frank Buchman, one of the most wellknown of former Perkiomen students, died in Switzerland on August 7, 1961. Twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, he was recognized with special awards in various fields of endeavor—among them the Greek Order of George I, the French Legion of Honor, the Order of the Rising Sun from Japan, the Philippine Legion of Honor, and many similar honors. Known best for his theory that only by changing individuals can the world be changed. ✞

25 YEARS AGO Special events celebrating the 75th anniversary of the dedication of Palm Schwenkfelder Church were held throughout the year of 1986.

The Church was the result of the merger of three meetinghouse congregations located at Hosensack, Kraussdale, and Washington Township. 212 wagonloads of native pink granite stone were hauled by members of the Upper District for a distance of eight miles from Siesholtzville. No general contractor was engaged, since many of the members possessed talent and experience that enabled them to supervise and complete the planning and construction.

Sixteen Central Church members traveled to Kentucky Mountain Mission Youth Haven Bible Camp for a work week, August 2-9.

The men helped build a new office building and the women helped in the kitchen.

Others painted, cleaned, dug ditches, cleared brush, and did building renovations. Each night, recreation was provided for Jim and Ruth Ann Moyer’s crew. During that same time, August 6-9, Dr. Jack and Jean Rothenberger attended the 20th World CE convention in Seoul, Korea.

After 18 years of service, Naomi Kerlin handed in her resignation as the secretary at Lansdale Church. Peggy Ruth served as the new secretary.

July 2 was the first meeting of the newlyformed Administrative Board of the First Schwenkfelder Church. The purpose was to provide effective direction to the Church for any developing problems.

Members of the Schwenkfelder churches mourned the passing on May 28, 1986, of a very dear and fascinating friend, Fritz Richter.

Born in Silesia, he became very interested in the Schwenkfelders after meeting Grace Shelly, and thus began a long and productive relationship of mutual friendship and academic research with them. He was one in Tom Byron’s tour group in 1977 to Silesia, as well as the trips to Alaska and the Holy Lands led by Dr. Jack Rothenberger.

On April 13, 1986, the General Conference, in cooperation with Perkiomen School, sponsored a Schwenkfelder Day at Perkiomen School. A special feature for the day was a speech by astronaut Colonel James Irwin, accompanied by a film to relate the story of his flight to the moon.

Former U.S. Senator and Reagan cabinet member Richard Schweiker headed a group of dignitaries participating in groundbreaking ceremonies on March 3, 1986, to signal the start of construction of Meadowood. The nonprofit life care community was developed on the site of the Schweiker family’s former home in Worcester, Montgomery County.

Jeanne Klein, faithful church secretary at Central for 17 years, retired on March 1. A new position of church manager was created, to which Fran Witte has been named.

On Saturday, May 10, the Pairs and Spares group of the Norristown Church went to Penn’s Landing to see the U.S.S. Olympia.

When they boarded, a cannon was fired as a tribute to the Schwenkfelders on their arrival at that spot. ✞

10 YEARS AGO A special edition of The Schwenkfeldian was published celebrating the opening and the dedication of the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center. Special articles, numerous pictures, and a list of campaign donors were included. ✞

LOOK BACKWARD FOR A WHILE IS TO REFRESH THE EYE , TO RESTORE IT,

AND TO RENDER IT THE MORE FIT FOR ITS PRIME FUNCTION OF LOOKING FORWARD .

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