Moravian Magazine, July/August 2014

J U L Y / A U G U S T

Northern Province Synod 2014 Moravian Theological Seminary Graduates Capital Campaigns And more!

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On the cover: Prayer shawls surround the wooden chalice centerpiece at the 2014 Northern Province Synod. Photo by Mike Riess

J U L Y / A U G U S T

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Northern Province Synod 2014 Moravian Theological Seminary Graduates Capital Campaigns

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And more!

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

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Special Feature: 2014 Northern Province Synod 10 Covenanting with Hand and Heart: the 2014 Northern Province Synod 16 Prayer shawls wrap Synod delegates with love 18 Synod delegates approve broad range of resolutions 21 Northern Province Synod makes difficult decision with open hearts 26 Letter to the Northern Province 28 Stewardship, societal issues and Synod Moravian Theological Seminary 5 Moravian Theological Seminary Celebrate 2014 Commencement

Member, Associated Church Press

Moravian Ministries Foundation 7 Don’t be shy when it comes to capital campaigns In Our Congregations 30 Palmer Moravian says, “Don’t Just Go to Church — Be The Church”

Visit our website at http://www.moravian.org.

Letters to the editor, address corrections, and other correspondence may be e-mailed to the magazine at pubs@mcnp.org.

July/August 2014

In Every Issue 4 Ponderings: Experiencing the Holy Spirit at Synod 33 Official Provincial Leders’ News 34 Obituaries: Carolyn Adams Griffin, Mrs. Raymond E. Schultz, The Rev. Kenneth W. Nowack 3

PONDERINGS

Experiencing the Holy Spirit at Synod Synods are busy times for me — taking photos, shooting video, meet-

ing with delegates, covering sessions, advising committees — but I always find them very rewarding. And the Northern Province Synod I attended in June was rewarding not only on a work level, but on a spiritual level as well.

Like many of those at Synod, I was concerned about the impending resolutions on the ordination of gay and lesbian pastors in committed relationships. I knew it would be a central preoccupation, the main piece of legislation that this Synod would be remembered by.

And it was. There was much discussion and debate at all levels during the committee times and the three-plus hour session where the legislation was approved. But hopefully you have heard the story of what happened while waiting for the results of the vote on this major legislation. With no fanfare or direction, delegates rose from their seats, holding hands, singing favorite Moravian hymns and together formed a huge circle around Johnston Hall. After the result was announced, there was silence and prayer. I don’t think I was alone in recognizing the movement of the Holy Spirit in the room.

But Synod was so much more than that one moment. More than 70 pieces of legislation were considered, providing planning and legislation for all parts of the Province’s mission and ministries. Delegates heard thoughtful sermons and presentations from scholars and leaders of church agencies. Attendees worshiped and sang together during all five days of the event. There were plenty of smiles, hugs and heartfelt words of encouragement shared. And wrapping everyone with love throughout the weekend were hand-knit prayer shawls. The Spirit was in all these things, too.

I felt honored to be among Moravians who truly care about their church; who showed respect, care and heartfelt conviction when legislating for the church; who, when all was said and done, could stand together in love and feel the blessings of the Spirit.

I hope you find this issue of The Moravian informative and insightful. As always, I look forward to hearing your thoughts and comments.

Peace, 4

(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) July/August Vol. 45, No. 6 Publications Agreement No. 40036408 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: OnTrac International, 121 5th Avenue NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 email: file@ontrac.com Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces Published monthly, except bimonthly January-February and July-August issues, by the Interprovincial Board of Communication, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

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Continuing The North American Moravian, The Moravian and The Wachovia Moravian.

Michael Riess, Editor Renee Schoeller, Communications Assistant Arlene Clendenning, Customer Relations/Business Assistant Interprovincial Board of Communication Paul Knouse, Paul Peucker Chair Adam Pristas Jane Burcaw Richard Sides Jane Carmichael Valerie Wagner Lance Fox Jill Westbrook Gary Kniskern Design by Sandy Fay, Laughing Horse Graphics, Inc. Address all correspondence regarding articles, subscriptions, or advertising to The Moravian, PO Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245 FAX: 610.866.9223 Phone: 610.867.0594 800.732.0591 e-mail: moravianmagazine@mcnp.org www.moravian.org Contents © 2014, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in North America.

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MORAVIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Moravian Theological Seminary Celebrates 2014 Commencement Moravian Theological Seminary celebrated the conclusion of its 207th academic year with a commencement ceremony on May 10, 2014. The service was held in Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with newly inaugurated President Bryon Grigsby, a 1990 Moravian College graduate, presiding.

Twenty-one graduates received master’s degrees and certificates including the Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling (MACC), Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS), Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction and Graduate Certificate in Formative Spirituality. This year marks the first graduating cohort of Spiritual Direction students.

Elected by her fellow graduates, Christine Holmfelt delivered the Graduate Address.

Christine earned her undergraduate degree in English from Virginia Tech, then found a career in education. She chose to attend Moravian Theological Seminary in order to July/August 2014

fulfill a deeper sense of call to serve in the community. During her time at seminary, she completed internship placements at the Northampton County Jail in Easton, Pa. and the Penn Foundation in Sellersville, Pa. She has earned dual graduate degrees in clinical counseling and social work through Moravian Theological Seminary’s partnership with Marywood University. Christine plans to remain in the Lehigh Valley to work in the behavioral health field.

Two Moravians were among this year’s graduates, both from the Northern Province: James Lavoy, from Newfoundland Moravian Church in Newfoundland, Pa., earned his MDiv degree. He was also awarded the Cora (continued on next page) Colleen Marsh is Assistant to the Director of Administration for Moravian Theological Seminary.

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where he will serve as the Chaplain at Marquardt Village in Watertown, Wis. He will be ordained at Palmer Moravian on August 10 at 4pm and will begin his call in mid-September.

James Lavoy

(continued from previous page) Doster Moses Memorial Homiletics prize for the best work done in homiletics and practical pulpit work by a graduating senior. James has been working at Calvary Moravian Church in Allentown, Pa., but recently accepted a call to Rio Terrace Moravian Church in Edmonton, AB. He will be ordained August 24 at Newfoundland Moravian Church.

John Fritts, of Palmer Moravian Church in Easton, Pa., also earned the MDiv degree. He was awarded the Rev. Elmer D. Bender Memorial Award for a worthy individual preparing for the ministry of the Moravian Church. John has accepted a call to Specialized Ministry in the Western District of the Moravian Church,

John Fritts

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Ecumenical Spirit In the ecumenical spirit of the Moravian Church, the students at the Seminary come from an array of denominations and faith traditions, not just Moravian. The following graduates come from the 17 denominations and traditions represented in the current student body: The Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling was presented to Stephanie Christine Barnett (Bethlehem, Pa.), Jeremy Todd Campbell (Metuchen, N.J.), Dania Garcia (Allentown, Pa.), Christine Carolyn Holmfelt (Chester, N.J.), Jenny Jean-Louis (Hamilton, N.J.), Stanley Emmanuel Theodoredis (Bethlehem, Pa.) and Linda Roth Unser (Carlisle, Pa.).

Joseph Benjamin Arnoldin (Allentown, Pa.) received the Master of Arts in Theological Studies.

Recipients of the Master of Divinity are Jeremy Todd Campbell (Metuchen, N.J.), (Allentown, Pa.) and Joanna M. Herren (Bethlehem, Pa).

Graduate Certificates in Spiritual Direction were presented to the first-ever cohort, which included Elizabeth M. Buss (Schenectady, N.Y.), Maureen A. DeBellis (Bethlehem, Pa.), Kathy Ann DeSantis (Schnecksville, Pa.), Margaret A. Donohue (Bethlehem, Pa.), Sylvia Muniene Muller Doyle (Whitehall, Pa.), Michael Clifford Johnson (Phoenixville, Pa.), Scott E. Kuykendall (Minneapolis, Minn.), and Lynn Aprill Webb (Washington, N.J.).

The Graduate Certificate in Formative Spirituality was presented to Sylvia Muniene Muller Doyle (Whitehall, Pa.) and Irene Berke Spangler (Dunellen, N.J.). â– The Moravian

MORAVIAN MINISTRIES FOUNDATION

Don’t be shy when it comes to capital campaigns Leading the work of a Moravian ministry is

a divine gift, but it requires financial gifts as well. That’s why the leaders of faith in our churches and agencies are often called upon to be leaders in raising money. Many people, however, shy away from the words “capital campaign,” and don’t want to take on the challenge of leading one.

So the Moravian Ministries Foundation (MMFA) decided to interview a few individuals who recently led campaigns to find out what it takes to be successful in hopes of inspiring more Moravians to do the same.

Thankfully we had plenty of people to choose from and I was able to catch up with: • Gail Theard, member of Grace Moravian (N.C.) and former Laurel Ridge Board of Directors member who chaired Laurel Ridge’s Feed My Sheep campaign • Rev. Kurt Liebenow, pastor of Christian Faith Moravian (Wis.) who helped his congregation’s capital campaign • John and Susan Mickey, members of Home Moravian (N.C.) who led Home’s recent “It’s Our Home. It’s Our Time.” campaign.

July/August 2014

Despite the major differences between the three campaigns (see end of article for a brief summary of each), there were several common themes throughout our conversations.

Ask All three campaigns talked to members and supporters prior to beginning. The Mickeys shared how important it was for them to listen to people’s ideas about what projects were most critical for the life of Home Church as they knew they’d have to prioritize. Both Laurel Ridge and Christian Faith utilized the MMFA’s Morning Star Campaign Services to speak to people about the feasibility of their campaigns, to begin to get the word out and to discern leadership.

Kurt said no one in his church felt comfort(continued on next page) Laura Watson is coordinator of philanthropic services for the MMFA. Photo above: construction at Christian Faith Moravian Church.

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New kitchen facilities at Laurel Ridge.

(continued from previous page) able with having a conversation about fundraising; however, Chi-Chi Messick, MMFA vice president, had assisted with the church’s roof project so people were familiar with her. After interviewing a few other firms, the church picked MMFA as they liked how the work would be tailored to their needs. “Working with the Moravian Ministries Foundation felt like us,” said Kurt.

Communicate Gail spoke about the intentional process the Laurel Ridge board and campaign volunteers went through for making sure Feed My Sheep was well known in the Southern Province.

They wanted the campaign to appeal to all ages so they crafted a logo with a cute sheep drawing; it served as a visual reminder to motivate and inspire people. Gail wrote thankyou notes and was sure to include a personal note on every thank-you letter.

The Laurel Ridge staff frequently shared photos of the construction so people could see their money at work. They put the campaign in front of people through the Provincial Ties newsletter, mailings, Facebook, emails, Laurel Ridge’s website and as many personal visits to congregations, Sunday School classes, 8

Women’s and Men’s Fellowships, youth groups and Wednesday Night Fellowships as possible.

Most importantly, perhaps, is that the leadership did all of these things again and again to keep the momentum going. Gail was surprised that many people gave more than once and credits that to the good communication used throughout the campaign.

Both the Mickeys and Pastor Liebenow expressed how important it was to constantly update the church boards and to be as transparent as possible. At Christian Faith the campaign leadership was certain to have church council meetings throughout the campaign to make sure the whole congregation was ok with what was going on.

Focus on abundance There will always be reasons to think the time to begin a campaign is wrong: the economy is bad, we’re always asking for money, the cost of all we’d like to do is too great, people are too busy to help. But the capacity is there. And what you think may be bad timing can work for you; Pastor Liebenow shared that the downturn of the economy meant his church was able to get lower bids from contractors looking for work.

After the economy took a downturn in 2008 and there was a lot of concern about embarking on a campaign at Home Church. John told the congregation, “We share the faith; let’s share the courage.” Rather than letting scarcity guide their decisions, the Mickeys looked at what resources were available to them and the church and got a lot of people involved.

They commented on the positive aspect of bringing members together who wouldn’t normally work together.

Celebrate and give thanks You can’t underestimate the power of celebrating and giving thanks! For the Home The Moravian

Church campaign, giving thanks meant inviting the workmen who helped renovate the church sanctuary back to see the finished space and having a special event for them.

For Laurel Ridge, celebration meant having a service of dedication for the Summer Camp Kitchen and combining that with a day of thanksgiving for Laurel Ridge, sending special invitations to lifelong supporters and volunteers.

For Christian Faith it meant taking one of the old handrails and having it cut into medallions with a picture of the church on them (similar to a wooden nickel) as theirs was an accessibility project; Kurt shared it was fun to use the old hand rails as a gift to all the members on the day they cut the ribbon and consecrated the new space.

Advice for a campaign The last question asked was, “What advice would you give someone who is going to chair a campaign or to pastors whose churches are considering a campaign?”

“Let passionate people use their gifts for the campaign,” said Gail. “Even if theirs isn’t

your style, let them help. Remember God is asking for the money, not the people; the money is for God’s work. Don’t lose sight of that by getting caught up on the process and human element.”

“Have a capital campaign because it will facilitate ministry,” Kurt advises pastors. “Look at what your ministry needs are and show folks what the church would be like if it could change and improve.”

“Have an exercise routine, a sense of humor, and an open heart and mind,” say the Mickeys. “A campaign is fluid; you’re trying to find the current as you go down the river… it’s a guided drift. Let God and the congregation take it where it goes. Have a part in it but remember it isn’t yours.”

To read more from the conversations with Gail, the Mickeys, and Rev. Liebenow, please visit the MMFA’s website at www.mmfa.info and scroll down to the “Resources for Congregations” section. ■

CAMPAIGN SUMMARIES

Christian Faith Moravian Church, DeForest, Wis.: Raised money for accessibility, something the congregation had been wanting since 1980. $400,000 project: narthex addition oriented towards parking lot, additional classrooms, three accessible bathrooms (one on each level), elevator.

Home Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, N.C.: (photo at right) Projects completed included Sanctuary renovations (new air handling system, flooring, pews, paint, sound system, lighting, and cameras for web broadcasts; enhanced choir loft and 180 degree rotation of organ, protection for stained glass windows), Parlor improvements (new furnishings, window treatments, and kitchen), and Fellowship Hall work (painted, new sound system, and deep cleaning of flooring). They also completed a final push to renovate the church’s chapel; it has been renamed the Saal.

Laurel Ridge Camp, Conference and Retreat Center: Campaign raised money to reconstruct Summer Camp Kitchen and pay down debt owed as a result of Higgins Lodge expansion.

NORTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Covenanting with Hand and Heart: the 2014 Northern Province Synod Every four years in Provinces of the Moravian

Church in North America, a little bit of history is made. Future generations look back on those every four-year occurrences — Synods — and see the movement of the Holy Spirit and the growth and changing of the Church.

And looking back on the Synod of 2014, future Moravians will see major changes and incremental efforts that will impact the Moravian Church Northern Province for years to come.

On June 19-23, more than 250 registered

10 photos by Mike Riess and Kat Lehman.

Synod

delegates converged on Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pa. for the 42nd Synod of the Moravian Church Northern Province. Under the theme, “We Covenant with Hand and Heart,” the province joined together to learn, discern, worship, decide, legislate, make policy and chart the way forward for the next four years.

Gathering from far away Delegates came from all corners of the Province, which spreads from New York City to Southern California and from Maryland to Alberta, Canada.

Delegates included pastors, district board members, members of church agencies and lay members elected by their congregations.

In addition to their pastor, each congregation had one delegate per 250 members.

As delegates arrived and registered, old friendships were rekindled and seminary classmates reunited. At the same time, delegates had plenty of opportunities to meet new people and learn from one another about different parts of the Moravian Church.

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To get organized, committee leaders met to prepare, while new delegates were briefed on how Synod works, what to expect and how to present and discuss items in plenary sessions.

Synod officially convened at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 19.

Much to accomplish There was a lot to accomplish at this Synod.

Synod is the main legislative body of the Northern Province, in which key decisions, actions and proposals are hammered out to guide the church for the coming four years.

Delegates participated on one of a dozen committees, including Adult and Older Adult Ministry; Care and Nurture Of Clergy; Church and Society; Finance; Healthy Congregations; Identity, Purpose and Organization; Lay Leadership; Local and Global Missions; Ministry to Youth and Young Adults; Relationships with Others; Spiritual Formation; and Stewardship.

The bulk of the first two days of Synod was spent in committee time. In classrooms and meeting areas across the Moravian campus, delegates met, discussed topics in their committee’s purview, developed resolutions and prepared them for the floor of Synod.

Committee time is where much of the work of Synod happens. The committees, each with up to 25 members, discuss the needs of the church, review proposals that were submitted prior to Synod, or generate legislation for consideration by the whole of Synod. Delegates have the opportunity to select which committee they’d prefer to work with when they register; however, some topics fill quicker than others. Regardless, each committee member brought experience, expertise and insight to their work.

As legislation begins to form at the com(continued on next page) July/August 2014

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(continued from previous page) mittee level, the produced reports are written to a very specific format. They include a series of “Whereas” statements that provide the background and reasoning behind the legislation and the “Resolved” statements which indicate what action the committee wishes Synod to take.

As Synod progressed, the work of the committees came to the Synod floor. Here, resolutions were presented, considered and voted upon by the whole Synod. Each committee sent at least two reports to the whole Synod — some sent more than 10. The 2014 Synod began considering resolutions on Friday evening and continued through the final session Monday evening.

Committee members introduce resolutions in one plenary session. Synod rules stipulate that resolutions are then voted upon in subsequent sessions to give delegates an opportunity to consider what each report seeks to accomplish.

Rick Santee, the Provincial Chancellor, served as chairman of the 2014 Synod. As chair, Rick oversaw the presentation of resolutions and guided their movement through the Synod process. He also ruled on procedural matters of Synod, assisted by Graham Kerslake, vice chair and Gary Harke, parliamentarian. Jill Westbrook served as Synod secretary, assisted by Marie Couts. Bishop Wayne Burkette from the Southern Province served as Synod chaplain.

Ed note: For more on the resolutions presented at Synod see the article on page 18.

Elections In addition to legislation, Synods also determine who fills the leadership posts for the denomination. Elections for the Provincial El 12

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ders’ Conference and the directors and board members for the churches’ many agencies and ministries occur at Synod.

This year, Synod re-elected PEC President Betsy Miller to a second four-year term. Lay members of the Provincial Elders Conference — Judy Kaaua from Minnesota, Tom Zimmer from Michigan, Wilton Grannum from New York and Jill Westbrook from Ohio — were also re-elected.

Delegates also elected 13 Moravians to serve with Moravian Academy, Linden Hall, Moravian Theological Seminary, the Larger Life Foundation and the Provincial Women’s Board. Two were elected to represent the Northern Province at the 2016 Unity Synod in Jamaica — Staci Marrese-Wheeler from Wisconsin and Michael Johnson from New York.

Learning opportunities Throughout Synod, delegates heard from representatives of affiliated church agencies and ministries, including the Northern Province Archives, Board of World Mission, Moravian Music Foundation, Moravian Ministries Foundation in America, Interprovincial Board of Communication, Moravian Theological Seminary, Moravian College, Moravian Open Door and more.

In her opening remarks to the 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church, Northern Province, Betsy Miller offered “Glimpses of God” at work in the Moravian Church Northern Province. She highlighted efforts throughout the province in the areas of identity, healthy congregations, care and nurture of clergy, finance & administration and relationships with others.

Craig Atwood shared his work on the essentials of the Moravian Church. Craig, who (continued on next page) July/August 2014

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(continued from previous page) is the Charles D. Couch Associate Professor of Moravian Theology and Ministry at Moravian Theological Seminary and director for the Center for Moravian Studies, discussed Moravian theology in terms of essentials, ministerials and incidentals in an hour-long presentation to Synod. The Moravian Theological Seminary also produced a special edition of The Hinge discussing biblical interpretation, which was made available to all Synod delegates.

Note: Both Betsy and Craig’s comments are available online at www.moravian.org.

The Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Presbyterian Church USA, Methodist Church and The Unity of the Brethren in Texas all sent representatives to the 2014 Synod. James Winkler, general secretary and president of the National Council of Churches; Jørgen Bøytler, Unity Business Administrator; David Guthrie, president of the Moravian Church Southern Province and Neva Rae Fox (representing Episcopal Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori) addressed delegates during Synod.

Worship and prayer Delegates also worshiped together throughout Synod. From the opening Cup of Covenant celebration on Thursday night through the Holy Communion Service on Monday morning, delegates prayed, sang and praised God together.

Sunday’s worship featured members of Central Moravian Church and included a sermon by Bishop Hopeton Clennon. Monday’s communion service was led by Bishop Doug Kleintop with a sermon by Bishop Chris Giesler. Bishop Blair Couch offered a remembrance of pastors and spouses who entered the more immediate presence of the Lord and Bishop Kay Ward led the blessing and installation of the newly-elected Provincial Elders’ Conference.

On the lighter side, Tracy and Rhonda Robinson led prayers in both English and Spanish in the style of Esperanza for Bethlehem, the emerging ministry on the Southside of Bethlehem. Maggie Wellert led a rousing rendition of “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” during the service to bless and distribute prayer shawls. Christie Melby-Gibbons led a liturgy on how “love makes us one,” encouraging delegates to wrap their shawls around others and demonstrated the “manhug.” Other worship leaders included Laura Gordon and Rick Beck.

And throughout Synod, delegates sang treasured Moravian Hymns and learned a few new ones, too.

A tough Synod Many will acknowledge this was a difficult Synod. There was much work to complete — more than 70 reports were reviewed and acted upon by delegates (see page 18), requiring days that ran from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Synod also resulted in heartache and

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doubt for some. It was a difficult time for delegates listening for the Holy Spirit’s guidance on the question of ordaining gay and lesbian pastors in committed relationships. (see story on page 21.) While some delegates were pleased with the outcome, others were shaken in their perspective and love of their church. Those in attendance recognized that the decisions made during the 2014 Synod will have an impact on the Province and the wider church.

But there is also hope that this Synod will demonstrate a willingness to stay together.

In the July issue of District Developments, Dave Bennett, Eastern District President, shared this: “As the synod came to its end, I reached out to one who I knew would have been disappointed by the final discernments of the synod. He is a brother in Christ and I wanted to acknowledge both his sincere feelings of faith and sadness. As I did so I was taken back and humbled by his response.

His words changed me…informed me…inspired me. He said, ‘We will be ok. I watched people of good faith and pure hearts make a difficult decision with respect and love. I will live with the decision not because of what it is, but because of how it was made.’ There it was again...that moment owned by Jesus Christ who revealed the sacred gift of our fellowship…and other things mattered less.”

As delegates left on Monday and Tuesday for home, they were charged with sharing what occurred during this Synod. In one of their approved Synod resolutions, the Lay Leadership Development Committee challenged lay participants attending Synod “to return to their home congregations with inspiration to use their gifts and enliven, empower and embolden their congregations in living the Good News.” ■ July/August 2014

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2014 NORTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Prayer shawls wrap Synod delegates with love At

Moravian Church synods, delegates are often on the receiving end of prayers and best wishes from Moravians around the country.

At the 2014 Synod, those prayers, best wishes and love took the form of beautifully-crafted prayer shawls, one for each delegate.

In a Friday morning service, the Rev. Maggie Wellert, pastor of Great Kills Moravian Church in Staten Island, and all those present for worship, blessed more than 400 shawls that were knitted or crocheted by Moravians and denominational partners from across the U.S. and Canada. In blessing the shawls, delegates sang:

Bless these shawls with your presence, Bless these shawls with your love May we feel healing oneness, May we share healing love Then we will be God’s people, Knit together by God’s love And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love, Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.

Championed by Maggie and coordinated

by Kate Reynolds of Graceham Moravian Church, what started as a small idea turned

into a major undertaking involving many Womens’ Fellowships and individuals. The effort to offer a prayer shawl to all delegates at this Synod began nearly two years ago.

When introducing the effort in 2012, Maggie wrote, “It is our hope and prayer that with these shawls, those who are serving as delegates to the 2014 Synod will feel the warmth and love of our Holy God, and feel the support and love of each member of each congregation scattered across the Northern Province.”

During the service, Maggie recounted the story of how the colorful shawls arrived at Synod. Before being shipped to Bethlehem, congregations prayed over each shawl.

All the shawls were delivered to Edgeboro Moravian Church; under the watchful eye of Jen Hoff, each shawl was wrapped and tagged with the prayer, “May you be lifted up in hope; surrounded by joy; and graced with peace. These blessings are only possible through the love of God.” As the service came to a close, each delegate selected a shawl, stood in a large circle around the hall and sang the hymn “Bind Us Together, Lord.” And, we were, indeed,

lifted up in hope, surrounded by joy, graced with peace.

Throughout the rest of Synod, those shawls were a constant reminder of the love and prayers from many for their important work on behalf of all Moravians across the Northern Province. Thank you to all the hands and hearts that worked to nurture this amazing ministry from the simple dream of one woman, Nancy Doran of Great Kills, to reality on the floor of the Northern Province Synod. ■ Maggie Wellert is pastor of Great Kills Moravian Church in Staten Island. Photos

by Mike Riess and Kat Lehman.

2014 NORTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Synod delegates approve broad range of resolutions Healthy congregations….care and nurture of clergy…lay leadership…local and global missions…stewardship…identity, purpose and organization…ministry to youth and young adults.

These are just some of the wide-ranging topics delegates tackled at the 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church Northern Province, held June 19-23 at Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pa. Over the course of four-and-a-half days, Synod delegates brought more than 70 reports to the floor of Synod for discussion, debate and approval. These reports represent the legislative work of Synod, which helps direct the Province and the Provincial Elders’ Conference for the coming four years.

Most of delegates’ working time during the first several days was spent in one of a dozen different committees. Each of these committees was tasked with addressing a different aspect of church life and with bringing ac 18

tionable legislation to the floor of Synod.

By Saturday, the Synod began addressing that legislation as a body. Rick Santee, Northern Province Chancellor and Chairman of the Synod, guided the process along with vice chairman Graham Kerslake from the Canadian District. Each report was introduced, discussed (sometimes at length) and ultimately approved or rejected. Deliberation on the reports and resolutions continued through Monday evening.

Many of the items brought to the floor of Synod confirmed the acceptance of status reports from the many provincial and interprovincial agencies that work with and for the Northern Province. In accepting the reports, Synod delegates expressed their gratitude for the service and efforts of these agencies and provided an important affirmation of the work being done on behalf of the province, its congregations and members.

Delegates completed significant legislation The Moravian

in several key areas. This Synod took the next steps in the Identity, Purpose and Organization (IPO) initiative begun in 2010 to examine the structure of the Province. Synod directed the Provincial Elders’ Conference (PEC) to develop and implement a process of Holy Conversations across the Northern Province to engage congregations in listening to the leading of the Holy Spirit in considering the IPO Report. This effort will begin later this year and run through November 2015. Synod also charged the PEC to encourage “adaptive change experiments” related to identity, connectivity, leadership and call and congregations in context, and set up the possibility of a special Synod in 2016 to address and implement IPO initiatives.

Through resolutions brought by the Care and Nurture of Clergy, Spiritual Formation, Healthy Congregations and Finance Committees, synod also took action to address salary, pension, health care and spiritual formation for clergy and specified efforts to better define healthy congregations and common ministries funding. Additional resolutions seeking to shore up benefit and pension funds while educating congregations about the Provinces’ benefits programs were also passed.

Groups working on Lay Leadership, Ministry to Older Adults, Ministry to Youth and Young Adults, Spiritual Formation and Local and Global Missions brought resolutions that seek to expand access to faith resources, explore emerging ministries and introduce or enhance opportunities for spiritual formation, growth and fellowship both inside and outside of the church.

The Stewardship Committee brought a broad range of resolutions addressing pastor (continued on next page) July/August 2014

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(continued from previous page) compensation and a number of social issues including gun violence, peace, ethical purchases and environmental stewardship. (For more on these, see the article by Gary Marsh on page 28.)

The Northern Province Synod also acted on several pieces of legislation that were originally discussed at the 2014 Southern Province Synod in April. These included solidarity with brothers and sisters in Honduras; work of the Unity Women’s Desk; commemoration of the 600th anniversary of John Hus’ martyrdom in 2015 and approval of the Board of World Mission’s constitution changes.

In resolutions from the Church and Society Committee, the 2014 Synod approved the ordination of gay and lesbian pastors in the Moravian Church Northern Province and affirmed a commitment to be inclusive of the differing views regarding the topic and the right of clergy and members of the Province to freely speak, write and express their perspectives.

And Synod addressed a broad range of financial issues, including the passage of the 2015 budget for the Province, affirmation and continuation of the income-based Common Ministries Funding Methodology implemented in 2012 and encouragement for congregations to explore electronic giving and faith gifts.

The Synod concluded Monday evening with a humorous and heartfelt “First Partial and Final Report of the Ad-Hoc Committee on Thankfulness,” expressing gratitude for the work of all those involved with planning and running Synod.

For the complete resolutions passed by the 2014 Northern Province Synod, visit the Northern Province section of Moravian.org. ■ 20

Synod photos by Mike Riess and Kat Lehman.

The Moravian

2014 NORTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Northern Province Synod makes difficult decision with open hearts Following four years of study, discussion, lis-

tening, sharing and debating, the 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church, Northern Province approved a proposal to allow the ordination of gay and lesbian individuals, whether single, married or in covenanted relationships.

In the end, almost three-quarters of the delegates voting — 181 to 62 — responded to God’s leading to receive the gifts of gay and lesbian individuals who wish to serve as ordained servants in the Moravian Church Northern Province. The resolution also includes provisions to revise the Book of Order of the Moravian Church Northern Province to reflect this change, and a call to create a rite for solemnizing covenanted relationships for use in the Northern Province.

“This decision came following much prayer and consideration and many differing opinions were expressed during debate,” said the Rev. Dr. Betsy Miller, president of the Provincial Elders’ Conference for the Northern Province. “We know that there are Moravians

July/August 2014

who deeply love God, who honor the authority of Scripture and love the Moravian Church who do not agree with this resolution. It is my prayer that as Moravians, in relationship with one another, we can continue to walk together in love, even as we acknowledge our differences.”

This decision affects only those in the Northern Province and has no direct impact on the other provinces in the worldwide Moravian Unity. The decision also came with a clear direction that no congregation will be forced to call a gay or lesbian pastor, as that decision lies with the congregations’ Boards of Elders and Trustees. (continued on next page) Photo above: Bishop Paul Graf prays with Synod delegates following the announcement of the vote approving ordination of gay and lesbian pastors.

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(continued from previous page) Bringing a proposal While many other topics were covered at this Synod, the ordination question took center stage. Over the past 40 years, the Northern Province’s response to the question of the service of homosexuals in the church has elicited strongly-held convictions and a broad range of views.

To understand and address those many different viewpoints, the Northern Province embarked on a mulit-year process of study, discernment and discussion in 2010. The 2010 Northern Province Synod passed resolutions mandating a summary report and corresponding legislation regarding the Christian service of homosexual persons be prepared for consideration by the 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church, Northern Province.

Based on that 2010 legislation, the Northern Province engaged in a series of conversations at many different levels on the topic of the ordination of gay or lesbian pastors in committed relationships. A Human Sexuality Task Force was convened to guide the process under the auspices of the Provincial Elders’ Conference.

In regional and congregational meetings, church members had opportunities to discuss and discern together in sessions called “Holy Conversations.” Time was set aside for additional conversation and input at each District Synod in 2012, followed by a gathering of Northern Province bishops, district executive boards, members of the Human Sexuality Task Force, and the PEC for further discernment and discussion in April, 2013.

“We followed the direction of the 2010 Synod to ensure we had an opportunity to hear as many voices as possible,” says Betsy.

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The result of the work since 2010 was a proposal to the 2014 Provincial Synod regarding the ordination and pastoral service of gay and lesbian individuals, whether single, married or in a covenanted relationship. The proposal was distributed to pastors, synod delegates and alternates and Joint Board Members of congregations in the Northern Province last September, and those attending fall pre-synod meetings had opportunities to discuss it with PEC and District Board members during meetings around the Province.

The PEC’s proposal was not the only one sent to Synod delegates. Several other proposals, some of which sought to maintain the church’s current position on ordination and took strong positions on what the Bible says about homosexuality, were also provided to delegates prior to Synod.

Work in Committee When proposals are shared prior to Synod, they remain just that: proposals. Not until those proposals are reviewed in committees at Synod do they reach the whole body for consideration and voting.

At Synod, the Church and Society Committee took up the PEC’s proposal on the ordination of gay and lesbian individuals, whether single, married or in covenanted relationships along with all of the other proposals dealing with the topic.

The committee, co-chaired by David Piper, a member of the Goshen Moravian Church in North Dakota and Amy Gohdes-Luhman, pastor of Waconia Moravian Church in Minnesota, included 25 people holding a variety of different views. During the Thursday, Friday and Saturday of Synod, the committee reviewed all of the proposals submitted on the topic. Each was carefully considered by The Moravian

subsets of the committee, then voted upon as to whether or not to bring them to the floor of Synod by the entire group.

In the end, the committee focused on two proposals — one that affirmed that clergy and members of the Northern Province are free to express their perspectives on the ordination of gay and lesbian individuals whether single, married or in covenanted relationships, provided that they do so in a way that honors our relationship as brothers and sisters in Christ; and the second, concerning the ordination of gay and lesbian individuals, whether single, married or in covenanted relationships.

The committee then deliberated on those two proposals for a number of sessions to prepare them for the entire Synod to evaluate. “While it is true, some very difficult things were said and heard. But when they were said and heard I believe it was done with the utmost grace that each person could muster at that moment,” said Amy. “There was not one person who fully got their way on this committee; everyone had to give up something, some more than others, and I know that that was painful and discouraging. But everyone came back to the committee each time ready to work, ready to move on, trusting the process that had been laid out by the committee together.”

On to the Synod floor On Saturday, the Synod took up the first Church and Society resolution on inclusiveness. The legislation affirmed the commitment of the Moravian Church, Northern Province, to be inclusive of differing views regarding whether or not it is appropriate to ordain and call gay and lesbian clergy living in covenanted relationships; and that all clergy and members of the Moravian Church, Northern Province, July/August 2014

are free without penalty to speak, write, and express their perspectives on the topic, provided that such expressions are done in a charitable manner. The initial legislation also encourages the Provincial Elders’ Conference to offer appropriate follow-up gatherings for congregations of the Moravian Church, Northern Province, in a timely manner following the conclusion of the 2014 Provincial Synod.

This resolution on inclusiveness recognizes the many different opinions on the topic of ordaining gay and lesbian ministers, and helps ensure that those who have opinions on the subjects are free to share their thoughts without repercussion.

Following a brief discussion and debate on the floor, the resolution on inclusiveness passed on Saturday evening.

Presenting the proposal The Second and Final Report of the Church and Society Committee concerning the ordination of gay and lesbian individuals, whether single, married, or in covenanted relationships, was taken up in the 14th Plenary session on Sunday afternoon.

Led by committee co-chairs David and Amy, members of the Church and Society committee took turns reading the many whereas statements and resolutions that made up the proposal. The proposal, which was revised by the Church and Society committee from the initial PEC proposal, provided historical context, background, points on theology and belief, along with the resolutions that legislate what would change.

“This resolution is the result of many hours of review and work by the Church and Society committee,” said David when the proposal (continued on next page) 23

(continued from previous page) was read on the Synod floor, “and I want to make sure everyone knows that we went over eight different resolutions, went through each in small group discussion, then voted by a simple majority process to bring to the floor what we have today. There is definitely a wide diversity in our committee, with people with deep convictions in both directions on this topic. There was no unanimity on the vote by any means, but I am so proud and impressed with the respect and Christian love shown in our committee.”

For more than three hours, proponents and opponents of the legislation rose to address Synod. During the debate on the floor, Synod delegates shared a broad range of insights and opinions on why ordaining gay or lesbian pastors was right or wrong for the Moravian Church to consider.

Delegates rose to offer their views on whether homosexuality is a sin, how the Bible’s teaching on the subject should be interpreted, what this proposal would allow, how it might change the church and whether or not it was the right time to make such a momentous decision. Over the course of the discussion, delegates proposed and voted upon amendments; posed questions to the committee; and shared their hopes, prayers and concerns.

Delegates expressed deeply held convictions both for and against the legislation, doing so with respect and sensitivity toward those who might disagree. Many of those speaking both for and against the resolutions spoke with disarming vulnerability and honesty, and their comments were received with compassion and sensitivity.

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Spirit’s presence at the vote After hearing all those who wished to comment on the legislation, delegates voted. The vote was by written ballot to allow delegates to vote their conscience and ensure an exact count could be taken. Prior to voting, delegates took the opportunity to pray silently, listening for the Holy Spirit.

Delegates did not leave after the vote. Instead, they remained to await the results.

And as they waited to learn the outcome of the vote, they sang hymns and spontaneously stood hand in hand in a circle around the assembly hall.

“It is my prayer that as Moravians, in relationship with one another, we can continue to walk together in love, even as we acknowledge our differences.”

“While the ballots were being counted, we sang hymns together as we had for days,” wrote Linda Toggart, a member of College Hill Moravian Church. “At one point someone got up and grabbed the hand of the person next to them. We all followed and as we sang together we stood together and formed a circle inside the whole gymnasium.”

When the results were announced, there was silence — no cheers, not outcries, just a quiet moment. “No one left the circle, we stayed together, brothers and sisters in Christ, holding onto one another singing the hymns that we Moravians have sung for hundreds of years,” said Linda. “It was a special moment of Synod.

Were some people upset by the vote? Yes. But we all stayed. We had decided to agree to disagree and stay at the table and talk.”

The Moravian

Bishops offer prayer Following the announcement of the results, the bishops in attendance each offered up prayers for the church.

“I’m aware that there are tender hearts here,” said Bishop Kay Ward. “There are hearts that have been broken open in wonderful ways and some in not maybe such wonderful ways, but that we are all feeling tender. And I would pray that we could each be as tender with each other as we might be with ourselves as we go home, and I too have never been prouder of being a Moravian as I am right this moment.”

“Each of us gathered in this room now, we worship a God who we know created us,” said Bishop Chris Giesler. “Each of us in this room worships a God who we know comes

to visit us daily and abundantly through the power of the Holy Spirit. Each of us here in this room worships a God who gave himself in Jesus Christ for the sins of the world. Gracious God, may that spirit of love, may that spirit of sustenance, may that spirit of creativity come and abide with us again this day. In Christ’s name we pray.”

And Bishop Hopeton Clennon offered, ““In years to come, they will ask how this day went. In years to come, they will say to you, ‘You were here — what is it that happened?’

Please report that God’s Spirit enabled us to love each other. Amen.”

For more on the decisions that were made on this topic, please read the letter from PEC President Betsy Miller that accompanies this story. ■

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RTHERN PROVINCE A LETTER TO THE NO enanted rewhether single, married, or in cov by a writJune 26, 2014 lationships” was approved 181-62 rist, says: tion olu Dear Sisters and Brothers in Ch ten ballot. Here’s what the res ian rav Mo the of od During the 2014 Syn orientates “cov• Individuals, regardless of sexual Church Northern Province, delega or in d, ow Christ tion and whether single, marrie enanted with hand and heart” to foll e been all congrecovenanted relationships who hav our Lord. Over 250 delegates from vincial our provapproved for ordination by the Pro gations and emerging ministries of ordifor ible the church, Elders’ Conference are elig ince gathered to do the work of nged cha course for nation. The Book of Order was seek God’s leading, and chart a for all who accordingly. the next four years. I thank God five se the ing dur us ved nce will gathered, all who ser • The Provincial Elders’ Confere who prayed e vinc pro the und Church aro ian all rav and Mo s, day “create for use in the t, sen pre y ver was rit Spi ’s God izing a , mn eed for us. Ind Northern Province a rite for sole in er eth tog us g din bin and us moving among covenanted relationship.” holy ways. on’s right sidered • In order to protect a congregati While many resolutions were con a gay or ted by the to choose whether or not to call at Synod, the resolutions genera Joint with e k som wor rant lesbian pastor, those who Church and Society Committee war trict Dis ly Boards in the call process (usual explanation. relations,” afPresidents) will fully disclose the The first resolution, “Inclusivenes approers of the ship status “as known and where firms that all clergy and memb call for ir ted the sen ress priate” of those being pre Northern Province are free to exp t Join ts gay and lesor appointment. The province wan perspectives on the ordination of staship rried or in Boards to be aware of the relation bian individuals whether single, ma ring. side y con the t are tha y d the tus of those whom covenanted relationships, provide lose disc to as gal tionship In Canada, however, it is ille do so in a way that honors our rela the of sion s resolution this information without permis brothers and sisters in Christ. Thi will be iety of perperson. We trust that our pastors acknowledges that there are a var lthy and everyone is open and forthright to assure a hea spectives on this matter and that gation. gre con also ns but honest relationship with any free to not only hold those opinio encour respectfully express them. Synod also has already • We affirmed that, because God to ofnce fere Con ’ ers Eld ial vinc Pro the d space for age embraced all of us, we will allow vince pro the und aro gs erin gath up “strive fer followdiffering positions in the church and munion we are ch in the interest of nurturing our com whi und to remain at the table aro enand as brothers and sisters in Christ. for y called to worship God and pra ning the The second resolution concer e.” courage one another in Jesus’ nam individuals, “ordination of gay and lesbian

Here’s what the resolution does not say: • Synod did not address the definition of marriage. The Moravian Covenant for Christian Living, which is contained within our Book of Order, defines marriage as between a man and a woman. Synod did not change this definition.

• Synod did not approve same-gender marriage.

What does this mean from a practical point of view?

• Those congregations that wish to call or appoint a gay or lesbian pastor who is in a covenanted relationship will be free to do so. No congregation will be required to call or appoint a gay or lesbian pastor unless it wants to do so.

• Once the PEC develops a rite for a covenanted relationship, clergy may conduct a service for covenanted relationships for lay people or clergy. As with any rite or service within the church, clergy are free to decline conducting such a service, according to their conscience. Pastors are expected to abide by any policies that require Board of Elders (or Unified Board) approval for such pastoral services in the local congregation.

• A covenanted relationship is not a marriage. Clergy may not conduct same-gender marriages. If clergy conduct a covenanted relationship and a couple wants their union to be legally recognized by a US state or

Canadian province, the marriage license must be signed by someone who is authorized to sign it. In other words, clergy will not be acting as agents of the state or province when conducting a covenanted relationship.

Even more important than the decisions synod made around this matter was how synod took this action. As you might imagine, debate was lengthy as people shared a variety of opinions and testimonies. In every case, opinions were shared with grace and respect. The vote was taken by written ballot. As the vote was being tallied, we started singing beloved Moravian hymns — in beautiful harmony. Then something truly amazing happened — one by one people stood, hand in hand and moved to form one big, unbroken circle around the assembly hall.

We kept singing until the results were announced — and then sang some more. Then each of the bishops spoke and offered prayer, asking God to empower us to walk forward as people bound together by the Holy Spirit.

This is the story that must be told of how — ­ much like August 13, 1727 — God took a group of people with widely differing views and joined them together in a common love for Jesus. This doesn’t mean everyone agreed with the decision. It does mean that, by God’s grace, everyone stood in one circle, bound together by the embrace of the Holy Spirit. My dear brothers and sisters, that is my prayer as we walk together, with faith, into these next weeks and months.

Grace and peace,

Elizabeth D. Miller President, Northern Province PEC

2014 NORTHERN PROVINCE SYNOD

Stewardship, Societal Issues and Synod The 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church has captured the attention of our Provinces and beyond for many reasons. Certainly the decision by Synod regarding parameters of ordination and covenanted relationship following years of prayerful conversation and consideration loomed most central, but other issues were faced with courage through several societal issues to which the Church offered its voice.

As the Church and Society Committee had its plate quite full, the Stewardship Committee took head-on what people of faith have long discussed and written of, wondering, “What is the voice and the will of the Northern Province?” The Stewardship Committee spent significant time discussing and deliberating a number of issues, including guns, war, the environment and the fair treatment of workers, realizing these issues would also be seen from a variety of points of Christian understanding and required addressing by Synod.

The resolution that elicited the most dis 28

cussion was one that stated “The 2014 Synod of the MCNP legislates that all Moravian Churches in all states of the Northern Province require that each building of the common area of the church campus be gun free, a requirement that all people, even those who have a legal concealed gun permit (other than law enforcement, military and security personnel) will not carry their weapon in any building on the church campus unless otherwise determined by the Church Board.”

This received much opinion and conversation with people of sincere faith expressing a variety of opinions. The final resolution was the result of suggestions and amendments, giving voice, especially in the United States, that although individuals have a constitutional right to have and own guns, guns will not be permitted in any common area of the church campus, those common areas as determined by the official Boards of the church.

So, as are alcohol, tobacco, gambling and guns legal, the Church has seen the wisdom The Moravian

in making its church campus generally free of each. Synod and the Church gave witness to what society may need to consider more deeply, a Christ-honoring way to live the freedoms we cherish.

On a similar point, Synod was invited to consider a resolution regarding what some feel is a state of permanent war. Each nation represented at Synod has actively been involved in a state of war since the attacks on September 11, 2001.

Delegates considered a way to respond to the evidences of violence in many areas of our world that claim the lives and fortunes of so many; young and old, soldier and civilian. They considered the words of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, and voted that each congregation would be provided with resources to convey to all in “positions of elected and appointed leadership to prayerfully consider the biblical demands of all choices regarding armed conflict and war, consider the words of Jesus, and enter into armed conflict and war as an absolute last resort to resolve such conflict.” Synod asked delegates and churches to urge all governmental leaders to always strive for a secure and lasting peace using every tool at their disposal such as diplomacy and extensions of humanitarian aid.

Their work not done, the Stewardship Committee took to the floor two other pieces of legislation that at their very core are stewardship driven. Following the lead of the Southern Province Synod of 2014, resolutions were passed stating, “We will claim and affirm our stewardship of creation and all God has given us as an essential part of our discipleship with Jesus Christ.” Realizing that several attending Synod live in states or provinces where drilling for petrochemicals is actively taking place and vital to the economy of the state or July/August 2014

province, it was determined that churches will be provided with resources helpful to communicate with elected and appointed legislators overseeing the extraction of these petrochemicals, encouraging that all such efforts be done in a “safe and clean manner, evidencing expressed care for air, water, and land for this and all future generations.”

Lastly, as consumers within our generally very wealthy societies, delegates recognized that we have a responsibility to be Christian stewards as we consider garment purchases.

Following the deaths of over 1,100 persons who worked in the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh in April of 2013 and other such tragedies, we must demand that those who make the items we purchase have safe working conditions, work reasonable length days, and receive a living wage that will allow all such workers to purchase the necessities of food, shelter, clothing and health care. This too was seen as a command by Jesus, caring for the least of these as Christ-honoring consumers.

You may be wondering if these points of consideration and approval at Synod are consistent with what we know to be biblical stewardship. Stewardship ministry is usually about the teaching and preaching and encouraging of people of faith regarding treasure, talent and time.

But, the “other stuff of stewardship” we discussed in committee and on the floor of Synod have captured me. I will forevermore consider these and other aspects of a civil, just and God-honoring society as part of biblical stewardship. I believe Jesus smiled as we did so. May Jesus continue to smile and bless as we live what we voted. ■ The Rev. Gary Marsh is director of Stewardship for the Northern Province.

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IN OUR CONGREGATIONS

Palmer Moravian says, “Don’t Just Go To Church — Be The Church” It was Joint Board night at Palmer Moravian

Church in Easton, Pa., one week after an awesome event. “What were God’s gifts that you experienced from our ‘…Be The Church’ program,” asked Pastor Missy? These were some of the responses: • “Wow! It involved almost 200 members and friends all in one day!”

• “It brought people together from each of our three worship services in a common mission.”

• “Members of the community asked us about what we were doing, and it was a great opportunity to tell them who we are and why we were there.”

• “People had FUN!” • “It really positioned us as a ‘Mission’ church!”

Ken Wildrick is a member of Palmer Moravian Church in Easton, Pa. Photos courtesy of Palmer Moravian.

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These are just the type of comments one hopes would come following an event that sent an entire congregation out into the community for a day of service. The event, held on May 18, helped the Palmer Moravian congregation Be The Church.

A challenge to engage Palmer Moravian’s “Don’t Just Go to Church — Be The Church” effort started many months ago when our Missions in Action Committee felt challenged to engage a much broader component of our membership in mission outreach to the community. Our goals were to: • inspire our church members to express their faith in actions; • provide opportunities, and to equip members, to take action; • meet real needs of our community; and • demonstrate Christ’s love and our Christian devotion to the community through loving actions and kindnesses.

We recognized that few are able to travel to far off places, others have physical limitations, and many simply don’t know how to go about getting involved in service outreach. We also knew that studies show most people want to be involved in meaningful service, so we needed a way to make that happen.

We reviewed many types of service projects with the goal to develop projects with varying activity levels, differing special interests, local as well as national or international causes, and an intergenerational activity. After much The Moravian

discussion, we chose 12 projects and acts of kindness that we felt provided everyone with something they could do, a niche for everyone in the congregation.

The next step was to identify individual project leaders, and these gifted leaders quickly added their enthusiasm, additional ideas and expertise to further develop the projects. Task lists, time ables, communication plans, contacts with community organizations and other details were established and implemented.

A key element of the program was to ground the program in our faith, and to make a very clear connection between faith and actions. To that end, there was a 6 week rollout, during which weekly devotionals, written by one of our laity, were included in the Sunday bulletins. The church’s monthly newsletter, sermons and pastoral commentary, and weekly announcements by the committee members (including their personal reflections) explained the faith basis for the program. Finally, creative posters were placed in our lobby which explained each project and provided for sign-ups.

Be The Church Sunday All the activity culminated in “Be The Church” Sunday, and what a Sunday it was! We combined our usual three worship services into one, and as one church family we worshiped and praised. It was Moravian Music Sunday, and we were regaled by the participation of a Sacred Big Band of 18 musicians, sponsored by one of our musician members. The band’s mission was to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project through a free will offering.

Inspiring music by our choirs and handbells rounded out very joy-filled musical praise! (continued on next page) July/August 2014

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(continued from previous page) The service culminated with the formal commissioning of all the participants serving that day. We then powered up with a hearty brunch prepared by our Music Committee, gathered into our project teams, and dispersed to our missions.

What did we accomplish? Church members prepared meals at a shelter for a large group of women and children. A contingent of young families cleaned debris from an extensive area of a local stream. A team prepared and froze many large casseroles to assist needy persons stopping at the church, the ill, homebound members and others.

Children created many crafts and gifts that were delivered by an intergenerational team to care facilities and individual homes. A group of shoppers purchased food for five huge back pack bags and five large summer family boxes, then packed and took them to our local school for distribution.

A group of dedicated women knitted scarves in anticipation of coming winter needs. A card shower was prepared for those

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who can’t always get to church, and for military members, so they would know we remember and care about them. Another group wrote “letters with a purpose” to decisionmakers regarding concerns such as hunger, animal rights, the environment, human rights and others.

Our cub scout pack provided a free community car wash as an act of kindness and donated money toward the Wounded Warrior Project. An intrepid team provided heavy duty labor for a family in need to overcome years of neglect and disrepair to their property and home. Finally, plantings were made along our township’s bike path to beautify God’s creation. For those who couldn’t serve that day, donations were offered to defray costs.

A Mission Church And the result of our Be The Church Sunday?

Much more than we first thought was possible. Certainly we ministered to many people in our community. And equally importantly, to judge by the enthusiasm of our church members, it offered spiritual nourishment and thanksgiving to us as well. Participants discussed how the day allowed Palmer Moravian members to make new acquaintences and form new relationships within the church. They got new ideas to use in the future for some of their standing church committees and are looking for ways to continue the outreach throughout the year. Strong leaders, both new and veteran, emerged from the congregation and exercised initiative at all levels of the program. And they met their goals for each of the projects they undertook that day.

But perhaps the member comment that was most telling: we now more clearly see ourselves as a “Mission” church. ■ The Moravian

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS NORTHERN PROVINCE

SOUTHERN PROVINCE

Prayer Day for World Peace and Nuclear Disarmament August 3, 2014 In accordance with legislation enacted at the 1982 Synod of the Northern Province and affirmed by the 1990 Synod, the first Sunday in August has been designated as a day of prayer for world peace and nuclear disarmament.

The Rev. Dan Nelson, formerly pastor at Fulp Moravian, was installed as associate pastor at Friedberg Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, N.C. on May 25. Dan was ordained on Oct. 18, 1987 at Home Moravian Church, WinstonSalem, N.C. He served the Fulp congregation, the Moravian congregation in Bruderheim, Alberta, Canada, and resumed ministry at Fulp until accepting the current call.

Prayer Day for Public Education August 31, 2014 Congregations of the Northern Province are asked to observe Public Education Awareness Day on the last Sunday in August. Prepared liturgies, intercessory prayers for students and all who teach in and administer public schools and sermons at worship may call attention to our responsibility for public education and seek the blessing of God upon these endeavors.

Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference

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July/August 2014

The Rev. John G. Rights, associate pastor at New Philadelphia, has accepted a call to become pastor of the Kernersville Moravian Church and will be installed on August 3. John was ordained on October 6, 1996 at Home Moravian Church. He was pastor at Mizpah and Trinity (associate) before his serving the New Philadelphia congregation.

David Guthrie Provincial Elders’ Conference.

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OBITUARIES

Carolyn Adams Griffin Carolyn Adams Griffin passed away Tuesday,

April 22, 2014 at age 67.

Carolyn was born on February 15, 1947 in Forsyth County to Jesse Bernard Adams, Sr. and wife, Edna Boger. Carolyn worked for Hanes Hosiery for many years before working with her husband, Don, at their family-owned business, Forsyth Appliance Service.

She worked for the Board of Christian Education of the Moravian Church and also worked as a Teacher’s Assistant at Gibson Elementary.

Surviving are her husband of 47 years, Rev. Donald Griffin, pastor at Union Cross Moravian, Winston-Salem; two daughters, Kristy Sapp and Tammy Shimfessel; one son, Jeffrey Griffin; her mother, Edna Teague; and six grandchildren, Ian, Kyle, Owen, Morgan, Kerry and Carly.

A graveside service was held April 25, at God’s Acre, Salem Moravian Graveyard with Rev. Scott Venable officiating. A memorial service was held April 26, at Fairview Moravian Church in Winston-Salem with Bishop Sam Gray officiating.

Mrs. Raymond E. Schultz Sister Lydia M. (Getzinger) Schultz died in Willow Street, Pa., May 29, 2014 at age 88.

She was born February 7, 1926 at Spruce Grove, Alberta, Canada, a daughter of John and Phillipine (Schienbein) Getzinger.

Sister Schultz attended schools in Canada and received a diploma in Practical Nursing from Easton (Pennsylvania) Vocational Technical School in 1969. She was united in 34

marriage to Brother Raymond E. Schultz on May 16, 1951 at Heimtal Moravian Church, S. Edmonton, Alberta.

She served alongside her husband in ministry settings in Canada (Edmonton, Heimtal, Westlock Mission, Hobbema, Jasper Place), Pennsylvania (Bethany-Olivet in York, Schoeneck), and New York (Trinity in Utica).

Along with husband, Raymond, Sister Schultz is survived by daughter, Heather; son, Delray; and four grandchildren.

A memorial service was held June 5, 2014 at Schoeneck Moravian Church, Nazareth, Pa. with the Rev. Terry Folk officiating.

The Rev. Kenneth W. Nowack Brother Kenneth W. Nowack died in Media,

Pennsylvania, June 13, 2014, at age 89.

Born December 28, 1924 at Watertown, Wis., he was the son of Carl and Cornelia (Brennecke) Nowack. Brother Nowack graduated from Wheaton College in 1948 and Moravian Theological Seminary in 1951. He was ordained a deacon July 1, 1951 and consecrated a presbyter March 31, 1957.

He was united in marriage to Dorothy R. Nelson on September 7, 1946. Together they served pastorates in Nicaragua, Pennsylvania (East Hills, Easton First) and Maryland (Trinity). Following his last call, he entered secular employment and officially retired from the ministry June 14, 1987.Brother Nowack was a contributor to the Moravian Daily Texts, providing copy editing services for many years.

Brother Nowack was predeceased by his wife, Dorothy, who died November 18, 1993. ■ The Moravian

GROWING FAITH takes inspiration.

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EADING THE WORK OF MORAVIAN MINISTRY is a divine gift — but it requires financial gifts as well. That’s why leaders of faith in our churches and agencies are often called to be leaders in fundraising. Fortunately, Morning Star Campaign Services is here to help. As a program of the Moravian Ministries Foundation, Morning Star provides full-service advice and support for capital campaign fundraising, stewardship education and development, and long-range planning to help you build a solid financial platform for doing the work of faith. From understanding the fundraising possibilities to capturing their full potential, Morning Star can help you grow the resources needed to continue growing our faith.

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