Moravian Magazine No. 4 June July 2019

N o . 4 • J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 9

In this issue: Seminary Commencement Space for children with needs Advocating for prison reform and God’s creation ...and more!

Help us grant Larger Life to Moravian ministries.

The Larger Life Foundation has a 99-year history of helping Moravian ministries in the Northern Province through disbursements from its permanent endowment fund. Last year alone, we shared more than $500,000 with 37 causes, supporting social services, educational, church, Provincial and District programs, and other ministries reaching across the province.

Won’t you help us continue this ministry of service? Your support can make a difference in the life of the church.

For more, visit www.largerlifefoundation.org or contact Tammy Curcio, Treasurer, at 610-867-7566, Ext. 17.

Larger Life Foundation

MORAVIAN CHURCH NORTHERN PROVINCE

Help for Today. Building for Tomorrow.

The world’s oldest daily devotional that’s new every morning!

The 2020 edition of The Moravian Daily Texts continues a 290-year-long tradition of offering an inspirational connection to the Holy Scriptures every day.

Each entry in this beloved daily devotional includes “watchwords”—Old and New Testament verses to accompany readers throughout the day—combined with beautiful hymn texts and heartfelt prayers selected and written by Moravians across North America.

The Moravian Daily Texts 2020 begins shipping in Nov. 2019, but you can preorder yours online now at store.moravian.org. Order

by Aug. 13, 2019 and receive a 10% discount!

Learn more at store.moravian.org 2

The Moravian

On the cover: Ripening blueberries herald summer’s arrival. Photo: Mike Riess

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9 A Moravian Education Our Lamb has conquered; let us follow Him

5 Moravian Theological Seminary celebrates 2019 Commencement

In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love

In Our Communities 7

Bethlehem’s Musikfest renames venue in honor of a Zinzendorf

14 Eastern District Ministry Team raises awareness of

criminal justice reform 23 Up from ashes: faith grows from activism

In Our Congregations 9 First Moravian York makes room(s) for children with needs

Ministries Foundation 12 Celebrate stewardship!7

Moravians in Mission 18 Travels to Jamaica enhance love and fellowship 21 Unity Women’s Desk: global change through scholarships Visit our website at http://www.moravian.org.

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

June/July 2019

Spritual Retreat

16 Retreating to Spiritual Listening

..And More 4

Ponderings: Helping to answer the question, “What is a Moravian?”

26 Moravian Writings on Luke 10:38-42 30 Official Provincial Elders’ News

Obituary: Mrs. Larry Lindenmuth

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PONDERINGS

(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) June/July 2019, Vol. 50, No. 4 Publications Agreement No. 40036408 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: OnTrac International, 121 5th Avenue NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 email: file@ontrac.com

Helping to answer the question “What is a Moravian?”

In my time working with the Interprovincial Board of Communication, I have come across dozens of descriptions of “being Moravian.” Some describe our church practices; others describe our faith; others share our customs and traditions; and most tap into our heritage.

But I’ve also learned that our church’s members have their individual view of what it is, and what it means, to be a part of the Moravian Church—which can make it difficult to create an all-encompassing statement beyond our core church understandings (the Ground of the Unity and the Moravian Covenant for Christian Living) that we can share with the world about our church. I know. I’ve been trying for years!

Over the past year, with older publications as our starting point, we worked with the church’s Faith and Order Commission and others to develop a short, easy-to-use brochure that lays out simple facts about the Moravian Church. This brochure is now available.

Over the next few months, each congregation in the Northern and Southern Provinces will receive a supply of these brochures to share with visitors, members and others interested in the church. We will also make PDF versions available and include the new text on www.moravian.org.

It is important to remember, however, that there is so much more to discuss when it comes to our church...like how individual congregations interpret our traditions and practices; how we approach questions of theology or social issues; how welcoming our churches are; our hopes and dreams for the future; and yes, what it personally means to be a Moravian.

Our unofficial motto, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; and in all things, love,” offers us the space for differing opinions. Our intent with our new Moravian Church brochure is to provide a basic understanding of who we are, what we practice and how we live as followers of Jesus. It’s a starting point for individual congregations to have engaging conversations with newcomers and long-time Moravians alike.

I look forward to hearing what folks think of this new effort. We’re open to suggestions for improvement and hope individuals and congregations find this new brochure helpful.

I hope you enjoy this issue of the Moravian, with a wide range of happenings in our church. As always, I welcome your feedback.

Peace, 4

Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces Published eight times per year: Jan/ Feb, April, May, June/July, August, Sept./ Oct., November and December, by the Interprovincial Board of Communication, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Subscription rates: $15.00 per year, U.S.A. & Canada; $18.00 per year, all other countries.

Individual copies available for $3.00 each.

The Moravian is sent to the families of the Moravian Church as a privilege of membership. Periodicals postage paid at Bethlehem, PA. Circulation: 16,000 Postmaster please send address changes to The Moravian, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

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

Michael Riess, Editor Susan Kiefner, Communications Assistant Jill Bruckart, Customer Relations/Business Assistant Interprovincial Board of Communication Ginny Tobiassen, chair Terri Bischoff, Peggy Carter, Margaret Couch, Paul Knouse, Kat Lehman, Amy Linville, Dan Miller, Valerie Bean Wagner.

Design by Michael Riess, IBOC. Address all correspondence regarding articles, subscriptions, or advertising to The Moravian, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018 FAX: 610.866.9223 Phone: 610.867.0594 800.732.0591 e-mail: moravianmagazine@mcnp.org www.moravian.org Contents © 2019, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in America.

All rights reserved

The Moravian

MORAVIAN EDUCATION

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Moravian Theological Seminary celebrates 2019 Commencement

he 212th academic year of Moravian Theological Seminary came to a close when 14 graduates received degrees and certificates at its commencement service on Saturday, May 11, 2019, at College Hill Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pa. The church was filled to capacity with friends and family celebrating the accomplishments of the graduates.

Among those receiving the Master of Divinity was Timothy Naisby, a member of the Central Moravian Church. He also earned the Certificate in Biblical Studies and was honored with the Elmer Bender Memorial Award in recognition of qualities suited for ministry in the Moravian Church. Timothy has accepted the call to serve as pastor of the Moravian Church in Unionville, Michigan. He will be

ordained on June 29 at Central Church and will be installed at Unionville in July.

During the awarding of academic prizes, Charlie McDonald, a member of Edgeboro Moravian Church and a current MDiv student at the Seminary, received the Frueauff Prize in Moravian History for his outstanding research and work in Moravian history.

True to our ecumenical roots, students from other denominations received degrees from Moravian Seminary. In addition to Timothy Naisby, four individuals received Master of Divinity degrees and will be entering leadership positions in area churches. Christine Potter-Kass (Easton, Pa.) will serve as pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Hokendauqua, Pa. Nicole Vogel completed her degree (Continued on next page)

The 2019 faculty and graduating class of Moravian Theological Seminary.

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Commencement

(Continued from previous page)

in December, and has been serving as pastor of the East Stroudsburg Presbyterian Church.

Ken McDowell has accepted the call to serve as pastor of St. Paul’s Summer Hill United Church of Christ in Auburn, Pa. Completing her credentialing with the United Church of Christ, Rebecca Sausser will be serving a local UCC congregation for the next year.

Receiving the Master of Arts in Chaplaincy, Wanda Brothers (Easton, Pa.) will enter a year-long chaplain residency.

Three students received a Master of Arts in Theological Studies: Jennifer Denlinger (Bethlehem Township, N.J.), James Jackson (Baltimore, Md.), and Robert Yurvati (Whitehall, Pa.).

Graduating with a Masters of Arts in Clinical Counseling were Michael Brown (Coopersburg, Pa.), Emily Klein (Quakertown, Pa.), and Jacqueline Kost (Allentown, Pa.).

Christine Confer (Phillipsburg, N.J.) completed the dual degree program, earning the Masters of Arts in Clinical Counseling from

Charlie McDonald receives the Frueauff Prize in Moravian History from Seminary Dean Frank Crouch.

Moravian Seminary and the Masters of Social Work from Marywood University in Scranton, Pa. A testimony to the caliber of our program and students, all of our MACC graduates had accepted counseling positions in area mental health agencies prior to graduation.

The Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies was earned by Florence Kimball (Bethlehem, Pa.), Christine Potter-Kass and Nicole Vogel.

The Director of Enrollment at the Seminary, the Rev. Dr. Dave DeRemer, will retire at the end of the academic year and was invited to give the commencement address.

Dave will continue to serve as the Director of Supervised Ministry and as an adjunct faculty member at the Seminary.

We celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates and look forward to their unfolding ministries. n Jane Weber is the director of administration for Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem, Pa. www.moravianseminary.edu

Timothy Naisby

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IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Bethlehem’s Musikfest renames venue in honor of a Zinzendorf

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usikfest, now the largest free music festival in the U.S., was founded in Bethlehem’s Moravian historic district in 1984, with the earliest festivals placing a strong emphasis on the rich Greman history of the city, including its love for music. Many of the venues feature names that end in “platz,” German for “place,” or “space.”

This year, Musikfest is reflecting on its roots by renaming a venue in honor of one of the city’s – and the Moravian Church’s – best-known early leaders.

Following a contest in which close to 500 names were submitted, “Zinzenplatz” has been selected as the name of the venue formerly known as “Experienceplatz.” The venue is being renamed in honor of a leader in the early Moravian community – Countess Benigna von Zinzendorf, daughter of Count Nicholas von Zinzendorf.

Located at Main and Lehigh streets, the site will feature live music, as well as food, the Prismatica art installation and more.

“We had so many intriguing suggestions submitted by the public, but this one was suggested a few times and really resonated with our staff,” says ArtsQuest President and June/July 2019

CEO, Kassie Hilgert. “More than 35 percent of our performers this year have at least one female member, including ‘Zinzenplatz’, where women are in 12 of the 35 groups that will take the stage at this venue.

“In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of women artists and performers at Musikfest, so it’s fitting that we name this venue in honor of our city’s rich history, specifically one of its early leaders.”

While women leaders were rare in the 18th century, the Moravian community historically had females in leadership positions, with women participating on councils, serving as spiritual leaders and a few even becoming ordained deaconesses.

(Continued on next page) 7

Original portrait of Benigna Zinzendorf shows her playing a lute. Photo courtesy of Unity Archives Herrnhut GS.053.

Zinzenplatz (Continued from previous page)

Coming to America in 1741 as part of an 18-month visit with her father, Benigna played a key role in the early Moravian settlement. As a 16-year old, she founded the first girls’ school in the American Colonies, where the girls had virtually the same curriculum as the boys – Moravian Seminary for Young Ladies. The seminary was the forerunner school of Moravian Academy and Moravian College.

In addition, she had a love for music, initially taking part in the children’s choir

and then appointed eldress of the Older Girls’ Choir. Benigna was later married to Johannes von Watteville in 1746. Two years later, she returned to visit Bethlehem with her husband from their home in Germany and once again in 1785. She died in 1789.

“Countess Benigna was a fascinating person, and for centuries her descendants have maintained ties with this community,” says Charlene Donchez Mowers, president of Historic Bethlehem Museum and Sites.

Music was an important part of Moravian life in Bethlehem, with community members composing music, crafting instruments and singing hymns. Today, Musikfest remembers the city and the Moravians’ rich history with a celebration of music from around the globe every August. Included as part of this is an annual performance by the Moravian Trombone Choir on the first Saturday of the festival. n Thanks to Mark Demko from ArtsQuest, the organization that runs Musikfest, for this article.

Musikfest 2019 runs from August 2-11 in locations around Bethlehem, Pa.

Musikfest in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Photo by Craig Roberts, courtesy of ArtsQuest

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The Moravian

IN OUR CONGREGATIONS

First Moravian York makes room(s) for children with needs

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t a Moravian Church in downtown York, Pa., children with sensory processing disorders (and those who care for them) have found a space to learn and grow.

Thanks to the efforts of the First Moravian Church of York congregation and its pastor, the Rev. Sayward Lippincott, the church has transformed several unused classrooms into special “sensory rooms.” These therapeutic spaces include equipment and resources to help students with special needs calm and focus themselves to be better prepared for learning and interacting with others.

This offering at York started with Sayward’s son, Spencer. “Our youngest son, Spencer, has a severe speech delay and a mild sensory processing disorder,” explains Sayward. “In working with therapists and groups that help with his condition, my congregation and I met more and more families going through the same struggles and victories that we were. We noticed a need for a June/July 2019

community and a place where these children and families could share with one another.

“At First Moravian Church, we believe we are all fearfully and wonderfully made

by God,” continues Sayward. “Just as the psalmists writes in Psalms 139:14 ‘I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.’ God has made each of us a beautiful creation. But we live in a world that says some are better than others, some will go farther than others, and some are more deserving than others.

(Continued on next page)

“It is out of our love for God, our love for others and wanting to move aside any hinderance that we looked for new ways to help...”

—First Moravian Church, York

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Toy bears can be found in York First’s “Wiggle Pews.”

Sensory Rooms

(Continued from previous page)

“As Christians, we know better! We try every day to live lives that reflect our love for God and our love for others. We also understand that there are times when the church consciously or unconsciously can be like the disciples who held back the children from coming to Jesus (Matthew 19:13-15). It is out of our love for God, our love for others and wanting to move aside any hindrance, that we looked for new ways to help.”

In 2017 and 2018, with help from Eastern District Executive Board, York First turned old classrooms into two different sensory rooms – one as a quiet, calming space, the other for play and action. These spaces are specially designed to help reduce disruptive behavior, improve focus and learning, and address some of the challenges of ADHD, learning delays, sensory issues and autism. Local therapists and community groups can reserve these rooms online.

York First also hosts a Sensory Play Group, collaborating with the York/Adams County Early Intervention Program and Connections Early Interventions and Supports.

Several times a week, this group brings children and families to the church building, allowing children to interact while receiving the specialized interventions they may need.

In addition, this group provides an opportunity for parents to interact with each other and find a place of support and education. A sensory resource room is also avail-

Sensory rooms The sensory rooms grew out of an effort to create a space that therapists could use with their clients and where playgroups could be formed to help children with social skills.

While considering developing this space at York, the congregation held a community dinner bringing together Early Intervention (the York County program for children with developmental needs), the York Public Library and private therapists to provide advice and support.

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York First’s sensory rooms include equipment and resources to help students with special needs calm and focus themselves

able, with books, toys and other resources that families can check out and use at home.

Wiggle Pews York First also implemented something called “Wiggle Pews” to help children more easily participate in worship. “Our Wiggle Pews were the very first element we, as a church, put into action,” says Sayward.

“These Wiggle Pews are for families to sit with their children as they explore and participate in the worship service.

“We know kids wiggle, make noises and get bored. But we also know that children listen and absorb more than we realize.

When children see their family participating in worship through prayer, singing, greeting one another, listening to the sermon or looking up the scripture reference, children learn how to actively participate in worship.”

Wiggle Pews have books and quiet toys for children to play with during the service.

Parents may use the nursery or the sensory rooms before, during or after the service if June/July 2019

their child needs some space, self-granulation or a diaper change. If parents do use the nursery or sensory rooms during worship we would like everyone to come back and rejoin the worship service when they are able.

Creating space The sensory rooms and Wiggle Pews help the York First congregation connect to the community. The playgroups and other activities using the sensory rooms bring people into the church during the week and introduce them to what the congregation has to offer.

“The congregation continues to pray for our sensory room program and how it can expand,” says Sayward. “If there is a need, First steps up and meets it. We are currently working on little ways the congregation can make a significant impact on the families who attend the sensory rooms.” n To learn more York First’s sensory rooms, visit http://www.yorkfirstmoravian.org/ or contact Sayward at pastorsayward@yahoo.com.

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MINISTRIES FOUNDATION

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Celebrate Stewardship!

recently enjoyed breakfast with a retired Moravian pastor, and we reflected on her time serving our denomination. I asked her what she wished our churches would do more of, and she quickly responded, “Celebrate!”

She went on to say, “As children of God, we have so many reasons to rejoice. God has promised to be with us, and we know that no matter what happens, God gives us everything we need to do what He has called us to do. This is cause for celebration!”

At the Moravian Ministries Foundation (MMFA), we have a reason to celebrate as we get to serve congregations and Moravian ministries in the area of stewardship, too; after all, stewardship is our joyful response to God’s abundant gifts. Unfortunately for many, the association of money with stewardship is deeply entrenched and our reasons to celebrate as stewards can be quickly lost.

Fortunately, MMFA can help! We work with pastors, ministry leaders and congregations to

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discover, strengthen and renew their stewardship by: • Shaping leaders • Educating members • Developing holistic and sustainable stewardship ministries We celebrate that we’re able to offer our stewardship services at no charge thanks to the churches, agencies, Provinces, Districts and others who invest in the Moravian Common Fund, our pooled investment and endowment management vehicle.

Curious about what MMFA’s stewardship services entail? Let’s talk a little bit about our three areas of focus.

Shaping leaders Stewardship flourishes when clergy and church leaders are equipped and empowered to help believers become disciples of Christ in the use of all the resources God has provided.

The Moravian

Director of Stewardship Laura Watson

MMFA helps shape stewardship leaders by: • Working together to identify ways to weave stewardship into the church’s culture • Connecting clergy and laity to share best practices • Taking steps to decrease fear and anxiety around money • Sharing resources from our ecumenical and other partners

Educating members Faithful stewards aren’t born; they’re formed.

This formation takes intentionality and ongoing education. MMFA can help you educate your members by: • Facilitating workshops that help people have a holistic understanding of biblical stewardship • Connecting you with educational resources • Leading structured processes to identify resources and assets • Helping individuals, congregations and agencies envision and clarify future ministries • Assessing the feasibility of various ministry options Developing holistic and sustainable stewardship ministries Stewardship is so much more than an annual financial appeal. Thriving stewardship ministries focus on gifts of time, talent, testimony and treasure throughout the year.

MMFA can help you view your steward-

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ship with fresh eyes by: • Looking at the congregation’s gifts: how they’re being used and how they make a difference • Working with you to create a year-round stewardship ministry that incorporates congregational gifts, enhances ministry connections, includes communication strategies and connects with the church’s mission and vision for the future • Helping you learn best practices for investing, budgeting and planned giving The processes and tools we use to shape stewardship leaders, educate members and develop sustainable stewardship ministries include a period of discernment with the pastor and church leaders, focus groups, planned giving emphases, workshops and more.

To learn more about MMFA’s stewardship services, please visit www.mmfa.info and click on the “stewardship development” link, or contact Laura Watson, Director of Stewardship, at 888-722-7923 or lwatson@mmfa.info.

We look forward to celebrating our identities as stewards of God’s kingdom with you, and to moving ministries forward together. n Laura Wason is director of stewardship for the Moravian Ministries Foundaion in America.

MMFA’s latest brochure on Steweardship Services

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IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Eastern District ministry team raises awareness of criminal justice reform

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f you stepped into the recent art exhibit in Bethlehem’s Banana Factory Arts Center unaware of the background of the artists, you might have marveled at the variety and depth of the paintings. From the beauty of a still-life flower to the heartbreaking image of a homeless man to the smile of a young child, the art showed the breadth of human emotions and experiences.

Now realize that the art on display was painted by incarcerated individuals in Pennsylvania, and you are presented with images of hope and humanity that can connect us all, whether incarcerated or free.

The Moravian Church, Eastern District’s Church and Society Ministry Team, was proud to sponsor this recent art exhibit, “Hope in Hard Times: Prisoner Art for Social Justice,” which ran from March 1-April 21 at ArtsQuest’s Banana Factory Arts Center, Bethlehem, Pa.

“Thank you, Moravian Church, for being willing to visit the prisoner and share their art, hope and humanity with our greater community!”

—Art for Justice participant Two public events were also held in conjunction with the exhibit: On March 24, “A Vigil for Hope in the Criminal Justice System” invited Chester Hollman Jr., joined by Deanna Hollman, to share the tragic injustice of his son, 14

Chester Hollman III’s, wrongful conviction and sentence of life without parole in Pennsylvania.

Prayers and music accompanied these stories as the more than 50 people gathered remembered the humanity of the incarcerated, asking how God’s presence extends beyond the walls and bars of the prison.

Earlier on March 19, the Moravian Seminary sponsored and hosted Mr. Tyrone Werts, incarcerated for 37 years in Pennsylvania until his sentence of life without parole was commuted to life on parole by then Gov. Ed Rendell. Mr. Werts traced injustice and racial oppression leading to mass incarceration while also telling of his youth, the crime that occurred, and his conviction to second degree murder. He then detailed his experiences while incarcerated - earning his BA from Villanova University and serving as President of the PA Lifer’s Assoc.

Since his release in 2011, Mr. Werts also spoke of his current work as Think Tank Coordinator with Temple University’s Inside/Out Program.

The Moravian

Scenes from “A Vigil for Hope in the Criminal Justice System.”

But why did we, as a ministry team of the Moravian Church Eastern District, want to sponsor such an event, lending a visual stimulant to criminal justice reforms and conversations in our community?

At the 2016 synod of the Moravian Church in North America, Eastern District, criminal justice reform was identified as an area of engagement for our churches and communities. Following Jesus’ commandment to see the presence of God in the prisoner (Matthew 25:34-36), Moravians were encouraged to engage in the needs of those in prison, in questions of justice, dehumanization, and the needs for reform.

Prisons are often difficult and daunting places to visit, and the Church and Society Ministry Team asked themselves how we could engage in “visiting the prisoner.” We identified an engagement with art as a transformative way to see the humanity of the incarcerated and also be engaged in the needs for reforms that their art and stories can raise.

Art for Justice (www.artforjustice.org), a local non-profit, made an ideal partner to accomplish these goals as they are committed to promoting public dialog on ways to prevent crime, reduce levels of incarceration and find effective, humane ways to improve the criminal justice system. Their mission is carried out through the means of artwork from local incarcerated people and the programs surrounding such artwork.

We believe that through the special programs and simply the sharing of the artwork for the public to view at no cost for nearly two months, we helped to share the stories of the humanity of the incarcerated, the need for criminal justice reform, and the hope that we can share in working toward these goals together. n

I Survive, Charles Z. Lawson

Hope in Hard Times: Prisoner Art for Social Justice

March 1 - April 7, Banana Factory Arts Center, 23 W. 3rd St., Bethlehem, PA 18015

The Rev. Janel Rice is pastor of Calvary Moravian Church in Allentown, Pa. and a member of the Eastern District Church and Society Ministry Team

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SPIRITUAL RETREAT

Retreating to spiritual listening Earlier this year, a group of Canadians joined the Rev. Rick Beck for a Spiritual Listening weekend at Camp Van-Es. In this article, two of those attending—Wynne Edwards and Alice Sears—share their impressions of the weekend.

Friday afternoon we drive through blowing snow and poor visibility. We miss the entrance to Camp Van Es twice with its rutted road filled in by powdered snow. This retreat better be worth it! Welcomed into Unity Lodge by fresh coffee, hot chocolate, a warm fire and open hearts, we already know it is.

When all 15 of us have stomped off snow and warmed by the fire, it’s time to identify ourselves and tell a little of our story. We are from four Moravian churches in the Canadian District. Our leader, Rev. Rick Beck, as well as

a member of his congregation, have braved the snowy highway from Good Shepherd Church in Calgary.

All but three of us are women. Most are of a certain age, masses of wisdom just waiting to be tapped. There are three sisters from one family, two from another. Sisters-in-law tie those two groups together. There are a mother and daughter. At least four members of the larger group carry fresh grief.

Friday evening we move into the work of the weekend. Early discussion is about judging – the importance of letting it go, particularly in spiritual listening. Can we actually set aside judging as we listen to our retreat partners?

Some of us don’t think so; it becomes a retreat joke. In nearby Morning Star Hall we all judge dinner to be excellent. Also breakfast and lunch and the snacks delivered to Unity Lodge for our

Particiapants at the Spiritual Listening Retreat at Camp Van Es.

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breaks. We share leftovers with the 42 teenagers on site for a youth retreat. Our paths don’t cross but clearly, they have energized the camp.

I raise my blind on Saturday morning and greet the first prayer of the day. Pristine snow that sparkles with imitation diamonds, and bright blue cloudless sky, form a backdrop for a forest of bare poplars. Unremarkable trees that grow everywhere in this area today stand straight and dignified at their naked best. No sign of human life; nothing but rabbit tracks on the deep snow.

Today, a pattern of Rick’s design emerges—what he refers to as input where he imparts knowledge of the “how-to,”and the “how-not-to,” of spiritual listening. Knowledge gained in his participation in a Spiritual Direction Training Program, honed while leading groups on spiritual direction and spiritual companionship. The goal of these groups is to help people discern the movement of God’s grace in their lives by creating a safe place to be vulnerable and honest with themselves. This is accomplished by listening and responding to their stories.

Spiritual listening is different from counselling, where there is a problem to be fixed.

Different from coaching where you set a goal and develop a plan to reach that goal. Different from evangelism where one party believes it has something you need and a need to persuade. As spiritual listeners we will stay “empty:” empty of fear, wishes, chatter and the need to impress.

We need to be open to what God can do.

After input time we are divided into groups of two or three to practice what Rick has taught us. We share our own spiritual journeys and hear about the journeys of others. While sharing we attempt to be spiritual listeners. We learn to bite our tongues when they are pushing to interrupt the storyteller with messages of understanding, advice or our own similar June/July 2019

experiences. We learn that we don’t die, or even suffer much, if we don’t have opportunities to express our opinions. Spiritual listening is about the speaker, not the listener.

The skilled spiritual listener assumes that each of us has a relationship with God and his or her listening encourages that person to go inside herself or himself to explore that relationship. The effective spiritual listener must be comfortable with silences, trusting that God is at work.

After the practice time, we come back to the larger group to share our experiences and what we had learned, this time led by Rick’s remarkable skills.

The afternoon surprises us with the temperature rising to above zero Celsius. We have waited so long for this. It calls us out of our comfy lodge. We sift through the light powdery snow, make snow angels, snap brilliant photos, plow through the drifts to a commemorative bench, hike to where a cross is mounted by the frozen lake.

In our closing session, Rick demonstrates an episode of spiritual listening with one of our group. Clearly, it is a perfect ending to our 24-hour retreat. We have listened and learned; we have practised our new skills with people whose stories have had a significant effect on us. We in turn have had the experience of telling our stories, in a safe and encouraging environment, to someone who is obviously listening, ready to hear us. It was an enriching experience where we made deep spiritual connections with others and with God. We parted reluctantly but determined to use our new skills in our communities. n Wynne Edwards and Alice Sears are members of Rio Terrace Community Moravian Church in Edmonton, Alberta.

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MORAVIANS IN MISSION

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Travels to Jamaica enhance love and fellowship

ow do we facilitate mission in the 21st century? It starts with eager interest.

One day friends Sallie Greenfield of the Southern Province and the Rev. Dr. Chris Nelson, retired director of Moravian Seminary advancement, were talking about how neither had been to Jamaica. Chris turned to the most knowledgable Moravian of Jamaican origin she knew, Rt. Rev. C. Hopeton Clennon and asked if he would be interested in helping put a trip together. He immediately said, “You have made my day!”

Jamaican hosts offered American visitors a variety of 14 different breads during a mission trip this year.

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Under Bishop Clennon’s guidance eight missioners went on a 7-day tour of Jamaica with a goal to “strengthen mutual awareness and facilitate partnership in the mission of our Lord. The hope is that these cross-cultural face-to-face experiences will enhance the love and fellowship we value in the worldwide Moravian Unity.” New relationships were formed as Northern Province members Hank and Karen Naisby and Chris Nelson joined with Southern Province members Sallie Greenfield, Jim and Roberta Pettit, Barbara Strauss and Sarah Jennings.

Landing in Montego Bay, then driving along the north coast on a beautifully smooth highway, we made our way to Kingston, the capital of Jamaica. After an early Rotary meeting where Hopeton and Chris enjoyed local hospitality and the induction of three new young professional women into International Rotary, the group was off to King’s House, the official residence and office of his Excellency the Governor-General. His wife, Lady Allen, warmly shared island history and religious experiences. Rev. Phyllis Smith-Seymour, President of the Jamaica PEC, joined us, describing the Moravians early arrival on the Island in 1754. Moravian mission work focused on the southwestern region of the island. Reminiscent of the American experience, Jamaican indigenous populations suffered greatly after European entry due to forced labor on the plantations and disease.

Next, Rev. Neilson Waithe, Moravian Warden and Tutor of the United Theological College of the West Indies, introduced The Moravian

us to their model of ecumenism where ministerial candidates of Anglican, Moravian, United Church, Baptist, Lutheran and Methodist Church of the Caribbean receive training together. 100 students live in “cottages” with a beautiful view of the Blue Mountains.

Gifts were donated for their library. Moravian seminarians Judy Winspeare-Philip and Barnabas Nyirenda joined us for lunch. Judy seeks to return to her native Antigua and pastor a rural church; Barnabas will build on his family’s musical ministry by serving in local churches.

Three reproductions of historic drawings of Moravian Jamaican churches produced by the Moravian Archives were delivered to the Institute of Jamaica, the most significant cultural, artistic and scientific organization in the country. With great enthusiasm their staff thanked us, sharing a most insightful tour of their botany and music departments. We barely kept Barbara from banging the bongos!

Meal times were always times of great fellowship as members of various district churches, Moravian institutions and friends joined us for conversation while feasting on June/July 2019

delicious jerk chicken and pork, fish, yam, plantain, fruit, ackee, bammy, rice and peas. Surry District in Kingston overwhelmed us with their joking and laughter; Eastern District presented a unique House of Bread display and presentations on music, education and youth, which culminated in a spirit-filled time of deep fellowship as we fed each other from 14 different breads; Western District gathered at a beautiful home in Robin’s River where three women and I entered into a wonderful discussion about women’s small-group ministry as transformational in our lives; and Central District, meeting at Bethlehem Moravian College, shared local concerns and joys along with a session about logwood by Bishop Devon Anglin.

Jamaica exemplifies the Moravian theme of education for all children with the churches establishing high quality schools. We vis(Continued on next page)

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Jamaica

(Continued from previous page)

ited and brought supplies to many including Morris Knibb Preparatory School in Kingston where the principal decorates the bathrooms with superheroes to encourage superior student behavior.

Exterior walls of Lititz Primary School in St. Elizabeth and Salem Primary & Junior High School in Westmoreland were covered with maps of the Caribbean and the world. The students, so eager to greet us, gathered around each one of us, touching Sarah’s hair, listening to Roberta’s questions, the boys playing cat and mouse with Jim. A bunch piled into our van despite Hank’s best efforts to draw them out, as they wanted to go with us.

Holly Hill Primary and Infant School put on wonderful Maypole and native dance exhibitions, expressing their work of unity of peoples within Jamaica and around the world. Our hopes for the future of the church and world were refreshed through the wonder of these children and their enthusiastic hospitality.

Our visits to churches were so comfortable as we entered sanctuaries with familiar names and beautiful architecture: Covenant, Mizpah, Zorn, New Beulah, Lititz, New Hope, 20

Salem, Beaufort. The Jamaica-U.S. connection was celebrated via the 80th birthday party of Sister Miriam Barnes, matriarch of Moravia Moravian Church in Jamaica and elder at John Hus Moravian in Brooklyn, N.Y. Rev. Dr. Michael Johnson and 20 members of John Hus joined in the celebration of a life well lived! Sister Miriam continues to serve as an inspiration for Moravians everywhere.

Plans are in the making for her 90th birthday celebration in 2029!

Important partnerships continue, such as at Camp Hope in Westmoreland, where a campaign to provide new bunk beds and mattresses is underway, and a group of Moravian College (U.S.) students led by Bishop Clennon continue the tradition of spring-break work camp.

Other potential new collaborations are being explored. An offer to attend the upcoming Women’s Conference in WinstonSalem was given and accepted by the PEC president and a seminarian to continue the growing friendships! Bishop Stanley Clark led a discussion on Unitas, the service agency of the Jamaican Province. Moravians inherit church lands that are not being fully utilized.

They are looking for partners to work with them to develop projects that benefit local The Moravian

communities. Currently underway are roadside computer centers, anger management training for schools, water collection projects, greenhouse sustainable farming, and bee keeping undertakings. Members of our troupe are dreaming of ways to work together, possibly even drawing in local Rotary Clubs or Sallie’s thought of bringing Cubans and Jamaicans together so that each can benefit from the others experience. These wonderful models need to be shared and grow!

Our awareness about the Jamaican church, people and country grew tremendously. Our sisters and brothers are faith-

filled, strong and extraordinarily hospitable.

Mother Teresa’s words came to me as this adventure came to a close: “We can do no great things…only small things with great love.” Our cross-cultural face-to-face experiences did generate love and renewed determination to work together! Interested? Join us by contacting any of us as we keep growing the love! n Article and photos by the Rev. Dr. Chris Nelson, retired director of advancement, Moravian College and Moravian Theological Seminary.

Unity Women’s Desk: global change through scholarships

H

ow can we change the world? Help a young girl reach her educational goals!

One of the greatest joys of working with the Unity Women’s Desk of the Moravian Church is providing scholarships to young girls and women in all four regions of the Moravian Uni-

ty. On her recent trip to Jamaica, Sallie Greenfield was thrilled to personally meet three of our 2018-19 scholarship recipients from the Eastern District of Jamaica and recognize their achievements with a certificate.

Abigail McKensie is the first recipient of a new UWD Nursing Scholarship. Abigail, a (Continued on next page)

Sallie Greenfield (2nd from left) presents scholarships to students in Jamaica.

June/July 2019

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Women’s Desk

How does educating women impact the world?

(Continued from previous page)

member of the Lititz Congregation in Jamaica, is in her second year of studies at the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies.

Abigail looks forward to using her degree to “encourage and empower girls and young women.” As a midwife or general practitioner, she can be a positive role model “to guide them in the right path and encourage them to make the right decisions.”

Jheanelle Harvey, from New Beulah Congregation in Jamaica, received a scholarship for Upper Sixth Form in Secondary School, where she is focusing on Electrical Engineering. Jheanelle is a dedicated choir member as well, and traveled to South Africa where her choir won a silver award in the World Festival of Choirs. After completing secondary school, she hopes to attend college in Canada. Her motto: “Keep pushing; the sky is the limit.”

Sallie also presented a scholarship award to Kaylia Green, in Form Two, who is involved in Upward and Onward girls’ group in the Moravian Church, as well as the French, Spanish and music clubs. We have also recently awarded a scholarship for Merna Solomon of Antigua to study law at the University of the West Indies.

Please pray for each of these young women as they continue their studies! The Unity Women’s Desk is currently supporting more than 75 scholarship recipients in all 4 regions of the Unity. In many areas of the Moravian Unity, $50-

❖❖ If all women completed primary education, there would be 15% fewer child deaths worldwide. ❖❖ A child born to a literate mother is 50% more likely to survive past age 5. ❖❖ If all girls had a secondary education, 60% fewer girls under 17 would become pregnant.

Statistics from womenone.org

$100 allows a girl to attend school for one year.

Once a girl or woman is awarded a scholarship, our goal is to support them annually until she graduates, as long as she is making good progress. Our scholarships are funded by generous Moravians.

A dedicated network of Moravian women volunteer as Provincial Coordinators in all of our provinces. They help identify promising girls and women and help them complete the application process. Recipients are selected by members of our Advisory Board (currently from Tanzania, Germany, USA and Suriname) after consultation with a volunteer education committee.

If you would like to help us with our scholarship program or other programs, please contact Coordinator Julie Tomberlin, unitywomen2011@gmail.com. You can also learn more on our website: www.unitywomensdesk.org n

In our next issue...

• Going home: St. Philips Moravian returns to their original sanctuary • A bi-vocational ministry: balancing pastoring and a second career 22

• A youthful gathering: reflections from the 2019 Moravian Youth Convo • And more!

The Moravian

Environmental activist Caroline Armijo tosses a lilly into Dan River as a symbol of restoration. Photo by Meredith Branscome.

IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Up from the ashes: faith grows from activism

W

hen a leaking, massive coal ash retaining pond in Eden, N.C., burst in 2014, discharging roughly 39,000 tons of ash and 27 million gallons of wastewater from a nearby coal-fired Duke Energy power plant into the Dan River, environmental advocate, Caroline Armijo, answered the call to action. And in doing so, Caroline discovered a connection to the Moravian Church that guided her efforts.

Coal ash is not officially considered a hazardous material, but it contains elements of arsenic, selenium, hexavalent chromium and other chemicals that threaten health and water quality. Many of the communities that line the river are small, and politically powerless.

June/July 2019

To Caroline, the spill was crushing— not only environmentally, but personally. Although she’d recently moved back to North Carolina from Washington, D.C. with her family, she had grown up in Germanton, just a few miles from Winston-Salem. Acting on her affinity for the area, Armijo joined two environmental groups who were working to give the citizens a voice, and call for a permanent coal ash solution. But for Armijo, who is also a mixed-media artist, advocacy took a personal and creative turn.

In 2017, she applied for a $350,000 federal grant from ArtPlace America to use coal ash in making a public art display near the controversial Belews Creek power plant.

(Continued on next page) 23

Ashes

(Continued from previous page)

The artwork would depict lilies and would honor composer-arranger Jester Hairston, who created the music for the 1963 Sidney Poitier movie “Lilies of the Field.” Hairston was born in Belews Creek. The decorative lilies would be made of encapsulated coal ash, rendered harmless.

Caroline won the grant and began the project. She didn’t realize that, along the way, she would find connection after disparate connection, like unraveled threads coming back together, that would link issues of social justice, Moravian history and personal experience and ultimately spark her own faith resurgence.

“The Moravians used lilies all the time on pottery,” Caroline says. “They’re a symbol of restoration. That’s what I hoped this project would help spark in the Belews Creek area.

“The Moravian spirit is here,” she continues. “I feel like I’m being led, and it does deepen my faith, because of all these connections. I see God all over this project.”

Caroline is a descendent of Bethabara brick mason and master builder Johann Gottlob Krause, whose trademark oversized bricks and Flemish bond bricklaying style adorn most of the buildings in Old Salem, many of which he built.

While Caroline knew of this connection, she didn’t know much about the Moravian church until she moved to Greensboro and began visiting First Moravian Church. There, she was struck by the liturgy, with its calls for social justice and emphasis on God’s love.

“It’s very radical, with all the references to justice for the disenfranchised,” she says.

“I thought immediately about Belews Creek, Walnut Cove and all the small communities along the river whose health is threatened by high levels of coal ash. I looked around

Caroline Amijo and her five-year-old son Oliver share paintings at elementary school art night.

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The Moravian

Johann Krause, an ancestor of Caroline’s, was a brickmaker who helped supply much of Salem in the 1700s.

at the congregation during the liturgy and I thought, ‘They don’t get how unique this is.

This is amazing.’”

The liturgy’s frequent mention of the Holy Spirit as an active, intentional presence also moved her.

“You don’t hear this in just any church,” says Caroline. “Other churches I’ve been a member of may mention the Holy Spirit as something that may possibly be involved. In the Moravian church, it’s a present entity. I feel that spirit guiding me with this project because one thing ties to another in a way that I’d never have foreseen. I don’t completely understand it yet, honestly.”

And then, there’s Oliver.

Johann Krause owned a slave, christened Peter Oliver. Oliver, a master potter, lived, worked and worshiped with the family, eventually owning his own farm in the area of the Winston-Salem Kaleidium children’s museum. At a family Christmas gathering, Caroline, then pregnant with her son, was June/July 2019

looking through names when her uncle suggested “Oliver.”

“Oliver was not on my list, but when my uncle said, ‘What about Oliver?’ the baby kicked me really hard,” she says. “I had great-uncles whose middle names were Oliver, but I never felt that connection. When I heard about Peter Oliver, I thought, ‘That’s it.’ Is Oliver named after Peter Oliver? Maybe.

There’s definitely a connection.

“Maybe it’s my Moravian DNA, but I try to journal every day, and I try to envision what a coal ash cleanup looks like, what giving a voice to these politically powerless communities so close to the river would be like,” she says. “The Moravians were very justice-oriented, very creative in their love of art, planning, documentation. And I do feel like heavenly spirits are guiding me now in a way, through Peter Oliver, Johann Krause.

These stories want to be told, and they’re important.”

Caroline marked the fifth anniversary of the spill, February 2, by holding a Day of Prayer beside the river. Some members of the arts fund were skeptical of her choice, saying that only people would ‘only be interested if they were religious.’ But to Caroline, the need for bringing faith into action was clear.

“We have a God-sized problem, and we need a God-sized solution,” she says. “We need to clean the ash up, not cover it up. We need justice for the voiceless. I believe that we can break the cycle of atrocities on this land. That’s where the faith comes in.” n Lydian Bernhardt Averitt is a freelance writer and a member of First Moravian Church, Greensboro, N.C. Reach her at lydianbernhardt@gmail.com.

Find out more about The Lilies Project online at www.theliliesproject.org.

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MORAVIAN WRITINGS

“...you are worried and distracted by many things...”

Messages on Luke 10:38-42 Each week, Moravians across the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean share a common message through their Sunday bulletins.

What We Need Most

David Geyer, pastor, College Hill Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania • July 21, 2019

In Jesus’ encounter with the two sisters in Luke 10:38–42, it’s easy to sympathize with Martha, isn’t it? When Jesus accepts her dinner invitation, we picture Martha working like crazy. We see her setting the fine china, slaving in the kitchen, lighting the dinner candles. But while Martha runs back and forth, sister Mary just sits there, listening intently to Jesus, not lifting a finger to help. Is it any wonder Martha feels frustrated?

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This month, we share writings based on Luke 10:38-42. This Bible text is for Proper 11 in Lectionary Cycle C of the Revised Common Lectionary used by the Moravian Church.

But when Martha asks Jesus to call Mary to task, he comes to Mary’s defense instead, saying “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”

Poor Martha! By opening her home to Jesus—doing her Martha Stewart best to get every detail just right—isn’t she simply serving Jesus? Aren’t we all called to serve Jesus?

Isn’t this a basic component of Christian discipleship, using our gifts and talents to serve our Lord?

Dedicated service is an important part of The Moravian

following Jesus. But here Jesus seems to suggest that it’s not the first priority. Even more than Jesus wants our service, Jesus wants our friendship. He wants time with us—time when we give him our undistracted attention, our listening ear, our open heart, our honest selves. This is the “better” part . . . the part we need most. Even more than our deeds, Jesus wants us.

When did you last take time just to “be” with Jesus? When did you last step away from life’s busyness and distractions, and offer Jesus the gift of your undivided attention, your fully present self? Do you have such times factored into your daily routine, your weekly schedule? Are they a priority?

Serving Jesus is important! But may our service for Jesus never distract us from spending time with Jesus. This, according to Jesus, is the “better part” . . . what we need most.

Mary and Martha

After all, she is only trying to take care of the many preparations for their honored guest.

Certainly this is a worthy cause! But Jesus points out to her that she is “worried and upset about many things.” She is “distracted.”

And the thing she is distracted from is the best thing— undivided attention to Jesus.

Perhaps what Jesus is trying to get across to Martha can be summed up in the old saying, “The good is often the enemy of the best.” In other words, there may be many causes clamoring for our time and energy— (Continued on next page)

Luke 10:38-42 New Revised Standard Version Jesus visits Martha and Mary Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named

Peggy Carter, Good Shepherd Moravian Church, Kernersville, N.C. • July 23, 1995

Martha welcomed him into her home. She

“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?”

How often have we read these words and felt Martha’s resentment? Like her, we are overloaded with schedules, projects and deadlines. The demands of family, job, church and community threaten to overwhelm us, and we cry out for help.

But Jesus’ answer takes us by surprise.

Instead of chastising Mary for not helping, he praises her for having chosen “what is better.” What are we to make of this, when Martha seems so clearly in the right?

If we read closely, we see that Jesus isn’t chastising Martha for doing wrong things.

Lord’s feet and listened to what he was

June/July 2019

had a sister named Mary, who sat at the saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”

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Luke 10:38-42 (Continued from previous page all of them worthy and just. But if we become so consumed by them—so distracted—that we neglect the one best thing, spending time each day sitting “at the Lord’s feet listening” to what he said, then we have allowed those worthy causes to become our enemies.

The text tells us that Martha “opened her home to him.” She invited Jesus in. But then she was to pay attention to him. Have we done the same?

Check the Attitude

Donna Hurt, Director of Christian Education, Grace Moravian Church, Mount Airy, N.C. • July 18, 2004

Martha and Mary were sisters, so possibly they looked alike—but they certainly did not share similar temperaments. They had different personalities; no problem. The challenge was to be loving and tolerant within those differences.

When Jesus arrived for a visit and probably a meal, both Martha (the conscientious planner) and Mary (the intuitive thinker) were excited. Martha had done everything imaginable to provide the best hospitality, yet

she was still “distracted by her many tasks.”

Mary, on the other hand, was totally reveling in the presence of Jesus, absorbing his every word. When Martha could stand it no longer, she basically caused a scene. Hoping that Jesus would suggest that Mary get up and help, she heard him say instead that Mary had “chosen the better part.” Martha had exhausted all her energy to be sure that Jesus’ visit was perfect, yet he had gently corrected her. Why? Not for a moment should we assume that Jesus was ungrateful for Martha’s careful preparation toward his comfort. Not for a moment should we assume that Jesus valued intuitive thinkers over conscientious planners. No, Jesus was not as concerned about what Martha was doing as about what she was feeling. Jesus loved Martha, but he noticed some dangerous attitudes at the root of her emotional explosion, and he knew these would function within her like spiritual poisons.

When Jesus considered Martha’s behavior, he recognized the attitudes of resentment and narrow-mindedness. Because of resentment, Martha was being cut off, not only from her sister, but also from her Lord. Because of narrow-mindedness, Martha was blind to the miracle of uniqueness, unable to see in any

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The Moravian

way to receive the Master but her own. If you are one of the many conscientious planners like Martha, good for you. Just be careful to keep those dangerous attitudes of indignation and intolerance at a safe distance—in fact, completely out of sight.

keep her at a distance. Jesus reminds her, “Martha, Martha, I am your guest, I am here.

Join Mary and come sit down. Lay down your anxious burdens, and find the rest I give you.

Come and be with me, while I am with you.”

May we all join Jesus like Mary, for with him by our side we have everything we need.

The one thing needful Lisa Mullen, Moravian pastor Winston-Salem, N.C. • July 21, 2013

My husband calls them the “let them alone” stories: stories where someone is having an honest, faithful encounter with Jesus and others are standing between them and their Savior. Blind Bartimaeus shouts, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Others in the crowd sternly tell him to quit shouting. Children want to be near him, and Jesus tells his disciples, “Leave them alone, and do not hinder them. Let the little children come to me.”

There are many ardent, mercy-seeking followers willing to climb trees, be lowered through roofs, and even move into a crowd when they are unclean. They love Jesus with all their heart. Jesus always addresses them face to face, and loves them back.

In today’s Gospel, at their home in Bethany Mary’s sister Martha joins the chorus of those who might chastise someone for breaking the code of conduct—this time for not helping in the kitchen. Many people who read this story feel as if Martha is getting a bad rap. They say they feel sorry for her. But this is not a story about how we serve, about practical ways versus spiritual ways. It has more to do with how we are present to Jesus.

Mary seeks the Lord with her whole heart and so he has chosen the one thing needful—the better portion.

However, Martha’s worry and distraction June/July 2019

moravian

day of september 15, 2019

Moravians from across U.S. and Canada focused on mission in their communities… all on the same day!

September 15, 2019 For more information on getting your congregation involved, visit www.moravian.org/dayofservice/ 29

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS NORTHERN PROVINCE Maple Grove, Minnesota Brother Jonathan Lee, a pastor with the United Methodist Church, has accepted an appointment to serve as pastor for Christ’s Community Moravian Church, Maple Grove, Minnesota. Brother Lee will begin this new work July 1, 2019.

Tuscarawas County, Ohio Brother David Geyer, who has been serving as pastor for College Hill Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has accepted the call to serve as pastor of the yoked ministry consisting of John Heckewelder Memorial Moravian Church, Gnadenhutten, Ohio; Fry’s Valley Moravian Church, New Philadelphia, Ohio; and First Moravian Church, Uhrichsville, Ohio. Brother Geyer will begin his new work in September 2019.

Northern Province Brother Darryl Bell, who has been serving under appointment as part-time Interim Church Planters’ Resource Advisor, concluded his work June 16, 2019.

Presbyterial Consecration Brother Jay Petrella, presently serving as pastor of MorningStar Moravian Church, Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, will be consecrated a presbyter of the Moravian Church on July 20, 2019. Bishop M. Blair Couch will officiate at the service, which will be held at MorningStar Moravian Church.

Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference 30

Obituary: Mrs. Larry Lindenmuth Sister Grace (Jackson) Lindenmuth died in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, May 20, 2019 at the age of 88. She was born April 27, 1931 at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a daughter of G. Wilbur and Myrtle (Free) Jackson.

Sister Lindenmuth was united in marriage to Brother Larry Lindenmuth on March 24, 1956 at West Side Moravian Church, Bethlehem , Pennsylvania. She served alongside her husband in pastorates in New York (New Hartford, Great Kills) and Pennsylvania (Newfoundland, York, Lititz, Easton).

Son, Philip; daughter, Polly; three grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren survive Sister Lindenmuth. She was predeceased by her husband, Larry, on July 1, 1998.

Graveside services were held May 23, 2019 at Nisky Hill Cemetery, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania with the Rev. Christine Johnson officiating. Memorials were gratefully received for West Side Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Ad Policy for The Moravian — The Moravian accepts paid advertising that is consistent with the magazine’s objectives and editorial convictions as they are stated in the purpose and mission of the Interprovincial Board of Communication. Advertisements for activities, services and products of specific interest to members of the Moravian Church have priority. The Moravian does not accept purely editorial advertisements that advocate specific ideas or issues. Articles, columns and letters to the editor are the appropriate vehicles for the presentation of ideas and issues. The Interprovincial Board of Communication is responsible for the content and design of the magazine, including advertisements. Ad rates and specifications are available www.moravian.org.

The Moravian

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We help congregations sustain and grow ministry with time, talent, treasure, & testimony.

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www.mmfa.info 119 Brookstown Avenue, Suite 305 Winston-Salem, NC 27101 888-722-7923 June/July 2019

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Periodicals Postmaster please send address changes to: The Moravian, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018

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June/July 2019