Moravian Magazine, May 2018

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In this issue: Moravian Camping Ministries Southern Province Synod Two new bishops ...and more!

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MAY

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Music & Fellowship Learning & Sharing

Practicing & Playing July 19—22, 2018

Wait Chapel, Wake Forest University Brass Ensemble Concert/Service, 4:00pm, Sun., July 22

Be part of an enormous brass choir made up of musicians from both provinces, Germany, South Africa, Labrador, and more, with lots of great music, new arrangements for players at all levels.

Register online or by mail.

unitybrass.moravianmusicfestival.org 336-725-0651

Help us grant Larger Life to Moravian ministries.

The Larger Life Foundation is a permanent endowment fund that has provided “larger life” to the ministries of the Moravian Church Northern Province since 1920. Foundation grants and loans support churches, retirement homes, camps, education and social welfare programs, ministerial training, administrative support and church expansion. More than $5 million has been distributed in the last 10 years alone.

The Foundation relies exclusively on gifts and bequests from people like you. Your support directly touches many lives and offers new visions for the Moravian Church.

Visit www.largerlifefoundation.org or call 610.867.7566, ext. 17 to make a difference in the life of our church.

Larger Life Foundation

MORAVIAN CHURCH NORTHERN PROVINCE

Help for Today. Building for Tomorrow.

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The Moravian

On the cover: Tom Shelton congratulates Carol Foltz on her election as bishop at the Southern Province Synod in April. Photo by Mike Riess

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18 Moravian Synods Christ and him crucified remain our confession of faith

5 Northern Province Synod prepares to gather, grow and go

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

15 Southern Province elects two new bishops

7 Southern Province Synod charts courageous path forward 16 Southern Province approves full communion with United Methodist Church 17 Southern Province elects new leadership

Moravian Camping Ministries 18 Laurel Ridge: A season of growing and learning 20 Doing Mission at Camp Hope 22 Crossroads: Traveling the Journey of Faith 23 Summer at Camp Van Es/Moravian Camping in Mid-States Create

in Me

24 Worship is like gardening 26 Poetry as a source of liturgyIn

Our Congregations

In Every Issue 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.

May 2018

4 Ponderings: 30 Official Provincial Elders’ News Ad Policy for The Moravian — The Moravian accepts paid advertising that is consistent with the magazine’s objectives and editorial convictions as they are stated in the purpose and mission of the Interprovincial Board of Communication.

Advertisements for activities, services and products of specific interest to members of the Moravian Church have priority.

The Moravian does not accept purely editorial advertisements that advocate specific ideas or issues. Articles, columns and letters to the editor are the appropriate vehicles for the presentation of ideas and issues. The Interprovincial Board of Communication is responsible for the content and design of the magazine, including advertisements. Ad rates and specifications are available www.moravian.org.

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PONDERINGS

(ISSN 1041-0961 USPS 362600) May 2018, Vol. 49, 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

Living in my “intersynodal period”

Official Journal, The Moravian Church in North America, Northern and Southern Provinces

One of the things I love about my work is learning—and using—new words. Before joining the IBOC, I had never used words like “hymnody” or “Lovefeast” or even “Interprovincial.” My word for today? “Intersynodal.”

It’s a term used to describe the time between major provincial synods, which in the Moravian Church happen every four years. Right now, I’m in my own intersynodal period—the time between the Southern and Northern Province Synods of 2018.

I’m fortunate that the interprovincial nature of my work requires me to attend and cover all synods. Just a few weeks ago, I was among more than 230 Southern Province Moravians in Black Mountain, N.C., (a ten-hour drive) and in just a few weeks from now, I’ll be with nearly 260 Northern Province Moravians at Moravian College in Bethlehem (a mere ten-minute walk). Regardless of the distance, provincial synods continue to be high points for this job.

With each synod I cover, I come away with a greater appreciation for how we govern and the strong commitment of our members to the future of the church, along with a powerful sense that the Holy Spirit is at work in our discernment and deliberations.

My experience with at the 2018 Southern Province Synod in April was no exception. I saw the election of two bishops, the confirmation of a full communion agreement with the United Methodist Church, and the discussion, debate and passage of more than 20 different resolutions. I heard a broad range of opinions about what we believe, how we see our church, and what we think is our best course forward. I also experienced meaningful worship, great conversations, beautiful music, and the opportunity to photograph the workings of the church.

During my brief “intersynodal period,” I can look back on one powerful experience and look forward to yet another one. In this issue of The Moravian, we offer a recap of the events and work of the Southern Province Synod, along with a brief preview of what’s to come when the Northern Province gets its turn.

Thanks to our provincial synods, in the span of two months, I’ll have come into contact with hundreds of my brothers and sisters, all focused on making the best decisions for our church. These synods also gives me a chance to use words like “courageous,” “blessed,” “committed,” “discerning,” and “hopeful for the future.”

As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions.

Peace,

Published monthly, except bimonthly January-February and June/July issues, by the Interprovincial Board of Communication, 1021 Center St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

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

Individual copies available for $3.00 each.

The Moravian is sent to the families of the Moravian Church as a privilege of membership. Periodicals postage paid at Bethlehem, PA. Circulation: 17,000 Postmaster please send address changes to The Moravian, PO Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245.

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

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

Design by Michael Riess, IBOC. 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 © 2018, Interprovincial Board of Communications, Moravian Church in America.

All rights reserved

PS—Thanks to Andrew David Cox for the photo above: an impromptu jam sesson with Revs. Adam Goodrich, Zach Dease, John G. Rights, Sam Gray and me during a Southern Province Synod break.

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The Moravian

MORAVIAN SYNODS

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Northern Province Synod prepares to gather, grow and go

very four years, Moravians from each North American Province gather to “do the business of the church”—to decide, legislate, make policy, discuss doctrine, and chart the way forward for the next four years. In April, Southern Province Moravians convened in Black Mountain, N.C. for their Synod (see stories beginning on page 7).

Now it’s the Northern Province’s turn. In June, more than 260 delegates from across the Northern Province will meet in Bethlehem, Pa., to discern and make decisions on a wide range of topics facing the church today. The 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church in America, Northern Province, will be held June 21-24 at Moravian College.

The 2018 Northern Province Synod follows the theme “Gather… Grow… Go!” “We will gather humbly to discern God’s leading and acknowledge our place in God’s world; grow in our faith and relationships with God and each other, and our understanding of God’s call in our common life; and then go to live out the mission of our church,” says Betsy Miller, president of the Provincial Elders’ Conference (PEC) of the Northern Province.

Governing body of the Church In the governance of the Moravian Church, Northern Province, the every-four-year-Synod is the “highest judicatory in the Province with supreme legislative powers in all matters not committed to by the Unity Synod.” In other words, Synod is where the key decisions about the Northern Province are made.

May 2018

“Synod helps us discover God’s leading for the church,” says Betsy. “Our time together gives God an opportunity to speak to us and through us, and for us to listen to God and one another in discerning the future direction of the church.”

Congregational church councils elect delegates to Synod; each congregation can send one lay member for every 250 confirmed communicant members (or fraction thereof). All Northern Province clergy under call or appointment are named delegates, as are members of the PEC and the Eastern, Western and Canadian District Executive Boards. Six retired pastors are elected as delegates from the more than 60 eligible. Two youth delegates selected from each district also attend.

Unlike delegates to a government legislative session, however, Synod delegates are not given a mandate to vote a certain way or “represent” the views of their congregation. All delegates should be open to how the Holy Spirit guides them and not be beholden to opinions coming in to Synod.

Major topics at Synod The 2018 Synod will feature discussion and decisions on a broad range of topics. One of the central areas of discussion will be the Province’s ongoing Identity, Purpose and Organization (IPO) work.

Based on resolutions to the 2010 and 2014 Synods to study the structure of the Northern Province and develop new ways of administering the work of the

(Continued on next page) 5

Northern Province (Continued from previous page) province, several teams have researched and discerned who we are as a church, what we’re here to do, and how we will organize ourselves to do it.

During the 2018 Synod, delegates will review and evaluate proposals that envision a new structure for the Province. The proposed changes, which were shared with Synod delegates in presynod meetings throughout 2017, are designed to change how the Province and its districts work together, with greater collaboration, streamlined decision making, better resource sharing and an expansion of the ability to envision—and implement—a solid future for the church. “Our proposal seeks to leverage provincial unity while maintaining regional identity,” said Miller.

Additional topics for the Northern Province Synod include changes to the provincial pension program; a full communion relationship with the United Methodist Church; clergy care; spiritual companioning; healthy congregations; part-time clergy; lay leadership and more.

Along with addressing topics of concern to the church, a key duty of Synod is to elect church leadership for the coming four years. The Provincial Synod elects the Provincial Elders’ Conference and its president, along with representatives to boards of Northern Province agencies and interprovincial entities. It is also possible for Synod to elect bishops.

How Synod works Synod actions originate in a variety of ways. Sometimes a single individual who feels strongly about an issue prepares a proposal for Synod consideration.

Sometimes a congregational board or a district or provincial committee prepares a proposal or requests that Synod acts. Sometimes a Synod com6

mittee itself, after discussing issues that members place on its agenda, proposes action for Synod to consider.

To help address all of these issues, each delegate to Synod will be working within one of 13 committees. Synod committees give in-depth consideration to areas of special concern to the larger church in a setting that allows for prayer and seeking God’s direction and blessing in their area of focus on behalf of the larger Province.

However a proposal originates, at Synod it is referred to the appropriate committee for consideration. The committee discusses the proposal, edits it to its liking, and votes on whether to submit it to the whole Synod as a committee report. The report is debated, perhaps amended, and ultimately approved or defeated by a vote of the Synod. If approved by the entire Synod, it becomes a Synod directive, to be carried out as the report itself states.

A time of fellowship, worship and fun While delegates to Synod should expect long days and hard work—after all, Synod is a time to do the work of the Province—they can also expect to have a fun, faith-filled experience and great fellowship.

Synod brings together Moravians from many parts of the U.S. and Canada. Delegates get to meet new people and renew old friendships. Each day of Synod includes spirited (and spiritual) worship and music. Activities and meals offer opportunities to relax, learn and celebrate being Moravian. There’s a sense of common purpose, where everything one does during their time at Synod is to guide the Northern Province to live faithfully into the future. n The Moravian Magazine will cover the 2018 Northern Province Synod, scheduled for June 2125, 2018 at Moravian College in Bethlehem.

The Moravian

MORAVIAN SYNODS

Southern Province Synod charts courageous path forward

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The Rev. David Guthrie addresses the 2018 Southern Province Synod in Black Mountain, N.C.

n April, more than 230 delegates to the 2018 Southern Province Synod developed, discussed, debated and passed more than 20 resolutions that will guide the core of the Province over the next four years.

Synod is the highest governing body within the polity of the Moravian Church Southern Province.

These every-four-year gatherings bring together clergy and lay leadership from all congregations, along with representatives from key agencies and ministries within the provinces. Delegates are tasked with discerning the future direction for the church and making key decisions on issues and initiatives brought before Synod.

Over the four days, delegates reviewed dozens of proposals from working groups across the Province on a wide range of topics. Some proposals represented central issues facing the church; others dealt with the church’s Constitution and Book of Order. Still others focused on provincial organization or new initiatives designed to enhance the operations of the Province. And some proposals sought to declare church positions on topics like immigration, gun safety, prison ministry, world missions and more.

In addition to reviewing and passing resolutions, Synod delegates elected two bishops, members of the Provincial Elders’ Conference and trustees for many of the boards leading church ministries.

What follows is a summary of the final resolutions passed during the 2018 Southern Province Synod. Additional information about many of these initiatives will be shared by the Provincial Elders’ Conference in coming months.

(Continued on next page)

May 2018

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Southern Province (Continued from previous page)

Major legislation

Full Communion between the United Methodist Church and Moravian Church, Southern Province—Synod delegates affirmed a full communion relationship with the United Methodist Church (UMC). This relationship includes recognizing the gifts of each church; respecting each other as part of the one holy catholic and apostolic church; cooperating in evangelism, witness and service; mutual recognition of baptism (membership) and ordination, allowing for transfer of membership; and continued work for the unity of the church.

This agreement was developed over several years and was approved by the UMC General Conference in 2016. It will be brought before the Northern Province Synod in June for consideration. The Moravian Church Southern Province is now in full communion with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Episcopal Church, the Presbyterian Church USA and the United Methodist Church. For more on this full communion agreement, see the story on page 16. (Resolution 1) Affirming the Essentials—In an effort to more clearly define and articulate the central tenets of our church, Synod affirmed the ancient Moravian understanding of the essentials of our faith: God creates, God redeems, and God

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“...Then there were the big things: a sense of community, that we were brothers and sisters in Christ, and we were greeted that way. There was evidence of the Holy Spirit’s guidance as we reached consensus on hard issues. ‘And in all things love…’ was shown to our brothers and sisters, even those with whom we disagreed.”

—Judy Albert, Mizpah Moravian Church

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Hannah Jackson and Hazel Hooker sing during Synod worship.

makes us holy; and we respond in Faith, Love and Hope. Synod also resolved that “Moravians in the 21st century are grounded in the living experience of faith in Christ, active love for others, and joyful hope,” and “this living relationship with Christ is born and nurtured in faith communities, in relationship with and in service to one another and the world.” The PEC was encouraged to prepare resources that enable us to study, further understand, and live out the Essentials of the Moravian Church. This Resolution will be shared with the PEC of the Northern Province for potential inclusion in their 2018 Synod. (Resolution 22) Synod also took up several resolutions that sought to allow differing opinions on controversial subjects to exist within our Moravian Unity. Further explanation and discussion on these topics will be ongoing throughout the Province.

Mutual Respect and Acceptance—In this resolution, Synod reaffirmed its stance on mutual respect and acceptance of differing opinions, resolving that “the Moravian Church, Southern Province, will recognize among its members the adherence to and expression of differing opinions related to homosexuality,” and resolved that “any person, group, congregation, agency and entity within the Southern Province retains the right to make opinions related to LGBTQ+ issues known, without fear of recrimination, provided such opinions live up to our covenant: ‘We will not hate, despise, slander or otherwise injure anyone.’ ” (Moravian Covenant for Christian Living). (Resolution 13) The Moravian

Leadership Roles and Diversity of Views —Following Resolution 13, Synod received the report of the 2014 Resolution 12 Steering Committee, accepted its conclusions and observations, and affirmed “that through this conversation process, we have learned and experienced that our unity in Christ is far greater than our differing views and understandings about homosexuality and the church, and we can be welcoming, respectful and loving toward one another in our differences.” (In the summer of 2014, the Southern Province Provincial Elder’s Conference appointed a steering committee to fulfill the mandate of the 2014 Synod’s Resolution #12, “Study and Discernment Regarding Homosexuality.” One of the legislation’s key resolved statements was “to provide leadership, resources and a process for a conversation about homosexuality

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“The high points of Synod for me were the worship sessions and the small group meetings. The worship sessions were thoroughly orchestrated and worship was intentional.

The small group meetings allowed for bonding with each other as we shared in one common discussion.”

—Evette Campbell, Palm Beach Moravian Church

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in the church that includes diverse viewpoints, and opportunities for open and honest discussion, study and discernment.”)

Based on this work, Synod passed a resolution (Resolution 14) that affirms the role of pastors and boards of elders (or church boards) in determining within the congregation “who is or is not admitted into membership or leadership, who may or may not participate in rites (confirmation, marriage) and sacraments (baptism, communion) and the purposes for which church buildings [and properties] may be used.” Synod affirmed the “freedom of conscience of pastors to decide whether or not to administer a rite or sacrament in any particular situation.” This allows congregations and pastors to May 2018

determine whether or not they will perform legal same-sex marriages in their churches.

Synod also affirmed the role of the PEC in matters related to candidacy for ordination, approving ordinations of deacons and consecration of presbyters, administering the call process, and calling and superintending the ministers of the Province.

To help maintain unity, Synod affirmed “there are differences among us in [these] matters, and we will be respectful of one another’s viewpoints, and of the roles, discernment and decision of our pastors, church boards and of the PEC.” Finally, Synod directed the PEC to develop resources and materials to assist pastors, church boards, and congregations in their dialogue, discernment and decision-making on this topic, and encouraged congregations to use the resources.

The core proposal brought to Synod was developed by Moravian pastors with differing positions who were asked by the PEC to explore whether they could come to consensus on a proposal. The proposal was amended in the Synod community committee after lengthy discussion.

Debate on the Synod floor was emotionally charged but respectful. Pastors and lay members expressed a range of opinions for more than two hours, after which the proposal was approved with a vote of 116 to 63.

The PEC is now doing additional work to clarify and explain how this resolution affects the congregations in the Province. More information will be share over the next few months.

(Continued on next page) The Rev. Aaron Linville discusses wording of a proposal with visiting Unity Board Administrator the Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler.

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“The voices of the young adult delegates and the reception received from older delegates has given me more hope and excitement for the future of the Southern Province...with Christ at the center of our faith, nothing can stand between us as we move forward together with hope for the future of the church.”

—The Rev. Victoria Lasley, Fairview Moravian Church

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Southern Province (Continued from previous page)

Provincial Structure & Organization Following the theme, “Living the Essentials with Courage for the Future,” the 2018 Synod passed several resolutions that address the future organization of the church. These resolutions call for reviewing how the Southern Province is organized and exploring structural changes for a better future.

Provincial Organization Core Team— Synod directed the PEC to form a core team by September 2018 which, with assistance, input and support from PEC and provincial agencies, will “clarify primary functions of the provincial system” to better support the mission of congregations and other groups; support and develop clergy and lay leaders, collaborative partnerships, and initiatives in the wider community and with other provinces and denominations; provide administrative support

for local communities of faith; and develop and share accessible, relevant faith-formation resources. The core team will learn about organizational models and make recommendations to the PEC by the spring 2020. The PEC will review these and propose organizational changes, and is authorized to determine whether to implement these changes during the intersynodal period. (Resolution 17) Renewing and Reimagining Faith Communities—In another resolution aimed at rethinking how the Province is organized, Synod agreed to create a new framework for congregational and ministry organization with three designations: parish communities, chapel communities and mission communities. Current congregations will determine how they fit within this framework by January 2021, with support from a team and a process selected by the PEC. Once designated, these faith communities will continuously work on development, and evaluate their future course once every two years.

In addition, the Provincial Support Services Board will revise the provincial share allocation methodology to reflect these three, new designations. Synod authorized the PEC to administer this process with flexibility regarding current criteria and definitions within the Book of Order. (Resolution 18) Provincial Share Methodology—The 2018 Synod provided a revision to methodology for determining the provincial share allocation for congregations—that is, how much congregations pay for common ministries through the Province—to include a four-tiered percentage approach (10%, 12%, 15%, 18%). This share will be based on sev-

The Rev. Zach Dease, the Rev. Dr. Nola Knouse and Laura Watson work on a proposal from the Stewardship Committee.

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Linda Kniskern, the Rev. Fran Saylor and Betsy Messick prepare communion for Synod worship.

eral factors, including: average worship attendance, Line 1 income in church budgets, relief granted in prior years, success in meeting prior provincial share allocations, and transfers from reserves to meet operating costs. The assigned percentage will remain the same during the intersynodal period. This methodology will likely change when the framework outlined in Resolution 18 is fully implemented. (Resolution 10)

Resolutions on Mission and Ministry The 2018 Synod addressed provincial missions and ministries in several resolutions.

Moravian Day of Service—In an effort to create a Southern Province-wide outreach event, this resolution calls for the Provincial Elders’ Conference (PEC) to designate a Saturday to be an annual “Moravian Day of Service” starting in the spring of 2019. On the Moravian Day of Service, individuals will serve together in congregations, regional conferences of churches and/or other groups. Along with creating the Day of Service, the PEC will commission a core group to develop the day and will provide an outline for worship for all congregations to use. Pictures and stories will be shared and communicated within the Province and beyond. (Resolution 2) Sharing Moravian Best Practices with Southern Province Families—Synod resolved that the Board of Cooperative Ministries make it possible for parents and caregivers to receive weekly resources from Loving Hearts United: A Moravian Guide for Family Living, a printed resource May 2018

for forming a spiritual bond in family, church and home published by the Interprovincial Board of Communication (IBOC). This effort is designed to provide greater access to Moravian-specific material for family use. (Resolution 5) Interprovincial Collaboration—Synod resolved that within the next year, agency heads and representatives from all provincial and interprovincial agencies, and from both PECs (Southern and Northern), will meet for a multi-day summit to develop collaborative initiatives between the Provinces. This group will report its activities at upcoming synods or intersynodal gatherings. This resolution is designed to provide more intentional cooperation, resource-sharing and efficiency with related church agencies, all to help make the most of the church’s resources. The resolution will be provided to the Northern Province PEC for consideration at the 2018 Northern Province Synod. (Resolution 3) Laurel Ridge 60th Anniversary Capital Campaign—In consultation with the PEC, the 2018 Synod affirmed the Board of Directors of Laurel Ridge’s request to conduct a capital campaign of no more than $1.5 million, the proceeds of which will be used for renovations, repairs and improvements to Higgins Lodge and the Tise Building; all financial debt obligations; and to build an endowment and maintenance reserve fund for Higgins Lodge. (Resolution 8) Southern Province Mission and Ministry Fund—Synod recognized the creation of a Mission and Ministry Fund for the Province. This fund is a permanent endowment to which individuals, (Continued on next page)

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“We were constantly reminded that, even though we have different views, we have one incredible thing in common: our love of Jesus Christ.

It was this essential, the one that Moravians speak of so often, that allowed us to move forward in unity. I certainly don’t take that for granted.”

—Eric Vernon, Calvary Moravian Church

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Synod delegates pray during the installation service for the newly-elected PEC. Photo by Andrew David Cox.

Southern Province (Continued from previous page)

groups and congregations may contribute, and will be used for sustaining pastoral leadership, mission and outreach, and congregational development and renewal. The resolution stipulated the establishment of the fund by PEC; authorized PEC to adjust details and implementation and to communicate throughout the Province about this fund; and to bring a report of any fund activity to the 2022 Synod. An oversight committee will bring to future Synods their recommendations of priority needs and opportunities for use of the fund earnings.

(Resolution 9)

Statements on social Issues Synods often address social and ministry concerns, and the 2018 Southern Province Synod addressed several.

Our Church’s Concern for Ministry in Prisons—The first considered was prison ministry. Synod commended prison ministry to all Southern Province congregations, inviting them to participate on the Sunday designated in the Province as the day of prayer for prison ministry, along with providing ongoing support to prison ministries through prayer, mission committees, fellowship fund-raising, and individual financial giving. (Resolution 11) Moravian Statement Concerning Immigration—The 2018 Synod also addressed immigration, reaffirming the church’s position of opening our church doors to share the Gospel with everyone in the community, regardless of their legal 12

status. This Synod also stated that “both as individuals and as a Christian body, our Moravian Church should stand against injustices to the marginalized and the voiceless among immigrants.” Synod recommended that congregations be aware of challenges the church faces in working with immigrants within local communities, and to support mission efforts that go and share the good news of Christ to everyone and anyone in love. (Resolution 12) Continuing the Journey of Reconciliation —Synod reaffirmed the church’s 1998 “Statement on Racism and the Church” as the official position of the Southern Province, and called the province to live what is professed in the Ground of the Unity regarding opposing discrimination. Synod supported the work of the former Moravian Team for Racial Reconciliation, renamed it the “Moravian Team for Racial, Cultural and Ethnic Reconciliation,” and requested this team develop resources, materials, experiences and programs for congregations.

Synod stipulated that congregations will report annually to the PEC how they are using the statement and these resources. In addition, PEC will initiate intentional conversation with churches and denominations with diverse racial, cultural, or eth-

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“What I did not expect to see was the Spirit at work throughout the entirety of our time together. It began with the warm sense of welcome I felt upon my arrival, continued through the election of our newest bishops, and was most apparent during the most stressful times.”

—Zach Routh, Grace Moravian Church The Moravian

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nic membership to explore cooperation in mission and service. (Resolution 19) Global Missions—Synod adopted an ecumenical statement, which was also adopted at the 2017 Unity Mission Conference, in Cape Town, South Africa: “Christian Witness in a Multi-religious World.” This will be communicated to the Board of World Mission, the Mission Society, and all our congregations, and the statement will be posted on the Province’s website. (Resolution 20) Gun Safety—Synod resolved that the province call upon the president and congress of the United States, and the governors and legislatures of the states in which we have congregations and fellowships to “enact laws banning the sale of military-style assault weapons, and requiring universal background checks for all purchases of firearms.”

Synod tasked the PEC to communicate this resolution to the national and state leaders mentioned above, by whatever means the PEC deems most effective. (Resolution 21)

Synod Governance Any changes to the Southern Province’s Constitution or Book of Order must be made at the Synod level. In 2018, Synod approved several changes dealing with elections, terms of office, and synod representation.

Election of Bishops—One important role of Synods is the election of bishops. While it is customary to elect only one bishop at a Synod, this Synod resolved to elect two bishops during the 2018 gath-

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“It was a great learning experience for not only the business side of our Synod, but also the spiritual side of my life. We not only got a lot of work done for the Southern Province, we also had powerful worship services involving some wonderful pastors and leaders from all over the Moravian Church.”

—John Nelms, Clemmons Moravian Church

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ering. The Revs. Carol Foltz and Tom Shelton were subsequently elected (see the story on page 15).

(Resolution 4) Membership Status for Election by Synod/Term of Office for the PEC President— The 2018 Synod made changes to the Constitution of the Moravian Church Southern Province codifying long-standing practices. The changes now state: “Members of the PEC and of other boards shall be elected at stated Synods from among the communicant membership or Moravian clergy serving under call of or appointment by the Southern Province,” and “Members of the PEC (with the exception of the President, who shall not be subject to term limits) and members of the various boards elected

by Synod, shall serve for one term of four years after which they may be eligible for re-election to a (Continued on next page)

Tanya Kimel, Donna Hurt and Rachel Demaris discuss edits to a proposal during a committee meeting.

May 2018

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Synod co-chairs the Rev. Ginny Tobiassen and Bob Hunter led the 2018 Southern Province Synod

Southern Province (Continued from previous page)

second term of four years, subject to a reasonable rotation of membership established by the board.”

(Resolution 6 and 7) Representation at Synod—In addition to the constitutional changes made to the election process, Synod also made changes that impact representation at future Synods. First, the Constitution was revised to add the following as voting members of Synod: director of Laurel Ridge Camp and Conference Center; executive director of the Interprovincial Board of Communication; director of the Moravian Music Foundation; president and CEO of the MoraDelegates the Rev. Dr. Neil Routh and Kobi Robinson prepare to vote on a proposal during Synod.

vian Ministries Foundation in America; and director of Sunnyside Ministry of the Moravian Church.

Second, the Constitution was revised so that congregations who do not meet the financial requirements stated in the Constitution will not have delegates seated at Synod. The PEC retains the authority to grant representation with voting privileges if it deems there are justifiable reasons to do so.

(Resolutions 15 and 16)

More work ahead A number of significant proposals adopted by Synod committees were unable to be considered and acted upon by the full Synod due to time constraints.

Synod voted to deliver these proposals to the PEC for information and possible action. These proposals deal with the call process, the stewardship of Creation, the development of potential commissions on Moravian Evangelism, music and worship and public relations, development of lay pastors, awareness of violence against women, and the vitality of spiritual growth.

During the next several months, the newly elected PEC will work to plan the implementation of the resolutions passed at Synod. All passed resolutions are now posted to the Southern Province website, www.mcsp.org.

Article based on material compiled by the Southern Province PEC, edited by Mike Riess, IBOC. Photos by Mike Riess and Andrew David Cox, Board of Cooperative Ministries. Quotes from the BCM’s Spotlight Blog; read the full comments at unitasfratrum.wordpress. com. For more photos from the Southern Province Synod, see page 29.

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The Moravian

MORAVIAN SYNODS

Southern Province elects two new bishops

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n the same day in 1978, the Revs. Carol wanted to be a preacher; I wanted to be. Thank you for Foltz and Tom Shelton graduated from letting me be. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Thank you.”

Moravian Theological Seminary. A short The 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church time later, they were ordained pastors of the MoraSouthern Province elected Carol and Tom following vian Church—again, both on the same day. And on a resolution earlier in the day that allowed for the Saturday, April 21, 2018, they both took another election of two bishops during this year’s gathering. huge step on their pastoral path–they were both They were both considered for election at the 2014 elected bishops of the Moravian Unity.

Southern Province Synod, but the decision was split Carol, currently pastor of Moravia Moravian and no bishop was elected.

Church in Oak Ridge, N.C., was elected during the Carol and Tom were classmates at Moravian morning session. Sister Foltz is the first woman electTheological Seminary and were ordained on the ed bishop by the Southern Province; she was also the same day in 1978. Carol served churches in North first woman ordained in the Southern Province.

Carolina and Virginia, and also served with the Board “I am a sinner, saved by grace,” said Carol as of Christian Education and Evangelism and as chapshe accepted her election. “I believe that the walk lain at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. She has with Christ is a walk of development, and I have served Moravia Moravian Church since 2015. Tom had the great privilege of saying to you that God has served congregations in North Carolina and Florida, been good to me. I read in the Daily Texts last week, and retired in 2013 after 29 years as pastor of Fried‘Let the Lord do to me as seems good to him.’ I berg Moravian Church in Winston-Salem. underlined it, thinking about this Synod, and I said Carol and Tom join the Rt. Rev. Sam Gray, the to myself, ‘God, let it be with me as you wish it to be.

Rt. Rev. Graham Rights, the Rt. Rev. Lane Sapp and I humbly accept this call.” the Rt. Rev. John Wilson as Moravian bishops in the Tom, a retired Moravian pastor from Volusia Southern Province.

County, Florida, was elected during the afternoon Elected by the delegates at Provincial Synods, session. Upon his election, he shared similar sentiMoravian bishops serve as “pastors to pastors” ments: “You now have elected two sinners saved by (and their families), prayer intercessors and spirigrace,” he said. tual guides to “For no one is Newly-elected bishops Tom Shelton and Carol Foltz the denominaworthy without tion and when the blood…I’m commissioned, looking forward officiate at orto another way to dinations and pastor, another consecrations. way to minister.

It is not unusual I pledge my love for the Provincial to every pastor Elders’ Conferin this room and ences to consult pledge my love to with bishops on the church in evmatters of docery way I can. Ever trine, faith and since I was five, I church order. n May 2018

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MORAVIAN SYNODS

Southern Province approves full communion with United Methodist Church

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he 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church Southern Province approved a relationship of full communion with the United Methodist Church (UMC) on Friday, April 20.

The full communion agreement, which was initially approved by the UMC at their General Conference in Portland, Ore., in May 2016, recognizes each other’s ministries, and encourages witness and mission work together. The agreement still requires approval of the Moravian Church Northern Province, which will take up the measure at its 2018 Synod in June.

The full communion agreement resulted from several years work by the Moravian-United Methodist Dialogue Team. The team was co-chaired by the Rev. Gary Harke of the Moravian Church and New England Area Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar of the UMC. Other members of the team included the Rev. Dr. M. Lynnette Delbridge and the Rt. Rev. J. Christian Giesler representing the Moravian Church (Northern and Southern Provinces), and Prof. Dr. Ulrike Schuler and the Rev. Dr. Robert Williams representing the UMC. “We are delighted that our long friendship and relationship with the United Methodist Church is now official through this agreement,” said David Guthrie, president of the Southern Province Provincial Elders’ Conference. “The heritage of our

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two churches has been woven together since each began. We also have in common being world-wide denominations. This step deepens and enriches those connections, and is just the beginning of cooperation in witness, mission and service in Christ’s name. As Moravians, ‘we welcome every step that brings us nearer the goal of unity in Him.’ (Moravian Covenant for Christian Living).”

“I feel we are at home together,” said Bishop Michael Watson, ecumenical officer for the United Methodist Church. “We are in the family of Christ, and being together in that family is simply magnificent. Methodists and Moravians have been brothers and sisters in Christ since the earliest days of the Methodist movement.

“It is so very natural for us to join with you in offering the right hand of fellowship, signifying our oneness in Jesus Christ and our desire to live with each other in peace, faith, love, hope and ministries of witness in service and worship. We seek to share together the common basic Christian beliefs and the guiding principle, ‘In essentials, unity; In nonessentials, liberty; and in all things, love.’ We hold true to that in the United Methodist Church, too.”

Bishop Devadhar, who co-chaired the dialogue with the Rev. Gary Harke of the Moravian Church, lauded the long-time connection between the two churches when the UMC approved the full comThe Moravian

munion agreement in 2016. “The Wesley brothers had a lot to learn from the Moravian brothers and sisters and I hope and pray that we will rekindle that spirit as we go forward,” he said.

At the Southern Province Synod, Bishop Devadhar added, “Thank you for endorsing and supporting our common agreement. It was such a joy to co-chair the committee and to have talked about our journey together. We praise God that this moment has taken place.”

Following his remarks, Rev. Guthrie presented Bishop Watson with a Moravian Book of Worship and a brass Moravian Star. Continuing to highlight his connection with the Moravians, Bishop Watson commented, “I also have a big white lighted star on my front porch that I got in Herrnhut!” In addition, Bishop Watson shared his ongoing experience with the Moravian Daily Texts.

To be in full communion with our United Methodist brothers and sisters means that we mutually

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In photo: The Rev. David Guthrie presents a brass Moravian Star to UMC Bishop Michael Watson as UMC Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar looks on.

Southern Province elects new leadership

elegates to the 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church, Southern Province, elected the new Provincial Elders’ Conference during sessions on Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21.

The Provincial Elders’ Conference for the Southern Province consists of three clergy and three lay people in addition to the PEC president. The PEC is elected by Synod to serve four-year terms.

The three clergy members elected to the PEC include: The Rev. Dr. Nola Knouse, executive director of the Moravian Music Foundation; the Rev. Jeff Coppage, intentional interim pastor at Fries Memorial Church; and the Rev. Judy Knopf, retired Moravian pastor from Clemmons, N.C. The three lay members elected to the PEC include: Peggy Carter, retired vice president of Forsyth Medical Center Foundation and member of Fries Memorial Moravian Church (Peggy served on the PEC from 2014-2018); Tommy Cole, former executive director of Sunnyside Ministry and a member of Home Moravian Church; and Keith Kapp, an attor-

May 2018

recognize and value the diverse gifts present in each church; respect each other as part of the body of Christ in the world today; commit each church to cooperate in common ministries of evangelism, witness and service; recognize the validity of each other’s sacramental life and ministerial orders, allowing for the transfer of membership and the orderly exchange of clergy (subject to the regulations of church order and practice of each church); and commit each church to continue to work for the visible unity of the church, recognizing that this relationship of full communion is but a step toward the unity to which we are called.

The full communion agreement will be referred to the 2018 Northern Province Synod for approval in June. Once that approval is reached, the agreement will be final. n

ney from Raleigh, N.C., and member of the Raleigh Moravian Church.

The six elected members, along with the Rev. David Guthrie, who was re-elected to a third term as PEC president during the 2018 Synod, will provide leadership of all church ministries and administer the polity of the Southern Province through the 2022 Synod. n

The Rev. Judy Knopf, the Rev. David Guthrie, the Rev. Jeff Coppage, the Rev. Nola Knouse, Tommy Cole, Peggy Carter and Keith Kapp.

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MORAVIAN CAMPING MINISTRY

Laurel Ridge: A season of growing and learning

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ummer at Laurel Ridge for 2018 will be a wonderful and action-packed season of growing and learning together!

In addition to the faith, fun and learning of the Moravian camp in the mountains, campers will focus on themes of unity. Based on Ephesians 4:3, “Make every effort to keep the​ unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace,” the idea of unity will be woven into each age group’s camping experience.

PreJunior Camp, (July 27-29), is the perfect introduction to Laurel Ridge for your little camper (for those who have completed grades 1 and 2) Two days fly by so fast that most campers ask, “When am I old enough to come for a whole week?” The schedule is packed with songs, games, and activities to keep our youngest campers busy and happy for their stay away from home. The 2018 theme “Jesus is a Friend” will have your camper excited to learn more about Jesus! Deans are Rev. Chris Thore and Gail Theard.

For campers who’ve completed grades 3, 4, or 5, Laurel Ridge offers two sessions. The first, themed “Living Waters Flowing Love” (June 24-30), will feature activities highlighting ideas like “water from a rock,” “a healing river,” and “baptism at the river” with Deans the Rev. John D. Rights and Mary Rights. The

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second, “Under the Big Top,” (Aug 5-11) explores themes around being chosen, obeying, trusting and having faith with Deans Heidi and Daniel Everhart.

Along with Bible study, campers will spend time outdoors at the lake, hiking, going to the New River and, of course, campfire in the evenings.

Junior Creative Arts Camp and Middle High Arts Camp explores the many ways we can glorify our Lord by using our talents.

Junior Arts work with puppets, sign language, singing and learning how to make instruments.

Middle High Arts campers will learn different instruments while fine tuning some of their talents such as guitar, band instruments, and vocals. Another aspect of Middle High Arts Camp is learning how to record tracks and produce a CD! Deans for Junior Arts are Rev. Tripp May and Joyce Vance; Deans for Middle High Arts Camp are Roman and Ashley Brady. Both of these camps are housed at Higgins Lodge the week of June 17-23, and will end with a gala for parents to enjoy on Saturday morning before campers depart for home. They will perform and display art for everyone that attends.

Eco Mission Camp is for Middle High and Senior High campers that wish to learn more about how to be good stewards of what God has given us. They spend time working

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on projects at camp and other places such as the New River Conservancy. This year campers will pitch tents and stay out by the river one evening. The Theme of this Eco Mission Camp uses the word PEACE as each day’s theme is P – Paths, E – Earth, A – Animals, C – Clouds and E – Ecology, and how each of these works together. The Deans for this camp are Rev. Lisa Mullen and Greg Keener. Eco Mission Camp is housed in Higgins Lodge, June 10-16.

Middle High Camp (July 29-Aug 4) is for those who have completed Grades 6,7, or 8. The theme is “We Will Rock You” and covers the ideas like foundation of faith, finding hope, unity in Christ, and joy and peace. Along with daily Bible study campers will also enjoy time at the lake, hiking, playing games, doing crafts, sports activities, low ropes course and campfire every evening. Deans are Rev. Jeff Jones and Catherine Long.

Senior High Camp (July 8-14), for campers completing grades 9-12, is the pinnacle of the Laurel Ridge Camp experience!

It is a week of Bible study and fun-filled summer camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, sports, group interactive course, archery, crafts, music and campfires every evening.

Deans for Senior High Camp are the Revs. Victoria Lasley and Zach Dease.

May 2018

Mission Camp at Laurel Ridge provides youth groups the opportunity to serve the community in the High Country. We receive referrals from local agencies and match youth groups and their adult leaders with work sites based on their skill level and project needs.

Groups should provide capable adult leaders (1 per every 5 youth) and transportation to and from work sites. This is a great experience for first time mission-trips or groups looking to do a smaller-scale trip.

This year’s theme for Mission Camp, “Won’t You Be a Neighbor,” takes a different look at the parable of the Good Samaritan. All Mission Camps are hosted at Higgins Lodge.

Mission Camp 1 - June 24-30, with Deans Donna Hurt and Dusty Harrison; Mission Camp 2 - July 1-7 with Dean Justin Rabbach; Mission Camp 3 - July 15-21 with Dean Zach Routh; Mission Camp 4 - July 22-28, 2018 with Dean Rt. Rev. Sam Gray.

Registration has already begun and space is filling up, so go online to laurelridge.org to find your camp and sign up today! We’ll see you on the Mountain soon! n Scarlett Dowdy is program manager at Laurel Ridge. Visit www.laurelridge.org for more information about Laurel Ridge. Photos courtesy of Laurel Ridge.

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MORAVIAN CAMPING MINISTRY

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Doing mission at “Camp Hope”

o one is too young to do mission, especially as part of a team. That is what campers will be learning and living at the Eastern District’s outdoor ministry site, Hope Conference & Renewal Center, this summer.

Campers will be helping to feed the hungry, clothe the needy, and participate in other ministry projects while at camp, as part of this year’s camp theme, coMISSION, or “doing mission together.”

The theme was introduced at the 2018 Camp Season Kick-Off Dinner on Sunday, February 9, at East Hills Moravian Church. The evening featured a ham and fixin’s dinner, camp songs and music led by a live band of distinguished musicians, a photo booth, and a silent auction. In addition, participants could purchase camp gear, items from the Hope Quilters, and Avon products, with all proceeds going to “Camp Hope.” Around 100 people enjoyed the event.

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Each camp this summer will be practicing coMISSION in different ways, with each camp doing several mission projects. All campers are being asked to bring three items of their own outgrown clothing when they come to camp. The clothing will go to Mountainview Moravian Church in Hellertown, Pa., for its August distribution to children and families who need assistance.

Each camp will also help to feed the hungry with a session of packing high-nutrition meals into sealed bags. The resulting food could be shared with congregations for their own local food pantries, or sent to Puerto Rico to help with continued food shortages there.

The camps hope to pack and distribute 40,000 meals this summer.

Some camps will be preparing and delivering meals to some camp neighbors who are ill, making items to be taken to a local assisted living facility, and creating Blessing Bags to be

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distributed. Campers are also available to help with congregational mission projects that need items created or assembled.

This year’s Musical Theater Camp will produce and perform an original musical, ACTS! Written by the camp’s dean, Sarah Hriniak, and featuring music written and arranged by a number of contemporary Moravian musicians, the play begins with Easter and follows the adventures of the disciples through the Book of Acts. World premiere performances will be on Friday, July 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 21 at 10:30 a.m. Performances will take place on the lawn of Hassler Hall and are open to the public. Bring your own lawn chairs or blanket, sunscreen and bug spray.

Hope Conference Center now offers online registration, making it possible for campers and parents to register, fill out documents, and pay

with a credit card, all online. Go to the “youth camps” or “specialty camps and retreats” pages at camphope.org, and click on the “Register Here” button. Volunteer staff can also apply and fill out documents online by going to the “volunteers” page of the camp website.

Center Director Susan Dreydoppel, Caretaker Harry Howard, and the summer staff members welcome campers and staff to coMISSION at “Camp Hope” this summer. For more information, contact the camp at (908) 459-4435, hopecenter@camphope.org, or camphope.org. n Susan M. Dreydoppel has been the Director of Hope Conference & Renewal Center since 2017, and has worked there since 2011. She is a member of Schoeneck Moravian Church in Nazareth, Pa. Photos courtesy of Hope Center.

Moravian Camp Dates for 2018 Hope Conference & Renewal Center Pre-Primary Conference June 17 - 20 Camp Dean: Shannon Swingle

Swim Camp July 15 - 21 Camp Dean(s): TBD

Middler Conference Musical Theater Camp July 1 - 7 July 15 - 21 Camp Dean(s): Rt. Rev. Blair Camp Dean: Sarah Hriniak Couch, Rev. Sayward Lippincott Jr. High Conference Senior High Conference July 22 - 28 July 8 - 14 Camp Dean(s): Rev. Jodie Camp Dean(s): Steve Kish, Harney, Kasey Thomas Chelsey Mancuso May 2018

Primary Conference July 29 - August 4 Camp Dean(s): Rev. Tammie Rinker, Rev. Bevon White Fishing Camp July 29 - August 4 Camp Dean: Bob Wingrove

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MORAVIAN CAMPING MINISTRY

Crossroads: Traveling the Journey of Faith

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ogi Berra once said, “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Sometimes the guidance we receive about our own life’s discernments seems just as helpful. We’ve all known seasons when we have pondered life’s questions. Where is God? What is my purpose? Why am I here? What should I do?

Moravian summer church camps at Mt. Morris provide a safe and affirming environment and a loving and encouraging atmosphere to consider these questions of discernment. In Scripture and in experience, we each can think of places that provide transcendent and imminent experiences of God. These places are often referred to as liminal spaces – “thin spaces” where the divine and the earthly come close together (think of mountain tops, scenic views, beautiful sunsets or sunrises, waterfronts.) Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center is one such liminal space where God can be encountered and where the next steps in your journey of faith can be taken.

For the second straight year, all of the camps in the western region of the Western District—both those held at Mt. Morris as well as Camp MINDYY in Minnesota—will be working with the same program theme, selected by the Regional Youth Council and the Camping Ministry Committee. This year’s theme is “Crossroads: Traveling the Journey of Faith.” Through scripture and song, worship and play, art and craft, time spent in nature and around the dinner table, we will consider how God is mov22

ing in us, through us, and among us, guiding us forward to take the next steps of faith.

We would love to see YOU at one of our summer church camps, either as a camper or as a staff volunteer! Come join us as together we meet at the Crossroads -- and Travel the Journey of Faith!

For program and registration information, go to www.wdcamping.com The Rev. Jason Andersen is pastor of Christian Faith Moravian Church in DeForest, Wis. For 1st - 2nd graders • 4M Camp Mt. Morris, Wis. • Aug. 13–15 Directors: Stacy Wickert and Staci Mareese-Wheeler For 2nd - 5th graders • Camp MINDYY Alexandria, Minn. • Aug. 12–15 Director: Tiffani Glime For 3rd - 5th graders • Junior Camp Mt. Morris, Wis. • July 30–Aug. 3 Directors: Katie and Aaron Van Der Linden For 6th - 8th graders • Winmor Mt. Morris, Wis. • July 22–28 Director: Dason Kurkiewicz For 9th grade - age 21 • Chetek Mt. Morris, Wis. • July 15–21 Directors: Jason and Amy Andersen

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Summer at Camp Van-Es

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ur goal at Camp Van-Es is to help children explore faith in Jesus Christ in a natural setting. We offer a safe environment to experience God, to grow spiritually and, of course, to have fun!

Van-Es will host four weeks of summer camp for Moravain youth (and others!) on the shores of South Cooking Lake near Edmonton, Alberta. Being out by the lake for camp fires, singing songs and hearing stories about Jesus are just some of the things that happen, but really, camp is about having experiences together with your friends that you don’t normally have at home or at school. There is always something that

will challenge you and help you grow in your faith.

There are counsellors who give a week out of their lives to share their own journey with you; to make sure that each camper is reminded that God loves them and is always at work around us.

For more information about camping opportunities at Van-Es, visit www.vanescamp.com.

2018 Camp Van-Es Dates

Grade 1/2/3 • July 4-7 • Leader: Steve Gohdes Grades 4/5/6 • July 8-14 • Leaders: Marylin Gurnsey and Rebecca Craver) Jr. High (7/8/9) • July 15-21 • Leader: James Lavoy Sr. High (10/11/12) • July 22-28 • Leader: Matt Gillard

Moravian Camping in Mid-States

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he goal of the Middle States Youth Ministry Council is to ensure that the youth and young adults of Moravian churches in Ohio, lower Michigan, Indiana and Illinois are able to participate in interchurch activities and further their relationships with Christ. We strive to provide appropriate, safe, and challenging programs for participants of all ages.

Each summer, MSYMC brings camping opportunities to youth in the Mid-States region. They use camps in three different areas, each with its own unique fun and activities. To learn more about the 2018 season and register for camp, visit http://midstatesmoraviancamps.webs.com.

May 2018

Camp Illiana (completed grades 2-6 for Indiana, Illinois) July 23 - 27, 2018 • Bedford, Ind. Program Director: Kristin Maucaulay Camp Director: Kris Hasewinkle Camp Bethany (completed grades 2-6 for Ohio, lower Michigan) Aug. 6-10, 2018 • Camp Bethany, Lakeview, Ohio Program Directors: The Rev. Jane Gehler, with Program Assistant Paul Post Camp Director: Scott Minor; Asst. Director: Kelly Dailey Tar Hollow (Completed 7th grade-age 21) July 22 - 28, 2018 • Tar Hollow State Park Program Director: Justin Rabbach Camp Director: The Rev. Darryl Bell

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CREATE IN ME

Worship is like

gardening

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ne of the things I enjoy most is gardening and growing food. I’m a volunteer Master Gardener with the North Dakota State University Extension Service. I love growing plants. They amaze me. They start from seeds—sometimes tiny and small, sometimes big—but somehow, contained in that seed, are the blueprints and the nutrients needed to make life happen.

But even though that seed has everything it needs in it, it won’t grow until it gets the proper place, time and circumstances. There is a certain signal that prompts that seed to sprout. As a gardener, I try to replicate that signal; I try to give the seeds everything they need to start that process of sprouting. Many seeds are easy to sprout, but others take extra care. Some seeds need to be left outside in the cold all winter before they will sprout. Some seeds need to be burned in a fire before they will hear their signal that it is time. And others need to pass through the digestive tract of a bird or animal before the hard outer shell is dissolved, and the seed can begin its journey.

People are like seeds. We all need the proper set of circumstances to truly grow. It’s one thing to be alive and occupy space, but it’s

MUSIC • LITURGY • ART • PRAYER

Create inMe

MORAVIAN WORSHIP RESOURCES 24

another thing to truly live life and continue to learn and grow and share ourselves with others.

Some of us seem to thrive right off the bat.

Others need time, and space, and some extra help. Some of us need a big push to leave our comfort zone and reach out to others, while others seem to live as though the whole world is their oyster. Some people need to get burned by life, or frozen in their tracks, or even be consumed by something that seems to be the end of the line, before they are able to truly grow in life.

Many of us are born, or planted, in the same set of circumstances, yet the result of our lives can be very different. There are things that stunt the life and growth of plants, just as there

Our “Create in Me” series offers space for conversation about the ways people are shaping worship through writing songs and liturgies, using poetry and visual arts, and simply creating experiences in worship that encourage deepening faith.

Through articles, hymns and their backstories, and ideas for using worship resources in new ways, we are exploring, celebrating and sharing that diversity and including a variety of perspectives on worship, meaning and what inspires.

This month, Jeanne Ahlers, of Bethel Moravian Church, shares her thoughts on gardening as a form of worship.

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are things that will stunt human growth. In 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 (NIV), Paul tell us “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”

If you put a plant that needs a lot of sun in a shady location, that plant will never reach its full potential. It won’t get as big, and it may not bloom or produce fruit. However, if you place a shade-loving plant in an area that receives full sun, it will probably burn up and die. We are like that too.

If you stifle someone’s ability to grow and improve and learn, they will never reach their full potential. They may never bloom or produce the fruit that God wants them to produce.

But give that same person the opportunities and tools they need, and they may grow so much you’ll barely recognize them!

There are some people who love to work behind the scenes; if you thrust them into the spotlight, you may lose them forever. We all have different personalities that demand different scenarios for life, just like each plant has certain requirements for it to grow as well. I think that God gives each one of us a talent, a passion, or a cause that we can use to glorify God. Just like every plant in the garden has a

May 2018

purpose, every person in our churches has a purpose, too. We need to encourage each other to grow and use those talents for the greater good of our communities.

There’s nothing better than talking to God in my garden. I can spend hours just being thankful for everything that God has not only given me personally, but everything He has given us all. I contemplate things I have read, blogs and personal stories, and ask God how this is relevant to my life, and our lives in the Church. How can I be a blessing to others?

I feel called to help feed people. I grow as much food as I possibly can in my half-acre yard. I grow for my husband and me, and our extended family. I grow for my friends and neighbors, and I grow for the local Emergency Food Pantry. Our Master Gardening group picks up and donates produce all summer, and that makes me feel like God is using me to bless others.

Some people don’t know how to grow food, and some people live in apartments where they don’t have the space. But I have a garden, and I have a dream to grow more every year; to have more to give away every season.

Worship is like gardening, and gardening can be part of worship. n Jeanne Ahlers is a member of the Bethel Moravian Church in Leonard, North Dakota. She is a blogger, artist, and master gardener. Jeanne is also a small business owner and manager of the Leonard Convenience Store. Photos by Jeanne.

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CREATE IN ME

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Poetry as a source of liturgy

he idea behind “Create in Me” is to get us talking about worship. As you read this month’s reflection by Jeanne Ahlers on gardening, we offer a few questions for you to consider and explore with your worship community: ɶɶ In what ways do you look to worship to help you grow? ɶɶ What would change if you believed your involvement in worship blessed others? ɶɶ How can we share the fruit of worship— like produce from a garden—with those who need it?

Here are two poems that were shared as part of the “Create in Me” project. In responding to the New Hymnal Exploratory survey, many of you asked about creating new liturgies. Using these poems and suggested scriptures and hymns, we are going to do just that. The first poem, “The Song of Spring” by Jeanne Ahlers follows the transition from winter to spring to the Easter proclamation of resurrection hope, carrying us forward to the Pentecostal witness of renewal and re-creation.

The Song of Spring

by Jeanne Ahlers As the sun gains strength and holds its head boldly in the sky, The sheets of white slowly melt, dripping their nutrients into the soil beneath.

The skeletons of trees form new buds, and tiny fragile shoots sprout forth from the ground.

The beautiful melody of birdsong grows into a glorious choir.

Soft, gentle breezes blow into hurricane force winds, Bringing the warmth, and blowing away the old, The dead, The paper thin husks of last year’s bounty, shriveled into nothing.

Rebirth, the earth renews her fresh bouquet, Her glamorous green wardrobe that feeds her children.

Such is the entrance of spring—God’s glorious garden.

We helpers rejoice, wanting nothing more than to feel the living soil in our hands.

The seeds that wait patiently under the ground for the sun to shine on them, And tell them that it’s time, it’s time to begin anew.

They also rejoice and grow heartily, singing praises to heaven.

The flowers will open, they will bear fruit, and It will be good, just as God intended.

For the Earth sings for her Creator, and We are invited to sing harmony.

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Look for ways to split the poem into a responsive reading. Consider hymns and spiritual songs that use similar imagery or language.

Where would it work or be helpful to insert singing? What scripture is being drawn on

here? This could begin as a prayer of invocation and call to worship. It might also serve as a prayer of dedication for a community mission garden.

(Continued on next page)

A Liturgy from “The Song of Spring” One: As the sun gains strength and holds its head boldly in the sky, the sheets of white slowly melt, dripping their nutrients into the soil beneath.

All: The skeletons of trees form new buds, and tiny fragile shoots sprout forth from the ground. The beautiful melody of birdsong grows into a glorious choir.

Possible hymns/verses: “This is My Father’s World” #456 MBW or “What Colors God Has Made” #466 MBW One: Soft, gentle breezes blow into hurricane force winds, bringing the warmth, and blowing away the old, the dead, the paper thin husks of last year’s bounty, shriveled into nothing.

All: Rebirth, the earth renews her fresh bouquet, her glamorous green wardrobe that feeds her children. Such is the entrance of spring – God’s glorious garden.

You could continue here with creation-themed hymns/verses, or maybe transition to songs that focus on the work of the Holy Spirit through the Church: “Breath of God, O Life-Giving Spirit” #499 MBW or “We Are Your People” #514 MBW One:

We helpers rejoice,

All: wanting nothing more than to feel the living soil in our hands. The seeds that wait patiently under the ground for the sun to shine on them, and tell them that it’s time, it’s time to begin anew.

One: They also rejoice and grow heartily, singing praises to heaven.

All: The flowers will open, they will bear fruit, and it will be good, just as God intended. For the Earth sings for her Creator, and we are invited to sing harmony.

One: Amen.

Conclude the liturgy with a hymn or verses from one of the hymns you have used above.

It might also be effective to incorporate a scriptural refrain as a response, some phrase that worshipers can return to repeatedly, as a special point of focus or emphasis. If you were working with Pentecost themes, here is one possible spoken refrain from the Book of Acts: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 May 2018

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Create in Me: Poetry (Continued from previous page)

This second poem, “Beneath the Lovely Tree” by Cookie Knauss of Schoeneck Moravian Church in Nazareth, Pa., immediately transported me to the story of Jesus and Nathaniel from John 1:35 – 51, and that mysterious fig tree under which Jesus had observed Nathaniel resting.

With appreciation for the sharing of these wonderful, worshipful words, think about ways they might enrich a worship experience. What biblical stories and teachings do they evoke for you: the priestly prayer of Christ from John 17, the sheltering branches of a mustard tree (Matthew 13:31, 32), or the nation-healing, river-spanning tree of life growing in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 22:1-5)? What songs

come to mind: “I Shall Not Be Moved” or “The Trees of the Field”?

Our belief is that worship and liturgy come naturally to everyone. We celebrate and magnify the things we value and cherish all day every day. By our words and actions, through the gifts of our creativity, care and commitment, we open up the treasure of our hearts. It is our hope that by looking at worship from a number of fresh and perhaps unexpected points of view, we might be encouraged in our work together to declare the mighty works of God. In the hope and practice of Pentecost,

Brian Brian Dixon is pastor of Lake Auburn Moravian Church in Victoria, Minn.

Beneath the Lovely Tree

by Cookie Knauss

The sun shines serenely For all to see If only all could feel it Peace beneath the tree Sit down awhile & come with me To a place of peace & grace A peaceful place Beneath the lovely tree Could it be? Could it be?

A place of peace for all— A place away from hate & fear Beneath the lovely tree We pray to you dear Lord For grace & peace to be No better place than here Beneath the lovely tree Can we all accept each other?

Enjoy our diversity The beauty God created Beneath the lovely tree I pray we work as one To see his final plan 28

Photo: Lance Fox

May all of you Have everlasting peace Beneath the lovely tree You see, I pray not for myself But for all our loved ones An eternal place of peace Beneath the lovely tree.

The Moravian

Images from Synod

Synods always offer great opportunities for photos of the people of the Moravian Church. Mike Riess, editor of The Moravian and Andrew David Cox, communications manager for the Board of Cooperative Ministries, took these photos of the music, worship and work of the 2018 Southern Province Synod. Complete coverage starts on page 7.

May 2018

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OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS NORTHERN PROVINCE Outdoor Ministries Sunday, June 3, 2018 The 1994 Synod of the Moravian Church–Northern Province passed legislation regarding the observance of an Outdoor Ministries Sunday. The date for this observance has been established by the Provincial Elders’ Conference as the Sunday after Trinity Sunday, which falls on June 18 this year. Pastors are encouraged to use either of the liturgies prepared in 1996-1997. The liturgies are available in the “Public Documents” section of the Northern Province Portal or by contacting the Provincial Office.

Chaska, Minnesota Brother Michael Eder has accepted an appointment to serve as half-time pastor for Chaska Moravian Church, Chaska, Minnesota. Brother Eder began this work May 1, 2018.

SOUTHERN PROVINCE Bishop Consecrations The 2018 Synod of the Moravian Church, Southern Province elected the Rev. Carol A. Foltz, and the Rev. G. Thomas Shelton as Bishops of the Unity. We are pleased to announce the services of consecration for our newly-elected bishops: The Rt. Rev. Lane Sapp and the Rt. Rev. Blair Couch will officiate at the consecration of Carol Foltz, Sunday, June 10, at 3:00 p.m., at Trinity Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, N.C. The Rt. Rev. Graham H. Rights, and the Rt. Rev. J. Christian Giesler will officiate at the consecration of Tom Shelton, June 17, at 3:00 p.m., at Friedberg Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, N.C. David Guthrie Provincial Elders’ Conference

Maple Grove, Minnesota Brother David Glasser has accepted an appointment to serve as part-time pastor for Christ’s Community Moravian Church, Maple Grove, Minnesota. Brother Glasser began his work April 1, 2018.

Lebanon, Pennsylvania Brother Ronald Rice, who has been serving as appointed pastor for Lebanon Moravian Church, Lebanon, Pennsylvania, concluded his ministry with the congregation May 31, 2018.

Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin Sister Judith Ganz has accepted an appointment to serve as part-time pastor for Wisconsin Rapids Moravian Church, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.

Sister Ganz will begin her work June 1, 2018.

Released for Other Service Sister Vicki Jens-Page has accepted a call to be Released for Other Service to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Sr. Jens-Page began her work as a full-time intentional interim pastor for Immanuel Lutheran Church, Black Creek, Wisconsin on February 1, 2018.

Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference 30

Moravian Crystal Moravian Crystal Company is pleased to present a collection of elegant renderings, highly detailed and produced in 3D laser engraved imaging into optical grade crystal. These unique gifts, designed in Winston-Salem, N.C., celebrate Moravian history, heritage and traditions.

For more information or to order, visit www.moraviancrystal.com Moravian Crystal Company, Inc. 2150 Country Club Rd, Suite 248 Winston-Salem, N.C. 27104 (336) 306-5688

The Moravian

Though I may speak with bravest fire This season of Pentacost, let the world see your passion and joy for the ministries you love. Our Moravian camps. Our brave missionaries around the world.

Youth programs. Our ministries to provide food, clothing and shelter in our communities. Wherever the Spirit calls you.

The Moravian Ministries Foundation in America works with individuals, congregations, and ministries to make the greatest impact on the world with your gifts. We offer low cost investment management for churches and individuals.

Strategic gift planning for individuals. Stewardship development and campaign consulting for churches and ministries.

Call Chris at 888-722-7923 or email him at cspaugh@mmfa.info today.

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

Postmaster please send address changes to: The Moravian, P.O. Box 1245, Bethlehem, PA 18016-1245

May 2018

Periodicals