Moravian Magazine, May 2014

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SPECIAL FEATURE: Moravian Camping Ministries Southern Province Synod Coffee and Community in Canada And more!

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On the cover: Campers at Laurel Ridge take to the lake in a canoe. Photo courtesy of Laurel Ridge.

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SPECIAL FEATURE: Moravian Camping Ministries Southern Province Synod

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Coffee and Community in Canada And more!

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

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Special Feature: Moravian Camping Ministry 5 Moravian Camping Ministry brings faith and fun to summer 6 Camp Van Es 2014 season rooted in unity 8 Laurel Ridge, a mountain place set apart 10 Counselors and volunteers vital to Western District camping ministry 12 Mid-States Camping Ministry impacting young lives 14 New Specialty Camp and events for Camp Hope Synod 2014 16 Southern Province elects new Provincial Elders’ Conference, PEC president 18 The Southern Province in 2014: excerpts from the State of the Church Address to the Synod of 2014

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In Our Communities 22 Community outreach in Edmonton area offers a Common Ground Moravian Fellowship 24 Moravian Northwest fellowship creates a way for connection, worship and sharing God’s message Moravian History

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

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

26 Canadian cartographer creates map of Moravians around the world

May 2014

29 Official Provincial Elders’ News

In Every Issue 4 Ponderings: Going to camp? I’m jealous!

28 Obituaries: Mrs. Robert J. Gohdes, The Rev. John Case, The Rev. Dr. Claude A. Knight 3

PONDERINGS

Going to camp? I’m jealous!

When our May issue rolls around every year, I get jealous. Not the mean,

green kind of jealousy that can be harmful. More of a, “man, I wish I had that when I was a kid!” kind of envy of today’s Moravian youth.

You see, across the Northern and Southern Provinces, kids have a unique opportunity to spend a week (or maybe more) combining nature, fun and faith. They go to the woods and come back feeling uplifted, connected and enlightened. That’s something I did not have the opportunity to do as a youngster.

The weeks at Camp Workcoeman, the Boy Scout camp in my hometown, are a source of some of my fondest memories of being a kid.

But I often wonder what that experience would have been like with a faith component built in—if I was there to build my spirit along with building campfires, to breathe the Holy Spirit along with the fresh air, to journey on my walk of faith along with those walks in the woods.

When I talk with those involved in Moravian camping ministries, whether as counselors, program leaders, former staffers, those who’ve attended or today’s kids, their sense of enthusiasm rubs off on me. To a person, the opportunity to spend a week on the mountain/by the lake/in the woods with friends and faith leaders—or the memory of doing so in years past—comes through as an experience not to be missed. And when I’ve made visits to Camp Hope during the past few years, I have seen firsthand how camp helps kids grow.

In this issue of the Moravian, you’ll learn more about what’s happening at the Moravian Church’s camps here in the U.S. and Canada.

As you do, I think you’ll agree that the opportunities presented sound like a great way to spend part of a summer.

I know in my case, they make me want to pack my hiking boots, my guitar and maybe some bug repellent and head for the hills. I’m actually hoping to be involved with camps in North Carolina and New Jersey this summer.

And then I’ll be able to replace that green of envy with the green of the woods and truly understand why so many people are so dedicated to Moravian camping.

Peace,

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

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

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The Moravian

CAMPING MINISTRY

Moravian Camping Ministry brings faith and fun to summer Fun in the woods. Songs of faith around

a campfire. Spiritual formation amongst nature. Friendships formed and nurtured.

A love of Jesus grown. In a word: “camp!”

For many Moravians in the U.S. and Canada, these thoughts represent treasured memories of summers spent in one of the church’s camping ministry programs.

Whether in the mountains of North Carolina at Laurel Ridge; the woods of Wisconsin at Mt. Morris; rural New Jersey at Camp Hope; the natural splendor of Alberta at Camp Van Es; or the locations of mid-states or California camping, campers experience weeks of friendship, faith and fun that can have an impact for years to come.

Each year, dedicated staff and volunteers at each of the church’s camps help children and young adults learn more about their faith. Camping is a longrunning tradition among Moravians, with generations sharing the experience and

May 2014

love of our camping ministry.

More than 50 years ago, Bishop George Higgins summed up the camping ministry: “Most of our learning today comes from books or such media as television. Most of us live in crowded cities. We ride on concrete streets and highways. We even worship at a fixed time on a fixed day.

Because of this we have a special need to discover anew the wonder of God’s creation. We need time for reflection, for prayer, for worship. We need to open our lives to God’s call for commitment, for service. This we find in the environment of a church camp.”

In keeping with tradition, the Moravian Magazine dedicates the May issue each year to preview what’s happening in the camping ministry for the upcoming summer. In the following pages, you’ll learn about new programs and old favorites from each of the camping ministries. ■ 5

CAMPING MINISTRY

Camp Van Es 2014 season rooted in unity It is weird to think that another summer is

about to be upon us. In some ways it feels like we just said goodbye to last year’s campers and now the excitement and anticipation for this year’s summer season is already starting to grow. Even though Alberta is known for its enduring winter season of relentless cold, it has flown by as big things have been happening out at Camp Van Es. Within days of summer camp ending last year work began on the construction of a new 4,500-square-foot housing building at our Canadian camp. We have been beyond blessed by volunteers, financial support, trades people, Rupert Newman (our onsite maintenance staff), Camp Board and others as this project progressed. This once-dreamed-about lodge is set to be open in May, just nine months after breaking ground. Building this new lodge was first proposed and resolved at the 2012 Canadian District Synod in Calgary, Alberta.

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The new building will be known as Unity Lodge, which is truly fitting to represent how we feel about our purpose at Camp Van Es. It is with unity that we await the blessings God has prepared for Van Es through this new building. It is with unity we look forward for God’s grace, mercy and love to be shown to the campers entering our care. And it is with unity that we say it is only through and with God that Camp Van Es can have an impact in the world.

It is always easy to talk about big changes like a new building, but what does this mean for our summer camping program? Whenever you take on a project of this size it causes one to reflect on what matters and what is imporBrandon Salyczn is a member of the Camp Van Es Board of Directors and serves on the Canadian District Executive Board.

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The new Unity Lodge under construction at Camp Van Es.

tant. This has brought us back to remembering why summer camp exists.

It has rooted us in the foundational truth that God wants his children to know him and speaks to kids through summer camp. It is by rooting campers in the love of Christ that God grabs hold of their hearts and does his work in them and through them. As we look to the future of Van Es’ ministry in Unity Lodge, we remember and find our theme to be Rooted.

Rooted in Christ, rooted in his truths, rooted in each other, and rooted in our passion for kids to know the God of love.

Part of this rooted theme means that Van Es will continue to be a place where kids can come and be kids. Whether they come for the joy of friends, the love of swimming in our indoor pool, the wonderful food, games in the field, songs by the campfire, or great conversations, they will experience faith in action.

So as the summer creeps closer and closer we are impassioned by the vision of the possibilities the future holds and rooted in the God that makes all things possible.

We would love to see you there, and may new growth be seen in the roots of what has been planted by Camp Van Es these last 73 years. â–

2014 CAMP VAN ES DATES Grades 3 & 4: June 29 - July 4, 2014 Grades 5 & 6: July 6 - July 12, 2014 Jr. High Camp: July 13 - July 19, 2014 Sr. High Camp: July 20 - July 26, 2014 Grades 1 & 2: July 27 - July 30, 2014

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CAMPING MINISTRY

Laurel Ridge, a mountain place set apart

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North

Carolina, Laurel Ridge is where many come to be closer to God and renew their spirits‌ where the sound of camp songs and children playing helps us clear our minds of all the clutter from the busy world we live in. At night after campfire you can see the stars up close and experience the peaceful easy feeling you get with the brown earth and the soft grass under your feet.

The 2014 summer sessions at Laurel Ridge will begin with Eco camp (grades 3-5) and Eco Action camp (grades 6-8) which begin June 15-21. These camps offer ways to understand and be better stewards of our environment and all the creatures that God has given us. The children will be able to go off

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site to work with park rangers in Mt. Jefferson State Park.

Laurel Ridge hired Environmental Intern Elaine Stingel to join the staff this summer, starting with Eco Camp. Elaine, a member of First Moravian church in Dover, Ohio, is an Environmental Science Natural Resources Management major at Ohio State University.

She will provide help with various Eco activities at all camps this summer. She will also be working to provide activities in the nature center, Suncatcher greenhouse and garden.

Alan Snow, a retired science/biology teacher and lifelong Moravian from Forsyth County, will be working with Elaine in the Nature center. Rosemary Jayne, wife of Dan our facilities manager, has been working hard filling the Suncatcher with vegetables and flowers.

This will give us a jumpstart on our hay bale garden this summer. We are very excited to see this become a reality for Laurel Ridge as our focus has been on the environment and having a sustainable plan for Laurel Ridge in the future.

All summer camps offer swimming, canoeing, fishing, hiking, sports, music, GIC (Group Interaction Course), archery, crafts and for the Middle High and Senior High camps we also have a Frisbee golf course. We end each night with a campfire, usually on top of the mountain or by the lake. These are led by the M-staff who work hard all day cleaning, mowing and leading activities, and wouldn’t dream of missing this part of the evening!

Pre-Junior camps offer children who have The Moravian

completed either grades 1 or 2 a two-night camp that is geared just for them. The Bible study theme this year is “Lord Teach Us to Pray.” Pre Junior 1 is June 20-22 and Pre Junior 2 is August 10-12.

The week-long Junior Camp is for children that have completed grades 3-5. The Bible study theme this year is “Jesus Calls Us.” Junior 2 is July 6-12 and Junior 3 is August 10-16.

Middle High camps are for youth that have completed grades 6-8. The Bible study theme is “Faithbook,” finding out what it would have been like for the disciples to have had Facebook and how we can use it to be disciples now. Middle High 1 is June 22-28 and Middle High 2 is August 3-9.

Senior High Camp is for youth that have completed grades 9-12 and is July 13-19. The Bible Study theme is “The Hills are Alive,” taking a look at Christian music.

Laurel Ridge: a mountain place set apart for forming disciples of Jesus Christ, who learn and live in community to serve the world.

We continue to have Mission Camps for youth 6-12 grade. Week 1 is June 29-July 4, Week 2 is July 6-11, Week 3 is July 20-25 and week 4 is July 27-August 1. Mission Camps serve the community around Laurel Ridge, including Alleghany, Ashe and Wilkes Counties.

There is also Bible Study to enhance the mission experience for each of our participants.

Laurel Ridge is a member of the American Camping Association (ACA). As a leading authority in youth development, ACA works to preserve, promote and improve the camp experience. All staff and volunteer staff must May 2014

have background checks and drug test. Safety is the priority.

As the summer winds down and the summer camp sessions draw to a close, there are still opportunities to visit the mountain. Family Camp, started in 2013, will be taking place September 19-21. This is a weekend filled with camp activities for the entire family, with the opportunity to bring Mom and Dad and stay in a cabin at summer camp, go fishing, hiking and more.

All of the facilities at Laurel Ridge can be used for various retreats. This includes Higgins Lodge for those that would like hotel style lodging and Tise Lodge which features a dorm-type setting. Also among our facilities is the Gemeinhouse for a one-person retreat or the Friends Cottage for a family. Visit our website at www.laurelridge.org or contact the Program Manager, Scarlett Dowdy, scarlett@laurelridge.org for camper or volunteer counselor information. ■ Scarlett Dowdy is program manager for Laurel Ridge. Below, Environmental Intern Elaine Stingel.

CAMPING MINISTRY

Counselors and volunteers vital to Western District camping ministry As

summer approaches, the planning for summer youth activities begins. And of course, a popular opportunity for children and young adults is summer church camp.

Most of the camps for Moravian Churches in Wisconsin, Minnesota and North Dakota are held at Mt. Morris Camp and Conference facility. The exception is Camp Mindyy (youth who’ve finished grades 3-5 in Minnesota and North Dakota) who camp at Luther Crest camp in Minnesota. A retreat opportunity for adults over age 50 is held at Mt. Morris in August. California also offers youth camp and family camp opportunities.

Regardless of the location, the overall goal of all our camps is to reach as many people as possible with an experience of God in a Christian community. This includes the camp’s staffs as well as the campers.

Staffing at our camps includes many volunteers who bring life to the planned activities. The greatest need for volunteers is to fill

the ministry of cabin counselor/small group leader. These people offer the faithful presence to the campers throughout the day.

With the number of camps we have and the size of our camps there is always a search for counselors. A cabin may have 6 to 12 campers and we have two counselors in each cabin.

During each day counselors help connect the activity of the camp with each cabin member in a personal way. This is a tiring but fulfilling ministry as relationships are formed that can last a lifetime. This ministry could be thought of as a big brother/sister relationship.

We are fortunate to have many young adults in high school and college who devote time (and energy) in the summer to be counselors. It is a great opportunity for them to build leadership skills as well as to see camp from a different view. Also important are the adults, many of whom take vacation time to be a part of camp. It’s interesting each year as new staff arrives to discover that they are counseling with someone who in years past has been a counselor to them!

Counselors bring their talents and gifts and use those gifts to lead campfire skits, crafts, nature hikes and playing volleyball in the sand. One of the most enjoyed activities with the younger ages is some variety of an all-camp game such as “Find the Counselor.”

One of the most critical staff members is the Medical Supervisor (Nurse) as this position is required by state statutes. To fill this position a person who is a registered nurse, physician or an EMT qualifies. We are grateful for all those who volunteer their time for camp.

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WISCONSIN, MINNESOTA, NORTH DAKOTA YOUTH CAMP DATES AND LOCATIONS THIS YEAR ARE: Needed are more people to fulfill this position. If someone is interested in being a camp Medical Supervisor contact Kathy Liebenow through Christian Faith Moravian Church, DeForest, Wis. and she can get you connected.

Another unique position is music leader.

With the wealth of Moravian music and camp music having people who can coordinate group singing is valued. Often guitars are used to accompany the singing but a keyboard is available and sometimes hand chimes have been used. With the right person there could even be a band with horns and woodwinds.

We are also grateful for people who volunteer to work in the kitchen to prepare and serve meals. The staff of Mt. Morris plans each day’s meals in consultation with each camp director and has everything ready for the volunteers.

So consider being on a camp staff—even if you’ve not ever been to a camp. It’s the opportunity to invest yourself in the lives of our children, youth and young adults.

Mission Projects Another feature of our camps is to have a mission project for the campers and staff to support. Each camp chooses a focus for the year and will receive offerings and often times will integrate the mission into the activity of the camp. Here are some highlights from 2013.

• Winmor raised $1077.86 to support missions of the Great Kills Church • Junior Camp made 24 birthday gift bags for foster children in the Janesville area • 4M camp shared packages of gum with Genesis 1:1 on each pack to share with friends and family along with a craft with hands showing the days of creation • Chetek raised funds for K.I.D.S (Kids in Distressed Situations) of about $5,000 May 2014

Junior Camp: July 7-11 held at Mt. Morris, Wisconsin Camp Mindyy: July 28th-31th, held at Luther Crest Camp Site, Minnesota Chetek: July 20-26, held at Mt. Morris, Wisconsin Winmor: July 27- August 2, held at Mt. Morris, Wisconsin Ba6 (Basics): August 17-21, held at Mt. Morris, Wisconsin 4M Camp: August 18-20, held at Mt. Morris, Wisconsin • Camp Mindyy raised funds for Feed my Starving Children and collected $374.00 The Camp and Conference committee for the Western District camps is chaired by Kathy Liebenow and includes Rev. Jane Gehler, Justin Rabbach, Staci Wickert and Amy Anderson as well as each camp director. ■ Thanks to the Rev. Kurt Liebenow for this story.

CAMPING MINISTRY

Mid-States Camping Ministry impacting young lives The mid-states camping program is alive and well in 2014!

The first camp in the mid-states is Epworth Forest for our junior high age youth. The Rev. Jason Andersen will lead this year’s program, titled “Whom Shall I Fear?”

Tar Hollow Sr/Post High camp will be July 20-26. The 2014 Tar Hollow program, “Who’s Got Your Back?” will be led by Aaron and Tiffany Felty. The following week, July 28-August 1, will be Illiana camp for grades 2-5, led by the Rev. Christine Johnson.

The final camping experience in the midstates for the summer of 2014 will be Camp Bethany for grades 3-5 campers in Ohio.

Their program, “Christ’s Cavalry,” will be led

by Emily Mock, Nate Conkle and Jocelyn Edie.

Now that you know a little about the midstates camping programs for 2014, I would like to share with you a story about how the camping ministry has influenced a young couple and their family since their camping days began back in 1987.

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Adair and Erika Aumock were program leaders at Epworth Forest last year. When children, Adair was from Unionville, Mich. and Erika from West Salem, Ill. Their paths crossed when they met at Tar Hollow as campers in 1987. For the years they attended Tar Hollow they were in the same friendship circles that grew throughout their years there.

The year following their last year as Tar Hollow campers their lives intersected again as they were both counselors at Epworth Forest. It was there that the “magic” happened, a “camp crush” turned into the “love of a lifetime.” They were married a year later and were blessed with two beautiful children.

At age 37, Erika was diagnosed with breast cancer and at 39 diagnosed with metastatic brain cancer. She and Adair fought this terrible monster together but not alone. You see, through their years together, starting as Tar Hollow campers, they had been making friends, reaching people, talking to them and bringing them into their lives. They had a net-

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work of Christian friends that now supported them, along with their strong and evident faith, as they battled against this terrible disease.

…through their years together, starting as Tar Hollow campers, they had been making friends, reaching people, talking to them and bringing them into their lives.

The summer of 2013 was a time of making memories for this young family. Erika had a “bucket list” of things she wanted to do. One of those things was to attend a presentation of “Trumpet in the Land” in the Tuscarawas Valley of Ohio. The weekend they planned to attend was also the weekend that the steel drum band from Grace Moravian in Queens, New York was performing along with steel drum bands from the Ohio Valley schools at Kent State University.

The Trumpet in the Land performance was cancelled due to rain but they were still able to meet the cast members and hear some of the story lines up close and personal with the cast members. Both at Trumpet in the Land

May 2014

and the drum performance Erika, Adair and the family were able to see many of their old camping friends. Some were friends they had remained in contact with and others whom they hadn’t seen in over a decade. They were amazed at how they reconnected and picked up their relationships as though they had stayed in regular contact all those years.

Thanks in part to the wonder of social media as well as old fashioned cards and notes this family received so much support and love not only from their blood families but also their “camp family,” as they battled cancer together.

Erika and Adair never lost faith! They knew God was in control and trusted Him to see them through. On March 1st, 2014, at the young age of 40 Erika lost her battle with cancer but won her eternal crown of glory.

I realize that the camping program isn’t the same for everyone. Not everyone finds their “life mate” there and not everyone even develops close friendships with other Christian people but I do know for some people it happens and can affect your life forever! ■ Jo Keller is a member of Hope Moravian Church in Hope, Indiana.

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CAMPING MINISTRY

New Specialty Camp and events for Camp Hope Musical

Theater Camp! More Pre-Primary Camp! Camp Sampler Weekend! Camp Hope Alumni Retreat! All these events are new for 2014 at Hope Conference & Renewal Center, located just outside of Hope, New Jersey. The camp serves the Eastern District of the Moravian Church.

Musical Theater Camp—The specialty camp for performers returns to Hope Center July 20-26 after an absence of several years.

Now called Musical Theater Camp, it will give campers in grades 3-8 a taste of all aspects of live performance, from singing and choreography to backstage crew. The camp has a limit of 30 campers, so register soon!

The week will culminate in two live performances of Godspell, Jr., a version of the popular Broadway musical especially for younger performers. The performances at 7 p.m. Friday, July 25, and 10 a.m. Saturday, July 26, are open to the public. Tickets will be available from the Hope Center office in advance and before each performance.

Susan M. Dreydoppel is the Administrative Assistant for Hope Conference & Renewal Center. She is a member of Schoeneck Moravian Church in Nazareth, Pa., and represents the Lehigh Valley, North on the Eastern District Executive Board.

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The Moravian

2014 HOPE CENTER RETREAT, CAMP AND CONFERENCE DATES NEMDR Mission Weekend May 16 - 17 Camp Sampler Weekend May 17 - 18 Memorial Day Family Camp May 23 - 26 Rev. Jennika Borger Pre-Primary Conference June 22 - 25 Shannon Swingle Primary Conference June 29 - July 5 Rev. Tammie Rinker Fishing Camp June 29 - July 5 Bob Wingrove Middler Conference July 6 - 12 Rt. Rev. Blair Couch

Rev. David Geyer Jr. High Conference July 13 - 19 Rev. Rhonda Robinson

Steadman Robinson Swim Camp July 20 - 26 Ellen Saylor Musical Theater Camp July 20 - 26 Sarah Hriniak and Ryan Morrow Sr./Post High Conference July 27 - August 2 Brian Lauderman and Steve Kish Quilt Camp October 1 - 4 Rev. Lois Bly Mease Alumni Retreat October 24 - 26 Ruth Huth More Pre-Primary Camp— At the request of Pre-Primary campers and staff, that camp will be one day longer in 2014. Held June 22-25, camp will now end on Wednesday night, giving campers one more day of fellowship, activities and independence.

Camp Sampler Weekend—If you have thought about trying camp, but don’t want to commit to a whole week in case you don’t like it, this event is for you. Come try out camp for a day and a night, May 17 and 18. Participants

May 2014

will get a tour of the camp, help with a work project to get camp ready for the season, sleep in a cabin, watch the stars while enjoying a campfire and meet some new friends.

You can bring a friend who has already been to camp if you want, and adults are welcome to stay, too.

Camp Hope Alumni Retreat—Whether you attended camp in the “good old days” (continued on page 30)

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SYNOD 2014

Southern Province elects new Provincial Elders’ Conference, PEC president At the 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church,

Southern Province held in early April in Black Mountain, N.C., delegates elected a new Provincial Elders’ Conference (PEC) and PEC president to lead the Province for the next four years.

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. Ray Burke, pastor of Clemmons Moravian Church in Clemmons, N.C. • The Rev. Christopher Thore, pastor of New Beginnings Moravian Church, Huntersville, N.C.

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• The Rev. Dr. C. Daniel Crews, Archivist for the Southern Province.

The Revs. Burke and Thore also served on the PEC from 2010-2014.

The three lay members elected to the PEC include: • Joyce Vance, director of Christian Education and member at Peace Moravian Church in Charlotte, N.C. Joyce also served on the PEC from 2010-2014.

• Peggy Carter, retired vice president of Forsyth Medical Center Foundation and member of Fries Memorial Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C. • Ron Bell, retired town manager and member of Calvary Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C.

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Synod delegates also re-elected the Rev. David Guthrie as president of the Provincial Elders’ Conference during sessions on April 4. David was first elected PEC president at the Synod of 2010.

He previously served as executive director, Board of Evangelism and Home Missions of the Moravian Church, Southern Province.

David also served as pastor of Rolling Hills Moravian Church in Longwood, Fla. from 1994-2003 and at Prince of Peace Moravian Church in Miami, Fla. from 1986-1994. He attended Moravian Theological Seminary and was ordained in 1986. He is a member of New Philadelphia Moravian Church and a resident of Winston-Salem, The newly-elected PEC will serve through the Synod of 2018.

While Synod is the supreme governing body of the Southern Province, The Provincial Elders’ Conference administers the government of the Province during the four years between

Synods. They supervise congregations and encourage them in their work and service; call and manage the ministers of the Province; see that the enactments of Synod are carried out; and decide upon the admission of new congregations.

Among the long list of duties of the PEC, its key roles include implementing the strategic directives of Synod and set the plans and priorities for the Board of Cooperative Ministries, administer the call process and supervise the day-to-day operations of the Province. ■

At left: the new Southern Province PEC includes the Rev. Chris Thore, the Rev. Dr. Daniel Crews, Peggy Carter, Joyce Vance, Ron Bell, the Rev. Ray Burke and the Rev. David Guthrie. Above: Elections for PEC president were conducted by paper ballot, while PEC member elections and resolution votes were performed electronically (right).

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SYNOD 2014

The Southern Province in 2014:

excerpts from the State of the Church Address to the Synod of 2014 At the 2014 Synod of the Moravian Church

Southern Province in April, PEC President David Guthrie delivered the “State of the Church Address” to delegates. The custom of a State of the Church message was established by the Synod of 1971 for three purposes: “to set forth the spiritual and temporal condition of the

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province” [in the opinion of the Provincial Elders’ Conference]; to assess the success or failure to attain the goals of the last Synod; and to include possible directions for the province in the future. Here are excerpts from that address.

“Zinzendorf is reported to have said: ‘I have observed that the preservation of the community is best assured through a process of continuous change.’ The Special Synod of 2009 set us on a course of change in how we are organized as a Province, where we focus our attention, and how we act together in fulfilling our mission and ministry. One year later, the Synod of 2010 took significant steps in this new direction: electing a larger Provincial Elders’ Conference, calling for the revision and streamlining of the Book of Order, inviting development of a new methodology for how congregations support The Moravian

our shared Provincial ministries, and setting a strategic direction based on eight characteristics of healthy congregations.

“The inter-synodal period now concluded has been one of almost ‘continuous change’ evidenced organizationally, administratively and numerically. Twelve Regional Conferences of Churches formed and began regular meetings, activities and new cooperative efforts in mission. A new Board of Cooperative Ministries defined its mission based on Synod directives, designed and organized new ministry teams, selected a staff team to achieve its purposes, realigned ongoing ministries and developed new initiatives. A new Provincial Support Services Board, with committees for human resources and for finance and administrative support, was organized to focus on finances, human resources, management, oversight, and reporting about administrative efforts. The Laurel Ridge Board of Directors was reconfigured and shifted from program support to become a governing board for our camp and conference center.

As this Provincial Elders’ Conference looks toward the future, we are confident that our Savior is leading and will continue to do so. As the Moravian seal reminds us, our task is to “follow Him.” “Eight pastors retired from congregational leadership (about 16 percent of the active clergy in our province). And, we may see as many as 11 retirements before our next Synod. Since 2010 we have welcomed eight new deacons into the ordained ministry, we May 2014

have three approved candidates, and four individuals in the early stages of the candidacy process. Thirty percent of our churches were involved in call processes over these past three and one-half years.

“For the 2010-2012 period total church membership was relatively stable, but we continued to see an overall 1.5% annual decline in the average worship attendance in our Province. The encouraging news for this two-year period is that we have eight congregations that have grown at a rate at or greater than 5 percent per year, eight other churches with at least some growth, and 17 other congregations which have remained relatively stable in worship attendance. In short, about 60 percent of our churches have experienced stable or growing worship attendance trends.

“Count Zinzendorf was also reported to have said: ‘I recognize no Christianity without fellowship.’ The stated purpose of our reor(continued on next page) Presented by the Rev. David Guthrie, president, Southern Province PEC. The full speech can be seen on www.moravian.org.

Additional coverage of the 2014 Synod will be featured in our June edition.

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(continued from previous page) ganization (according to the 2006 Synod) was: ‘Improving communication, polity, unity and community building, and [to] discover how we might better organize ourselves for the service of Christ.’ Most of these purposes relate to the fellowship we have as brothers and sisters in the Church. The intended outcome of this deepening of community is more effective mission engagement in the world at the service of Christ.

“Following our last Synod’s direction, we have focused as a Province on the eight characteristics of a healthy congregation: relationship with Jesus Christ, worship, stewardship, cooperation, leadership, mission, ministry and growth….the eight characteristics of a healthy congregation can be simplified into three broad areas: spiritual growth, community and mission. The portrait that emerges from these recent years is that we are growing in faith, love and hope; we are learning new and better ways to be in community with

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one another; and we are striving to engage in service to others in our communities in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. The missing ingredient appears to be our reaching out to invite others to join us in experiencing these blessings and opportunities.

“Those of us who remain anxious about numbers and growth would do well to remember these other dimensions in which growth occurs: spiritual life, community and mission. Nearly 60 years ago Clarence Shawe, a bishop in the British Province, addressed the issue of small numbers in his booklet, The Spirit of the Moravian Church. He wrote: ‘I know that the problem of numbers has often worried us…I know that our [forbears] in their best periods were not worried by it.

They were far smaller than we are today, but they did not care a straw for it, because they were sure in faith and big in spirit.’

“Rather than focusing on numerical decline, challenges to overcome or conflicts to be resolved, as Moravians, we are invited to focus on the ways we are making ourselves

The Moravian

available for our Savior to use us to make a difference in this world.

Ask the members of the South Wachovia Regional Conference what happened when they served a Lovefeast for the students and families from Carter G. Woodson charter school; or ask the members of Salisbury Road RCC how their cooperation in mission has a made difference for school children in Sierra Leone; or ask Salem Creek RCC what happened at the summer Community Celebration for children in the St. Philip’s neighborhood; or the South Branch Conference about what happens when over 200 people gather on a Saturday afternoon to share testimonies of God’s love and grace and it all spills over into Sunday morning; or Yadkin View about the power and inspiration to be found in a shared musical program.

“Ask the members of Anthony’s Plot community what their experience has been in having fellow Moravians and others join them in providing hospitality and shelter for the homeless in Winston-Salem. Ask those at the Come and Worship coffee shop gathering about having to move to two services to stay within the occupancy requirements where they are meeting. Ask the North Branch regional conference about round-robin evangelistic services; or the members at Dan Springs about packaging over 10,000 meals for Stop Hunger Now in just one morning; or the Florida District RCC about developing spiritual life retreats for women and men; or the Pilot Mountain regional conference about how people responded to Moravian band music filling the air at the actual Pilot Mountain. This list could go on.

While some of our Regional Conferences continue to struggle to find their footing together, others are realizing the benefits of mutual support, shared learning, and the power May 2014

of doing together what could not be done (or would even be impossible to do) alone.

“As we gather in this place for these days it is good to be aware of the challenges we face, and to celebrate the ways in which God has helped us to grow in faith, love and hope, and in service to others. We are also called to look forward in anticipation of all that the Lord has in mind for us as His people.

“Nicholas von Zinzendorf wrote the hymn text which gives us the theme for this Synod: “Jesus, still lead on.” As this Provincial Elders’ Conference looks toward the future, we are confident that our Savior is leading and will continue to do so. As the Moravian seal reminds us, our task is to “follow Him.” “We call for a renewed and ongoing commitment to participation in Regional Conferences of Churches on the part of our congregational leaders and pastors. We still are only beginning to realize the potential of these clusters for mutual support, sharing best practices, fellowship and common mission. Together we can be more open to consider and include alternative ways of being church such as: intentional communities (Anthony’s Plot), worshiping communities (Come and Worship); two or more congregations sharing pastoral leadership and other staff; and incubating and launching new and emerging expressions of “church” which may become congregations, or “missions,” or ongoing ministries. The heath and mission of our congregations can be strengthened through increased training and support for church boards and pastors for more effective communication, administration, decision-making, conflict resolution and strategic planning. Together we must find and implement positive ways to follow through (continued on page 27) 21

IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Community outreach in Edmonton area offers a Common Ground Exciting

things are happening in the Edmonton area community of Sherwood Park, Alberta all thanks to the efforts of Rev. Dr. Eileen Lennon Edwards and Rev. Ian Edwards.

Called to be pastors at Good News Moravian Church, they are also the driving forces of the Common Ground Community Café.

Earlier this year, Sherwood Park saw the transformation of an old pharmacy into a community coffee shop staffed by volunteers.

This outreach of the Moravian Church Northern Province, which grew out of a need for community and connectedness, provides a place where people can connect and share what’s important to them.

During the construction phase, the major-

Dee Downing is a member of Good News Moravian Church and a volunteer at Common Ground. Photos courtesy of Common Ground.

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ity of the volunteer hours were put in by people with a direct connection to the Moravian church. However the volunteer community that staffs the barista positions is made up, primarily, of people who have no connection to any Moravian churches.

I am privileged to be a part of the barista team. It has been amazing to see how the community of Sherwood Park has embraced this coffee shop. Volunteers span ages from high school students to retirees. Customers appreciate the quality, direct trade coffee, homemade soups, muffins and other baking.

We frequently get compliments on the décor and atmosphere that invites everyone to stay as long as they want whether they are working (we have free WiFi) or visiting or sitting enjoying a book. We have a selection of board games and toys to help families spend quality time together as they enjoy a beverage.

Each month we feature a local artist who

The Moravian

can display and sell their art. We also have display cases for artisans to sell their creations. A large bulletin board provides space for notices about community events.

It is exciting to be part of the new thing that the Moravian Church is doing in our community. In an era many people are choosing not to be part of an established church, people are finding community in this coffee shop and having faith conversations and sharing their life stories. New connections are being made—new relationships are formed.

…people are finding community in this coffee shop and having faith conversations and sharing their life stories.

I think I speak for all the baristas and customers when I say congratulations to Eileen and Ian. They have sacrificed a lot over the months to bring this vision to fruition. Their dedication and hard work continue to be a testimony to all who meet them. Their warmth and pastoral gifts have played a huge part in the success of this coffee shop.

In the business world success is measured by profit and loss—the balance sheet is what matters most. Even though this is a business, and we all recognize the need to be responsible with the funds provided by the Moravian Church, we also see that this coffee shop is part of a faith community. As people of faith we measure success by lives that are changed and community that is created. By that measure, the Common Ground Community Café is already a great success. We all look forward to being part of possibilities unimagined.

Our website is: www.commonground communitycafe.org or follow us on Facebook. ■ May 2014

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MORAVIAN FELLOWSHIP

Moravian Northwest fellowship creates a way for connection, worship and sharing God’s message “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

This is the message the world hungers for and needs to hear, and the Moravian Northwest Fellowship in Seattle, Washington is spreading God’s Word to people all around the world.

The late Rev. Clarence Henkleman started the Fellowship in the 1980s and the meetings and worships services were held in his Seattle, Washington home. Rev. Henkleman saw the need of a support system and meeting place for fellow Moravians who had moved to the Northwest and for the Moravian Alaskans and Moravian Canadians who traveled to and from Seattle to obtain supplies, for medical reasons, or educational purposes.

The Moravian

For those Moravians who were new to Washington and away from a Moravian Church, family and friends, and for the Moravian Alaskans and Moravian Canadians connecting with other Moravians and attending the meetings and services was a joyful event.

Worshiping together, participating in the Christmas Candlelight Service and Lovefeast, and singing old, beloved Moravian hymns were times to be treasured. Some members still recall those early services, and then after the meetings gathering together to share stories about their Moravian roots.

In the 1990s Ralph and Donna Reilly, now living in Minnesota, opened their home to the Northwest Fellowship and Maxine Simmons served as coordinator.

Today, Joan and Dick Thomas in Des Moines, Washington are the coordinators.

The services/meetings are held three times a year: A Christmas Candlelight Service and Lovefeast, an Easter Service and a Summer Picnic meeting. The Services and meetings are either held at Seattle Churches or the home of Joan and Dick Thomas.

Joan Thomas and her husband, Richard, who both grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and attended the Edgeboro Moravian Church, are coordinators for the Northwest Fellowship in Washington state. With Joan’s great love for Moravian traditions, she tells the story of the Moravians through her children’s books, Mimi’s Gift and Mimi’s Sunrise Surprise.

More information about the Moravian Northwest Fellowship can be found by emailing mimisgiftbooksjoan@gmail.com or calling 253.315.9280. Photo at right: The Rev. Dic Lawson addresses the Fellowship.

May 2014

The Fellowship is a community of Christians who serve on mission projects in the Northwest and throughout the world, and the Fellowship always has visitors at their services who want to learn more about the Moravians.

One of the Fellowship’s projects was collecting and shipping warm clothing to the children in Alaska.

The Fellowship’s greatest challenges are physical limitations of members, transportation and distance. But the members keep in touch with one another by email, letters and phone and the Fellowship continues to thrive. The Northwest Fellowship is unique in that members include Moravians, retired pastors, educators, missionaries, authors, health care providers, folks with Moravian affiliations and those of other denominations; and that the members look for ways in their community and throughout the world to share God’s message. ■

MORAVIAN HISTORY

Canadian cartographer creates map of Moravians around the world In 2002 a University student from Good Shep-

herd Moravian Church in Calgary, Alberta, Canada took on a large project of creating a map showing the influence of the Moravian Church around the world. The finished project hangs in our church and is often the focus of many visitors. It has also been a useful tool for educating our own members about the influence the Moravian church has had and continues to have in the world.

This student, Wesley Jones, is now a professional cartographer and has updated this map to include insets of historical information, significant persons and customs of the Moravian Church. It also includes all the Unity Provinces, Mission Provinces and Mission Areas with their total memberships. The

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quality of this work can be considered art and is deserving of framing and display, but its greater value is the wealth of educational material it includes.

Good Shepherd Moravian Church is making this map available for purchase. A limited number of maps will be available at the Moravian Synod Northern Province for $15 each. Afterward the price will be $25 each, available by e-mailing admin@good shepherdmoravian.org. ■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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor: I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mike Riess and The Moravian Magazine for the wonderful articles they published in the March issue. It was a great opportunity to let more of our churches know about the work we are doing world-wide. I also want to thank those of you who have contacted the UWD to let us know of your approval of what we are doing.

We were very remiss in our articles not to mention several people who have been instrumental in the success of our work. First, we want to thank the Rev. Dr. Paul Gardner who was President of the Unity when we first proposed the UWD. His approval and support were greatly appreciated in getting us started.

The Rev. Dr. Jørgen Boytler, the Business Administator of The Unity, has been invaluable in his guidance about how we should approach

this work. He has gone out of his way to guide and direct our efforts and to offer suggestions and support whenever it was asked. Also, we are very grateful to the Rev. Judy Ganz and the Board of World Mission, who have offered expertise and wise counsel to our efforts. Without these dedicated servants of the Moravian Church, we could never have made so much progress in such a short time.

And last but not least, we are deeply grateful to the hundreds of people who have prayed for the UWD and sent donations of money and supplies to support our efforts. We are deeply grateful for all of their support. God has multiplied their efforts and allowed us to serve many of our Moravian women and girls.

State of the Church

for congregational development (or redevelopment) which can be tailored to specific needs and contexts. We can claim, celebrate and emphasize the unique aspects of our Moravian spiritual heritage and values as we mark the 600th anniversary of the death of John Hus next year.

“Let us cultivate a spirit of adventure, exploration and innovation. After all, we are Moravian Christians. Rather than the seven last words of the church (We’ve never done it that way before), may our focus be the seven first words (Let’s try it and see what happens). And, may we trust, to the glory of God the Father, through the power of the Holy Spirit, that Jesus, our Chief Elder and Good Shepherd, will indeed lead on.” ■

(continued from page 21) on the 2010 Synod’s call for dialogue and discernment about homosexuality in the church, and discover new avenues and energy to engage pressing social issues from the perspective of our Moravian faith-tradition.

“We see many opportunities. Our congregations will benefit from a continued, better and broader focus on the eight characteristics of a healthy church. We look forward to the vision, direction and priorities that will be generated by the working groups at this Synod. Provincial Boards can create and support a multi-faceted “tool box” and process May 2014

Sincerely, The Rev. Patricia Garner, Coordinator Unity Women’s Desk

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OBITUARIES

Mrs. Robert J. Gohdes

The Rev. John Case

Sister Cynthia A. (Geiman) Gohdes died in Minneapolis, Minn., February 19, 2014 at the age of 74. She was born August 1, 1939 at Bridgeport, Conn., a daughter of Hershel and Mary (Thorpe) Geiman.

Sister Gohdes graduated from Moravian College in 1961. She was united in marriage to Brother Robert J. Gohdes on August 26, 1961 at Central Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pa. She served alongside her husband in ministry settings in Michigan (Daggett), Wisconsin (DeForest and Ebenezer), and Minnesota (Chaska).

Daughters, Karen and Amy; sons, Eric and David; and six grandchildren survive Sister Gohdes.

A memorial service was held March 1, 2014 at North United Methodist Church, North Minneapolis, Minn. A memorial service was held May 10, 2014 at Ebenezer Moravian Church, Watertown, Wis. with the Rev. David Sobek and the Rev. Jane Gehler officiating. Burial was in the Ebenezer Moravian Church Cemetery.

Memorials were welcomed for the Outreach Fund at North United Methodist Church, Minneapolis, Minn.

Brother John H. Case died in Lakehurst, New

A unique opportunity to reach Moravians across North America!

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Jersey, March 1, 2014, at age 83 years.

Born November 9, 1930 in New York City, N.Y, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Hadley Case. Brother Case graduated from Towson State University, Towson, Md. in 1972, received an M. Div. from Lancaster Theological Seminary in 1981 and a certificate from Moravian Theological Seminary in 1982. He was ordained a Deacon in the Moravian ministry July 25, 1982 and consecrated a Presbyter October 18, 1987.

He was united in marriage to Naomi Robinson September 5, 1964 and together they served pastorates in California (Morongo) and New Jersey (Evangel). Brother Case was America’s first mission pastor to Labrador, serving the Hopedale congregation from 1982-1987. He entered into retirement June 30, 1994.

His wife, Naomi; daughters Debra and Katrina; and son John survive Brother Case.

A memorial service was held March 7, 2014 at Brig. General William C. Doyle Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Wrightstown, N.J.

When developing marketing and promotional plans for your event, product or service, be sure to include The Moravian Magazine in the mix!

Advertising in The Moravian gets your message to more than 17,000 Moravian households in the U.S., Canada and around the world. Our cost-effective advertising options offer a unique opportunity to spread your message, promote your event and offer products and services to a Moravian audience.

For more information and to get started advertising in The Moravian, visit www.moravian.org or e-mail moravianmagazine@mcnp.org.

The Moravian

The Rev. Dr. Claude A. Knight Brother Claude A. Knight died in West Palm

Beach, Florida, April 4, 2014, at age 77.

Born February 14, 1937 in St. Ann, Jamaica he was the son of Hosea and Dorothy (Hay) Knight. Brother Knight graduated from United Theological College of West Indies in 1966. He received an S.T.M. from Christian Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, Indiana in 1976, and a D. Min. from Drew University in 1991. He was ordained a Deacon in the Methodist ministry in 1965 and as an Elder in 1969. He was received into the Moravian Church January 21, 1979.

He was united in marriage to Edna M. Yates on August 27, 1966 and together they served pastorates in Pennsylvania (Redeemer) and New York (Vanderbilt Ave.). He entered into retirement October 1, 2004.

His daughter, Andrea; and sons Wayne and Claude survive Brother Knight. He was predeceased by his wife, Edna, who died September 5, 2012.

A memorial service was held April 14, 2014 at the United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, Fla.

VISIT THE MORAVIAN MAGAZINE ON FACEBOOK! The Moravian Magazine is on Facebook!

Visit www.facebook.com/MoravianMagazine to learn more about what’s happening with the magazine, view current and back issues online and interact with The Moravian editorial staff.

May 2014

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS

Moravian Music Sunday, May 18, 2014 The fifth Sunday of Easter, May 18, 2014, has been designated as Moravian Music Sunday.

The purpose of this observance is to help all congregations become more familiar with our rich heritage of Moravian music. Music is an expression of faith, and thus continuing creativity is to be encouraged.

Prayer Day for Star Mountain and Middle East Peace, May 18, 2014 The Provincial Elders’ Conferences of both the Northern and Southern Provinces have designated Sunday, May 18, 2014 as the Prayer Day for Star Mountain and Middle East Peace. The Moravian work at Star Mountain began as a home for lepers in 1867. The work continues today with people with mental and physical disabilities. At the Synod of 2006, both provinces became members of Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP). The Rev. Dr. Robert Sawyer represents both provinces on CMEP. Star Mountain is located near Ramallah, in an area of great tension in the Middle East. The presence of the Moravian work there bears witness to God’s peace in the midst of violence. Congregations are encouraged to make use of resources found on the provincial website and sent to them via email. Please note: this prayer day is scheduled for this year only.

Elizabeth D. Miller Provincial Elders’ Conference 29

Camp Hope

(continued from page 15) or the recent past, this is an opportunity to experience the fellowship and fun again. Join other Camp Hope alumni October 24 - 26 for a weekend of reminiscing, sharing and service. You can find more information on the Camp Hope Alumni Retreat Facebook page.

These new events are in addition to the regular youth conferences (Pre-Primary, Primary, Middler, Jr. High and Sr/Post High) and special interest camps (Swimming, Fishing and Quilt Camps, in addition to Musical Theater Camp) for 2014. Your favorite activities will be back, including swimming in the pool, boating on the lake, being challenged by the low ropes course, making new friends, camp Olympics, pool parties, songs around the campfire and more.

Another new addition for 2014 is that Camp Hope is going Green! This year, all campers will receive a free water bottle when they arrive at camp. The bottles will be personalized by each camper, and are theirs to use for the week and to take home. (Don’t worry, parents: facilities for washing and sterilizing the bottles will be available at mealtimes.)

Hope Center is preparing to become barrier-free, planning to build two new cabins to 30

accommodate campers with special mobility needs. We will also be adding ramps to the Dining Hall and Hassler Hall (the lower lodge) to add accessibility. Watch for more information about this project coming soon.

Even if you are no longer in school, or aren’t even Moravian, Hope Center has a place for you. Pastors and adult lay persons alike can use their talents as counselors, nurses, program leaders and role models. Campers are encouraged to bring a friend with them to camp, regardless of their religious affiliation.

For those who need it, financial aid may be available; contact your pastor or Hope Center.

Center Administrator Stephen Sobczak and the summer staff invite you to experience Hope Center this summer. Reservations for camps are being accepted now, with an Early Bird Discount available for those who register

by May 15. For more info, contact Hope Center at 908.459.4435 or www.camphope.org or hopecenter@camphope.org. ■

AN INVITATION Hope Conference & Renewal Center is very grateful to the congregations of the Eastern District for their overwhelming support in the last several years. To show their appreciation, Hope Center invites EVERYONE in the Eastern District (and any other Moravian who might be in the area) to a free Memorial Day Church Picnic on Monday, May 26. Come experience Hope Center as you enjoy the swimming pool, fishing and boating on the lake, games and relaxation. The pavilion and grill are available for your picnic. Bring your own food and lawn chairs. Join us for an informal worship service on the lawn in the afternoon. The picnic runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.—come when you can, leave when you must.

We work together for GOD’S PURPOSES.

Our funds can do the same.

Helen Scott Sunnyside Ministry Volunteer

T

HERE IS STRENGTH IN NUMBERS. That’s as true for investments as it is for congregations. Moravian Ministries Foundation gives Moravian churches and agencies a way to invest together to leverage the power that larger investment funds enjoy. The Moravian Common Fund is managed by industry leader Kaspick & Company, a subsidiary of TIAACREF, and offers growth, balanced and income options with minimal fees. Our investors also enjoy extra benefits specifically for Moravian churches and agencies, including endowment management services, quarterly reporting and regularly scheduled cash distributions.

The Moravian Common Fund combines professional investment management with a commitment to our common faith — and that’s a great way to work together.

JOIN US ON

Invest Where You Believe www.mmfa.info | 119 Brookstown Avenue, Suite 305 | Winston-Salem, NC 27101 | 888.722.7923

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

Salemtowne residents - Bill & Carol McElveen

Energize Your Lifestyle Salemtowne is a non-profit continuing care retirement community that reflects the Moravian values of respect for the individual, hospitality, life-long learning and a love of the arts.

At Salemtowne, a maintenance free lifestyle provides you the extra time to devote to your interests.

We invite you to visit Salemtowne and discover a community where your passions can thrive.

Visit salemtowne.org or call (336) 767-8130