The 2026 edition of The Moravian Daily Texts continues a nearly 300-year-long tradition of offering an inspirational connection to the Holy Scriptures every day.
Each entry in this beloved daily devotional includes “watchwords”—Old and New Testament verses to accompany readers throughout the day— combined with beautiful hymn texts and heartfelt prayers selected and written by Moravians across North America.
The Moravian Daily Texts 2026 hardcover, paperback, large print and journal editions, along with German, Spanish and French translations, will begin shipping in early November. Place your preorder by August 13, 2025 for a 10% discount.
Summer Reading from the IBOC
Lamb has conquered. Let us follow Him. In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, love God Creates. God Redeems. God Sustains. We Respond in Faith, Love and Hope. Visit our website at https://www.moravian.org. Letters to the editor, address corrections, and other correspondence may be e-mailed to the editorial staff at moravianmagazine@mcnp.org.
Photo by Mike Riess
PONDERINGS
An issue celebrating mission
The Moravian Church was built on mission. From its earliest days in Herrnhut, our church went out into the world to serve others. And in the nearly 300 years since the refugees on Count Zinzendorf’s estate ventured out to the Caribbean, the Americas, Africa and beyond, mission has been a cornerstone of the reformed Moravian Church.
In those 300 years, the church has not rested on its laurels; our mission heritage is very much alive and well in today’s Unitas Fratrum, And one place where you can see the activity and impact of that mission spirit is in this issue of the Moravian Magazine.
Each year for the past decade, we have joined with the Board of World Mission to bring you their Annual Report. The center spread of this edition offer 24 pages that share the story of today’s ongoing commitment to mission.
Entitled “Gearing Up for the Long Haul,” this year’s report illustrates the remarkable mission work being done around the world. It shares stories of partnering in Africa and Central America, welcoming new Moravians in South America, engaging with youth in mission, bringing disaster relief to places in the U.S. and abroad, and continuing ongoing initiatives around the world — all to offer a firsthand view of the impact of the BWM’s efforts.
And the BWM is just one part of our church’s mission spirit. It can also be seen in our article on the innovative community partnership underway in Madison, Wis. The Common Grace congregation is both reaching out and welcoming in with a plan to create a community center and affordable housing in its neighborhood.
Along with this issue’s mission focus, we also share the graduation of candidates for ordination from Moravian Theological Seminary; highlight the ways you can learn even more about the happenings in our provinces and agencies; and offer reflections on Luke 11:1-13, in which we learn The Lord’s Prayer.
As with every issue of the Moravian, I hope you find something to celebrate while getting a better sense of Moravians’ long-standing and ongoing efforts to bring God’s love to all. I welcome your ideas, comments and suggestions.
Peace, Mike Riess, Editor
(ISSN 1041-0961)
Issue 2 2025, Vol. 56, No. 2
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Moravian Theological Seminary celebrates the Class of 2025
On a blessed spring day, full of sunshine and blue skies, the Moravian Theological Seminary Class of 2025 assembled at Bethlehem’s historic College Hill Moravian Church surrounded by proud family and friends to celebrate their remarkable journey and academic achievements. This milestone marked another chapter in Moravian Seminary’s 218-year legacy of preparing transformational leaders for service in the church and broader society.
Dr. Bryon L. Grigsby, president of Moravian University, Moravian Theological Seminary, and Lancaster Theological Seminary, and the Very Rev. Dr. Katherine Ragsdale,
interim vice president and dean of the two seminaries, presided over the May 3 service.
The Rev. Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Miller, Chair of the Seminary Board of Trustees, opened the gathering with welcoming remarks and a land acknowledgement.
Following her introduction, Pamela Greer, Joint Seminary Admissions Counselor, led the assembly in a Liturgy of Gratitude, offering this prayer of commitment: “In thankfulness for all you have shown us and given us, we will strive to nurture our relationships … speak with prophetic voices, seek life-giving outcomes, and respond to you with increasingly grateful hearts.”
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The 2025 graduates and faculty of Moravian Theological Seminary.
Seminary graduates
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The commencement address was delivered by The Rev. Dr. Deborah Appler, Professor, Old Testament/Hebrew Bible, who announced her retirement earlier this year.
“Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Appler has been a guiding light for countless students, inspiring them through her passionate exploration of religion, gender, and sexuality in the Hebrew Bible,” noted Ragsdale during her introduction of Appler.
Following commencement, the graduates and their loved ones joined the Seminary trustees, administration, faculty and staff for a celebratory reception in the Bahnson Center Saal.
During the ceremony, Moravian Theological Seminary conferred a Graduate Certificate in Moravian Studies; a Master of Arts in Chaplaincy; a Master of Arts in Formation & Ministry, Spiritual Care track; a Master of Arts in Theological Studies; and seven Master of Divinity degrees.
Among the graduates were five who are seeking ordination in the Moravian Church.
Caleb Carter earned a Master of Professional Studies in Political Management from
George Washington University and Bachelors degrees in History and Political Science from the University of North Alabama. He lives in Birmingham, Ala., and is seeking ordination in the Moravian Church Southern Province and ordained ministry within the Moravian Church. (Master of Divinity)
Elizabeth Ann Corney earned a Bachelor’s degree from Campbell University and a Master of Divinity from Wake Forest University. She lives in Winston-Salem, N.C., with her husband Reed, and they celebrate today with their children Emmett, Virginia, and Lilah. Elizabeth is seeking ordination in the Moravian Church. (Certificate in Moravian Studies)
Byrnese E. Craig lives in Bethlehem, Pa., with her husband Eli and their children Micaiah, Judith, Soren, and Eloise. Byrnese is seeking ordination with the Moravian Church Northern Province. Byrnese was selected to deliver the student address to commencement this year, which she did via video, as she had, the day before, given birth to a daughter, Eloise.
Byrnese received the The John David Bishop Memorial Prize, given to a graduate who is a candidate for the Master of Divinity degree, who in the judgment of the
faculty has a superior record in scholarship, development of personality suited to the requirements of the Christian ministry, and effective participation in Seminary activities. (Master of Divinity)
James J. Joniec earned his Bachelor of Arts in History from Penn State University. He lives in Bethlehem, Pa., with his wife, Elise, and their two children, Gracie and Taylor. James is seeking ordination in the Moravian Church of America, Northern Province, and is pursuing a career as a church pastor (see this month’s Official PEC News). He is also working as an associate chaplain for St. Luke’s University Hospital Network. James received the The Henry Gerdsen Memorial Prize, awarded in recognition of intellectual, personal, and professional growth, as well as a commitment to involvement in the Seminary community. (Master of Divinity)
David Ethan Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Appalachian State University. He lives in Winston-Salem, N.C., with his wife, Kelsey. David is seeking ordination in the Moravian Church Southern
Province. Ethan was awarded the Rev. Elmer Bender Memorial Award, awarded to a graduate who is preparing for the ministry of the Moravian Church and who exemplifies the qualities of leadership and integrity reflected in the life of Rev. Bender. (Master of Divinity)
Current Seminary student Becky Lepore, who serves as minister of music for Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pa., was awarded the Herman T. Frueauff Memorial Prize in Moravian History for outstanding class work and research in the field of Moravian history.
Other graduates celebrated this year included:
• Susan Glosan of Orefield, Pa., who is seeking ordination from the United Church of Christ and is pursuing a career as a hospital/hospice chaplain. (Master of Arts in Chaplaincy)
• Regina Haley of Bethlehem, Pa., who is pursuing a career in healthcare chaplaincy. (Master of Arts in Formation & Ministry, Spiritual Care track)
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(Left) Caleb Carter receives his degree from Moravian University President Bryon Grigsby. (Right) James Joinec is honored at the commencement ceremony. Caleb and James are both candidates for ordination in the Moravian Church.
Seminary graduates
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• Bam Jack Noriega of Downey, Calif., who is seeking ordination through the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches and seeks to continue ministry at Founders MCC, Los Angeles, Calif. Bam received The Cora Doster Moses Memorial Homiletics Prize for the best work in preaching and practical pulpit work. (Master of Divinity)
• Joshua S. Lewis, of Maxton, N.C., who plans to work as an educator at his undergraduate alma mater while considering doctoral studies in church history. He is also discerning a potential calling to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church. Joshua was awarded The Faculty Academic Prize, awarded at the discretion of the faculty to a student who maintains a high academic standing and also exemplifies superior creative scholarship. (Master of Arts in Theological Studies)
• Elizabeth Vanderpool of Placerville, Calif., who is ordained with the Evangelical Covenant Church is pursuing a call to military chaplaincy with the US Navy. (Master of Divinity)
• Stephen Whitehead of Quakertown, Pa., who is seeking ordination in the United Methodist Church and is pursuing a position as an Elder in the United Methodist Church. Beginning in July, Stephen will be serving as a Licensed Local Pastor at Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Allentown. (Master of Divinity)
A video of the commencement service is available at vimeo.com/1081578470 and a graduation photo gallery is available at flic.kr/s/aHBqjCdyQx n
Craig Larimer is Director of Communication and Marketing for Seminary and World Heritage. Photos by John Kish. Visit Moravian Theological Seminary online at moravianseminary.edu to learn about our accessible degree and certificate programs.
(Left) Ethan Smith, who is seeking ordination in the Moravian Church, receives his degree from President Bryon Grigsby. (Right) The Rev. Dr. Debra Appler, who retires from the seminary this year, delivers the commencement address.
page)
IN OUR CONGREGATIONS
Madison, Wisconsin’s Common Grace reimagines its connection to community
For more than 70 years, the Lakeview Moravian Church has stood on “the Triangle” on Tulane Ave. in Madison, Wisconsin. Over the years, it has offered not only a church sanctuary, but space for the community to come together. And by the time you read this, that church building will no longer be there.
Taking its place will be new construction that creates the Eastmorland Community Center & Workforce Housing initiative, an $8.5 million redevelopment project that includes a new 6,800 square foot community center and affordable housing.
And through this process, the Common Grace congregation—a combined con-
gregation that resulted from the joining of the Lakeview Moravian and Zion Lutheran congregations in 2021—will have a new place to worship while building community in their Madson neighborhood.
‘Get to know your neighbors’
The Lakeview Moravian Church was founded in 1953 to serve the then-growing Eastmorland neighborhood in Madison. Over the years, the congregation flourished and grew, but over the past few decades, attendance and membership declined.
About 10 years ago, the congregation began opening up their building more to
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Kindling Community Arts, one of the many community groups working out of the Eastmorland Community Center located at the Common Grace church building in Madison, Wis.
“ When I began my pastorate here, I visited with the founding pastor, Bishop Milo Loppnow,” says the Rev. Staci MarreseWheeler. “He gave me some very important advice that we follow to this day: ‘Get to know your neighbors.’”
With the agreement of the Lakeview congregation, she began inviting neighborhood groups to use the space, including a preschool, theatre groups, music teachers and more.
In addition, Staci joined with clergy from Madison-area mainline churches to talk about the assets each had, how to utilize them better and how they could work
together to do things in the community that none of them could do on their own.
One of those churches – Zion Lutheran (ELCA) – was facing similar issues with declining attendance and an aging building. Leaders from both congregations met and agreed to the idea of Zion selling its building and the two congregations meeting at Lakeview. The two formally joined together, forming the Common Grace congregation, in 2021. (you can read more about that in the Issue 5, 2021 edition of The Moravian)
Shortly thereafter, Common Grace established the Eastmorland Community Center, a new non-profit focused on community access and outreach. Today, the Common Grace building hosts not only the congregation but several other tenant partner organizations and many community groups.
Members of he Common Grace congregation in Madison Wisconsin in their soon-to-be-replaced church building.
An artist rendering of the Eastmorland initiative which includes a community center (left) and affordable housing (right).
effort.
An aging building
But the building itself was experiencing a broad variety of maintenance issues—a flooding basement, difficult accessibility, roof leaks and aging heating and cooling systems—that drained resources and limited its ability to serve the community.
“Lakeview is a simple building, predominantly cinder block and brick,” says Staci. “And with its issues, our board was saying, ‘What are we going to do with this building?’”
Thinking bigger, the board made the faithful decision to try something different. Instead of dumping money into fixing a declining building, the congregation developed a broader vision that would meet the congregation’s needs while expanding community access and partnership.
At the same time, they thought to address another key community issue: affordable housing. Like many cities, there is a shortage of affordable housing in the Madison area.
Combining these two ideas opened up whole new avenues for the future.
A new initiative
Working with ecumenical and local development partners, the Eastmorland Community Center and Workforce Housing initiative was created to serve both these needs. The $8.5 million effort will redevelop the land currently occupied by the Common Grace building, replacing it with a two-story community center and a threestory apartment building.
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Common Grace
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host many community organizations coming in on a weekly basis,” explains Staci.
“The plan also will include a 25-unit building with homes for individuals and families,” continues Staci, “that will provide much-needed stable, affordable housing in an increasingly unaffordable city.”
The rents from the apartment building will be used to offset some of the costs of the community center. “This is a very Moravian way of doing things,” says Staci. “We do good work for the community, and money flows back in from the community to do more ministry, so the ministry is maintained.”
Funding for the project is being provided in part by the sale of the former Zion Lutheran property along with support from the Northern Province, a private capital campaign and local development partners. Jeffrey Long, the Northern Province’s director of operations, also offered consultation and guidance on behalf of the Provincial Elders’ Conference to help move the project along.
Making way for the new
For this project to be realized, the current Common Grace building will be razed later this summer. A final worship service in the old space will take place in late July. Building will start soon after the plot is cleared, with construction of both parts of the project expected to be complete by fall of next year.
When the project is complete, the Common Grace congregation will have a new home. The Eastmorland Community Center’s performance space will double as the worship space for Common Grace on Sundays.
“Common Grace congregation members are very supportive of this effort,” explains Staci. “My hope is that church leaders will take away a message of calling and faithfulness, how we get called into new contexts and new situations. Faith is transformative; we need to practice living resurrection. This is a resurrection model, not only a business model; it’s a focus on being the church rather than owning a building.” n
Photos courtesy of Common Grace, Madison, Wis.
Even before considering a new building initiative, the Common Grace sanctuary served many purposes, from worship space to a community work space.
GEARING UP FOR
Whenever I set off on a big trip, I always picture smooth sailing: one small, organized bag, a breezy stroll through security, maybe even time for a decent cup of coffee.
Reality? Usually three bags, two frantic and unexpected gate changes, and me sprinting through the terminal like I’m in an action movie—minus the soundtrack and the glamour.
It turns out that gearing up for the long haul isn’t about being perfectly packed or perfectly planned. It’s about being ready for whatever surprises the journey brings: delays, detours, new travel companions, and unexpected blessings. It’s about carrying what matters most, even when the road gets long—and maybe having an extra snack or two when it does.
In 2024, the Board of World Mission embraced that kind of journey. We focused not just on
where we’re going, but on how we’re traveling: listening more closely to partners, building up new leaders, and preparing for a future where mission work remains vibrant and sustainable for years to come.
As you read through this Annual Report, you’ll see stories of faithful service, exciting transitions, and a renewed commitment to walk alongside congregations and communities around the world. It’s a celebration of what’s already been accomplished—and a glimpse of what’s still ahead as we continue preparing for the long road we have been called to travel.
Thank you for being part of this adventure. We’re grateful for your support and your willingness to keep lacing up your shoes, filling your backpack, and moving forward—no matter how many miles stretch ahead.
The long haul may not always be easy, but it’s always worth it. And we’re so glad you’re on the journey with us.
— Thomas Baucom Chair, BWM Board of Directors
Board of World Mission • 2024 Board of Directors
THE LONG HAUL
At the Board of World Mission, 2024 was a year of listening, learning, and leaning forward. Inspired by the endurance and preparation needed for a 100-mile bike ride— like the one we’ll participate in this fall to support our mission (see the article on the DCC in this report!)— we are “gearing up for the long haul” in more ways than one. In this season of movement and momentum, we also experienced transition. After years of faithful service, Bishop Chris Giesler retired as Director of Mission Engagement. We give thanks for his legacy and are thrilled to welcome Bishop Amy Gohdes-Luhman into this role, bringing her pastoral heart and deep experience in the Moravian Church. At the same time, we recognized the growing need to resource youth and young adult engagement and expand our capacity for mission service opportunities. To meet this need, we added the Rev. Dan Miller to our team.
We don’t take lightly the decision to call two ordained leaders
Thomas Baucom, Chair*
Board Appointed, Southern Province
Andrea Peart-DeFlaviis, Vice-Chair*
Eastern District, Northern Province
Taylor Farrey, Secretary*
Western District, Northern Province
Dave Bennett*
PEC President, Northern Province
Lisa Pampe, Outreach Comm. Chair
Western District, Northern Province
Joe Moore, Finance Comm. Chair
Southern Province
Sue Koenig
Eastern District, Northern Province
Steven Brese
Canadian District, Northern Province
from congregational settings. Our intention is not to subtract from local ministry, but to multiply impact: providing direct support, leadership, and resources that strengthen the whole church. We want congregations to see the BWM not as an office far away, but as partners ready to show up in your context, to walk alongside your ministry and mission. (See articles here on the BWM’s new leadership of Convo, and some new resources soon to be ready for congregational use!)
This report highlights the accomplishments of the past year, but more importantly, it reflects our preparations for the future. We’re listening to individuals, congregations, and global partners. We’re investing in leadership and long-term sustainability. And we’re inviting you to join us on this ride, for the long haul.
— Justin Rabbach BWM Executive Director
Jennifer Boles
Board Appointed, Southern Province
Dion Christopher Southern Province
Neil Routh
PEC President, Southern Province
Cynthia Campbell
Mission Society of the Southern Province
Jeremy Francis
EWI Province, Advisory Member
Charmane Daley
Jamaica, Advisory Member
Rex Knowlton
Treasurer, Advisory Member
* member of the Executive Committee
Covenant Partnerships
As the Board of World Mission builds relationships throughout the Moravian Unity, we hold covenant agreements with global partners to provide guidance for mutual support and accountability.
These documents lay the foundation for regular meetings, annual prayer days, funding opportunities, reporting expectations, mission team connections, and ministry resources.
As we discern God’s will together, and serve God in word and action, we create covenant relationships to show how people
of diverse backgrounds can be held together by God in unity.
In this report, you will find mention of the good work happening through several of these relationships. We currently hold covenant agreements with the Moravian Churches in Honduras (Unity and Mission Provinces); Nicaragua; Western and Northern Tanzania; Zambia; Cuba; Labrador; Peru; Sierra Leone; and Rajpur, India. We are also working with several of our longstanding partners to formalize our relationships through covenants over the coming year.
BWM and Unity representatives meet with members of the Moravian Church in Zambia to establish a new covenant partnership.
New Covenant Partnership with Zambia
In 2024, the BWM and the Moravian Church in Zambia (MCZ) began to discern the potential for a new relationship. This discernment process began with a project completed in partnership between BWM, MCZ, and HMH (the Moravian mission agency in Germany), which provided a solar power system for the Moravian kindergarten and vocational school in Lusaka. In October 2024, BWM Executive Director Justin Rabbach visited MCZ to spend time with
local leadership and see the solar panels in action.
A covenant agreement was signed between the BWM and MCZ in April 2025, making them our newest global partner! The covenant signing was held via Zoom, which was only possible due to the solar project, as there was an outage in the municipal power source that day. We give thanks for this new relationship and look forward to many years of ministry together.
Report: Moravian Church in Brazil
The Moravian Church in Brazil is steadily expanding its presence, guided by a long-term vision rooted in faith, community service, and intercultural mission. Since initial contacts in 2022, the church has grown from home gatherings to worship in formal spaces. In 2023, the church gained official recognition as a Prospective Mission Area of the Unitas Fratrum at the Unity Synod in Cape Town. They’ve celebrated baptisms, outdoor evangelistic services, and transformative gatherings for men and women. Their outreach includes support for addiction recovery, food donations, and a community children’s event. The church also sent its first cross-cultural missionary to Bolivia and has engaged in evangelism among Indigenous communities in the Amazon. With plans to launch a theological seminary and health-focused initiatives, the Moravian Church in Brazil is genuinely committed to spiritual growth, social impact, and faithful service.
Br. Mauricio Melo, the pastor of the Moravian congregation in
Brazil, shared the following prayer requests as they discern their next steps in ministry:
✵ Pray that we might find a worship space to call our own.
✵ Pray that we have the financial resources to maintain our ministry.
✵ Pray for new members to join our congregation.
✵ Pray for the Moravian Unity and the formal process of offering support and supervision to help expand the Moravian Church in Brazil.
Board of World Mission staff have made multiple visits to worship with this congregation and discuss next steps in mission and ministry. Additionally, Mauricio Melo was able to join the spring 2025 meeting of the BWM board of directors. This was an excellent opportunity for us to deepen our relationship with and understanding of the work happening in Brazil. Our next visit will include an exploration of several other congregations discerning a partnership with the Moravian Church.
Above: the sign outside the Moravian Church in Brazil's first location.
Left: Mauricio Melo, pastor of the Brazilian congregation.
Mission Grants
What is a Mission Grant?
The Mission Outreach Committee of the BWM held its inaugural meeting in March of 2019. Over the past six years, the committee has met four times per year to receive and review grant applications (153 and counting!) from mission areas, mission provinces, and Unity provinces as part of the BWM’s Mission Grants Program.
This program evolved from the idea of reducing our global partners’ dependence on yearly subsidies, and instead, allowing them to flourish through the implementation and management of their creative ideas to serve and grow. An added benefit is that in some cases, the projects are income-producing and promote self-sustainability as they pursue these goals.
duration and timeline, along with a detailed budget and cost for the project, are requested. Other sources of funding, including other grant requests and local support, as well as the project’s management team, are addressed in the application.
In 2024, a new rubric was developed to maintain consistency in the evaluation process. The grants are evaluated based on the following elements: innovation, justification, project design and goals, evaluation and assessment, budget, collaboration, sustainability, living Moravian faith, priority consideration (mission area, mission province, unity province), and number of grants previously funded.
A 2024 BWM Mission Grant supported the development of a bakery in Ahuas, Honduras.
The Mission Grant application, which is available in both English and Spanish, asks how the project will develop leadership, mission outreach, or economic strengthening. A description and details of the project, including how the project’s impact will be measured and evaluated, what the project addresses, the anticipated
Over six years, there has been a wide diversity of grant requests: the startup of a guinea pig project and laundromat in Perú, baking ovens and cocoa projects in Honduras, youth workshops in Costa Rica, and occupational therapy at Star Mountain in Palestine, to name a few. Through your generous donations, we are helping our global partners extend their mission service.
— Lisa Pampe, Chair of the Mission Outreach
Committee
Theological Education Flourishes in Tanzania
In 2023, the Moravian Church in Tanzania celebrated the growth of theological education through the Comenius Polytechnic Institute in Tabora. This school, supported by the Western Tanzania province and international partners, including the BWM, has quickly become a vital center for training pastors and lay leaders.
With an enrollment of over 60 students, the institute offers a three-year diploma in theology, placing a strong emphasis on both academic excellence and spiritual formation. Students are actively engaged in fieldwork, serving in local congregations and communities.
The BWM has helped provide scholarships, books, and infrastructure support, making this a truly collaborative effort. The flourishing of this school represents the kind of long-term, sustainable impact that mission partnerships can achieve. The future of the church in Tanzania is being shaped by these students, rooted in scripture, equipped to lead, and inspired to serve.
Partnership in Action: Supporting Teachers in Sierra Leone
Through a meaningful partnership with the Moravian mission in Sierra Leone, the BWM approved funding to support college tuition for two dedicated educators at the Moravian Secondary School in Ngiehun. Sartie Lansana and Fomba Koroma, both longtime teachers and church members, are pursuing Bachelor of Education degrees while continuing to serve
their students during the week. This effort reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local leadership and educational excellence. By investing in their development, we are helping ensure a stronger future for the nearly 1,000 students who depend on this vital ministry.
Mission grants support education initiatives in Tanzania (top/ middle) and Sierra Leone (bottom)
Ongoing Initiatives
Ahuas Clinic
Medical Board of the Ahuas Clinic in Honduras.
The Ahuas Clinic has been meeting medical and spiritual needs in La Moskitia for over 75 years, and the ministry continues to have a huge impact every day. The Clinic is administered locally by the Moravian Church in Honduras
Blessings Flow
Since April 2023, the BWM has partnered with One Atta Time, and both the Unity and Mission Provinces of the Moravian Church in Honduras, to distribute household water filtration systems to over 2,000 families in several villages in La Moskitia.
In 2024, the project expanded from its initial five villages into a second phase: the Caratasca Peninsula. Early visits to this area revealed an increased prevalence of intestinal worms, so the Blessings Flow team now distributes antiparasitic medication to every family.
This year, a group of graduate students from the University of Wisconsin-Madison completed a cost-benefit analysis of the Blessings Flow Project. Their findings confirmed its effectiveness and offered suggestions for increased impact. It was a pleasure to see the
with the BWM providing financial and administrative support. In 2024, Brother Will Cuthbert from Costa Rica traveled with the BWM to Ahuas to lead youth workshops and shared his first impressions of the Clinic:
The first day I arrived at the hospital, I stood and looked at the inscription at the entrance. It had the names of people who had such vision, and I asked myself, “why would these people travel so far to build a hospital in such a remote area among strangers?” The answer came to me as I kept walking and saw the people in need coming to be attended - people with injuries, pregnant women, older people, children - and I saw the true meaning of this Moravian hospital in Ahuas: HOPE. It is LIGHT. It is a solid living proof of the love of God for everyone in this community and its surroundings.
students connect with the project, and helpful for us and our partners to hear an unbiased perspective.
In 2025 and beyond, we plan to continue expanding the project to new villages and updating our methods as additional needs are discovered.
Water filter systems distribution in Pakwi, Honduras.
Nicaragua Synod
In late January 2025, Board of World Mission Executive Director Justin Rabbach and Unity Board Administrator the Rev. Dr. Jørgen Bøytler attended the Synod of the Moravian Church in Nicaragua. This gathering was the culmination of years of dedicated work by a commission focused on achieving reconciliation within the church after a period of division. The synod was held with more than 600 official delegates, along with fraternal delegates and guests. The size of this gathering enabled representation across the divides that had been present in the church, and the impressive attendance was a strong demonstration of the desire of many in the church to seek reconciliation. For many, the realization of the synod was an answer to a prayer offered during the difficult years from 1 Corinthians 13:4: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, be perseverant in prayer.”
The synod made significant progress in the reconciliation process by electing a single unified board. Rev. Alfredo Joiner was elected as President, and Rev. Fredimil Muller Urbina was chosen as Vice-President. Their commitment to reconciliation will be vital as the church looks toward the future.
Following the synod, the new Provincial Board shared the following message: “On behalf of the Moravians of Nicaragua, we trust that the Lord Jesus Christ, the elder of our Church, will always be our guide and that His grace will accompany us in this new historical stage, along with the support of all our brothers and sisters who continually bless us with their prayers.”
This moment marks a new chapter for the Moravian Church in Nicaragua, built on a foundation of reconciliation and shared hope. The BWM will continue to accompany the Moravian Church in Nicaragua as it navigates the logistics of rebuilding its infrastructure and administration, refocusing on mission and ministry.
The new Nicaraguan Unified Board elected by 600+ delegates at the 2025 synod.
The 2025 Synod of the Moravian Church in Nicaragua.
Moravian Disaster Response (MDR)
The Board of World Mission’s Moravian Disaster Response program (MDR) enables us to quickly mobilize resources and bring relief to those down the street and around the world who are affected by natural disasters, war, and injustice. In the past five years, we have disbursed over $1.1 million - a remarkable show of support for thousands of people experiencing pain, uncertainty, and hardship. The following is a snapshot of MDR’s impact in 2024.
North Carolina
On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene came ashore as a category four hurricane. Laurel Ridge, the Moravian Camp in North Carolina, is located in a region that received more than 20 inches of rain and sustained winds of over 50 mph. Laurel Ridge reported lost power, many downed trees, water damage in several buildings, and a mudslide impacting the summer camp lake dam. Once power was restored, work began immediately to restore the camp grounds and facilities. At the same time, Laurel Ridge became a key partner for the surrounding community, distributing food and supplies to neighbors and, with the support of MDR, opening its doors to volunteers willing to help with community clean-up efforts.
Twenty miles northwest of Laurel Ridge, the river town of Lansing experienced several feet of flooding. Through local connections, the Rev. Chris Thore was connected with a woman looking for help after her house sustained significant water damage. Rev. Thore and Butch Sawtelle (who began working with the BWM in 2024 to coordinate MDR volunteers) have spearheaded the project to rebuild this home, which they expect to complete this summer. The occupant is deeply grateful – she has enjoyed picking out new paint colors and getting to know Chris, Butch, and many of the volunteers.
erbating the issue. MDR continues to provide support as needed.
Ukraine
Soon after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, MDR funds were sent to Nová Paka, Czech Republic, allowing the local Moravian congregation to welcome refugees from a Christian school in Kyiv. Many of those refugees have since returned to Ukraine, and the BWM has supported the school each year since by paying the salaries of several teachers. Conditions remained difficult throughout 2024 with the teachers reporting that air raids, while much more frequent during the night, often interrupted lessons during the day, forcing the classes to leave their classrooms for the basement. Students’ mental health is noticeably impacted by the war; these teachers are doing life-changing work for children living in impossible circumstances.
Florida
In August 2024, Hurricane Debby made landfall in northern Florida. The effects of the storm’s torrential rain were far-reaching. In Sarasota, rains caused three to five feet of flooding and the home and cars of the Sarasota Moravian Fellowship’s pastor were completely destroyed. Congregation members and MDR funds provided relief.
Jamaica
In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl hit Jamaica as a category four hurricane. The Manchester and St. Elizabeth congregations, as well as several other Moravian buildings, sustained significant damage, with power outages and roof damage. MDR funds were sent to purchase emergency supplies and for reconstruction efforts at the Moravian college, church buildings, and homes of church members.
Your contributions to the MDR program allow the BWM to quickly respond to disasters as they occur. To give us the most flexibility to do that, please designate donations for “MDR” rather than for a particular disaster.
Gearing Up for the Long Haul
This annual report gives a big pic ture view of the work of the Board of World Mission, from our long standing commitments to new ministry opportunities. In this year of transition and active listening –locally and globally – we are eager to embark on several growth areas in the journey ahead!
for youth to build relationships, explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and navigate their faith journey. From taking the helm of our Moravian Youth and Young Adult Convos, to charting a course for expanded exchange camping opportunities, to manning a wide range of youth programs from Wisconsin to Florida, the BWM is setting sail on a new era of youth ministry!
Read more on pages 14-16.
GEARING UP FOR
Climb Aboard:
Equipping Congregations for Mission
All of the BWM’s work begins in our congregations. As clergy and lay leaders across North America lay the tracks for missional ministry in their communities and around the globe, the BWM is reading their signals, ready to offer resources that will stoke the engines of impactful min istry and provide opportunities for every congregation to climb aboard.
Strengthening Global Connection
Global relationships are nothing new for the BWM. Still, we are launching a new flight plan with our siblings worldwide through covenant agreements, which equip us to better co-pilot our shared mission, adjust our altitude as needed, and navigate unexpected turbulence together. We’re also expanding and developing our mission grants program, helping our global partners "land the plane" on creative new ministries each year.
Read more on pages 4-7.
THE LONG HAUL
Engaging Youth Through Mission
Taking the Lead on Youth and Young Adult Convos
North American Youth and Young Adult Convocations began in 1957 as part of the 500th anniversary of the Moravian Church. These gatherings initially brought together young people aged 16 to 25 from across North America every three years, and were designed to foster connections and deepen faith among participants. In the mid-1990s, it was decided to narrow this broad age grouping by dividing it between youth in high school and young adults aged 18 to 25. When this change was made, it was also decided to hold Convos every two
years, alternating between the two age groups.
Historically, the planning of these Convos has been managed by the programming staff from the Southern and Northern Provinces. However, the BWM has recently added a staff position - the Director of Mission Service - with youth and young adult engagement as a priority focus. With the blessing of the Provincial Elders’ Conferences from both provinces, the BWM is committed to continuing the planning and hosting of these critical events.
The BWM’s leadership in Convos reflects our long-standing commitment to engage youth and young adults with the church’s heritage and global community. Time and again, the “best memories” shared by former Convo participants are the friendships made at these events. It is a perfect match with the BWM’s purpose statement to “build relationships”.
Logistically, the BWM will oversee planning responsibilities, including selecting venues, publicizing events, setting registration fees, and coordinating travel and accommodations.
The BWM aims to uphold the legacy of Convo by empowering the next generation of Moravian leaders and fostering lifelong friendships. The first Convo under the BWM umbrella will be held in Miami in July 2025 under the theme “Mission In Action”.
Fostering Global Youth Connections Through Exchange Camping
In 2024, the BWM played a key role in increasing the “exchange rate” of youth and young adult participants, as well as staff members, at our summer camp programs. With the generous financial support of the Eastern and Western Districts of the Northern Province, as well as some congregations that offered camper scholarships, the BWM was able to facilitate exchange camper experiences for more than 25 youth and staff.
The exchanges were facilitated within the Northern and Southern Provinces and with BWM global partners: young adults from Jamaica attended both Chetek (Wisconsin) and Tar Hollow (Ohio), and a group of middle-high campers from Labrador attended Laurel Ridge (North Carolina).
Members of the BWM staff and board of directors served as deans, camp directors, program leaders, and cabin counselors, as well. Our summer camping programs remain a critical touchpoint for the BWM’s connections with youth and young adults - introducing campers to the blessings and opportunities that come from their participation in mission and ministry in the wider Moravian Unity.
Many camp participants have gone on to serve on domestic and international mission trips, as BWM summer interns,
and as board and staff members of the BWM.
These exchange programs will continue in the future, and already a group from the Moravian Church in Germany has accepted an invitation to attend Chetek in the summer of 2025, with the hope that a group from the North American Moravian Church will join them at their summer camp in 2026.
Top: Campers from Labrador at Laurel Ridge in North Carolina. Above: Jamaican campers on their way to Mt. Morris in Wisconsin
Engaging Youth Through Mission
Reflection from Delaney Brummer, the Board of World Mission’s 2024 Summer Intern
WDelaney Brummer supported ministry at Estamos Unidos and Laurel Ridge in North Carolina as part of her internship
hen people asked what I was doing this summer, I never quite knew how to answer. Not because I didn’t love it, but because I loved it so much, it was hard to capture in a short reply. Now, looking back on one of the most meaningful seasons of my life, I’ll try to describe what made it so special.
My journey began with a hesitant yes to serve as the BWM’s summer intern. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I felt drawn to the opportunity and the leadership of Justin and Sylvie. That “yes” opened the door to unforgettable experiences.
From my first weekend at Mt. Morris Service Camp to leading mission camps and creating Vacation Bible School programming in North Carolina, I found myself surrounded by encouraging leaders, welcoming communities, and youth who inspired me with their kindness and curiosity. I developed practical skills in curriculum planning, communications, and volunteer recruitment—often with plenty of joy, late-night espresso, and even the occasional ghost story.
One of the most impactful parts of the summer was realizing I could contribute meaningfully, even in unfamiliar spaces. Whether navigating challenges at camp or working independently on a “big idea” project, I gained confidence in my voice, my leadership, and my faith.
This internship helped me live out what I had been learning in school while grounding it in reallife ministry. I am grateful to the BWM for the opportunity to grow, lead, and be part of a team working together to serve God’s world.
Delaney Brummer is a member of Our Savior’s Moravian Church in Altu ra, Minn.This is an abridged version of Delaney’s reflection, which can be found at MoravianMission.org.
Supporting Moravian Ministry…Until He Comes
The Board of World Mission is launching the Until He Comes Fund, a $100,000 endowment created to support Moravian mission for generations to come.
This bold investment reflects our deep confidence that Christ-centered mission will continue to thrive well
into the future. It also honors the faithful gifts of those who came before us—contributions that still sustain our work today. Rooted in hope, gratitude, and trust, this fund is a gift across time: planting seeds now for a harvest we may never see, but firmly believe will come.
Door County Century Ride: 100 Miles for 100 Years
We’re not just talking the talk— we’re biking the bike! On September 7, 2025, a passionate team of BWM supporters will take on the Door County Century Ride, cycling 30, 50, 70, or 100 miles to raise funds for the Until He Comes Fund.
Just as the “Century” ride spans 100 miles, the dollars raised will be invested for 100 years, ensuring that Moravian mission work continues to impact lives around the world for generations. Join the ride—or sponsor a rider—to help us pedal toward a
future filled with lasting ministry and global outreach. Learn more and get involved at MoravianMission.org/CenturyRide.
Congregational Resources
Moravian congregations throughout North America participate in mission work worldwide and maintain meaningful relationships with our covenant partners. Churches are looking outward toward their immediate community, naming and meeting the needs of their next-door neighbors. It is a joy to see our church doors open, our stoves stoked, and our neighbors fed, clothed, and cared for.
The BWM is actively seeking to support congregations and pastors by producing mission-minded resources tailored to your church’s specific setting. In addition to the resources already available on our website, we look forward to introducing a variety of new resources in the near future:
Missional Ministry Check-Ins
Missional ministry is defined as: a short or long-term mission of a church or emerging ministry that is focused outwardly to address a specific unmet need in the community. It can be a ministry of education and advocacy (e.g., education on racial justice, immigration, prison reform, etc.) or a ministry of service (food or clothing ministry, housing ministry, etc.).
The Board of World Mission recognizes this as missional work and offers our encouragement, expertise, and curiosity. We seek to celebrate and connect congregations across our provinces in mission engagement close to home and abroad.
Additional Study and Worship Resources in Development
Because we see a desire within our Moravian congregations to connect their faith with the diverse needs of our siblings throughout the world, the BWM is also in the process of creating a wide variety of Bible study and worship materials to support clergy and lay leaders as they seek to guide their congregations in meaningful conversations.
These resources—Bible studies, complete worship service packets, liturgical resources, and more—will be created collaboratively by a cohort of BWM staff members and other congregational leaders, to ensure that the resources are useful in all of our churches and in other Moravian settings, like camping ministries, mission trips, agency board meetings, and more.
Please reach out to Bishop Amy Gohdes-Luhman, Director of Mission Engagement, at amy@moravianmission. org if your congregation would like to learn more about missional ministry or resources offered by the BWM. Our staff is available to preach, lead worship, organize missional workshops, provide a missional ministry check-in, and share updates on our global work. We look forward to hearing from you!
Mission Engagement Collaborative Work
The Board of World Mission is “gearing up for the long haul.”
The ‘long haul” signifies an ongoing commitment to the well-being of the Moravian Church as a global Unity and a dedication to the health of our churches and emerging ministries near home. The Board of World Mission is committed to collaboration and partnership. At the provincial level, we collaborate with our camping ministries, fellow agencies, various commissions and committees, provincial leadership, and full communion partners. At a global level, we collaborate with our global partners, including Unity Provinces, Mission Provinces, and Mission Areas.
In 2024, BWM partnered with our camping ministries by providing leadership at our youth camps and support at mission camps focused on maintaining our camping facilities. We continue this commitment as we take on the leadership of our Convo program this year and the years ahead.
In 2024, BWM partnered with
the Moravian Ministries Foundation and the Commission on Congregational Development (SP) to create a roundtable gathering for those serving in leadership throughout our Northern and Southern Provinces. This gathering created a space for visioning and partnership that we look forward to building upon in the years ahead.
The BWM also has opportunities to gather with innovative leaders across denominational lines. We seek to build lasting relationships with our full communion partners as we share in the work of spreading the Gospel throughout the world. There is a hopeful atmosphere of exchange and shared knowledge among mainline Christian churches.
Finally, in partnership with our Moravian educational institutions worldwide, we look forward to cultivating contextual theological training that meets the needs of our pastors and lay leaders worldwide. We are setting our gears for the long haul!
BWM members during devotions at their meeting held at Emmaus Moravian Church in Pennsylvania.
Behind the Scenes
Sue Adams Administrative Assistant
When people think of mission work, they often envision building homes, leading worship, or providing care in communities worldwide. But behind every outreach effort, there’s a network of quiet, steady work that makes it all possible. As the administrative assistant at the Board of World Mission, I get a front-row seat to that behindthe-scenes coordination—and it is a role that I cherish.
My days are filled with details that help bring our mission to life. I process and record donations, manage reports, and correspond directly with donors. More importantly, I get to witness the heart of this ministry in action. I see how a fantastic team of people work together to be faithful to our commitments to the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.
It is a blessing to support those who are the hands and feet of Christ in the world. I am grateful to play a role in sustaining the vital work of sharing love, hope, and faith across borders. Behind the scenes, every small task is part of something much bigger.
Rex Knowlton Treasurer
My pleasure as your treasurer is to work with our global partners in assuring needed funds are received in a timely manner, and to coordinate other funds in conjunction with or in lieu of our support. We support many missions: some that we have supported for years like the Ahuas and Bilwas clinics in Central America and some newer, like our support this year to the Moravian Institute in India or the Moravian Church in Zambia.
An important ministry is our response to disasters. In 2024, support was provided to hurricane victims in Central America, North Carolina, Florida, and of course some areas impacted by lingering conflict.
Funds are used for education, housing, food, medicines, technology, water and other needs many of us take for granted as being readily available.
This year we deployed 96 wires abroad with the help of our partner agency, the Moravian Ministries Foundation. Thank you for your constant and needed support of the Board of World Mission of your Moravian Church.
SERVE. PRAY.
Equipping Moravians for mission and ministry is a priority of the Board of World Mission. Whether you would like to serve on an international mission trip, join in on a service project closer to home, or organize a local fundraiser to make this work possible, we want to connect you with the resources and information you need to make it happen.
To find out about opportunities to serve directly with a Board of World Mission project – near or far – contact our Director of Mission Service, the Rev. Dan Miller at dan@moravianmission.org.
To serve in your congregational setting – by bringing a BWM staff member to speak at your church, accessing BWM resources for missional ministry in your community, and more – contact our Director of Mission Engagement, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Amy Gohdes-Luhman at amy@ moravianmission.org.
We are grateful for your consistent generosity and desire to give of your time, energy, and financial resources. Please also include our ministries, and especially our global partners, in your prayers and share their stories with others who wish to know about our work. As part of our covenant agreements (read more on page 4), we have designated special prayer days with each partner, which are listed on our website at MoravianMission.org/pray. On each prayer day, we share any specific prayer requests we have received from our siblings on that webpage, as well as on our social media platforms. We invite you to join us in prayer on these days and throughout the year. Mutual prayer and encouragement is an important part of our global relationship building.
Thank you for your support of the Board of World Mission! In order to continue the work you read about in this report, the BWM counts on committed donors across North America. Unrestricted donations provide the BWM with the most flexibility to respond quickly and effectively to needs as they arise. You may also indicate that you would like your gift to support Mission Grants, the Ahuas Clinic, Blessings Flow, or other specific efforts of the BWM. Thank you for your overwhelming generosity, without which none of the projects described in this annual report would have been possible.
U.S. residents can send checks to: Board of World Mission 1021 Center Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
You can also make your donation online at MoravianMission.org/Give.
Canadians can send checks to: Moravian Church in Canada 600 Acadia Drive SE Calgary, AB T2J 0B8
Interac e-Transfer donations may be sent to treasurer@moravian.ca. In the comments section, please include your name and address to receive a tax receipt.
Operating Results Summary
The Board of World Mission is grateful for the generous support of the mission work of the North American Moravian Church. The accompanying graphic outlines
where the contributions for our efforts are gathered, and then how this support is used. Support this year was exceptional, coming in at just under $1.6m, excluding exchange activity.
Support and Revenue
For the year ended December 31, 2024 (audited) Board of World Mission of the Moravian Church
Northern and Southern Provincial Support
Much of our funding comes from the Northern and Southern Provinces. This includes congregations’ weekly giving, as well as special mission collections. The Society for Promoting the Gospel and the Southern Province Mission Society continue to support our mission, as does the Larger Life Foundation. In total, we received over $695k from these sources in 2024. The returns from our investments with the Moravian Ministries Foundation are significant this year, contributing over $338k. We are very grateful for the general contributions received each year; in 2024 these came in at over $534k. We also appreciate in-kind support which
$1,598,841
tallied over $29k this year. Exchange funds (support for a specific outreach for which the BWM acts as a conduit for passage) are excluded from the statement but represent another significant part of our mission work. This year we took in $443k in exchange support and distributed $356k of this support (some support carries forward for use in subsequent years.) The most pronounced activity this year is support of the Ahuas Clinic, representing $131k of the exchange funds, followed by the support of our Blessings Flow water filter project, which received $68k in support in 2024. Disbursements for Ahuas
totaled $81k and for the water filters totaled $94k.
80% of our 2024 expenditures were applied directly to ministry through our mission programs and global partner support, which takes many forms, as described more fully throughout this report, including medical management,
Expenditures
technology assistance, youth support, training, disaster relief, and a host of other crucial activities. Our audited 2024 financial statements contain more detail and are available upon request.
—Rex Knowlton, Treasurer
For the year ended December 31, 2024 Board of World Mission of the Moravian Church
$1,322,819
Connect with the BWM
The Board of World Mission provides a multitude of ways to stay up-to-date with our work. See the latest updates on our website, MoravianMission.org, and follow us on Facebook (Board of World Mission), Instagram (@ moravianboardofworldmission), TikTok (@boardofworldmission), and BlueSky (@moravianmission.bsky.social).
Please contact Sylvie Hauser at sylvie@moravianmission.org or (920)495-8995 if you would like to
receive our quarterly newsletter or other regular communications from the BWM. You can also let us know your communication preferences by scanning the QR code here. Thank you for staying engaged with the work of the BWM!
Board of World Mission Staff Members
Justin Rabbach Executive Director justin@moravianmission.org
Rev. Dan Miller Director of Mission Service dan@moravianmission.org
Sylvie Hauser Director of Communications and Development sylvie@moravianmission.org
Sue Adams Administrative Assistant sue@moravianmission.org
Rt. Rev. Dr. Amy Gohdes-Luhman Director of Mission Engagement amy@moravianmission.org
Rex Knowlton Treasurer rex@moravianmission.org
We are deeply grateful for the ministry of our outgoing staff members, the Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler (Director of Mission Engagement) and Br. Rick Nelson (Mission Consultant), both of whom retired in 2024, along with the Rev. Angelica Regaldo Cieza (Director of Mission Outreach) who departed the BWM staff in 2025.
Agencies offer many ways to learn more about the Moravian Church
In today’s information-soaked environment, it can be difficult to keep up with what’s going on in the Moravian Church. But thanks to the work of communicators in provincial offices and church ministries, there are plenty of convenient ways to stay in touch with the happenings in our Moravian World.
While the Moravian Magazine continues to go to every Moravian household in the U.S. and Canada, and there are many opportunities to connect with church agencies on the Internet and through social media, church members and others interested can receive regular communications from the Northern and Southern Provinces, Moravian Ministries Foundation, Board of World Mission, Moravian Music Foundation, provincial archives and other agencies of the church via their e-mail newsletters.
Here’s a selection of those – and what you can expect by subscribing.
The Moravian Monthly from the Northern Province
The Moravian Monthly is the official newsletter of the Moravian Church Northern Province – Canadian, Eastern, and Western Districts. It is emailed monthly, and each edition includes a PDF version for easy printing. The newsletter includes both district-specific news and provincewide updates, including news from our Moravian agencies and ministries, birthdays, congregation and ordination anniversaries, clergy updates, prayer concerns, and more. Subscribe and find past editions of the Moravian Monthly at www.MCNP.org (click on the News tab) or contact Sylvie Hauser at sylvie@mcnp.org.
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CONNECTING WITH MORAVIANS
Learning more
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The Essentials from the Southern Province
Each week, the Southern Province Commission on Congregational Development (CCD) sends The Essentials via e-mail. This newsletter offers weekly updates from the Moravian Church Southern Province and its Commissions. Each edition of The Essentials includes relevant notices and updates about the province and its agencies, resources for congregations and members, book recommendations, news about upcoming events and more. Subscribe to The Essentials by visiting www.mcsp.org and clicking on the “Essentials Newsletter” tab.
Board of World Mission
Stay connected with the Board of World Mission—they currently offer three regular communications:
• The Mission Message is our official quarterly newsletter and gives the best and broadest overview of our work. If you want to know what the Board of World Mission›s staff and board are working on and how you can connect, this is the newsletter for you! We offer the Mission Message via email and postal mail, so you can subscribe—for free—to whichever format is best for you.
• The Ahuas Spotlight is a quarterly emailed newsletter about the Ahuas Clinic, a medical ministry serving the La Moskitia region of Honduras for over 75 years. It is lovingly compiled by BWM board member and Ahuas Committee member Lisa Pampe and gives inspiring and thorough updates on all aspects of the Clinic’s ministry.
• Finally, the Mission Minute is intended for those who compile congregational / ministry newsletters, bulletins, etc. Each month, we email out a bite-sized article in the format of a bulletin insert to make it easy for you to share updates on Moravian mission work with your congregation or other Moravian entity. We encourage you to use the bulletin insert format as you›d like, or copy and paste the content into your newsletters and other communications. Thank you for helping us to share our work!
Subscribe to any or all of the Board of World Mission offerinngs at MoravianMission.org/ News/—click the big green button to share your contact info and subscription preferences—or contact Sylvie Hauser, BWM Director of Communications and Development, at sylvie@moravianmission.org or (920)495-8995. We also invite you to follow us on social media for more regular updates on our work! We are on Facebook (Board of World Mission), Instagram (@moravianboardofworldmission), TikTok (@boardofworldmission), and Bluesky (@moravianmission.bsky.social).
Moravian Music Foundation
The Moravian Music Foundation shares its E-news via MailChimp to constituents of MMF who have either signed up to receive them or have provided information to MMF in other ways, such as making a donation or signing up for a class, or buying tickets to a concert and providing their email address. The E-news is sent up to five times per month when multiple projects are on the calendar. In the slower summer months, it may only go out once. The content covers a range of events and notices, meant to drive readers to the website for further informa-
tion or to the ticket portal or giving portal to complete a transaction.
The Musical Moments Newsletter is posted and shared as an in eNewsletter (electronic media) in the late winter/ early spring to cover events and concerts happening spring and early summer. A second issue is printed and mailed in late summer to cover events in the fall and through the holidays. Musical Moments includes longer form articles, research, photos and reports from past events, messages from staff, spotlight on musicians or donors, and information on events and concerts with the aim still being to drive readers to the website for further information or to the ticket portal or giving portal to complete a transaction.
The overall aim of all communications is to inform our constituents and stakeholders about the work of the Foundation, inspire them to participate in musical and educational opportunities, and engage them in a partnership to support MMF’s mission and purpose.
To sign up for Music Foundation, visit https://moravianmusic.org/sign-up-for-ournewsletter/
MMFA Email Newsletters
The Moravian Ministries Foundation in America offers two inspiring email newsletters created to inform, equip, and encourage individuals, churches, and ministries:
• Forward Together (monthly): Delivered on the first Monday of each month, this newsletter provides updates on MMFA’s services, including investments, stewardship, gifts, grants, and more. Stay in the loop on the programs and opportunities helping to move ministries forward, together.
• Stewardship Connection (quarterly): Perfect for clergy, lay leaders, and anyone
passionate about whole-life stewardship, this resource offers theological insights, leadership tools, and practical guidance to nurture faithful and generous living.
Subscribe to these newsletters to be first to hear about new initiatives, grant opportunities, and inspiring stories from Moravian ministries. Each issue delivers practical tools to strengthen your ministry, from investments to stewardship, gifts to grants. Whether you’re leading a congregation or simply seeking ways to give more faithfully, our newsletters will keep you connected, equipped, and inspired. https://www.mmfa.com/contact-us/
Additional opportunities
In addition to these provincial and agency newsletters, each of the Moravian Church Archives (Northern and Southern Provinces) offer e-mail newsletters and other publications to share upcoming events, information about collections, historical notes and more. If you’re interested in happenings at some of the church camps, be sure to check in with Laurel Ridge and Mt. Morris, who share regular information about news and events happening at their facilities.
One of the best ways to keep up with happenings in individual congregation is to subscribe to your church’s regular newsletter. Most congregations continue to produce regular communication and offer an option to receive it via e-mail. If you’re not already on the list, check with your church office. n
Reflections on Luke 11:1-13
The Lord’s Prayer
Each week, Moravians across the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean share a common message through their Sunday bulletins.
This month, we share insights which expound on Luke 11:1-13 Thanks to writers past and present for their contributions to the Moravian bulletin series.
“. . . As We Forgive . . .”
Charlie McDonald, pastor, Chaska Moravian Church, Chaska, Minn. • July 27, 2025
Usually someone learns what we call “The Lord’s Prayer” very early in life, given a church-oriented upbringing. The reason we have received this gift of a prayer is because one of the disciples of Christ was brave enough to ask for it.
When we look at it, it’s not a very complicated string of words, as seen in the text according to the writer of Luke. Not many things are said, but a wealth of meaning is still conveyed. It is worth not-
ing, however, that translations vary, for this short and powerful prayer.
So what is contained in this prayer? A reminder to respect and revere God. A wish for God’s kingdom not to be contained in heaven, but to be seen throughout creation. A petition for forgiveness, and a reminder to be forgiving in return. And finally a request for deliverance. Within these simple appeals to the Most High we find references to the commandments, a reminder of the thesis statement of Jesus’ ministry, a conviction of those praying to live their faith, and a rededication to humility before God, among so many other references that Jesus weaves in.
What’s often glossed over in this prayer is the economic tone of the petition for forgiveness—which we see in the English translation that many Christians use: “Forgive us our debts.” Perhaps this is an invitation to ponder why that is, and
what it would mean to refocus in this way. What does it mean to forgive those indebted to us? What does it mean to practice biblical Jubilee? What does God’s reign look like in a world ruled by money and human greed? Most importantly, what does it look like when the things we pray for transform the way we treat one another?
Lord, Teach Us How to Pray
Eulencine Christopher, co-pastor, South Florida
Moravian Pastorate • July 24, 2022
Prayer is the lifeline of the child of God. Jesus himself spent time in prayer as a regular practice. Recognizing the value that Jesus placed on prayer, his disciples wanted to learn how to pray. Jesus did not ask anyone to teach his disciples how to pray. He taught them himself.
This prayer, taught by Jesus, is a model prayer even for us today. In The Lord’s Prayer, Jesus highlights some crucial components of prayer. Essentially, he wants us to praise God; to understand that God provides daily; to be concerned with and practice forgiveness; and finally to be persistent in prayer.
Praising God sets the tone for communication with God and puts one in a frame of mind to worship God, as opposed to going shopping, just asking God for things. Jesus wants us to understand that God provides sustenance day by day, not weekly or monthly or on special occasions; we must daily draw from God’s abundance. Jesus advocates daily communication with God, not only asking, but giving thanks for blessings received.
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He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” So he said to them, “When you pray, say:
Father, may your name be revered as holy. May your kingdom come.
Give us each day our daily bread.
And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us.
And do not bring us to the time of trial.”
And he said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.’ And he answers from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.’ I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything out of friendship, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs.
Jesus also addresses the matter of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not an option. It is necessary, for self and for others. God has forgiven our sins; so it is only fair that a concerted effort is made to forgive all those who have wronged us. To forgive or be forgiven is to restore broken relationship with God and each other. It is important therefore not only to accept God’s forgiveness, but to practice forgiving each other, promoting love and reconciliation.
Jesus invites us to persistent prayer, understanding that God answers prayer. That’s why Jesus, knowing the importance of prayer, taught his disciples how to pray. v
The Personal Nature of Prayer
Rick Beck, pastor, Good Shepherd Moravian Church, Calgary, Alberta • July 28, 2019
We are not unlike the disciples. We too want to know how to pray “correctly,” using the right words, the right rituals. We want the assurance that God listens favorably, so we may approach God freely and with peace.
Prayer had become complicated, something the priest did on behalf of the people. But the disciples witnessed Jesus praying often, and it was personal. “Teach us to pray,” they asked. And we’ve been saying The Lord’s Prayer ever since. This is one of the Christian expressions that we share unaltered with all Christians. But has it become so routine that we don’t think about what it means to us personally?
Take time to ponder each phrase of this prayer. Write down your thoughts. How might your heart make it fresh and personal? An example might look like this:
Breath of all living, whose true self dwells in the heart of all creation, you are Holy, beyond comprehension yet intimately known.
May the desire of your heart be the reality of our living.
Make us mindful of your abundant generosity, to share what we have with those who have not.
May we find life in your forgiveness for ourselves and for others.
May the distractions of life not overwhelm us but invite us to see you in their presence.
For the desire of your heart is our desire, the power that we share is your power, the glory that we celebrate is your glory in every eternal moment.
Like you, your prayer will be unique. It may follow Jesus’ words or be completely different. There’s no right or wrong way to pray. It’s the desire to pray that makes it prayer. v
Your Kingdom Come
Hermann Weinlick, retired pastor, Minneapolis, Minnesota • July 28, 2013
What we have come to call The Lord’s Prayer appears in two of the four Gospels, Matthew and Luke. Luke’s version is a little shorter. In both Matthew and Luke, Jesus instructs us to pray for “the kingdom of God,” which I understand as life, in time or eternity, that is in tune with God’s will.
The three petitions that follow suggest three aspects of God’s intent and, I hope, our intent as disciples of the Jesus through whom we understand God most clearly—though still dimly (1 Corinthians 13:12): for bread, for forgiveness, for avoiding trial. A healthy faith seeks these three for all people: satisfied physical needs, healthy human relationships, faithfulness toward God.
Certainly some Christians emphasize one and neglect the others. Some seek bread—for themselves or for others—and pay less attention to relationships. Some stress human relationships but are less concerned about our relationship to God. Some focus on relationship with God and minimize human needs.
If we are to be faithful, we need to remember that God wants all three to be evident where God rules. This is Jesus’ prayer for the church, for those who are Jesus’ disciples, people who take from Jesus their cues about what really is important. And the task of the church of Jesus is to show the world what is important to God.
How well are we as individuals balancing these concerns: satisfied physical needs, healthy human relationships, faithfulness toward God? Are we as a congregation showing the world an inviting and healthy blend of these three? Can others see in us signs of “the kingdom of God”? v
Learning to pray
Kurt Liebenow, pastor, Christian Faith Moravian Church, DeForest, Wisconsin • July 25, 2010
Jesus instructs the disciples, “ask” God and it will be given to you, “seek” and you will find, “knock” and the door will be opened. A person once said to me that he would believe in Jesus when what he asked for from God would be given to him. I inquired about what he asked for and was told that he has asked for one million dollars and that his deceased wife would return to life. We had quite an interesting conversation after that.
So what is this asking, seeking, and knocking on doors we are to do? The context is that Jesus’ words are his response to the disciples, who asked to be taught to pray. They knew that the good they saw in Jesus came as a result of how he prayed. As disciples, they thought it would be prudent to learn from the Master.
The instruction to ask, seek, and knock might not be so much about how to pray, but what we should expect from the One on the other side of our prayers. We are to ask because God listens and helps us meet our needs. We are to seek because God is a perfect GPS system to get us through the roadways of daily life. We are to knock because God is ready to receive us when we are willing to come to the threshold of God’s door.
When we have the right appreciation of God in our prayers, then what we receive, find, and have access to will allow us to pray as Jesus prayed. For that assurance we can all say, “Amen!” v
OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS
NORTHERN PROVINCE
Moravian University Chaplain
Brother Charles McDonald has accepted the call to serve as the full-time chaplain of Moravian University, Bethlehem, Pa.. Br. Charles began his call to specialized ministry on July 1, 2025. Charles is a graduate of Moravian University and Moravian Theological Seminary, earning his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics in 2017 and his Master of Divinity in 2021. Charles was ordained on May 15, 2021, and consecrated a Presbyter on April 5, 2025. Charles served as the full-time pastor of Chaska Moravian Church, Chaska, Minn. Please hold Charles and his wife Rebecca, Chaska Moravian Congregation and Moravian University in your prayers.
Retirements
The Rev. Tracy Robinson has been granted permission to retire from the active ministry of the Moravian Church, effective June 30, 2025. Brother Tracy was ordained on July 30, 2006 , and has served in the Moravian Church Southern Province, as church planter for the Latino/Hispanic community in the Lehigh Valley, Pa. He has served together with his wife Rhonda as pastor of Esperanza, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and has served as the Chaplain for Morningstar Senior Living, Nazareth, Pa. The Church is grateful for Br. Robinson’s years of faithful ministry and wishes him well in his retirement.
The Rev. Sue Koenig has been granted permission to retire from the active ministry of the Moravian Church, effective July 4, 2025. Sister Koenig was ordained on March 7, 2004. She served at the Schoenbrunn Moravian Church in New Philadelphia, Ohio and the Graceham Moravian Church in Thurmont, Md. She is currently serving as the part-time Director of Racial Justice and Healing for the Moravian Church Northern Province and as pastor of First Moravian Church in Easton, Pa.
Sister Koenig will continue to serve under appointment in both of these roles. Thank you to Sister Sue for her many years of faithful service and her continued ministry to the wider church.
The Rev. Mark Breland has been granted permission to retire from the active ministry of the Moravian Church, effective October 19, 2025. Brother Mark was ordained on July 8, 1990. He has served at the Redeemer Church, Philadelphia, Pa.; Lake Mills Moravian in Lake Mills, Wis.; Second/Haverford in Indianapolis, Ind., service to the Western District; and most recently at Lititz Moravian Church in Lititz, Pa. The Church is grateful for Brother Breland’s faithful ministry and wishes him well in his retirement.
Leave of Absence
The Rev. Mary Bielke had resigned her position in specialized ministry as Chaplain at Amediys Hospice in Brookfield, Wis., on September 19, 2024. Sister Mary has requested and has been granted a leave of absence from active service of the Moravian Church, effective September 19, 2024.
OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS
Ordination
Brother James Joniec was ordained a Deacon of the Moravian Church on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Emmaus Moravian Church, Emmaus, Pa., with the Rt. Rev. Douglas Kleintop officiating.
Advent Moravian Church
Brother James Joniec has accepted the call to serve as the part-time pastor at Advent Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pa. Brother James is a May 2025 Moravian Theological Seminary graduate. Br. James will be installed at Advent on Sunday, August 17, 2025. Please hold Brother James, his family, and the Advent Moravian Church in your prayers as they begin their ministry together.
Edgeboro Moravian Church
Sister Jodie Harney has accepted a call to serve as the full-time pastor at Edgeboro Moravian Church, Bethlehem, Pa. Sister Jodie will be installed on Sunday, September 7, 2025.
Prior to the call, Sister Jodie had served as the pastor at Mountainview Moravian Church, Hellertown, Pa., from August 2009 until its closing in November of 2024. Please be in prayer for the members of Edgeboro Moravian and for Jodie and her family as they transition together in this ministry.
SOUTHERN PROVINCE
Pastoral Ministry
We invite your prayers of support for the Rev. Russ Williams who has served as pastor of the New Beginnings Moravian Church in Huntersville, N.C. The Provincial Elders’ Conference supports Russ in his discernment to step away from pastoral ministry. We invite your prayers for the New Beginnings congregation as it discerns next steps.
We also invite your prayers for the Rev. Noah Smith. At the conclusion of taking a leave from serving Moravia Moravian as the pastor, he has decided to step away from pastoral ministry for the immediate future. The Provincial Elders’ Conference supports Noah in his discernment to step away from pastoral ministry. We invite your prayers for the Moravia congregation as it discerns its next steps.
Clemmons Moravian Church
The Rev. Christy Clore has accepted the call to be the Associate Pastor of the Clemmons, N.C. congregation. While she will begin her service to the congregation on July 14, she will be installed on August 10. Sister Christy concludes her role as the Faith Formation Specialist with the Commission on Congregational Development in mid-June. Please keep the staff and those serving on the Commission on Congregational Development and the Clemmons congregation in prayer during this time of transition.
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OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL ELDERS’ NEWS
SOUTHERN PROVINCE
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The Commission on Congregational Development is in a discernment process about the next steps they will be taking to support the ministry of faith formation and Christian education throughout our Province.
The Table, Raleigh, N.C.
From The Rev. Elizabeth Yarbrough Neely: Since its inception in the spring of 2021, The Table Moravian Church has been a place to gather around God’s table to share in welcome and love. The Table has offered a place for refuge and healing and a new way to experience God together.
As we pulled our watchword for 2025, we were reminded of our identity and purpose in Christ.
“Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people.” (Acts 2:46-47)
We have gathered in a plethora of places including homes, parks, community centers, and coffee shops; we have sung songs of worship, praise, lament, faith, and hope; we have shared scripture, prayer, conversations, liturgy and hands-on activities; and, in all these things, we have shared the love and welcome of Christ.
Through prayerful consideration, The Table Moravian Church has discerned that our time as an emerging ministry with a weekly gathering is drawing to a close. We continue to learn from God and from one another as we transition into the next stage of our ministry.
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The Rev. Dr. Frank Alvin Barker passed away into the nearer presence of our Chief Elder, Jesus Christ on May 29, 2025.
Brother Barker was born on December 25, 1937, in St. John’s Antigua, West Indies. He was the son of the late Frank Herbert Barker and Athalie Aurora (Padmore).
He was united in marriage to Gloria Boyce on September 27, 1997 at Clinton Hill Moravian Church, St. Thomas, Barbados. He was the father to Frank Alvin, Jr., Sherilyn Louison and Herbert Craig Jeremy.
Brother Barker earned various degrees in his theological studies. At Union Theological Seminary in Jamaica, W.I. (Dip. Th.); at the University of West Indies in conjunction with Codrington College, Barbados (B.A.);
UTS, in Jamaica; Union Theological Seminary, New York, N.Y., (M.A.); (M.A.), E.T.S.; Advanced Studies, Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, Ga..
Brother Barker was ordained a Deacon on August 15, 1963, in Montgomery, Tobago and was consecrated a Presbyter on October 31, 1971, in Gracehill, Antigua.
Over the years he served in congregations in the Eastern West Indies Province, The Moravian Church in America Northern Province, the Jamaica Province, and The Moravian Church in America Southern Province.
A memorial service was held for Brother Barker on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Prince of Peace Moravia in Miami Gardens, Fla.
The Rev. Lehoma Goode
The Rev. Lehoma Goode passed into the more immediate presence of Jesus Christ on Saturday, June 14, 2025.
Lehoma was born in 1939 in Seville, Fla. to Homer Bain Sr. and Leila Daniels Bain. When they named her, her parents combined their own names “Leila” and “Homer” to make “Lehoma.” Lehoma followed her father and both brothers into the ministry, completing her Master of Divinity in 1990 at Duke University. She was ordained a deacon in the Moravian Church on May 13, 1990 by The Rt. Rev. George G. Higgins with a call to serve on the Moravian Provincial Board of Christian Education, where she helped establish the Gemeinschaft spiritual formation program.
She was installed as Assistant Pastor at Home Moravian Church in January 12,1992,
the first woman to hold this position there, and served until 2006. In this role, Lehoma ministered to a large congregation through her sermons, weddings, funerals, and pastoral visits. She continued her service to Home Moravian as a member of the pastoral visitation team and remained engaged in scholarly pursuits with her Gemeinschaft cohort and her beloved writing group, which emerged from a Salem College class.
She is survived by her son, Chris, daughter-in-law, Donna Maney, and grandson, Evan. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Elizabeth. A funeral service was held in the Home Church, Winston-Salem, N.C. sanctuary on Thursday, June 19, 2025 followed by burial in God’s Acre in Old Salem, Winston-Salem, N.C.
