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From the Sanctuary From the mmoravianoravian Sanctuary DECEMBER 2018 mmessengeressenger

Ever since my mother died on 20th December, seven years ago, With the birth narratives placing so much emphasis on the I have found myself re-evaluating Christmas each year. 'coming of Christ' as a baby, it is easy to ignore or overlook the Christmas comes at the time of year when the year is dying - death, transition, journeying and fear that are imbedded in the and at a time when many significant folk in our congregation experience of Christ's birth. and community are dying. That is not morbid, but merely an acknowledgment that what for many is a joyful occasion, is Strange as it may seem, that gives me comfort; for whilst others also contaminated with paradox and death. Indeed, the celebrate I have permission to both celebrate and grieve. The celebration of Christmas is there to bring light into that darkness. birth narratives show us that life is very much about holding, That itself is a paradox. and living with, the tension between its paradoxes. Life and This sense of paradox and death are very much reflected in the death are both parts of the same entity. That is our reality. So, Christmas stories. In spite of our attempts to dress them up whilst we righty focus on the celebrations that make Christmas with cute children and animals, the narratives are full of death, joyful and meaningful, don't ignore the fact that some are in cruelty and paradox. We see contrasts between those who pain at this time of year. Our challenge is to sensitively hold No Room at the Inn: come to Christ, in the form of wise men and shepherds; in the both in creative tension by not pretending that the other doesn't lovingness of God for humanity as against the destruction of exist; and to find the presence of God in both. May you find humanity by Herod; in the security-of-self embodied by Mary Christ in all that is going on for others, and in yourself - as well that enabled her to step out so hugely in faith, as opposed to as in the manger. Inn Churches the culling of vulnerable children to protect the security of he Br Peter Gubi, who was so insecure in his kingdom; we see death verses life. Dukinfield It is a very sad fact that homelessness is This Act requires local councils to help forces, some have lost a job, some have on the increase. The charity ‘Crisis’ those who are homeless or at risk of just left prison, some are asylum seekers, published figures which state that becoming homeless. However, countering some have mental health problems, some homelessness in general is up 8% this this are the problems, including the threat have been sleeping in cars, some in tents, An application is invited year. When most of us think of of homelessness, being caused by the the list goes on ... for the position of homelessness we think of those rough introduction of Universal Credit because sleepers that we see all too often on the some people are receiving less money So how does it work on Musical Director streets; there has been a shocking rise of with this new benefit and there is often the ground? of the Yorkshire 15% in rough sleepers this year. a gap in payments as people switch from Every winter Hornsey plays a vital role in the old benefits onto the new District Singers ‘Crisis’ categorises homelessness into supporting and helping the homeless as Universal Credit. The position would include: three main groups: part of the winter shelter scheme where •Rough sleepers are single people Two of our Moravian congregations are we provide a bed, meal and shower in • Sourcing music and planning the who sleep on the street or in hostels involved in helping homeless people in the hall for up to 16 people one night per annual Advent Choral Festival week for the months of January and and The Palm Sunday Service and shelters. their area. These are Hornsey in north February every Sunday night until with readings. •Homeless households are families London and Horton in Bradford, Yorkshire. without accommodation. Monday morning. This is organised with How does all this information translate • Leading and conducting the •Hidden homeless are those in over- our partner charity ‘All People All Places’. into the people that are our guests at choir for the performances and crowded accommodation and The guests are welcomed to our hall these shelters? There is a complete cross weekly rehearsals, Sept - March. those who ‘sofa surf’, spending a where they choose their bed. The hall is section of society represented: men, few days with family or friends a laid out in a mixed dorm style with • Any additional performances as women, old, young, people from a variety before having to move on. mattresses on the floor, but more privacy requested. of cultural backgrounds and from many can be provided with screens if necessary It is encouraging that homelessness has different countries. Each person's story It is hoped that there will be many trees • A good knowledge and and in the past some people, in experience of choral singing been given high profile in parliament with as to why they are homeless is unique. adorning the event, giving a dramatic exceptional circumstances, have been display in the run up to Christmas. One would be essential. the passing of the Homelessness Many have experienced a relationship given a separate room. Guests are then tree will be decorated with old Reduction Act this summer. break down, some have left the armed photographs of members and ministers All applications to Chair of the Continues inside on page 134 past and present, so making the link Yorkshire District Conference, Rev. between the generations and that Kenneth G. Evans. email: Christmas is for all, old and young alike. [email protected]

The Moravian Messenger Advertisements and Editorial Team, Church House, Design & Artwork all communications 5 Muswell Hill, London N10 3TJ David Bull Official Journal of the Moravian concerning [email protected] [email protected] Church in the British Province. distribution and supply should Contributions for the Messenger Printed & Distribution Connect 18 John Cennick, European Mission A Moravian Shipwreck Published monthly by the be sent to the should reach the editorial team by G. R. Walkden a brief biography Conference Part I authority of the Provincial Synod. Editorial Team. the 7th day of the preceding month. Tel 01253 681338 (page 135) (page 136) (pages 137) (page 140) Continued The longest day was our trip to the Czech Republic, and it was No Room at the Inn certainly a good one. Following our drive across the border we were Poem: welcomed by a local youth group, who accompanied us to Chalice provided with a three course meal which up Inn Churches for me. He had been Connect 18 Rocks. The scenic walk took us to this historic spectacle of early usually consists of soup, a choice of two evicted for non-payment of rent because Moravian history. High in the hills, the terrific rock formations mains with a vegetarian option, and a he was having problems organising his A Memory System created a unique and quiet pocket of countryside. Together, we pudding that is usually fruit salad and ice benefit payments. On the face of it this read our watchwords, prayed, and then we sat, explored and in cream. There is access to a shower that seemed like a desperate situation but in some cases, climbed, amongst the rocks for a while. It was a very they can use but we operate a timetable fact it was a blessing in disguise. It Forget each kindness that you do tranquil place, and we could appreciate the joy it would have been for that because there is only one shower. transpired that this man had a serious As soon as you have done it; all that time ago, despite a long journey, to come together to Games are also provided but generally medical problem with his feet that no worship there. the guests go straight from dinner to bed. one knew about. Inn Churches was able Forget the praise that falls to you Continuing the day, we drove on to Prague, meeting the minister In the morning they are provided with a to get the medical care that this person The moment you have won it; and a member of the Milicovy Kapel. Eva, the minister, was eager cooked breakfast, in addition croissants needed, new shoes, plenty of clean socks to tell us all about their church, showing us through photograph and pain au chocolate as well! Each guest and supportting him in his self-care Forget the slander that you hear albums of their history. This included the buildings history and their is provided with a small packed lunch for regime. By the end of the winter we had Before you can repeat it; recent renovation process. It was evident around us that a lot of the day before they leave. We also saved his feet and he had a new home. © Sr Eleanor Noden effort had been put into creating an adaptable and provide assistance from the charity to Homelessness is just the most visible Forget each slight, each spite, each highly functional space. In that space, local help find permanent housing and jobs community are being reached, from problem, as you dig deeper there are but unfortunately this is not always sneer, young children through to the many underlying issues that need to be successful. We try to be as welcoming as I had the privilege of elderly, creating a space for addressed if the guests are to go on and Whenever you may meet it. possible and treat everyone as a guest. attending Connect 18 all to share and come lead successful lives when they are For many they don't get chance to feel which took place from together. This time rehomed. together was made special or loved so this is a way of Remember every kindness done the 18th to 25th displaying the love of God in a So, this Christmas season how can you August. The focus was possible through the practical way. help the homeless? I would recommend To you, whate'er its measure; on history, and translations from Milena, that financial help is best given to certainly was a week a member of their In Bradford the charity ‘Inn Churches’ Remember praise by others won recognised charities rather than to packed with history, plus congregation. has been running for eight years. It was homeless people that you see on And pass it on with pleasure; exploration, fellowship Following a drink and biscuit set up by a team working from Bradford the street. and fun. together, Milena took us to the centre Cathedral now there are over 850 Remember every promise made At Herrnhut Moravian Church Kicking off our week, we began our journey of Prague and gave a brilliantly informative volunteers from over 70 churches across If there is an opportunity to volunteer And keep it to the letter; with a tour of Herrnhut, starting with a walk through God's acre. tour of the landmarks relating to Moravian history there. The day the Bradford District, a great example of near you then make sure you attend the Led by Erdmute, we learnt about the origins of the town and went we visited was significant to the city of Prague, marking 50 years ecumenical witness. training sessions and give it a go. You Remember those who lend you aid onto the prayer tower and the church, with the company of two since Soviet invasion, for which one Catholic church mass was filled might find, like me, that you look forward Each church hosts up to 12 guests for a visiting Catholic priests. The lovely church building is so light and in commemoration. Milena took time to explain the delicate history to sharing a meal, a game of cards and And be a grateful debtor. week at a time between the months of bright, white washed to keep the focus on the people and praise of her home to us, and answering our questions thoughtfully. life stories with all those you meet at the December to March. It was found that to God. The tour finished with a look at the church exhibits. There We followed that busy day with a quieter one in Herrnhut by visiting shelter. were many interesting items, but striking to me was the 'Fruits of the guests were more settled when they Remember all the happiness the missionary museum. It inspired me, as the museum illustrated were in one place for a whole week. When Please remember these and all charities the Spirit' painting, as it brought to life the true feeling of unity the worldwide unity of the Moravian Church. The early Moravian being focal to the Moravian Church outlook, depicting the church the hosting church is a distance from the helping the homeless in your prayers. That comes your way in living; missionaries were very inspirational in the way they integrated into family hundreds of years ago. We then took part in noon prayers. centre of Bradford a minibus collects the "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one the communities they met, not trying to infiltrate and change them, Forget each worry and distress, I enjoyed the way everyone took part, with the prayer read aloud, but instead learning languages, ways of life and even about other guests each evening and drops them off of the least of these brothers and sisters line by line, by each attendee in turn. Songs of prayer were then Be hopeful and forgiving; religions. the following morning. Just as in Hornsey of mine, you did for me" sung - which we gratefully could sing along with in English! the guests are given an evening meal Overall, Connect 18 was a great experience for me. This article (Matthew 25:40, 45). Remember good, remember truth, and plenty of tea and coffee. Games are We spent lots of time with people on this trip, in various contexts, doesn't cover everything we did, and I learnt so much about the very popular especially Jenga and cards Remember heaven's above you, and were given a number of opportunities. Firstly in attendance Moravian Church that it wouldn't fit in one article. However, I hope (I'm now quite an expert in Slovakian of the summer barbeque which is an annual Herrnhut event. We these highlights give an insight of the time we had. If you've And you will find, through age and card games!) The project is blessed that ate great food and listened to the brass band and choir. Another considered going on a trip like this I would recommend it, whether day we attended the summer cafe, a weekly summertime event people with skills regularly help, for it's the first you're really learning of the church or you know a great youth, with tea and homemade cake in the church garden, and a little example, by cutting hair, giving medical deal already, it was a great trip to connect with the history and the True joys, and hearts to love you. music too. That same day, we also went to the youth choir, values of the Moravian Church then and now. advice, and a music group entertains which was lots of fun to take part in, then over to the school for every Sunday evening. circle dancing! Sr Eleanor Noden Royton The guests stay with the project until they are rehomed, this might take a few Priscilla Leonard Sr Elisabeth Hollindrake (Horton) and days or months. Last year, I was touched (Hornsey) by one man who I met which summed Br James Woolford My Favorite Color is Blue. Sometimes. A Journey Through Loss with Art and Color - Roger Hutchison - is a journey Editorial of brilliant colour for those of any age who have suffered loss. It has beautiful art on each page based on different colours and the emotions and memories they invoke. I bought this thinking, as it is a picture book, We wish all our readers a blessed that it was for children coping with the loss of a loved one, and it is that but could be used by people of any age to reflect on the feelings that a and peaceful Christmas and God’s death stirs up. It is a beautiful book recognising that the person grieved guidance in the coming new year. for is never far away, even in the everyday. The American spellings and words are a slight annoyance but doesn't distract from the book. From Lindsey, Lorraine and Sarah Editorial Team of the Moravian Messenger ISBN 978-1-61261-923-1 Paraclete Press £12.99 from Amazon Sr Joy Raynor 134 135 John Cennick, a brief biography European Mission John Cennick was one of the outstanding Wiltshire and in time East Tytherton people of Ireland and it is estimated that evangelists of the eighteenth century became his main base there. During this he established 15 chapels, including and his influence extended way beyond period he also served as George Ballinderry and Kilwarlin, over 40 religious Conference his early death at the age of 36. He was Whitfield's personal assistant. Whilst societies and over 200 preaching places estimated to have preached between preaching in Wiltshire, Cennick often met in the north. © Br Daniel Claas eight and nine thousand times, his with appalling violence and opposition In 1749 he was ordained a deacon in At the beginning of September 2018 the European been very familiar to those who attended our Synod sermons were still being published nearly and showed great bravery in continuing. the Moravian Church in London. Each Mission Conference was held in Zeist in the Netherlands this year. 100 years after his death and some of By 1745 he was increasingly distressed time he returned from London to Ireland with representatives of all the Moravian Mission his hymns continue to be sung in We were asked, as part of our reports, to explain how by dissensions amongst Whitfield's he took time to preach in Leominster and Agencies of the European region in attendance. As a decisions are made in our mission boards, as well as a churches today. Without his preaching Calvinistic Methodists and was drawn to various places in Wales on his way to the member of the PEC I am also automatically a member in the West Country and Ireland there the Moravian Brethren. Therefore, in boat at Holyhead. Towards the end of of the British Mission Board and so I was asked to go success and a failure. From the British Province I would be no Western or Irish District of January 1746 he set off for Germany 1751 Cennick physically helped to build along to share with our mission partners information reported that decisions are made collectively with as the Moravian Church. and met many members of the the chapel at Ballinderry. In 1752 he was pertinent to the work of the British Province in the many board members as possible giving their input. This is much easier these days with the ease of global He was born on 12th December 1718 in Brethren's Church. Whilst there he told asked to undertake a preaching tour of mission fields. The conference effectively began with communications and even WhatsApp playing its part Reading. His mother was a devout Count Zinzendorf of his desire to travel Yorkshire and his journey took in Ockbrook a delightful homemade Indonesian meal, which across borders. For me our failure, in the mission sense, Anglican and he was brought up around to Dublin and work there. Permission was as well as Mirfield, Horton, Baildon, Osset, reminded me of the involvement of the Netherlands is that we no longer send people into the mission field, St Laurence Church. As a young man he granted and in June 1746 he arrived in Fulneck and Gomersal. In July he returned in that far east colony. Dutch colonial links have been suffered with depression and tried Dublin. to his work in Ireland. kept up, to a certain extent, with the Zeist Mission although I did tell them that Br Phil Battelle's plans Board and the Province of Surinam. The conference to work in a school in Nepal on his own initiative. And distracting himself with card playing, In 1753 he undertook a major preaching continued with opportunities to share with each other our success, as I saw it, was the financial support given dancing and reading histories, but these tour in Wales but it was clear that the the work that is being done by our various European to missionary endeavours. Not only does the activities made him fear death and hell continual preaching and travelling, often agencies throughout the Unity. This took the form of indomitable Mrs Bates continue to uphold a lot of what all the more. On the morning of 7th on foot, was taking a toll on his health. verbal comments on pre-submitted written reports, we do in our province, but there is also the great September 1737 he decided to go to In 1754 he was back in Ireland and again presented in no particular order, and this is how I will generosity of the people in our province. Whenever Morning Prayers at St Laurence Church. preaching throughout the North. On 20th During the service he heard the words of offer them to you now. the request for financial assistance comes then the June he set off for London to visit his sick people of our province dig deep in their pockets. the appointed Psalm and he felt the mother but developed a fever on the way. Speaking on behalf of the American Board of World weight of sin fall away: “I believed there He died in London aged just 36 on the Mission Justin Rabbach shared with us news about At this point Sr Erdmute Frank said that, during her was mercy. My heart danced for joy and 4th July and was buried at the Moravian their work in Peru and in particular in the Amazon time at our recent Synod she noted the generosity of my dying soul revived! I heard the voice burial ground in Chelsea on 8th July. His region, where the Watchword was used in the local Moravian individuals and groups in the UK. This led to of Jesus saying, I am thy salvation. I no wife Jane did not learn of his death until language for the very first time. Jens-Peter Rejkjaer a discussion about the sharing of financial and human more groaned under the weight of sin. news reached her in Gloonan on 14th informed us that the Danish Mission Board is 175 years resources between our Mission Agencies. We also The fears of hell were taken away, and July just days after their 7th wedding old this year. He also reported that there were growing agreed that our Mission Agencies will work together being sensible that Christ loved me and anniversary. problems in Burundi and Rwanda due to the fact that in order to create Codes of Conduct to deal with died for me, I rejoiced in God my Saviour.” the governments there are demanding that all churches Cennick was an evangelist, not a pastor; financial corruption in our mission fields. It is hoped be made of stone and not wood. Representing the Towards the end of 1738 he read of he hated quarrelling in the Church; he that other Codes of Conduct could follow regarding © David McClean Herrnhut Mission Board Raimund Hertzsch told us about George Whitfield's awakening and he avoided public debating yet he held his violence against women and the sexual conduct of the challenges at the schools at Star Mountain and longed to meet other like-minded people. own if he was forced to debate; his mission workers. His preaching in Dublin attracted great Zanzibar. There are also problems arising from the fact This led to journeys to Oxford and preaching touched the hearts of ordinary crowds and again hostility. He was invited that the Tanzanian government is not happy about Unfortunately I had to leave early in order to get back London, and in March 1739 he met John people because he pointed to Jesus's to preach in the north of Ireland and in what they feel is undue European influence in their to my duties in the Western District but I feel that the Wesley. Soon afterwards he was invited suffering; he preached to huge crowds August he preached in Ballymena. This country. This is a problem that potentially affects all time that was with my new European colleagues was by George Whitfield and John Wesley to yet he always had time for individuals; so annoyed the local landowner that European mission agencies operating in and for time well spent. I have always wondered about the go to work in Kingswood near Bristol at he worked with the people as well as for Cennick was attacked and had to be Tanzania. efficiency of people travelling abroad from our province a school for the coal miners' children. them; he knew success in preaching yet spirited out of the town by supporters for meetings, particularly now that we have conference he also knew the frailty of illness and Klaus Linberg of the Swedish Mission Board gave a It was in Kingswood that he became the who feared for his life. Cennick returned calls and Skype. However, there is great value in times of depression. He was born 300 report about their work in Albania and home mission first Lay Preacher of Methodism. Despite to Dublin and could not return to actually being together in the same room, especially years ago this month but even now his camps in the Swedish countryside. Aart Schalkwijk of the fact he was not ordained, John Ballymena for another two years. when important decisions are reached following the Zeist Mission Board spoke about the problems of Wesley encouraged his preaching and example of sacrificial service and love of respectful and considered discussion. This seemed to In 1747 he married Jane Bryant who had donors getting older and being asked to give for the used him extensively as a preacher in the his Lord should inspire us in a very be the nature of our time in Zeist and the overall theme been a member of one of his societies in same mission projects every year. From Mission 21 area. However, in December 1740 different world but where men and that came from the conference is cooperation between Wiltshire and in August they went back Johannes Klemm talked about the work of the Cennick and Wesley parted company women still need to hear about Jesus and our agencies for the benefit of all the mission fields to Dublin. In 1748 he was invited back realise their immense and individual value organisation in difficult areas, such as South Sudan over doctrinal issues. He was never under our collective care. to Ballymena and made it his base for and the Congo. Lastly, and by no means least, Sr forgiven for this by John Wesley. to God. work in the north. His preaching had a Sr Sarah Groves Erdmute Frank gave a presentation about the work of Br Paul M Holdsworth Cennick's preaching went on to include huge effect upon the desperately poor Minister at Gracehill the Unity Women's Desk, information that would have PEC 136 137 In Essentials, Unity; Moravian Heritage in Europe: In Non-Essentials, Liberty; Why the Moravians claim In all things, Charity: this formula as their own 3 Spirituality - Architecture - Settlements Livingstone Thompson Part

Between the 21st and 23rd October, I was Herrnhut itself was represented by Mayor their message forward. This is the third in a four part series about the Moravian motto. privileged to represent Fulneck at a Willen Riecke, the Architect Daniel Neuer We expressed many thanks to our conference in Herrnhut (Saxony), which was and Herrnhut's Minister Dr Peter Vogt. “The cordial connection founded on the essential oneness that interpreter, Sr Erdmute Frank, who, as The Formula in the Post-reformation Period held at the Gaste-und-Taganhaus Komensky Herrnhut's message is: “Herrnhut - Small subsists between the Renewed Brethren's Church and the whole virtually all the presentations and Daniel Ernst Jablonski (1660-1741), Bishop of the Moravian Church in the centre of Herrnhut. Town, Global Importance.” Protestant Church, and which within our own Church pale cemented introductions were in German, she from 1699-1741, followed in Comenius' footsteps in the use of the the descendants of the Ancient Brethren's Church and those from Together with other delegates from the The objective of the conference, which was translated through our headsets. She did formula. Jablonski studied at Oxford (1680-1683) where he met sponsored by the State Ministry of Saxony the 'Lutheran' and 'Reformed' Churches joined us, as one Brethren's British Province: Srs Janet Warr and Barbara an amazing job translating into English the and was friendly with William Wake who later became Archbishop Derbyshire from Fairfield, Sr Gail Maskalick and the German Federal Government's sheer volume of information we received Unity, was more accurately explained at our Synod in the year of Canterbury. With Wake he shared the idea that fundamentals from Ockbrook, Sr Sarah Groves and Br Chris Centre for Culture and History, was to over the two and a half days of the of the faith should be distinguished from the non-fundamentals. 1744 … 'the Renewed Brethren's Church recognizes within herself Jones, Br David Johnston and Sr Sally-Ann examine Moravian Heritage in Europe conference. Wake considered that latitude and flexibility should be given, and three 'Troposes.'” Johnston from Gracehill, we gave focussing on Spirituality, Architecture and Whilst in Herrnhut, delegates had the differences should be allowed on secondary issues, for example, presentations about our settlements in Settlements. The Synod of 1879, the report of which was carried in the Church opportunity to have a guided tour around England and Northern Ireland. issues such as the doctrines of the Eucharist, predestination and Book of 1892, read the decision of the Synod of 1744 as Through us meeting in this way it was the town, visiting Der Herrnhuter Kirchensaal election. The friendship between Wake and Jablonski from university refashioning the idea of unity in essentials, which was descriptive Representatives from six Moravian hoped to create a network throughout (the church hall in Herrnhut), Gottes Acker days is reflected in the correspondence between them during the of a theological position, into a statement of ecclesiology, that is, Settlements in Germany, Zeist in the Europe to encourage people to visit (the Burial Ground or God's Acre) and, on Moravian Settlements and learn about the early years of the eighteenth century, during which Jablonski sought of how the church was to be understood. Consequently, Bishop Netherlands and Christiansfeld in Denmark, the last day, visit the Zinzendorf manor in Moravian Church and its beliefs. to establish an Anglican pattern of episcopacy in the Church in Hasse in a 1907 sermon at Fetter Lane on the 450th Anniversary also gave presentations, illustrating the Berthelsdorf, which has now been Prussia. Applying the principle of the formula, Jablonski sought to European spread of Moravian Settlements of the Church said, “our Church's motto has long been: 'in essentials, Matthias and Lars-Arne are anticipating renovated. achieve organic union between the churches on the basis of across Europe. being able to produce their guide to all the Unity; in non-essentials, Liberty; in all things, Charity'.” Despite the long travelling time, nearly 12 Settlements in Europe and are also working agreement on fundamentals of the Christian faith and an Information about the Moravian heritage hours for many of us from the UK, by plane, In the period after 1879 it became difficult to speak about Moravian on other ways of promoting their message agreement to differ on non-fundamentals, rites and ceremonies. in Poland was also presented by Dr Matthias train and car, we all agreed our visit was theology without at the same time seen to be referring to the to schools and young people. It would seem that there is a correlation between the renewal of Donath who, together with his colleague special and worthwhile, and our efforts to the Moravian Church and use of the Formula in its present form. Bohemian Formula. One sees the dynamic relationship between Dr Lars-Arne Dannenberg, was responsible At the end of the conference there was a attend the conference were much With the renewal of the Church under the leadership of Zinzendorf the way the Moravians understood the nature of the church and for putting the conference together, panel discussion about Moravian appreciated by our hosts. following their visits earlier in the year to (1700-1760), its doctrinal emphases reflected the ideals of Lutheran the theology in the 1892 Church Book, which states that: Settlements and their potential as World many of the settlements, including those Heritage sites and how Moravian Br David Keighley pietism and priority to world mission, to which Zinzendorf was “We aim at the comprehension, in a higher living unity, of the represented by the British Province. Settlements can be used today to carry Fulneck entirely committed. Hamilton notes that, the theology of the diversity of doctrinal views, in so far as this diversity turns on the Brethren's Church in the Zinzendorfian era was completely identified interpretation of Scripture and arises from the different modes in wonderful to learn more about all ‘traces in the person.’ with the theology of Zinzendorf. He held a radical christocentric which the same scriptural truth is apprehended by different minds. the settlements: Polish, German, I hope all the settlements will benefit from approach to theology, which served as a unifying ideal for the This aim however, we do not seek to attain by simply shutting the Dutch and Danish, some of which Lutheran, Reformed and Brethren ways (Trophen) of apprehending the publication promised from Drs Donath door on differences of opinion, or by leaving them unnoticed. …We I knew little, if anything about and and Dannenberg. Certainly I think all who saving truth, which were recognised within the Moravian Unity. seek rather a positive living unity. This we find in the faith in the also to find out more about those During the time of Zinzendorf there wasn't to be seen much of attended will be very keen to maintain and crucified Christ, in whom as in the Son of God, we have reconciliation closer to home too! It was grow connections between all the the distinction between the essentials and the non-essentials, as unto God. … He that knows he is one with us in these points is reassuring to discover that although settlements (we are already planning the much as we hear of the need to apprehend the one thing needful we were all different in many ways heartily welcomed with the right hand of brotherly fellowship. ... next trip and enthusiastically invited for salvation. Zinzendorf's Lutheran background gave him a we experienced many of the same And we do this not only within our membership, but we seek also everyone to come and see us too - just as preference for the Augsburg Confession, even though the language concerns and it was great also to to let it be known and felt towards those without.” long as they don't all come at once!). of ‘the essentials’ is not missing from his work. For example, on re-affirm the special connection we

© Sr Sally-Ann Johnston There was time to ask questions after the 25th September 1746 he gave a sermon in London entitled ‘On There was the recognition that even within a given congregation had as Moravians. presentations and some time to discuss the Essential Character and Circumstances of the Life of a Christian,’ or communion different ways of interpreting Scripture would In October I was able to fulfil a long held The itinerary began with a tour of the ideas for World Heritage status, as the purpose of which was to make clear what constitutes the emerge. The challenge was to find a unity in the faith that rose ambition to visit Herrnhut and travelled settlement, dinner, then a tour of the Christiansfeld achieving this in 2015 was essential Christian. However, as of 1775 the pre-eminence of the above the different interpretations. This is a challenge that with others from our congregation in church and an evening service led by Br able to report back on how it has influenced Lutheran heritage expressed in the Augsburg Confession was de- interpreters of the Bible continue to face. When a given mode of Gracehill; our minister Sr Sarah Groves, Brs Peter Vogt, jointly Minister at Herrnhut the settlement over the three years hence. emphasized. While postulating five essentials, the Synod adhered Chris Jones and David Johnston. along with his wife Jill, which also interpretation becomes crystallized into a sort of creed it robs the We also had the privilege to hear Prof Dr to the principle of liberality in non-essentials, refusing to arbitrarily incorporated an historical lecture with a community of the richness of the diversity and consigns future Earlier in the year we had hosted Dr Mattias visiting speaker. The programme was very Peter Zimmerling from University of Leipzig bind the conscience of all members by the formulation of a generations to rubber-stamping their interpretation. Delineating Donath and Dr Lars - Arne Dannenberg, full but fortunately on the last day there talk about Zinzendorf's European Message: detailed creed. the essentials in the faith was therefore seen as a way of getting two historians representing the Saxon was time devoted to a visit to Zinzendorf's History, Spirituality and Theology of the The old Bohemian formula resurfaced in the immediate post- around the difficulties of interpretation. Government who were researching material Manor house in Berthelsdorf. It was Moravian Church. for a project ‘The Moravians: From Saxony Zinzendorfian era, having been preserved by those who constituted The book of order of 1911 sees the wonderful to see the sympathetic He finished with the thought that, to Europe’, ultimately to result in a restoration of the building and hear its the renewed church. This took place at the Synod at Barby in 1775, formula as the thread that joins the old publication. importantly, Zinzendorf realised that we fifteen years after the death of Zinzendorf. By the resurrection of Unitas Fratrum to the new. It states: “As fascinating history. need to be ‘within’- radiating into society Thus, we, along with representatives from the old distinction between essentials and non-essentials, the the oldest in the sisterhood of Protestant The Minister in charge of visitors at as a result of the gospel being lived in our Moravian Unity retrieved and re-emphasised what had been a lost the other European settlements converged Herrnhut is Sr Erdmute Frank, who had the lives. Hopefully, as he pointed out, that Churches, she [the Moravian Church] on Herrnhut's Komensky or Comenius aspect of its self-understanding. The change of discourse to reflect unenviable task of translating all the although we are of course sinners, stands today as in the beginning, for unity conference centre from 21st until 23rd of the older tradition was a critical development in the life of the presentations from German to English for Moravians being true to this ethos, are not in essentials, for liberty in non-essentials, the month. limping through life but rather dancing!! Moravian Church. This articulation of the Church's self- us, which she did splendidly. I loved her for love in all things. 'In necessariis unitas, It was an encouraging thought to take understanding was not merely theoretical, but a concrete description It was a real pleasure to meet up with other interpretation and expression of ideas, for in non necessariis libertas, in omnibus with us. of the reality derived from the Lutheran, Reformed and Moravian delegates from the British Province, Srs example one of the Königsfeld delegates caritas.” Barbara Derbyshire (Fairfield), Gail talked about how he had attended the strands (Trophen). The Church Book of the Brethren's Unity Sr Sally-Ann Johnston Br Livingstone Thompson Maskalick (Ockbrook) and Br David Keighley Moravian school there and how it left Minister at Kilwarlin and University Road Belfast Congregations Gracehill published in London 1892 asserts: and Sr Janet Warr from Fulneck. It was also 138 139 Eva being presented with her cake. Left to Right: Paul Gubi, Pam Dinsdale, Maureen Gubi, Eva Young and Janet Toogood. A Moravian Congregation News

Shipwreck Bath Lunchtime Special

Part I At Weston in Bath we have a weekly Lunch Fellowship which began in October 1983 and is still thriving over 35 years on. With a regular attendance of 40 or so This is the first part of an extract from the It would indeed have been better, if we had hinge, and kept beating against the stern. Periodical Accounts …, a Moravian journal enthusiasts we meet on Wednesdays in the church spent the winter in England, especially as All the seams both of the deck and sides hall, where we enjoy great fellowship and great food. which includes accounts of the Moravians' we had the two little daughters of Brother of the cabin opened, and began to let in missions over the last two centuries. This We have full membership of 48 if all turned up on the Meisner with us, but we yielded to the wish much water; and as the waves continually same day. Ages range between the 60s and 97, and excerpt gives a fascinating picture of both © Br Graham Lock of their relations, and of our Brethren in beat over the decks, the ship filled so fast, in the past we once had two centenarians for a while. the dangers of travel by sea in the early Germany, that we might proceed thither, that we were obliged, with all our might, to 19th century, (wooden ships, no weather The son of one of the centenarians, Graham, is now part of our high standard of the meals. These consist of main course, dessert as soon as possible after our arrival from go to work at the pumps, till, being quite team, its youngest member, being only in his mid-seventies. This and a tea or coffee enjoyed in a friendly atmosphere. Our forecasts or seaworthiness checks) and a Labrador. When we saw the ship, with its exhausted, we gave it up, as, reminder of the risks Moravian missionaries brings me to what spurred this item, which was the celebration approach from the start has been to treat this as a not-for-profit decks filled with all kinds of merchandize notwithstanding all our exertions, we had of our eldest cook's 90th birthday in September. Eva Young (yes, service, and to resist any suggestions otherwise. With good encountered in their travels around the and baggage, we felt some unaccountable five feet of water in the hold. The night set globe. The shipwrecked Moravians are the really!) is one of three people still attending who were involved management, the current charge of £3.50 comfortably meets presentiment of danger. For want of room, in with a dense fog, and a furious wind from with the Lunch Fellowship when we started it 35 years ago. Pam this and enables us to meet expenses and even make a missionaries Johannes Hasting and Adam the long-boat was left behind, which the north-east and east. We cried to the Kunath together with Hasting's wife Maria and I are the others. We, with the remaining two, Maureen (33 contribution each year to the congregation funds to cover appeared to us to forebode no good. Even Lord, to have mercy upon us and the ship's years service) and Janet (17 years service) are mere octogenarians, electricity and gas usage. We rejoice that we have been privileged and the two children of Johann Meissner, the crew expressed some apprehension, company, in such imminent danger of our another Labrador missionary. and we make up the team of six. Cooking, serving and other to be involved in this and pray for God's continuing blessing as but the captain seemed not to have any lives. The poor frightened children joined duties are done on a voluntary basis. Janet made the cake which we give thanks for the past and go forward into our 36th year Johannes Hasting was born in Sornig, fears, and we left Gravesend(5), on in our prayers with many tears, and the we presented to Eva (pictured), along with a token of our with good appetite. “For food, friends and fellowship, we thank Saxony in 1762. At the age of 26 he was December 15th, with a favourable wind, Lord gave us faith and grace, to cast our appreciation of her continuing years of service. You, O Lord” - to which at least 40 voices will say a cheerful sent to Labrador where he spent eight years which, on the 16th, brought us into the burden on Him. He granted to us a Our Team of six currently has an aggregate age of 500 years “Amen”. at Nain and four years at Okak, retiring in open sea. We now began indeed to hope, comfortable ray of hope, that he would Br Paul Gubi 1817. He then returned to Germany and that we should have an expeditious voyage. save and deliver us, nor did he suffer us at which denotes a wealth of culinary experience, reflected in the died in 1835. He married Maria Schneider The captain treated us with every kind any time to fall into despair. We knew that, in 1800 or 1801. He is said to have had a attention, and approved himself a clever, if it were His good-pleasure, He was able Bedford Queen's Park very good command of the Innuit steady seaman, indefatigable in his duties, to send us deliverance in the midst of this Fetter Lane language. and allowing himself but little sleep. Off great danger, when all help of man seemed The welcome Service for (6) Adam Kunath was born in Meschwitz, Heligoland he twice rejected the offer of vain. On the 20th early, it began to snow Sr Claire and Br Steve Saxony in 1779. He served in Labrador a pilot, trusting to his own skill in conducting very hard, and the sea ran so high, that it the ship safely. was quite impossible for any boat to Maxwell was held at Fetter (Hopedale and possibly elsewhere) from Lane on Saturday 6th 1804 to 1835 when he appears to have After a very boisterous night, we came in approach the ship. The small boat we had October 2018 at 3pm. retired. He married Anna Schrader in 1818. sight of Heligoland early on the 18th. The on board, was in so shattered a condition, It has not been possible to identify his date weather was foggy, rainy, and very cold, that we could not venture to hoist it over The service was followed of death. with a strong contrary wind. To avoid being the ship's side into the sea, without its in true Moravian tradition being immediately filled with water. As the with lots of food and © Br Charles Hatton Johann Meisner (1770-1839) served in driven back, we sailed almost quite round Harvest thanksgiving celebrations a Queens Park Bedford the island, but the fog often prevented our violence of the wind abated towards noon, fellowship. – Sunday 7th October 2018

Labrador from 1798 to 1838. © Br Edwin Quildan seeing the coast. During the night, we lay the captain declared, that now was the The journey described is from Gravesend to, and slept quietly. We spent the whole time to attempt to save our lives, and that to Hamburg. Hasting was returning home of the 19th in tacking, within sight of the at low water, we might walk to shore across the sands. This was a long stretch, and we service. It was also attended by the Lord Mayor of Belfast who on his retirement with Kunath towers(7) of Nieuwerck, and hoped, on the brought greetings and welcomed all to our city; by the MP for accompanying him, presumably on turn of the tide, to run in, and come to an observed, between the sandbank and the coast, a stream of water of unknown depth. the area, and by two MLAs, representing three of the four major furlough. anchor at Cuxhaven(8), little expecting, how political parties in northern Ireland. our faith and patience would soon be put We consequently gave up all hopes of safely Extract of letters from the Brethren Hastings to the test. The fog and wind increased, performing the journey with the two little In a service led by our Minister, Jamaican born Rev Dr Livingstone and Kunath from Labrador, giving an and towards evening, the tide brought the children, in such severe weather, and under Thompson, we were moved by the spiritual slave songs of Clover account of their shipwreck on their passage ship nearer the coast than the captain had such Watts and by the dub poetry of Raquel McKee, both of whom from London to Hamburg. expected. About seven o'clock, we were circumstances. are also originally from Jamaica and we enjoyed lively Dominican Altona(1), December, 25th 1817 driven towards the middle-ground sands, Indeed we were dances. afterwards before Nieuwerck; and on endeavouring to Dr Christopher Stange, Consul General for St Vincent and the Dearest Brethren. informed, that, had tack, and haul off the bank, the ship struck Grenadines brought greetings and we had an inspiring address

we ventured, we © Br Livingstone Thompson Who would have thought, when we took the ground with a shock not to be described. from the Barbados High Commissioner to the UK, His Excellency should infallibly leave of our dear Brethren and friends in The captain immediately gave her up for Rev Guy Hewitt. Rev Hewitt spoke of the experiences of the 12.7 have been London, that we were going to meet a trial lost: the mate however hoped, that with million people sold into slavery from Africa. He also however drowned. Emancipation Day at University so severe as that which befell us in the the next tide, she might be brought off. reminded us of the more recent anxiety and distress caused to evening of the 19th of this month, not far She continued striking with such violence, To be continued … Road Belfast the ‘Windrush generation’ in Britain by failings in government from Nieuwerck(2) in the mouth of the policy, and the suffering which continues even today for those (3) (4) that her rudder was soon torn off the lower Adrian Wilsdon Sunday 29th July was a colourful and exciting day for us at Elbe , about two miles from the beacon . caught up in so-called ‘modern day slavery’. 1 A town to the west of Hamburg under Danish control at the time. University Road. It was the day when we, as a congregation, for 2 A misspelling of Neuwerck (now Neuwerk), a tidal island of 1.2 square miles on the German coast, 8 miles from Cuxhaven. the first time celebrated Emancipation with Caribbean nationals The festivities were rounded off with refreshments after the 3 The river on which the city of Hamburg stands. now living in northern Ireland. Emancipation Day is the day service in the church hall which featured delicious Caribbean 4 A tower, still standing, built in the 14th century and which served as a lighthouse between 1814 and 2014. which marks an end to slavery in the Caribbean on 1st August cuisine. 5 An important port for London in the Thames Estuary at about 20 miles distance. 6 Two islands under British possession some 29 miles off the German coast. 1834. It was a memorable day at University Road which we hope will 7 A smaller lighthouse was removed in 1909. 8 A town on the German coast. As well as our usual congregation the occasion saw a strong be the first of many such occasions. turnout of Caribbean nationals for what was a truly ecumenical Sr Carol Ackah 140 141 From Church House Congregation News Brockweir Moravian Church invites you to share in our Calls Brockweir We are pleased to announce a series of Calls that will take “Seasons of mist and mellow fruitfulness! Celebrations effect in the Irish District from Monday 19th November: Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless Advent Starting on December 1st at Br Jared Stephens has received and accepted a Call to serve With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eaves run...” 6:00pm. Each night a window Cliftonville and Ballinderry congregations. You will be aware is revealed in our Advent Living in Brockweir reminds one constantly of the Windows that Br Stephens has been working in the Irish District for Christmas Calendar. rhythm of nature and the cycle some months now and we look forward to seeing his ministry of life. The church is nestled with the Moravian Church continue to develop. Friday 21st December at amidst the valley and is close to Sr Sarah Groves will continue to serve Gracehill congregation. the river, which is tidal. Sometimes © Br Philip Ashton Nativity 7:00pm. Travel from Brockweir We continue to hold her in prayer as she begins to undertake as we sit in church and listen to to Bethlehem as the Christmas Holdsworth led a lively bible study Walk her episcopal duties following consecration next week. the liturgy or have space for silent about loneliness which certainly made story is told in different village prayer, the strains of a plaintiff us think about what we can do as a locations. Hot drinks and mince Br Livingstone Thompson and Br Scott Peddie have received blackbird are heard, and we are Church to counter this. After pies available in the church and accepted a Call to serve a new Pioneer Initiative in the reminded of the beauty of God's homemade soup provided by Sr Sue Irish District. They will share ministry at Kilwarlin and creation. The silence and afterwards. Groves - recipes can be found in our University Road Congregations. In addition to this, they fellowship of a congregation that new cook book - we divided into two have been Called to research and develop ministry in the meets week by week often activity groups. Br Paul and Sr Mary 'speaks louder' than any Dublin area. The Pioneer Initiative in Dublin will be supported Harris strode off into the landscape, by Br Stephens and Sr Groves as the work progresses. individual prayers we can offer; leading those who wished to commune with nature for a brisk Enquirers’ Day for as R. S. Thomas once said, 'the meaning is in the waiting.' walk and the rest of us indulged in craft making with Sr Patsy. Please keep our sister and brothers along with all the The trees in the valley are changing from green to red, russet A good time was had by one and all and the day ended with The Church Service Committee congregations in the Irish District in your prayers in the and yellow and the withered leaves rustle as they swirl in autumn the Cup of Covenant. Interested coming weeks. would like to host an Enquirers’ sunshine. In September, the annual Soap Box Derby was held We were saddened to hear of the death of Sr Margaret Reynolds with the usual thrills and spills and we sold refreshments to at home on 10th October. Although Sr Reynolds had not been in Day on Saturday 19th January Christmas villagers and visitors to proclaim our presence and hopefully able to attend church for some years, she was once an active 2019 with Bishop Joachim The Provincial Board and all the Staff at Church House relevance to a modern world! Our Harvest Festival and Lovefeast exploring member and was extremely knowledgeable about the history Kreusel and Br Peter Gubi. would like to extend Christmas Greetings to our brothers has also taken place and the flowers and decorations were of Brockweir, having been born in the village 92 years ago. Her Expressions of interest to stunning. Donations of food and toiletries were donated to the ordained and sisters in the British Province and our partners in South passing really does mark the end of a remarkable generation Br Peter Gubi Asia and Western Tanzania. We hope it is a time of blessing, Food Bank in Chepstow for which there is a constant demand. and she will be much missed. ministry? ([email protected]) by surrounded by the love and peace that was given to us In October we hosted a District Fellowship Day. Br Paul Sr Judith Ashton 30th December 2018. Venue to through the quiet but remarkable coming of our Lord Jesus be determined. Christ. We also look forward to ringing in New Year, may 2019 be filled with hope and inspiration as we continue to now there is a beautiful wall quilt Gracehill journey together. designed and made by the “Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Under the leadership of Sr Rachel children on display in the church, Christmas every day.” Hamilton, yet again Gracehill reminding us all of a week of Sr Roberta Hoey came alive with the excited voices blessings. Christingle of over 40 wonderfully On Sunday 30th September Rev Provincial Diary for December enthusiastic primary aged Roger Purce led our Harvest Service Candles 12-13PEC, Church House children as they met at Rockey's as, once again, we celebrated Plaice, a specially constructed Following the MWA Theme for 21 Dec-2 Jan Church House closed for Christmas God's continued goodness as we ‘Fish and Chip Shop’ which this year ‘Let it Shine’ and in enjoyed the smells and delighted became the hub of this year's good time for 25th December, in the sights of almost Bible Club in August. Every the Baildon Craft Group have Congregational Register unbelievably beautiful morning, after registration, gone into production with arrangements created by our groups of age-related children these Christmas Candles. Cost: Baptisms © Sr Roberta Gray dedicated and artistic team of joined in craft activities, £2 each. Enquiries to Sr Wendy 23rd September 2018Thoedore Jaxson Verity Fulneck flower ladies who spent hours in the church on Friday and exuberant warm ups, Story Time in the chip shop, Huggan 01274 583757. 23rd September 2018Sofia Rose McMahon Fairfield Saturday. Following the service, The Boys' and Girls' Brigades refreshments, study book work, games, ending with songs 21st October 2018 Aidan Michael John Hibbert Fairfield joined forces to host a Coffee Morning in the Church Hall and every day those awful fish jokes! The buzzing atmosphere 21st October 2018 Ava Grace Hibbert Fairfield when everyone enjoyed tea and totally irresistible cakes to created by dedicated and gifted leaders and helpers of all 4th November 2018Ewan James Cust Fairfield raise money for funds, such a great idea! It was lovely to 1 World Aids Day (www.worldaidsday.org) ages, was indeed a real blessing for everyone taking part, see the young folk serve! The evening service was led by Mr as we all learned of God's love for each one of us. The fact 2 First Sunday of Advent Marriages George Barkley. that the same children come back year on year is testament 10 Human Rights Day (www.un.org/events/humanrights) 15th September 2018Andrew Keenan to how this area of church has developed. Each day ended As always, Monday evening saw Br Billy Kitson take on the 3-10 Hanukkah - Jewish and Aimee Watson Fulneck role of auctioneer at the Harvest Auction when the bidding 15th September 2018Simon Nevin with the adults gathering around the table for lunch 18 International Migrants Day graciously provided by the kitchen team who began each for the fruit, vegetables and flowers becomes almost manic and Francesca Renwick Fairfield day with cups of tea and toast and were such a blessing and the laughter can be heard far and near, as money is 21 Winter Solstice Dates to throughout. The week ended with a beautiful service in the raised for the building fund. 25 Christmas Day remember! Deaths 10th October 2018 Margaret Joan Clare ReynoldsBrockweir church on Sunday Morning, led by Sr Kathleen Kitson and Sr Roberta Gray 31 New Year's Eve / Watchnight

142 143 From the Sanctuary From the mmoravianoravian Sanctuary DECEMBER 2018 mmessengeressenger