mmoravianoravian JANUARY 2017 mmessengeressenger

The Work Continues at Sikonge Leprosarium When Sr Lindsey Newens suggested I write an article about the work undertaken at Sikonge Leprosarium, I was very happy to accept. Over the years we have received many donations from congregations and from individual brothers and sisters in the UK; this is a wonderful opportunity to explain what we are doing. Let us start with the wards of the leprosarium. Established in 1955 - in line with the thinking of that time - the facilities are located a 15 minute walk from the main Sikonge Hospital, west of Sikonge Hill. We continue to diagnose a fair number of new leprosy cases, either here or at the main hospital. In recent years most of them are coming from other districts, and typically they have already been to one or more local health facilities, where the correct diagnosis has been missed. Unfortunately delayed diagnosis often leads to deformities. If there are no complications, new cases are not admitted, but these people will take their medicines at home. They do, however, get a thorough examination, including testing the nerve function of hands and feet; they get equally thorough health education about the disease and how to care for affected limbs or eyes. They are also supplied with suitable protective footwear, if required. Complications do occur, not infrequently, in both new and old cases. It may be ulcers or nerve damage, which can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis or loss of sensation in hands and feet. Recent nerve damage can often be reduced through treatment with steroids for a number of months. There are other complications, and often admission is needed. Some ulcers

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BBC Songs of Praise Fulneck School Trip News from From the at Fulneck to India Dublin Sanctuary (page 3) (page 6-7) (page 10) (page 12) Editorial Creative Minorities New Year is a thought provoking time with understand itself as a creative minority reviews of the past year and looking that has a heritage of values that are not ahead to what may lie in front of us in things of the past, but a very living and the coming year. Turmoil in politics, relevant reality. The Church must uncertainty in the money markets and actualize, be present in the public debate, armed conflict in many places seem to in our struggle for a true concept of liberty be a given and create a sense of and peace.' Letter helplessness in even the most confident The same could be said of the Moravian and optimistic person. Further as Church. We have a heritage that is not Christians we see a future where Dear Editor, just of the past but is a living and relevant traditional expressions of our faith seem May I pass greetings to all reality. We must be present in the public to be undervalued. As Moravian Christians, readers from the Provincial Men's sphere and work for liberty, peace, charity we recognize too that we are one of the and justice. We may not be able to do the Fellowship Committee and also smallest of the main stream things that we did in the past but there pass on an important date. denominations in the United Kingdom are new ways of working and sharing The venue and date for the and we wonder what the future holds for ideas. We may not be the biggest church us. in any given area but what if we took Men's Fellowship Given all of that it is easy to feel every opportunity going to say who we Rally in 2017 overwhelmed by the challenges that face are and to engage ecumenically. What if BBC Songs of has been finalised. Please note us on the world and national stage. It we started thinking creatively about who the below date in your Church would be too easy to give up and go we are and where we put our efforts. A calendar and personal diaries: home. However, that is never an option small Church of creative engaged Praise at Fulneck for Christians or particularly for us as Christians could make a huge difference Saturday 24th Moravians given our history of holding to in a local area, in dialogue about our faith, June 2017 the faith as a minority in the most difficult in the arts, in civic engagement, in Whilst at a Provincial Board meeting at Church House in © Fulneck School of times. We cannot change the world interfaith work and in so many other areas. - Kingswood Moravian November, I was called to the telephone where one of the but we can change ourselves and Church from 12.30 p.m. producers for Songs of Praise asked whether I would be willing for the classroom where the children were all set to construct So many Moravians are creatively situations around us. to do a short piece for the programme telling the Moravian the Christingles under the instruction of Mrs Atkins whilst engaged already, and some of our Details will follow in the New Year. origins of the Christingle. I was impressed by the fact that the answering questions about the elements of the Christingles The first step is to recognize that we are Churches are creative to their very core. producer had discovered that it wasn't the Children's Society from Rev Kate. I wasn't in the session but was placed on hold. a minority and not bemoan that fact but Let's make this a year when all of our Every blessing. who had come up with the idea 60 years ago but the Moravians By lunchtime this part was finished and we then processed to work with it. In September 2009, on his Churches act positively and creatively in Br Edwin Quildan over 200 years ago. way to the Czech Republic, a highly- worship, prayer, Bible Study and in the Church with Christingles in On behalf of the Provincial Men's secularized society, Pope Benedict said 'I engagement with the world around us. I was informed that the piece hand where, at the last minute, I would say that normally it is the creative Fellowship Committee. would only be three minutes long had been asked to do a 20 minute With all good wishes for the New Year. minorities that determine the future, and and would probably take about service! We sang the first verse and in this sense the Catholic Church must Sr Sarah Groves two hours to record and would chorus of 'Morning Star' 15 times, have to be done within the next not because we were so bad but week. As discussions continued it because Nick had asked us to sing was decided that Fulneck would until he got all the right shots. He Dovedale House, be a good venue and that it would was so taken up by the singing he be good to use some of the forgot to tell us to stop. near Ashbourne, children from Fulneck School. Candles were lit and we sang as the Derbyshire Having spoken to the School Principal to get her support and children held up their christingles, and although it was still light permission and also Br Michael Newman, minister at Fulneck, outside it was still magical. Saturday 5th August who was happy for me to do the recording I contacted the BBC Finally at 2.00 p.m. I was interviewed by Rev Kate Bottley about and informed them that we were good to go ahead and awaited the history of the Christingle, which seemed to go well. After - Friday 11th August further instructions. six hours of being together Nick said he had about 70 minutes recorded which would be cut down to three minutes for the More details to follow. Look at the house Cometh the day, cometh the hour at 9.00 a.m. on Wednesday November 23rd. the BBC team arrived at Fulneck comprising programme. So don't hold your breath on http://www.dovedalehouse.org/ of Nick the cameraman, Sophie the sound lady and runner and as it won't be a feature length documentary but hopefully will remind Dovedale House is a residential centre Rev Kate Bottley, whom some of you will know from 'Gogglebox' as the presenter. people that the Christingle is something located in Ilam in the Peak District, catering that the is glad to give for school groups, youth groups, students Years 5 and 6 were put at our disposal for the day and the staff to the wider Christian world as we Summer Camp 2017 and parish groups. were all there for support. celebrate the birth of Christ. After a general get to know each other session the team set off Br Bob Hopcroft 2 3 The Work Continues at Sikonge Leprosarium continued Three Aspects of Moravianism affect bones, and whenever required we undertake surgical In fact we are the only rehabilitation facility in a huge area procedures. Fortunately amputations bigger than a toe or a covering most of western Tanzania; the National Leprosy The Moravian Church, like all other denominations and their own but the attempt to impose doctrinal views finger are rare nowadays. Programme has sent patients to us from as far away as the east denominations, changes over time. approach to religious truths. 'The Ground failed as did an attempt to dictate how Unlike at the main hospital, admission and treatment is free of coast, a thousand kilometres away. Scripture should be interpreted. The 1908 Different aspects come to the fore at of Unity' is the official doctrinal statement charge at the leprosarium, and patients get free meals. Kidugalo Camp is a bit further down the gentle slope beyond different periods reflecting, for the most of the Moravian Church. It is an attempt Synod eventually agreed after much the rehabilitation unit. Only seven elderly handicapped former part, changes in society. At the same time to provide a common ground of belief argument, and to the horror, it should be Today we are the only place in a huge area where leprosy expertise the thread which links the Church to its among a world-wide Moravian Church added, of all conservative denominations is preserved and available at all times; we are therefore a de leprosy patients are left in the cottages in what is effectively an past continues to inform and influence with different ways of understanding the in Germany, that professors at Gnadenfeld facto referral centre. old peoples' home. We take care of them in every the present. Bible and Christian living. Such differences could have liberty in what they taught Although patients are way, including three daily meals and laundry. They assemble every morning to soak their dry feet; in The following aspects of today's Moravian arise for cultural or historical reasons. and thought on one condition, that they not frequently sent While, for the Moravians, the Bible acknowledged Christ as their Saviour. This through official this self-care activity they are joined by 'colleagues' Church find their origin in the 18th century from nearby Usega village. The nurse from the wards renewal under Zinzendorf and, although remains, in the words of 'The Ground of liberty regarding doctrinal and Biblical channels, they often attends to any problems, including bandaging ulcers. not explored in this article, may also be the Unity', 'the sole standard of the interpretation remains within the Church refer themselves, as the found among the beliefs of the old Czech doctrine and faith … and therefore shapes and fits comfortably with the Moravian name of Sikonge is still I make regular rounds. Brethren. our life' a glance at the history of the axiom that unity is only required in widely known. Once there were almost fifty inhabitants in the camp, Christian Church shows that there never essentials: for example sinful man's Knowledge about but slowly the number has decreased by a 'natural Ecumenism reconciliation with God achieved through has been and never can be one leprosy and its treatment process.' Further, we have declined new admissions Moravians describe themselves as interpretation. So the Moravian Church Christ is a given but no one understanding is minimal or non- for more than ten years. Such a camp is a thing of ecumenical, that is to say they seek co- has not chosen to draw out of the Bible of how this is achieved is insisted upon. operation and understanding with other a set of doctrinal propositions that all existent among general the past, and it maintains stigma. It is probably true to say that for medical personnel in the Like all Tanzanians, elderly people denominations. must subscribe to. 'Just as the Holy Moravians the practical aspects of Scripture,' The Ground of the Unity states, country. The World affected by leprosy should stay in Witness to this in the modern Church are: Christianity - how we live our lives: love Health Organisation made a countrywide survey a few their communities and be taken care 'does not contain any doctrinal system, of God and our neighbour - (orthopraxy) o membership of the World Council of so the Unitas Fratrum has not developed years ago and was extremely disappointed and of by their families. In fact three Churches since its founding in 1948; are more important than 'correct any of its own because it knows that the doctrine' (orthodoxy). dismayed; they found that even among the district and residents have children and regional TB & Leprosy coordinators, who are supposed grandchildren very near by. We don't o membership of Churches Together; mystery of Jesus Christ ….. cannot be Happiness o the sharing of premises with other comprehended completely by any human to supervise the work, knowledge was good for TB (and evict anyone; as long as they are churches (notably the United Reformed mind or expressed completely in any Zinzendorf laid much stress on happiness. HIV) but virtually absent for leprosy, except for filling there we will continue to care for Church in the UK), and human statement'. While the Moravian His observation that the Moravian looks in report forms. them, and endeavour to do it well. at his redemption before his sin rather o invitations to ministers or members of Church accepts the creeds as 'the thankful Indeed, in the majority of patients finding their way Let me conclude by mentioning the acclaim of the Body of Christ (i.e. the than the other way around (and does not other denominations, including the to us from other districts, where a diagnosis has been outreach that we undertake. We visit Church)', it nonetheless considers that all 'wallow in sin') are often quoted. 'We Roman Catholic Church, to preach to the creeds 'stand in need of constant are', he said, 'the Saviour's happy people'. made and treatment started, that is all that has two self-care groups, three and 27 Moravian congregations. testing in the light of the Holy Scripture'. The guidance 'Instructions for the happened; there has been no check up for nerve function, km away, where we supervise, Zinzendorf had not intended to establish members of the Unitas Fratrum who no diagnosis of nerve damage or other complications, encourage, and provide utensils for This generous approach to individual a separate denomination. The Moravians Minister in the Gospel among the no treatment to restore muscle strength and sensation, the essential soaking of dry feet understanding can be traced back to were to be a Church within a Church, a Heathen', published in 1784, tells us that, no health education, no footwear, and no treatment (soap, Vaseline and basins). We also Zinzendorf, for linked with his view of group of Christians enthused by their love 'Whoever desires to be a messenger of for ulcers; not to mention stigma and rejection. That attend to ulcers and issue or repair ecumenism was his dislike of theological of Christ to gather together from the peace to the heathen, and magnify the niceties. 'We do not have', he said, 'our the National Programme actually supplies all regions footwear. grace of God in Christ unto them; his very various denominations and, after study own Moravian doctrines'. He believed that with ready made suitable sandals for free distribution countenance must bespeak the happiness In addition to the above, we go to and worship, to return to their own those who considered theological to all needy leprosy patients, even two pairs per year, of his heart…if he cannot rejoice in God communities and schools, giving churches to fill them with new life. Indeed, distinctions important were lacking the I will just mention here Zinzendorf believed that separate our Saviour, he will prove a wretched classes on early signs of leprosy as love of Christ in their hearts for love for completeness. © Sikonge Leprosarium denominations were intended by God. messenger of peace'. well as trying to reduce the social transcended doctrine. God, he thought, Further down from the stigma. In recent years a number of new patients have told us Each had its own contribution to make, Some consider that it is this cheerfulness, works in a way that is relevant to each wards is the that someone who had attended these classes had advised them enabling people of different personality age. Each age has its own theology and often in the face of adversity, which kept and need to find what suited them. He up the spirits of Moravian missionaries Rehabilitation Unit, that, for example, the mysterious tingling they had constantly each person in each period has the faith housing the workshop felt in their hands might be due to leprosy. This encourages us was censured for not acknowledging the which is right for him or her. on their long and arduous journeys, Pope to be the Anti-Christ. 'If,' he said, certain that they were safe in God's hands. where footwear and to continue. This approach did not, unfortunately, long 'the Church of Rome has deviated from artificial limbs are I hope that by now you'll agree that the activities at Sikonge survive Zinzendorf's death in 1760 and Threats of hellfire have played little part produced. People with the letter of the Gospel so have some in Moravian preaching and evangelisation Leprosarium are indeed worthwhile, and that it is important to Protestants'. the church grew increasingly conservative loss of protective during the 19th century. with the emphasis on salvation and its have an institution such as ours. The Christian Church, he believed, rose concomitant joys. Zinzendorf's message sensation in the soles of A challenge to this conservatism arose in Thank you for your continued support, and for remembering the above the visible denominations but all to missions was, 'Tell them about the their feet should never Germany in the second half of the 19th work and the patients in your prayers. were united in this one invisible Church Lamb of God till you can tell them no walk barefoot. Our century when professors at the Moravian through the love of Jesus Christ. It is worth more'. It is interesting to note that the dedicated technician Br Steen M Andersen remembering that the events of 13th seminary at Gnadenfeld were found to above instructions to missionaries do not issues readymade August 1727, which have entered into the have modernist views quite contrary to contain the word 'hell' at all, although sandals when Br Steen is a member of the Moravian Moravian calendar, were at heart about the beliefs of the bulk of Church members. the word 'happiness' appears several appropriate. He also Congregation in Christiansfeld, the reconciliation, fellowship and This applied both to their theological times. makes footwear ranging from simple sandals with a thick outer Denmark. He studied for his medical beliefs and their approach to degree in Aarhus and received further understanding of the various Christian This has been very much a personal sole (old car tyres work well when factory-made material is understanding the Bible. Their theology education in leprosy at Addis Ababa in groups with their differing beliefs who selection of what is attractive about the unavailable) and a pressure distributing soft insole, to special was much influenced by Albrecht Ritschl 1980-81. From 1985 to 2001 he served had moved to seek refuge from Moravian Church. An interesting start in shoes and orthopaedic boots made over a plaster cast of the who interpreted Christianity in a practical in Bhutan for the Leprosy Mission persecution on Zinzendorf's estate. exploring what is particular to patient's deformed foot. way that reduced the miraculous element. International and since 2002 has been This tolerant ecumenicism is a strength Moravianism is Bishop Shawe's 'The Spirit So, for example, Jesus was divine because Our technician also makes artificial legs for the patients who working in Sikonge, Tanzania, sent by of the Moravian Church and yet a of the Moravian Church' which is available he was the perfect revealer of God and have had amputations. Usually amputation for leprosy is done BDM, the Danish Moravian Mission. weakness in that a Church which has such the love of God which Christ showed us on the internet at below the knee, but he can make limbs for the occasional above an impressive history and influence by his death reconciled us with God. This http://moravianarchives.org/wp- knee amputee, provided we can procure a lockable knee joint. remains small because it has not sought content/uploads/2012/01/Spirit-of- understanding of the atonement was a Even before the limb is fully ready, walking exercises are started From the Editorial Team to proselytize other denominations. Moravian-Church.pdf world away from the view that Jesus died in the parallel bars in front of a mirror. If you would like to make a donation to help with the work Biblical and doctrinal tolerance as a substitute for sinful man which was Adrian Wilsdon of the Leprosarium, you can make a card payment through Our services are not limited to leprosy patients. We help other It seems to me that there is a clear link the accepted Moravian view. Volunteer worker in the Moravian Archive in Church House, or send a cheque payable to Moravian Union patients as well, but they have to cover the cost of the materials. between the Moravians' acceptance of Initially three professors were dismissed Church House Inc. We can also claim Gift Aid on tax payers' donations. 4 5 Fulneck School Trip to India 12th October - 1st November © Fulneck School

Over half term (with a couple of days either side) competing in sports day simply to represent the school - in friendly game of cricket with the Moravian boys. We mixed the markets. In the evenings we visited Hindu devotions along the over 20 Fulneck students from Years 10-13, and temperatures and sunshine that would be unheard of in the teams so it was slightly fairer on the Fulneck pupils but it was Ganges, called Aarti. These were sunset ceremonies that four lucky members of staff, journeyed to Northern north of England! The second part of the tour included additional all great fun. consisted of fire, chanting and the placing of marigolds into challenges and the opportunity to face fears - whether this the Ganges; they made everyone feel welcome regardless of India for what really was a trip of a lifetime. At the start of the week we were each buddied up with a meant jumping off a 10m cliff into the Ganges, camping for their own religion. The main purpose of the trip was to spend 10 days with the the very first time, or dealing with spiders bigger than your Moravian girl or boy who boarded at the Institute. Over the staff and students from our sister school, the Moravian Institute handspan! Spending a night on a sleeper train, rising before 5 following days, we did sports in the mornings and tutored young While we were in Rishikesh we also ventured down the Ganges, in Dehradun, which turned out to be an unforgettable visit. We a.m. to complete long journeys or go on safari, and a few lengthy children from the school improving their English skills in the white water rafting. This was the favourite part of the trip for really did squeeze the most out of our trip with additional visits walks were not necessarily the highlights of the trip for everyone afternoon. By the end we had all become great friends, promising many of the group because it was a new and exciting experience to Delhi - at the beginning - and then Rishikesh, Agra, Corbett - but these experiences combined created an adventure which to keep in touch. We got a chance to take part in other activities for them. During this adventure, students got the chance to National Park and the Silent Valley Farm in Nainital in the later helped to test, and build, character - and will leave the students around the Institute, helping around the facilities whenever we face their fears and jump off a 10m cliff. The water was freezing stages of the trip. with many, many happy memories. could. These times together gave us a chance to appreciate the cold but it was great fun! backgrounds of our buddies and what the school meant to India is everything we had expected, and many things that we After this we went to Corbett National Park to hunt for tigers; The Moravian Institute, Dehradun them. They also reinforced the contrast between the British didn't! Every outing was a true assault on the senses - the smells, despite doing two safaris we came away somewhat disappointed schools and those in post-monsoon India; how quickly things sights and sounds combined were nothing like any experience Our week at the Moravian Institute started even before we (especially those of us who had missed sighting a tiger by a grow and what kinds of fauna and wildlife to look out for. Squeals you could get anywhere in Europe. As some Year 11s said, 'We reached the building. We had received an invitation from the matter of minutes!). We did see monkeys, deer, eagles and a rang out throughout the week whenever a Fulneck pupil saw a knew it would be Principal to attend a regional music, dance and arts competition jackal - and some of the group got up close and personal with monkey or giant spider, things barely acknowledged by the different; we didn't that the school was competing in, which we had eagerly an elephant! locals. know it would be THIS accepted. One of the first things you have to realise about India We then visited a farm in the Himalayas, where the views were different!' For many of is that the estimated times of any journey are almost certainly Just before dinner, just as night fell, we held evening devotions our students, this stunning and living was more basic. We used machetes to clear going to be way off. We arrived hours late to find they had each day. These consisted of singing religious songs with the made the experience some of the ground, and planted some seeds which should slowed down the competition for their 'friends from England'. Moravian Institute boarders; this was very upbeat and fun. To an exciting challenge, come into bloom in the spring. We had time to relax by the Thousands of pupils from different schools had waited patiently encourage us to join in, the children mainly chose English songs, far beyond that of any river, and did walking tours of the local area to see what life is for us to arrive. The feeling was daunting to say the least as we often with movement and dances, so the starlit sky echoed with school trips or family hurried into our seats. In our honour, they had chosen a hymn like in rural India. holidays they may the laughter and singing of happy voices. based on the melody of 'The Derry Air' which left Mr McD Finally, we made the trek to Agra which included long bus have encountered emotional straight away! After a very impressive round, the As a final bash, we held a talent show where pupils from both journeys and seven hours on the overnight train. In Agra we previously. We safely Moravian Institute won! schools performed a variety of acts, showing the breadth and visited the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The architecture and negotiated bustling depth of our abilities. It ended the visit on a high note, bringing Afterwards we had the opportunity to chat with our hosts and atmosphere were breathtaking - no wonder the Taj is considered markets and mastered our time full circle, starting and ending on a song. the art of haggling, we introduce ourselves to Rev and Mrs Kundan, the Principal and one of the Wonders of the World! learned to avoid his wife, who guided us through the busy streets of Dehradun Over our time, we explored some of the Himalayan foothills, The day after, our last full day in India, we travelled the four scooters, tuk tuks and to our hotel. Tired, we ate and trotted off to bed. visited temples and academic institutions but all too soon it cows when crossing hours back to Delhi, stopping off to travel part of it on the Metro. Early the next morning, we were taken to the school by an old- was over. Whilst for us that meant further adventures on the busy streets, and how On the final day we ate breakfast at the hotel and then travelled style yellow school bus where the whole Institute was hosting Ganges and elsewhere, it was still sad to say goodbye. Our to manage the to the airport for the nine-hour flight back to England. We a week of sporting events. We had decided previously that, thanks go to all the staff and pupils of the Moravian Institute attention which we returned to school with fantastic memories and many a story rather than disrupt the running order of the events, Fulneck for their generosity and warmth. Our stay was truly magical. received whenever we to tell - it really was a trip of a lifetime. would compete as a fourth house. set foot in public. Tour of Uttarakhand Jennie Roberts and Grace Gentry (pupils at Fulneck); On the Monday we had the girls' discus, long jump and 100m and Lindsay Wilkinson and John McDermott Our students were thrust into many new experiences and often events. Everyone got stuck in and tried their best. The boys' After a week at the school we travelled around the North of (teachers at Fulneck). took these in their stride: tutoring children, some of whom could 100m was a great race with one Moravian boy impressing India. Our first stop after the school was Rishikesh; there we speak little or no English; performing in the talent show; and everyone watching with his speed. In the afternoon we had a looked around the Hindu temples and visited the colourful, lively Fulneck School 6 7 Congregation News Eastern District Conference Report the accompaniment of EDC was held on Saturday 15th October for the ministry. Winter night shelter Cliftonville the Hymnal Machine this year at Harold Road Moravian Church programme is on-going with much On 7th August we met to say farewell donated in memory of Br (Hibiscus Community Centre) London and support from individual donations; non- On Sunday 2nd October we celebrated to our organist Sr Noma Deane, who Joe Cooper. all congregations were represented. EDC perishable food not used at the end of God's continued goodness at our Harvest agreed to play the organ for a few Service. Our wonderful team of flower Br George Stringer has commenced at 10.30 p.m. with Sr Elsie the programme was given to the Haringey weeks in 1980 while Br Joe Cooper been ill much of this past arrangers spent all Friday and Saturday welcoming everyone to the Hibiscus Food Bank. The new minister and his was in Labrador to ordain the first year, some of the members called at the nursing home to creating beautiful displays and making Centre. Br Edwin welcomed everyone to family will take up his post in February Inuit minister. When he returned, she congratulate him on his 90th Birthday on 21st August. He had the conference and then led the opening 2017. the church look amazing. The Girl's was happy to continue and a 'few a further spell in hospital but was able to be home in November devotions. Brigade created a stunning poster and weeks' became 36 Fetter Lane when his daughter Marie visited from South Africa and it was The elections were held and the following the pulpit was adorned with some years of faithful good to be able to welcome her in church. Sisters and Brothers were elected:- Sr Minette Flemmings reported that enormous sunflowers grown by the service. In 1984 she the preacher at the Harvest service in October. The participants membership stands at 21 with nine McCormick Family. Monday evening saw encouraged the re- in a Suicide Awareness Interdenominational Prayer Walk on Chairperson - Br Edwin Quildan adherents. Church Anniversary service forming of the choir Sr Noma Deane our Harvest Auction directed by our at organ and 7th November gathered in the Church Hall and were later was led by Br David Newman on the First that had lapsed for Minute Secretary - Sr Ruth Franklin inimitable auctioneer Br Billy Kitson. At with her provided with refreshments. Sr Eunice Hoey was our preacher Sunday of November 2015, this included a time, and since Prayer watch - Sr Minette Flemmings the end of a really fun night we had raised daughter on Remembrance Sunday and we welcomed Sr Carol Ackah Holy Communion and Love Feast. £420 for McMillan Cancer Support. then it has led the Kirsten and son on the first Sunday in Advent. We appreciate the continuing Christingle service was held on the fourth singing and provided The Men's Fellowship went on a visit to in law Pete service of these and other lay preachers for two Sunday services The Provincial report 2016 was distributed, Sunday of Advent at 3 p.m., this was the music for special each month, Br Peddie being responsible for the others, one a local company where buses are © Sr Edna Cooper and then presented by Br Edwin with conducted by Br Quildan. occasions. of which is Communion. designed and built. They were welcomed questions taken. MWA conducts services on the Third We were sad to see to the factory by Dr William Wright CBE The children and teachers in the Sunday School have packed Sunday of the month and Men's Sr Noma leave us, we miss her cheerful presence, but are glad Queens Park (Bedford) who was himself married in our church over 90 shoe boxes of gifts as well as many knitted items for Fellowship with Holy Trinity Brompton that she has settled happily in Hawkshaw, near Bury in children in Romanian Orphanages. Donations for the British Br Eric Moore reported that they have six and still has connections with the Group on a Fifth Sunday. We have been Lancashire, with her daughter Kirsten and son-in-law Pete, and Legion Poppy Appeal amounted to £40. members and five adherents. While fortunate to be able to have a regular Moravian Church. He then showed the we keep in touch by e-mail. We are pleased the choir continue without a minister the treasurer is taking pianist to fill the void left by the passing group around the bus production lines to meet, and though it is quite different to having Noma preside the service, whilst Communion has been of Sr Monica Arthur last year. The walls where they had an opportunity to go on at the organ, they and we are coming to terms with singing to Sr Edna Cooper taken by Br David Howarth. Churches are in various stages of disrepair. English board the famous 'Boris' bus which is together in Bedford (six churches Heritage have offered guidance and made for the London market. Dr Wright ecumenically) celebrated thirty years of funding for a pilot scheme to repair the chatted about the company - past, Also in November there was a wonderful concert by St. Peter's Shalom with a Fish and Chip supper. The more vulnerable areas as the buildings present and future - the technology of Fulneck Singers with other choirs and instruments in the Church which congregation has received a £1000 legacy and walls are Grade 2 listed. batteries, his travelling and negotiating As usual Fulneck was very busy last autumn. On 15th September welcomed the return to life of our church organ after its overhaul from the late Harry William. This is going a group of people of all ages set off on a valley walk to and retuning. Lay Training Courses experiences and other stories of local to be used to replace the gas heaters in interest. It was a fascinating visit. appreciate nature and to ponder the effects of global warming. Selected pieces by Vivaldi and Handel were performed to such the room at the back. Br Edwin gave an update on the Lay Young people collected nuts and berries. Bacon butties and The Annual Enrolment Service for our a quality that it was easy to imagine oneself in the Royal Albert Training course. There are six people drinks were served in the Boys' Brigade on their return. Hall. It was a privilege to be there and an experience to treasure. Harold Road currently on the course. Anybody is Boys Brigade and Girls Brigade was on On 30th October a Service of Commemoration for the life of Friday 2nd December saw the museum opened to welcome Sr Ruth Franklin reported that welcome to attend. 20th November. The church was full of Sir Leonard Hutton was held in conjuction with the Brethren's visitors to a Victorian Christmas experience. The parlour was membership stands at 23 with an average parents, aunts, uncles and Grandparents Festival. Many members of Yorkshire Cricket Club were present decorated in Victorian style where a wassail cup was offered weekly attendance of 14. Brn David Unity Synod as well as the members of our Brigades. as was the Deputy Lord Lt. of West Yorkshire. Later a plaque while the guests listened to extracts from 'A Christmas Carol'. Howarth and Edwin Quildan have been Br Edwin gave an update on the recent Emma White and Chanelle Johnston were was unveiled at St. Lawrence C.C, bearing the names of Sir A Victorian supper was served in the Boys' Brigade followed by taking Communion service during the Unity Synod. A copy of the proposals was enrolled as our Girls Brigade Captain and Leonard and Herbert Sutcliffe who were both players there and a short entertainment of music and recitations and then carol year. The MWA continues to meet at Sr circulated to all attendees. A number of Boys Brigade Captain respectively. We at Yorkshire. singing. Lake's home and attended the rally in the proposals were reviewed. are very grateful to the Captains, Officers The Grandparents Link of Leeds brought us a Service of Song. April. The financial position of the and helpers for all the love and The Women Together group held their Christmas celebration These ladies sang, read and recited items which told of Faith congregation has greatly improved due Welcome service for Br James commitment that they pour into the on the 6th December which was greatly enjoyed. Ladies brought at the centre of life. It was an entertaining and enthusiastic to a large increase in weekly collection Woolford seasonal readings both humorous and serious and, after brigades week by week and wish them occasion followed by Caribbean refreshments. and the monthly fundraising held every A welcome service for Br James Woolford and the young people a wonderful and refreshments, opened gifts from a Secret Santa. On the 19th November our Christmas Fair was held in the Boys' last Sunday of the month. and family will be held at Hornsey on inspiring year. Br David Ingham Saturday 4th February 2017 at 3 p.m. Brigade. It was well attended, raising over £500. Harlesden Thirteen folk from Gracehill attended a Sr Joy Raynor circulated and presented First Aid First Response course in the Sr Louise McCarthy reported that the Summer Camp 2016 and Youth Harlesden continues to be a very active Church Hall on Saturday 22nd October. Beer, Chilli & Jazz Festival report. The day course covered all the basics in Congregational congregation with two ministers and a at Ockbrook team of members participating in the EDC Fellowship Day First Aid and the participants are now Register Sunday services as Worship Leaders. qualified as first responders for a three The EDC fellowship day will be held on Lamb & Flag, Heisenberg's Membership remains at 100 with an year period. The course was run for us by Sunday 11th June 2017 at Harold Road Principle, California Steam attendance of 60 on Sundays. The two Emergency Care NI. We are grateful to at 3 p.m. All present were asked to and many more locally Baptisms members who have completed the URC all those who gave up a Saturday to train consider a suitable topic, suggested was brewed beers were on offer training for learning and service course in this way and so serve the Church and 20th November 2016 Praise & Prayer or Human Trafficking. at Ockbrook's second (TLS) have been commissioned and have the community. The Girls Brigade were annual Beer, Chilli & Jazz Festival. The event, organised by Samuel Eoin Potter Ballinderry now entered onto the roll of Lay Preachers. Spring conference 2017 to be held on so impressed that they invited Charlie Br and Sr Maskalick, attracted visitors from far and wide. Sunday 11th June 2017 at 3 p.m. at Howes from Emergency Care NI back to Hornsey Harold Road. The festival was sponsored by Draycott Brewing Company. Deaths do first aid training with the girls in the As well as brewing much of the beer, Br Maskalick, with his Sr Rose Calder reported that Hornsey has Autumn conference 2017 to be held on Brigade. Thank you to the Church for fellow musicians, played a great variety of live jazz throughout 7th November 2016 managed to keep the ministry and its 21st October 2017 at 10.30 a.m. at funding this training for us all. the event. A good sum of money was raised for church funds John James (Jacky) McCurry many programmes going despite the Hornsey. and several of the visitors expressed an interest in other upcoming church events. many challenges. Attendance among Sr Roberta Gray Gracehill adults and young people has dropped. Sr Sr Ruth Franklin and Br Edwin Sr Julie Hague Christine Emanuel has started her training Quildan 8 9 1 New Year's Day From Church House Mission Sunday at Ockbrook 6 Epiphany Dates to We have a number of booklets from the 'Great Men of the remember! Church' series (Cennick, Gregory, Spangenberg and Zinzendorf), Mission Sunday this year featured by her family. She concluded by emphasizing the need for as well as many copies of Bishop Shawe's 'The Moravian 7 Christmas Day - Orthodox Megan Stone, who played her forgiveness. Church and what it stands for' (1960), at Church House that guitar and sang beautifully. Jasvinder's book, 'Children of Hope are now available free of charge to collect, or we are happy to 14 New Year - Orthodox Instead of a - a Survivor's Story' is send out for just the cost of postage. Please contact the Bookroom for more details. sermon, published under her pen 15 World Religion Day (www.worldreligionday.org) Jasvinder name Simran Kahani, The new edition of the ‘Passion week Megan playing her guitar Glen, a social ISBN: 9781908691170. and Eastertide’ published this year is © Sr Judi Harvey 18 25 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity worker and also available from the Bookroom for £2. Jasvinder passed on the (www.ctbi.org.uk) author from Nottingham, was interviewed proceeds from the book Br and Sr Richard Ingham's new by Br Joachim Kreusel. Questions were put 22 Homelessness Sunday sale to the family of a address is: 30 Fairfield Square, Droylsden, (www.housingjustice.org.uk/pages/homeless_sunday) to Jasvinder by students from Ockbrook Manchester, M43 6AE. Rwandan genocide School and congregation members. 25 Burns Night survivor, struggling to 2017 correction: Jasvinder spoke movingly of the extreme recover from an accident The telephone number for Sr Rosieta difficulties she faced as a teenager, leading Joachim interviewing Jasvinder earlier this year. Burton should be amended to: 01444 483417. 27 Holocaust Memorial Day (www.holocaustmemorialday.gov.uk) to her 'running away' and being disowned © Sr Rosie Hague Sr Julie Hague Provincial Diary for January Chinese New Year 7 Youth Committee at Hall Green - Sr Ferdinand and Sr Taylor 28 11 Faith and Order at Fulneck - Br Hopcroft Western District Conference 18 -19 PEC, BMB and Estates Property meeting - PEC 29 World Leprosy Day (www.leprosymission.org.uk)

This autumn the Conference met at Kingswood on 5th more fruitful to evaluate what is already happening than November. Br Ashton welcomed all present to Conference duplicating what other churches are doing and supporting Call for Papers including Sr Beth Torkington and Sr G Taylor representing P.E.C. existing projects. An idea for a 'family church weekend' has My Heart Strangely Warmed It was noted that Br Peter Gubi will be missed from the District been mooted whereby each congregation will gather together ‘My Heart Strangely Warmed’ but that he is settling well into his new life. Br Paul Holdsworth to thrash out ideas as well as having planned activities. The Lutheran, Moravian and A Conference by the Lutheran, led the opening devotions. Methodist Churches are pleased Congregation reports were given by each of the churches Moravian and Methodist Churches Minutes of the Conference held at Kingswood on 27th February represented and they all had some positive things to report. to invite you to join us for a day Commemorating the 500th Anniversary of 2016 being circulated before the Conference were accepted as Spring District Conference will be held at Kingswood on 18th of music, work-shops, academic Luther’s 95 Theses and Considering the Place of Hymnody in the Life of the Church read. A report from a working group on areas of injustice within March 2017 beginning at 10.00 a.m. The Cup of Covenant was discussion and worship. the district was given by Sr Holdsworth. The group has met led by Sr Holdsworth. The members of Kingswood were thanked The theme of the day has a special focus Saturday 20 May 2017 twice and as there are many aspects to get to grips with they for their hospitality. on music, particularly hymnody. The Moravian Church and Fulneck School, are focusing on how congregations can penetrate into Congregational singing has been an Fulneck, , West Yorkshire, LS28 8NT communities to make a difference. It was suggested that it is Sr Judith Ashton important part of most churches as a Papers are invited for this conference, which vehicle to develop spirituality, convey will be part of a larger day event shared theology, and of course as a deep and between the Lutheran, Moravian and Saturday 20th May 2017 Methodist Churches that commemorates moving form of communal worship. News from Dublin From 10am to 5.15pm the events of 1517 and the birth of the People of all or no faith are invited to join Reformation. The subject area is hymnody in the life of the Church. This is interpreted The Dublin Moravian This year the Chair of the Irish District made his us to explore these and other congregation closed in now annual visit (another tradition) to the Moravian Church and School, broadly. developments and influences through es the mid sixties but several Moravian graveyard and this year placed a Fulneck, Pudsey, Leeds, LS28 8NT Length of paper: 30 minut plenary lectures, interactive workshops, Abstract: 200 words Moravian remained in the Christingle ornament in the graveyard beside John and academic papers. More details will Travel is possible by air (to Leeds Deadline for abstract is 31st January 2017 area and in 1995 it was Tölschig's grave who was the Moravian minister be available in spring 2017 when you will Bradford International Airport), road, Please send your abstract to David Harmer: decided by Br Derick Woods of the Dublin congregation and the first person be able to express your preference or rail (to New Pudsey station: [email protected] to hold a Christingle service interred in 1746. regarding which workshops and papers Br Mark Kernohan minibuses will be arranged if required). and invite all the former you wish to attend. Moravians to attend. So successful was it that a Dublin Moravian fellowship Sr Marion Woods and Sr Mandy was formed and for several Kernohan getting ready for the years after this, three services Christingle service a year were held, at Easter, September and Christingle in December and it is this Christingle service that has continued every year for 22 years - some would say it's now a tradition. The service is usually held on the first Sunday in December and for the past few years has been held The grave of John Tölschig in the Dundrum Methodist Church which is in South Dublin, 100 miles from the nearest congregation but only a mile from the The entrance gate to the Dublin Moravian graveyard. It's a service that starts the Christmas Moravian graveyard season for so many people. © Br Mark Kernohan 10 From the Sanctuary

In January 2014, the passing of Nelson you are generous, you are hospitable, Mandela was prominent in the news. you are friendly and caring and There are few people in (inter)national compassionate. You share what you have. life that can live the best of humanity It is to say, 'My humanity is caught up, with such grace and dignity, in spite of is inextricably bound up, in yours.' We such overwhelming odds. He was one belong in a bundle of life. We say, 'A who could (as was Jesus Christ), and from person is a person through other persons.' whom we can learn much of what it A person with Ubuntu is open and means to live the best of our humanity. available to others, affirming of others, Mandela was one like us - nothing more does not feel threatened that others are than a mere mortal. able and good, for he or she has a proper At this stage in the year, when we self-assurance that comes from knowing traditionally take stock of our life and that he or she belongs in a greater whole make promises to ourselves for a better and is diminished when others are quality of existence, what can we learn humiliated or diminished, when others from these great men? Very few of us will are tortured or oppressed, or treated as have to deal with such oppression, or be if they were less than who they are. imprisoned (or crucified) for our principles Christ also personified Ubuntu - seeing and beliefs. But, all of us will face difficulty and loving the best in others, and with forgiveness, especially when we have forgiving his oppressors. The start of a can be more living of Ubuntu, our been wounded and hurt. New Year - a time of Epiphany - seems community, our family-life, our Archbishop Desmond Tutu, in his book to be a good time to desire the best of congregation life and our world can be 'No future without forgiveness', describes our own humanity; to strive to be more transformed. No one said it was easy, but Nelson Mandela as a man who like Christ, and Mandela, in our world. We I know that I want it for myself. How personified 'Ubuntu'. Ubuntu ... speaks have it within our capability to be like much do you want it for yourself too? of the very essence of being human. [We] them - to be Ubuntu. But, do we have it say, 'Hey, so-and-so has Ubuntu.' Then within our desire to be Ubuntu? For if we Br Peter Gubi, Dukinfield

This is a big question and one DO YOU Enquirers’ Day that the Provincial Board would SENSE GOD encourage anyone to explore. IS CALLING So, if your answer to the above question is YES, or even if you are unsure or would like to know more, why not come YOU TO along to the ENQUIRERS' DAY. ? To register an interest, or to know more, please speak to ORDAINED either your minister or Br David Howarth (email: MINISTRY? Saturday [email protected]). 21st Jan 2017 The programme and venue will reflect those attending.

The closing date for this year's day is 7th January 2017.

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 distribution [email protected] [email protected] Church in the British Province. and supply should Contributions for the Messenger should Printed & Distribution Published monthly by the be sent to the reach the editorial team by the 7th day G. R. Walkden authority of the Provincial Synod. Editorial Team. of the preceeding month. Tel 01931 716703