Thursday, December 3, 2015

Christmas Eve Comes Early at Historic Schoenbrunn Village

Gather at Historic Schoenbrunn Village in New Philadelphia on Sunday afternoon, December 6, for a traditional, Moravian-style candlelight Lovefeast. Come to the rustic church for this public event beginning at 2:00 p.m. 

With trimmed beeswax candles, Christmas carols, the Nativity Story, hot chocolate and a sweet treat, the service will be a glimpse into the way Moravian Christians have celebrated the Savior's birth since the mid-18th century.

Be sure to dress for the weather as the church building is heated only by the warmth of a wood fire. 

Confirmation class students from area Moravian Churches will serve the candle and Lovefeast. They should arrive no later than 1:30 p.m. to make preparations.


Wednesday, December 2, 2015

A New Seasonal Devotional Guide


Have you received your copy of the new devotional booklet PEACE: People Embracing Advent, Christmas & Epiphany? Written by folks from our Ohio Moravian congregations, this brand new resource provides a sweet accompaniment to The Moravian Daily Texts from now through January 6.

This booklet is a GIFT to anyone who would like to be blessed by it. Visit any Tuscarawas County Moravian Church and request your copy.

This project is sponsored by the Ohio Moravian Ministries Commission.

Saturday, November 28, 2015

All-Ohio Moravian Advent Communion

The season of Advent is here. Begin your spiritual journey toward Christmas by joining with Moravians from all of our Ohio congregations for

Advent Communion Worship
Sunday, November 29
6:00 p.m.
at Sharon Moravian Church


With special musical guests The TubaFours brass ensemble, a combined vocal choir, the singing of familiar hymns, the hearing of prophetic scripture readings, and, of course, the celebration of Holy Communion, this is a meaningful, beautiful way to prepare your heart for the Savior's birth.

If you'll be using a GPS to find Sharon Moravian Church, type in 4776 Moravian Church Road SE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663. The church is located just outside the village of Tuscarawas.





Saturday, November 7, 2015

Holiday Cheese & Trail Bologna On Sale Now

The folks at Fry's Valley Moravian Church are standing by to cheerfully fill a gift box with delicious, local treats to your specifications that will be just perfect to give as a present, or to share as a party platter, or to keep for your own snacking pleasure. 

Now in its 4th year, the annual fundraiser has been extremely popular, and customers have been very pleased with the products. "It's like a taste from home," says one Tuscarawas County native who makes her home in another state and eagerly awaits her yearly shipment.

Each gift box costs $30. Choose either 4 packages of award winning Pearl Valley Cheese OR 3 packages of cheese plus a ring of genuine Troyer's Trail Bologna. Shipping is available for an additional cost.

Orders are being accepted through Wednesday, November 11. To place your order and make payment arrangements, visit the event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/515323168635928/ and message Chris Johnson there, or call her at 740-254-4720. Orders will be ready to be picked up at Fry's Valley Moravian Church beginning on Sunday, November 22 and following--just in time for Thanksgiving.

Choose from the following cheese varieties:
Mild Swiss, Baby Swiss, Lacey Swiss, Lacey-Baby Swiss, Colby, Marble, Smoked Cheddar, American, Farmers, Mozzarella, Muenster, Provolone, Pepper Jack, Jumpin' Jack, Jalepeno Pepper, Horseradish, Onion, Pepperoni and Pimento.

All proceeds support the mission and ministry of the Fry's Valley Moravian congregation. Thank you! God bless you.


Saturday, October 17, 2015

Catch THE BUS to Fall Retreat

Looking for a ride from Ohio to the Midstates Moravian 
Youth Fall Retreat? 
Reserve a seat on THE BUS.

For just $30 per person, travel round trip in luxurious style (i.e., there will be a bathroom on board!). You'll want to bring extra $ for meal stops coming and going.




To order your bus ticket, contact 
Scott Minor via
Facebook, 
or email him at 
minors3@frontier.com
or call/text him at
330-432-7036.
He's waiting to hear from you.

Don't wait! Seats are filling up.

If you need further information about Fall Retreat, see the previous blog post, or go to 


Midstates Moravian Youth Fall Retreat


For young people in 6th grade through age 21, the
Midstates Moravian Youth 
Fall Retreat 
will happen
November 6-8, 2015
at Camp Lutherhaven in
Albion, Indiana.

The Rev. Andy Kilps will lead the program, "Walk the Talk." The cost is $60/person whether you're a camper or a staff person. Need a registration form? Speak with your church's pastor, or download one here: 



Register now to assure your spot! Register now to assure roommate selection! Register now so you will not miss out on the opportunity to kiss a moose...or sing great songs...or learn stuff...or be with old and new friends...or worship God...



Wondering how you're going to get from Ohio to Indiana? Take THE BUS! Get the details in the next blog post.










Friday, October 16, 2015

Make it a Moravian Monday!

All of the things Moravians are fond of will converge in two happenings on Monday evening, October 19. Delicious food,  warm fellowship with friends from near and far, memorable music and Christ-honoring worship--you won't want to miss a moment.

First...

Annual Turkey Supper


First Moravian Church of Uhrichsville

315 N. Water Street
740-922-0886
4:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Dine In or Carry-Out
Adults - $8  Children - $4



And then...

An Evening of Praise & Worship Toward Spiritual Renewal with Chris & Tina Giesler


John Heckewelder Memorial Moravian Church of Gnadenhutten

133 S. Walnut Street
740-254-4374
7:00 p.m.

The Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler is a Bishop in the Moravian Unity currently serving as the pastor of the Edgeboro Moravian Church in Bethlehem, PA where he leads the house worship band. His wife, Tina, is a professional organist and pianist as well as the Financial Controller of the Moravian Church-Northern Province. Together, they bring their special gifts to our area.

Bishop Chris says, "This service will be a Singstunde utilizing both traditional and contemporary music to fill our spirits with the love, grace, and peace of Jesus Christ. The music will be led by me (on guitar) and Tina (on the piano). We will sing songs, read scripture, and pray together seeking only to bring us closer to God and to each other."

This service is open to all!




Thursday, October 1, 2015

Youth Ministry Bonfire

Whether you prefer your marshmallows lightly toasted or flamed to a crisp, you'll be able to roast to your heart's delight this coming Sunday evening at the

All Tuscarawas County Moravian Youth Fall Gathering, October 4, 7-9 p.m. at 
Fry's Valley Moravian Church.

Young people in grades 6-12 are encouraged to come, and to INVITE FRIENDS.

We'll have a bonfire, and in addition to marshmallows and s'mores, we'll roast some hot dogs too. There'll be some games, some singing, and lots of fun.

Fry's Valley Moravian Church is located at
594 Fry's Valley Rd. SW (just off State Route 416 near Highway 36). Contact The Rev. Chris Johnson (484-894-9077 or moravianpastorchris@gmail.com) for directions or further information.

This event is organized by the Youth Ministry Task Force of the Ohio Moravian Ministries Commission.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

New Worship Opportunity


Sharon Moravian Church invites you to a new worship experience!  Beginning on 
Tuesday, September 29th,
 and once a month thereafter, 
we will be engaging in 
Fearless Conversations: 
Why Is Jesus So Radical? 
Join us for “Circle Up” at 6:30PM in the Fellowship Hall. We look forward to seeing you there! 



And the next time you're at Sharon, pick up your copy of the brand new 200th Anniversary Edition of the Sharon Moravian Cookbook.  The cost is $12 per book and they are available in the Sharon Moravian Church office. All proceeds of this project goes to support our Putz.

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

All Ohio Moravian Children's Lovefeast

August 9, 2015

Fry's Valley Moravian Church

594 Fry's Valley Road SW
New Philadelphia, OH 44663
(for anyone using a GPS);

1 mile off SR 416 near Gnadenhutten
(for more carefree drivers)

Commemorating the Moravian children’s
spiritual renewal in Herrnhut on August 17, 1727, we will gather for a special afternoon of activities designed especially for kids and their families (although EVERYONE is welcomed to come out for a pleasant afternoon in the country).


12:00 –1:00 – Bring a picnic for your family and eat in the Pavilion at Fry’s Valley prior to activities
1:00 – 2:00 – Activities/Crafts for children pre-school – grade 5
2:00 – 3:00 – Children’s Lovefeast Service in Sanctuary

  • This event is for all families and friends
  • A special offering will be received to support “Sole Purpose” -- providing shoes for children in Tuscarawas County
  • Each child attending will receive a special memento

In case of bad weather, the festivities will take place at Schoenbrunn Community Moravian Church, 2200 E. High Avenue in New Philadelphia. If you're unsure about the weather, verify the location by calling 330-401-1212.


This event is sponsored by the Ohio Moravian Ministries Commission.


Friday, July 31, 2015

See You At the Bottom: A Speaker and an Event You Will Not Want to Miss

First Moravian Church of Dover and its Joint Board are excited to present Joe Dertinger, a 2015 National Patient Ambassador for Shriners Hospital, as our special speaker on August 2 during worship at 9:30 a.m.

Joe is a 19-year-old Moravian Olympic Caliber Skier who spent the last year speaking and inspiring others on behalf of the Shriners organization.  He has traveled the country telling his story of fortitude, courage, and joy in pursing your dreams in spite of adversity.  This Para Olympic Skier will be our guest.  Joe and his twin sister, Johanna, and parents, Mike and Sue, come to us from Waconia, Minnesota.

You will want to bring a neighbor to this inspirational and motivational Sunday. First Moravian Church is located at 319 N. Walnut Street in downtown Dover.

Joe Dertinger, dynamic athlete and inspirational speaker. 



Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Cooking Up a Recipe Collection








The Putz Committee of Sharon Moravian Church is selling cookbooks!  The recipes are from members of the Sharon Congregation and it looks like it is going to be a nice collection from some great cooks!  Please reserve your copy today. Call 740-922-5507

Monday, July 20, 2015

Love in a Shoebox

The next 200 for 200 campaign for the Sharon Moravian Church is to raise items for Operation Christmas Child, through Samaritan’s Purse. (Learn more about this wonderful project at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/.)

We are hoping to be able to send out 100 boxes this year, but we need your help!  Please brings donations to Sharon Moravian Church.  The church building is open to receive your donations Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and, of course, Sundays! The church is located at 4776 Moravian Church Rd. SE, just outside of the village of Tuscarawas. (If you're using a GPS, please type in New Philadelphia.)


Here are a few suggestions:
Coloring Books, Crayons, Stickers, Pencils, Pencil Sharpeners, Small Notebooks, Pens, Unscented Bar Soap, Toothpaste, T-Shirts (kid sizes) Marbles, Dolls, Hair Scrunchies, Flip Flops, Deodorant, Underwear, Socks, Jacks, Non-Chocolate Candy.  Please do not include: war toys, camouflage items, mirrors or glass, any liquid items, ceramic figures, knives or snakes.  We thank you for your continued support!



Thursday, June 25, 2015

The T-Shirts Are Here!

 I've got 129 t-shirts strewn across my living room right now, but I'll have them all processed and ready to distribute in time for "Moravian Night" tonight at Trumpet in the Land. If you have ordered a shirt, plan on picking it up this evening. In fact, plan on wearing it this evening, too! (If you still owe money, you may also plan on paying it.)

Remember, EVERYONE is invited to join us on "the hill" at Trumpet in the Land for fellowship, food and music, rain or shine in the pavilion. And please consider staying for the evening's performance of Ohio's oldest outdoor drama, weather permitting.

6:00 p.m.      Gather
6:30 p.m.      Potluck Picnic
7:15 p.m.      Handbell Concert featuring The Morning Star Ringers (an offering will be recieved)
8:30 p.m.      Trumpet in the Land performance (tickets may be purchased at the box office)

The Ohio Moravian Ministries Commission is pleased to sponsor this event. We hope to see you there!

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Meet the Morning Star Ringers

 

Before the sun comes up on Thursday morning, these beautiful young people will be piling into the Olivet Moravian Church van and beginning their summer music tour of Moravian places. The first trek of the  journey will lead The Morning Star Ringers from their homes in Winston-Salem, NC right into our company where we will welcome them at "Moravian Night." They'll treat us to a charming concert of handbell music while they're here learning about the Ohio portions of our shared Moravian story. By Friday morning, they'll have packed up their luggage and their bell cases and moved along to other Moravian adventures. 

Please come out to meet these folks Thursday evening, June 25, at the Trumpet in the Land venue. (http://www.trumpetintheland.com/) We'll begin to gather at 6:00 p.m. and share in a POTLUCK meal at 6:30 p.m. (Please bring something delicious to contribute!) The concert will begin at 7:15 p.m. 

We will collect an offering during the program as a way of assisting The Morning Star Ringers with their trip expenses.

Of course, everyone is invited to stay for the evening performance of Trumpet in the Land (adults, $15; children, $8).

The "Moravian Night" events will happen in the Trumpet pavilion, rain or shine. (The Trumpet performance itself is weather-dependent.)

It promises to be a wonderful evening of music, of fellowship, and of sharing our heritage! 

Monday, June 22, 2015

This Week in the World of Ohio Moravians...

TODAY, June 22


Join us from noon until 1:30 p.m. at Tuscora Park in New Philadelphia for Brown Bags & Big Ideas: A Possibility Exchange. We've been meeting informally for several weeks now, and folks have been reporting that it's a very positive thing. There is no particular agenda, so feel free to bring conversation topics as well as your own lunch. (The park's concession stand will be open in case you need to grab a quick bite.)

Can't find us in the park? Call or text Chris Johnson at 484-894-9077.

THURSDAY,  June 25


It's "Moravian Night" at Trumpet in the Land! Everyone is invited to come to the Trumpet Amphitheater (http://www.trumpetintheland.com/directions.php) beginning at 6:00 p.m. for a POTLUCK PICNIC in the pavilion at 6:30 p.m. Please bring something delicious to eat in a quantity large enough to share. (Plates and utensils and napkins and all that kind of stuff will be provided.) Then...

At 7:15 p.m. we will be treated to a lovely, charming HANDBELL concert given by The Morning Star Ringers, a youth handbell choir from Olivet Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, NC. It will be a fun, interactive, family-friendly happening.

Finally, you will want to attend the 8:30 p.m. performance of Trumpet in the Land, the "thrilling and compassionate story of a peaceful people's influence on the war and the tragic events that encircled the founding of Ohio's first settlement, Schoenbrunn." Who were those peaceful people? The Moravian missionaries and the Native American community they worked among! The Trumpet story is an integral chapter in the Moravian story, and a timely one even as we work through current concerns of how to live together harmoniously in a multi-cultural, sometimes violent world.

Tickets for the Trumpet performance may be purchased at the box office. $15, adults/$8, children.

FRIDAY, June 26


The "I AMs" (In-between Adult Ministries) will be gathering at the home of Christin and James Fouts at 7:00 p.m. for a hotdog roast and family gathering. Everyone in the 20-30Something range is invited for food, fun, fellowship and faith! Please bring a side dish or dessert to share with the group. The "I AMs" is organized through Sharon Moravian Church. To RSVP and to learn the address of the hosts, please call the Sharon Church office (940-92205507), or send a text to Rev. Rebecca Sisley (330-340-8701). This is an event for the whole family; children are included.

FRIDAY, June 26 and Saturday, June 27


·       Schoenbrunn Community Moravian Church, 2200 East High Avenue in New Philadelphia, will hold a Garage Sale. On Friday, the sale will go from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., and on Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

      SATURDAY, June 27

     
         Dover Moravian Church and its youth-led ministry Sole Purpose invite you to the 4th Annual Kickin’ Chicken Barbecue from noon until 6 p.m. Each $8 ticket provides you with a BBQ chicken breast, apple sauce, baked beans, roll, dessert and beverage. Dine in or take-out. To pre-order tickets, contact the church at 330-364-8831. The church is located at 319 N. Walnut Street in Dover. Sole Purpose raises funds to put shoes on the feet of local kids in need. 


















Saturday, June 6, 2015

A Few Reminders....

Here are a few reminders of upcoming and ongoing events in the Ohio Moravian Church world. Scroll through previous posts or click on the label index (on the left) to find out any details you may have missed. And come back often to stay up to date. If you would like to receive notifications whenever new blog entries are posted, please sign up by using the "Follow By Email" box (also on the left).


  • Ohio Moravian T-shirts are on sale from now through June 14. You know you'd like one!



  • Every summer Monday, from noon until 1:30 p.m., we're convening "Brown Bags & Big Ideas: A Possibility Exchange" at a picnic table in Tuscora Park. Bring your lunch (or purchase one at the park's concession stand) and join us for the free-for-all conversation and great fellowship.



  • "Moravian Night at Trumpet in the Land" will take place on June 25. Join us for a potluck picnic and an informal concert by our special guests, the Morning Star Ringers Youth Handbell Choir of Olivet Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, NC. By all means, stay to attend that evening's performance of "Trumpet." Festivities get underway at 6:00 p.m.

  • Schoenbrunn Community Moravian Church (2200 East High Avenue in New Philadelphia) will hold a scrumptious Strawberry Festival next Saturday, June 13, from 4-7 p.m. Sandwiches, macaroni salad, baked beans, shortcake, strawberries and ice cream will all be available for the cost of your free will donation. 

  • Sharon Moravian Church continues to celebrate 2 centuries of ministry with many special events and opportunities, including a magnificent trombone concert on June 14, and a 200th Anniversary Chicken BBQ Extravaganza with activities and live music in addition to fabulous food on June 20.

Friday, June 5, 2015

Creature Comforts

Pastor Rebecca Sisley from Sharon Moravian Church reminds everyone of the ongoing "200 for 200" campaign in honor of the congregation's 200th year of ministry. Regarding the current collection she says, "We currently have 152 items for the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, and 10 days to raise the next 48 before the Adventure Class takes it all away. I have faith that we can do it, but we need your help! Please continue donating cat and dog food items, toys, towels, leashes, collars, bleach, laundry detergent, etc. Please help us support all of God's creatures!"

The church building is open to receive your donations Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and, of course, Sundays! The church is located at 4776 Moravian Church Rd. SE, just outside of the village of Tuscarawas. (If you're using a GPS, please type in New Philadelphia.)



Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Moravian Night Picnic & Concert at Trumpet in the Land on June 25

Fellowship! Food! Music! Come and be a part of a wonderful gathering on Thursday evening, June 25, when the Ohio Moravian Ministries Commission hosts "Moravian Night" at the Trumpet in the Land pavilion in New Philadelphia. We'll mingle, we'll share a potluck picnic meal, and we'll welcome visiting musical guests, The Morning Star Ringers Youth Handbell Choir from Olivet Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, NC. Then, if you'd like, stay for a performance of the outstanding historical drama that portrays a significant slice of Moravian history--Paul Green's Trumpet in the Land.

Saturday, May 30, 2015

New Moravian T-Shirts On Sale Now

For anyone who has ever been thrown the question, "Whatever happened to the Moravians," here's an answer! With all humility, you can now demonstrate that the faith tradition of the Moravian Church is not just a remnant of history. 



For a limited time, this newly designed t-shirt will be available for just $10. With a Moravian seal graphic on the front, the burgundy shirt will bear the message: "The Moravian Church... alive and well and serving Jesus since 1457." The shirt will also carry this blog's address, a way of pointing folks to further information about our local churches.





Shirts may be ordered and paid for through your local congregations from now through June 14. Please make checks payable to OMMC.
If you are not connected to an Ohio Moravian congregation, please contact Rev. Chris Johnson at moravianpastorchris@
gmail.com.

Shirts ordered by June 14 should be available by June 25 and can be picked up and worn during "Moravian Night" at Trumpet in the Land. (Stay tuned to the next blog post for those details.)


If you plan to volunteer your service at the Trumpet concession stand this summer, you'll especially want to consider purchasing a shirt to wear as a uniform.

Additional shirt sales may take place later in the summer, but you'll only be assured of the $10 price if you order by June 14.

Make a statement! Purchase and wear a Moravian t-shirt. Help spread the good news that living, breathing Moravians continue to spread The Good News!


Friday, May 29, 2015

A Party Invitation!

Summer calendars are already filling up with fun and exciting events. Be sure to make room for this upcoming celebration:





Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Brown Bags & Big Ideas: A Possibility Exchange



Pack a lunch and head to Tuscora Park
each summer Monday 
to join up with other Moravians for partnership-building, info-sharing, crowd-sourcing, fellow-shiping conversations around a picnic table. Join in the noon hour "think tank" that's being called
"Brown Bags and Big Ideas." Come to exchange thoughts about faith and life and church and everything.

Beginning on June 1, gatherings will take place between noon and 1:30 p.m. They'll be informal, so feel free to drop-in when you can, and leave when you must.

Pastors Darrell and Chris Johnson will be staking out a location somewhere in the vicinity of the Park Place/Dining Pavilion parking lot. They'll have a Moravian Star banner to mark the spot.

There's no set agenda. We'll have free-flowing discussions about what is working well in our faith journeys, and what might need adjustment. Feel free to bring discussion topics as well as resource recommendations. Most of all, though, just bring yourself!

As with all programs sponsored by the Ohio Moravian Ministries Commission, the goals are simply to strengthen our local ministries and engage in cooperative ministries for the upbuilding of the Body of Christ.

What will these gatherings be like?  Nobody is exactly sure, but let's find out together!

Friday, May 22, 2015

Sidewalk Stars

An enduring custom, The Moravian Star is a beautiful symbol we can hardly get enough of. Representing the light of Christ's love, The Star is a simple expression of faith. While electrified versions of this lovely symbol are usually lit from Advent through Epiphany, here's a new, creative way to put The Star on display year round.

As a fundraising project, young adults from the Dover congregation will come to your home and stencil this unique design on your sidewalk or driveway. You may choose to have your Moravian Star painted in blue or white (or one of each!) Pay just $10 for one, or $15 for two. 


Funds raised through this project will be used toward travel expenses for folks participating in the Moravian Young Adult Convo to be held this summer in Herrnhut, Germany and Prague, Czech Republic (both locations being significant in the history and heritage of The Moravian Church).

To place your order, call 330-364-8831 or email pastor@firstmoravianchurch.org.

Painting is scheduled for June 6th and June 13th, so place your orders soon!





Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Trombone Tunes

As part of its bicentennial year festivities, Sharon Moravian Church is planning a
200th Anniversary Concert on June 14 at 4:00 PM. 

The concert will feature the amazing trombone stylings of Erik Salzwedel. From symphonic masterworks to traditional hymn chorals to soulful jazz, Mr. Salzwedel has the chops to entertain all kinds of music enthusiasts.



Erik has been a member of the Greensboro and Winston-Salem symphony, Charlotte symphony, Camel City Jazz Orchestra, the Halcyon Brass (founding member), the Wachovia Brass Collegium (founder) and many other ensembles. He is a prolific composer and arranger, primarily of music for trombone and organ, but also for brass groups and hand bell ensembles. Before joining the staff of the Moravian Music Foundation, where he is business manager, he was Manager of Corporate and Foundation Relations of UNC School of the Arts for six years. He also served as Executive Director of Arts United for Davidson County (Lexington) for 6 years.  Other positions included Director of Education for Winston-Salem Symphony and Personnel Manager/Librarian, then Production Mgr./Librarian for Greensboro Symphony Orchestra.

With summer activities about to get underway, please be sure to mark your calendar to include this upcoming special event!


Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Service Is the Name of the Game

Some sisters and brothers have been busy serving Jesus by serving in local mission projects. Check out these recent photos that show T-County Moravians in action. 

After trimming trees during the Spring Clean-Up Work Day for Trumpet in the Land,
 the Green Family loads the truck to haul away the remnants. 

Pastor Darrell Johnson gives the shrubs a needed trim
during the Spring Clean-Up Work Day for Trumpet in the Land.

In commemoration of 200 years in ministry, the Sharon Moravian congregation
 has been collecting supplies to support local agencies.
Here are 200 items ready to be donated to the Twin City Food Pantry...

...and here is the growing collection of items earmarked
 for the Tuscarawas County Humane Society.



Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Service Project for Trumpet In the Land


The new season of Trumpet in the Land will soon get under way, but there's lot of work to be done before the actors arrive and the public pours in. Volunteer to lend a hand on Sunday, May 17, from 1-4 p.m. at the Trumpet administrative building located at 1994 East High Avenue in New Philadelphia (formerly the State Patrol barracks). NOTE: This is a change from the previously announced location.

We will be trimming bushes and trees, cleaning gutters, and doing some outdoor painting. Clippers, trimmers, paint brushes, paint rollers, paint pans, step ladders and work gloves would all be useful items to bring if you have any available. Of course, dress appropriately.

The Trumpet staff works diligently to bring our story—the Moravian story in Tuscarawas County—to life every summer.  Show your appreciation by offering your services on this OMMC-sponsored project day. If you need further information, please contact Chris Johnson at 484-894-9077 or moravianpastorchris@gmail.com.




Monday, May 11, 2015

Read and Chat with the Sharon Moravian Church Book Club

The Book Club at Sharon Moravian Church invites you to join in the conversation. Gathering the 3rd Monday of each month,  Gloria Rentsch always leads a stimulating discussion. For the month of May, the book selection is Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson.



In June, the choice is The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffinbaugh.

Each session beings at 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Sharon Moravian Church is located just outside of the Village of Tuscarawas. If you're using a GPS, please enter the address as 4776 Moravian Church Road SE, New Philadelphia.


Friday, May 8, 2015

There's No Excuse to Miss Out on Good Eating Tomorrow


On Saturday, May 9, you'll have not just 1 but 2 opportunities to eat a delicious chicken BBQ meal while supporting the ministry causes of 2 terrific congregations! 

Visit the Gnadenhutten Moravian Church from 3-6 p.m., 
or the Fry's Valley Moravian Church from 4-7 p.m. 
and enjoy a freshly prepared meal with scrumptious sides and homemade desserts.

                                         

What's that? You don't want to play favorites and choose between the two? You don't have to! If you place one or both of your orders "to go," you can take home that fabulous grilled chicken and keep it in your refrigerator or freezer for another day. 

Sunday, May 3, 2015

Just a Reminder...

This afternoon, from 4-6 p.m., there are good times to be had at the YOUTH PICNIC being held at the public park in the village of Tusky. (It's directly across the street from the gas station on Cherry Street.) Music, games (active and otherwise), hot dogs, ice cream sundae bar...and good company will all be provided by the Moravian Churches in T-County. And it even looks as though the weather will be PERFECT. Middle schoolers, high schoolers and post-highers are all welcome.

Fellowship is one of God's finest gifts. Let's enjoy it together!




Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Our Moravian Friends in Nepal Share Some Post-Earthquake Snippets


Updating the previous post about our friends in Kathmandu--the Pradhams and the Holmbergs--we have learned that they have been able to return to their (damaged) homes, and that electricity was restored in their neighborhood only moments ago. Trina reports that they are just now beginning to understand the scope of the earthquake damage as they are seeing the TV images for the first time. She requests everyone's ongoing prayers.

I understand the the Canadian government provided an opportunity for its citizens to be evacuated from Nepal yesterday. I also understand that Ken and Trina declined to leave, preferring to remain with their Nepalese neighbors and offer whatever care and assistance they can at this time. What a beautiful spirit!

Here are links to some videos Ken took with his cell phone showing the temporary shelter shared by 30 or so people as they made do since the quake on Saturday. I suspect you'll have your heart warmed by the clip of the Nepalese Moravians singing.

Caring for One Another after the Earthquake

Shelter after the Nepal Earthquake


Singing After the Earthquake


If you feel led to provide financial support through the organization Moravian Disaster Response, please see the previous post for contact information.

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Our Neighbors in Nepal Could Use Your Help

The earthquake that rocked the nation of Nepal on Saturday happened half a world away from Ohio, and yet the Nepalese are closer neighbors than you might think. Did you know that there is a Moravian congregation in Kathmandu, or that missionaries with a regional tie to ministry in the Midstates are presently living there? The Rev. Trina Holmberg and her husband Ken recently served the Unionville, Michigan congregation and are known by many Ohio Moravians through church camp connections.





In the quake’s aftermath, it was a relief to learn that the people with whom we have the most personal contact are safe. The Board of World Mission reported on Monday: Trina and Ken Holmberg, currently serving in Nepal through the Board of World Mission, are working with Shanti and Vani Pradhan and their son Nahum. They have been in contact to let us know that they are all ok. However there is much damage in their area and as they were without power, are just beginning to be able to assess the needs in their area.

The Pradhams, the Holmbergs, and about 30 other people affiliated with the Moravian Church  are camped out in tents out in the rice fields near Khokana (a few miles from the city). Many people in Khokana lost their homes. The Pradhan’s home was not destroyed, but has a lot of interior damage. They are not allowed to go home at this time. Relief efforts have begun, so they are receiving some needed food and supplies

If you are looking for a way to donate funds, you might wish to support Moravian Disaster Response (MDR) as it partners in the recovery. An online giving form can be found at moravianmission.org/give
(In the comments, designate your donation for “Moravian Disaster Response.") 
Or you may send your donation directly to:
The Board of World Mission
PO Box 1245
Bethlehem, PA 18016

(Please write “Moravian Disaster Response” on the memo line)

Stay tuned for more updates...and please keep these sisters and brothers in your prayers.

A-MAY-ZING Youth Bash!



Get together with familiar friends and meet new ones, too, as young people from all of our T-County Moravian Churches gather for FUN this coming Sunday afternoon. We've got lots of activities planned: 9-Square and Corn Hole and Ping Pong and other stuff. We'll have tasty eats on hand: Hot dogs and chips and a phenomenal create-your-own-sundae bar. Most of all, though, we're providing a time and place to chilaxxxxxxxxx with like-minded, like-hearted people of God.

Spread the word. All are welcome. Sixth graders through post-highers (age 21). The more the merrier. We'll meet at the park in Tusky (across from the gas station on Cherry Street) from 4-6. The indoor picnic shelter is reserved, so we'll do this rain or shine.


Friday, April 24, 2015

Stretch and Pray


Rejuvenate both your body and soul with just one hour of gentle stretching and mindful meditation.
A new round of "Strech and Pray" is about to begin this Sunday, April 26, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sessions will also be offered on May 3, May 10, May 17, May 24 and May 31. All will be held at the Gnadenhutten Moravian Church.




Let certified instructors and ordained pastors Tracy Pryor and Michael Poole guide you through an hour of "Stretch and Pray," a session of physical and spiritual exercise based on the mild movements of yoga and tai chi.



"Stretch and Pray" is suited to everyone's ability. No experience or special athletic skills are needed to enjoy the experience.