History From The Hill of Peace

Moravian Lovefeast & Head Dieners

One of the most beloved Moravian traditions is Lovefeast. Based on the Agape, the "Meal in Common", of early Christians, it is a simple meal served during the singing of hymns as a symbol of love and fellowship. Today, Moravian Lovefeast consists of warm mugs of sweetened coffee and buns – but that hasn’t always been the case.

In this episode Friedberg’s Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, discusses the history of the Moravian Lovefeast, beginning with the first Lovefeast held in Bethabara on November 17, 1753. He also shares some personal anecdotes from his six years as Head Diener. Thomas Brann, Friedberg’s current Head Diener, also reflects on his recent Lovefeast memories and discusses his aspirations for Friedberg's future.

WWI Soldiers & Veterans Memorial

We briefly revisit the church's historical room and talk about a piece of furniture hidden in plain sight. Friedberg’s Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, also discusses Friedberg’s 14 World War I veterans, whose names were published in The Wachovia Moravian, and he asks for the public’s help in finding out more information about these individuals.

 

We also chat with Donald Cockerham and Charles Ketner about the development, construction, and dedication of Friedberg’s stunning Veterans Memorial and Flagpole Terrace. It honors and recognizes all past, present, and future men and women of Friedberg Moravian Church who have served in the United States Military - honoring their bravery and sacrifice – and sharing their legacy for future generations.

Written Memoir & Characteristics of the Spach Family

This episode features the memoir of Mr. Christian Spach, written by the Rev. C.L. Rights, and published in The People’s Press (Salem, North Carolina). Christian was a grandson of Adam Spach, who died in 1886 at the age of 79. In this episode, Friedberg’s Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, briefly discusses the Descendants of Adam Spach book. He also talks about the Rock House site and the Wachovia Historical Society’s Adam Spach Park Project.

Reported Events & Moravian Periodical

Friedberg’s Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, discusses the general events, births, and deaths, that took place between August 1893 and December 1893 at Friedberg Moravian Church, published in The Wachovia Moravian newspaper. This is a continuation of the previous episode, as we dive into the monthly publication that recorded the life and activities of the Moravian churches located in the Wachovia Tract of North Carolina.

Wachovia Moravian & Happenings of Friedberg

One of the best resources for the Moravian Church is its monthly newspaper, The Wachovia Moravian. For over 77 years, between March 1893 and August 1970, the monthly publication recorded the life and activities of the Moravian churches located in the Wachovia Tract of North Carolina. It featured individual congregations’ news and secular events, baptisms, marriages, deaths, and even advertisements. Our Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, dives into the publication and talks about Friedberg's events taking place between March 1893 and July 1893, offering a glimpse into the life and happenings of the large country congregation.

Diary Entries & Worship Conference

Traditionally, Moravian pastors kept a diary of their time serving a congregation. Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, reads diary excerpts from Ludolph Gottlieb Bachhoff, the first Pastor of Friedberg in this episode. These entries from February 1773 outline the sickness, baptism, and death of Christian Daniel Hartman – a young man in the congregation. 

Associate Pastor Dan Nelson, talks about Friedberg’s upcoming 2-Day “Now is the Time to Worship” Conference. Worship is sometimes misunderstood, so this event will focus on the meaning of true worship and how we can grow in faith if we truly worship as God intended. Day one of the event is for all church music ministry participants and day two was developed for all who worship.

Church Mural & Personal Recollections

In this episode, Friedberg’s Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, explores an oversized masterpiece of art that graces the wall outside the Family Life Center. The church’s captivating historical mural illustrates our congregation’s journey through time and faith. It features Adam Spach's Rock House, all three church buildings, God’s Acre, members of the band, and so much more!

 

Ray Lambeth, rejoins us for part two of his personal stories and treasured memories from his 70+ years of being a lifetime member. He talks about his time as Head Diener, serving as a Trustee, and being a part of the call process. We also share a few laughs as he recounts some memorable moments.

Historical Treasures & Vivid Memories

Church Historian, Jimmy Snyder, guides us through a handful of remarkable artifacts and keepsakes carefully preserved within the Historical Room – that chronicle some of the pivotal moments in the church’s history. He chats about paper Lovefeast tickets, an old coffee bean grinder, and a Geiger counter (and a couple of other items) – all of which offer a tangible connection to the church’s roots.

Lifetime church member, Ray Lambeth, recounts his years spent growing up within the Friedberg congregation. He shares personal stories from Sunday School, the groundbreaking of Laurel Ridge camp, and chats about some of the church members who strongly influenced his spiritual journey.