DISTRICT NEWS

MORAVIAN 101   The following is from “The Book of Order of the Moravian Church: Northern Province,” The Congregations, page XI-31:   Bible Study and Prayer Groups   The means applied for the spiritual growth of the congregation should not be confined to the Lord’s Day but, as far as is practical, meetings with this end in view should also be held on week days. These meetings should be of such a nature that the spiritual nourishment for the congregation is provided, not so much by the set discourse of the pastor or leaders, as by permitting the life of the individual member to find proper expressions in Bible study and prayer groups.   It is our firm conviction that meetings for prayer, the study of God’s Word, and personal testimony are a most essential means of grace, and all our pastors are accordingly urged to maintain such meetings regularly in their congregations, with a view to reviving and confirming believers, and to awakening and converting sinners.   The duty, as well as the privilege, of supporting these meetings, especially by their attendance, is urged upon all the members of the congregations.   Pastors and congregations are urged to unite in fervent petitions for the outpouring of the spirit of prayer upon our whole Church that, in public and private, in the church, in the social circle, and in the family, the name of our God and Savior may be glorified through the unceasing supplication of God’s people.    *Resignation   “It is with regret and appreciation for her years of service that the Interprovincial Board of Communication announces that Deanna Hollenbach has resigned her position as Executive Director effective March 12, 2010. Deanna has accepted a new position in Danville, PA., which will be closer to her new home.   Deanna began her work as Executive Director of the IBOC in June 2001. In her resignation letter to the Board, she indicated that it is now time to put her personal life ahead of her professional life and move into a successful marriage. Deanna and Clint will be married in June 2010.   The Board expresses gratitude and appreciation for Deanna’s hard work and dedication during her time as Executive Director, and wishes her the best in her new position and her upcoming marriage. Please uphold Deanna in your prayers as she begins another chapter in her life, and also the Board as we discern the future leadership of the Interprovincial Board of Communications.   Larry D. Wetzel, Chair IBOC   *Please hold the Kellner, Lake Auburn, Rudolph and Sister Bay, congregations in your prayers as they discern the Spirit's leading in the call process.     Loving Hearts United-A Moravian Guide For Family Living   There is a new family curriculum available from the denomination called “Loving Hearts United.” This book, which focuses solely on family spiritual formation in the home, was something the 2006 Synods of both the Northern and Southern Province asked to have completed by the next Synod.   The Synod of 2006 expressed that by building up strong families, we build up a strong church and in that spirit, the committee has worked hard over the last 3 years to create something uniquely Moravian, written by Moravians for Moravians, to create conversation and opportunity in the home around the topic of faith and how to actively live out that faith. We have books available for those interested for $19.95.