History From The Hill of Peace

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Church's Historical Room is a hidden gem, which is home to many unique church relics. We revisit the room in this episode and talk about items that offer a glimpse into the church’s 250-year history. From the assortment of chairs, to the weather vane replica, to the wooden communion tray – Jimmy Snyder chats about how the items were used and their importance to the church. Sherry Edwards delves into the heart of Friedberg’s Mission Committee's work and its profound impact on communities near and far. She provides meaningful insights into their efforts, who is supported, and shares heartwarming stories of the missionaries and their outreaches. She emphasizes the importance of the congregation’s support as we follow the Great Commission – today, tomorrow, and for years to come!

Friedberg’s Moravian Church's Historical Room is home to many unique, and distinctly important artifacts, that illustrate and hold clues into the church’s 250-year history. In this episode, we talk about a handful of items that hold significant importance - three Bibles, church pews, and an antique kas (cabinet). In addition, we delve into the heartwarming journey of creating Friedberg’s preschool through the eyes of its retired director, Marcia Reich. From a vision to today’s thriving place of education and love – she shares some heartfelt anecdotes and insights from her 16 years of service. This heartfelt segment reminds us all of the power of love and determination can build something truly special for generations to come.

From life-changing retreats to unforgettable adventures, we chat with Jennifer Boles who served as Director of Youth Ministry for nine years. Her personal experiences of working with the youth have created a lifetime of friendships. Through heartfelt anecdotes and captivating stories, she paints a vivid picture of the joys and rewards of mentoring and shaping the lives of young individuals. She recalls some of her favorite memories during her time leading Friedberg’s youth ministry.

In this episode, we speak with our Associate Pastor, Dan Nelson, about what Friedberg means to him, from both a faith and personal perceptive. He dives into his mission trip experiences and chats about his hopes for the church beyond its 250th anniversary. We also sit down with lifetime church member, Pat Fishel Atkins, as she shares her personal experiences growing up at Friedberg. She recalls some of her favorite memories – from the summer camp to the church picnic, reminisces on the individuals who influenced her faith, and shares a few laughs along the way.

The year is 1743, and Sister Rosina Kaske (Biefel) was awakened to the call of Moravian Brethren to become a Missionary - not only was she just 20 years old and living in Bohemia, but at the time, Moravians were not well-known and often misunderstood. She followed the call and traveled to America. This episode follows her lifetime journey from Bethlehem all the way to Salem. She suffered heartache, death, and multiple marriages – all while keeping strong in her faith. This ‘Women of Wachovia’ made an impact in each community she touched – including the South Fork area. She and her second husband, Ludolph Boachhof, as they served Friedberg for many years. We also chat with Gary Jackson, a lifetime member of Friedberg, as he recalls some of his fond memories of the church over the past 50+ years.

What is Mayfeast? Why is it celebrated? Mayfeast is important to Friedberg and its congregation, and its history actually goes back to the humble roots of Adam Spach and his family. This episode features a historical timeline of this congregational celebration - featuring the research compiled by Evva Hanes in her extensive twelve-page history of Friedberg’s Mayfeast, titled "Mayfeast: What? When? Why?”. We also chat about a recent interview with the Moravian Commission on Congregational Development about Moravian storytelling through this podcast.

In this very special episode, we sit down with the Rt. Rev. Tom Shelton and Rev. Jim Newson. Tom is Friedberg's retired pastor who served the congregation for 29 years and Jim is Friedberg's current Senior Pastor. They reminisce together their years of ministry together - through memories and stories - sharing a few laughs along the way. They also reflect on the 250 years of Friedberg's history and their bright hope for the future.

A gravestone missing for more than 60 years is discovered hundreds of miles away in Culpeper, Virginia. We also talk about the historic grave marker of Henrie Malcom Stallings and the mystery of its appearance. We are seeking the help of the community to help find out more about it. We also speak with our Senior Pastor, Jim Newsome about Friedberg's 250th Anniversary.

Friedberg's history began with Adam and Maria Spach. In this episode, we dive into the timeline of their journey to the area, the construction of the Rock House, the history of the homestead, and the property today. We also speak with our Music Director about the musical aspects of all the upcoming 250th Anniversary events!

Nearly 100 years of leadership & service by North Carolina Moravians established and maintained the mission to the Cherokee Nation in Georgia and Oklahoma Indian Territories. Friedberg Moravian Church has many ties from helping create a school to the Trail of Tears journey, just to name a few. We also chat with our Director of Youth Ministry about all the exciting activities the youth are participating in as part of Friedberg's 250th Anniversary!

It was once questioned that marriage ceremonies may not be legal (in the eyes of the law) dues to the church’s location - as the sanctuary is divided by the southern Forsyth County and Northern Davidson County lines. We also chat with two special guests about the abundance of exciting activities the children of the church are participating in as part of Friedberg's 250th Anniversary!

During the Great Depression, Friedberg had a creative fundraising campaign involving a handsewn quilt. We also chat about the church's blessing box, a miniature community food pantry, located on the campus of Friedberg. The box is stocked with non-perishable food items, basic toiletries, baby supplies, and anything else that might be considered a blessing to someone in need. Release Date: March 1, 2023