Moravian Christmas Tradition...

The 31-foot star is anchored to the roof of Wake Forest Baptist's North Tower. It weighs 3,400 pounds and is constructed of 26 aluminum points attached to an octagonal-shaped center core. The eight- and 11-foot long points are covered with a vinyl-coated nylon mesh. A 150-watt floodlight illuminates each point. The star was constructed in 1992 by Cosco Sign Co. in Lexington and is believed to be one of the largest Moravian stars ever built.

As the early Christians met and broke bread together in token of their fellowship and love, so the members of the Moravian Church family have made it their custom to celebrate special occasions by sharing with friends a simple meal, a "lovefeast." The name of the service is a literal translation of the New Testament word "agape." A Lovefeast (not to be confused with Holy Communion) seeks to remove social barriers and strengthen the spirit of unity and goodwill among all people. A Lovefeast, in fact, is a Singstunde which incorporates a simple meal.

The first Lovefeast was served in Germany on August 13th, 1727, following the Renewal of the Moravian Church. Moravians (officially called Unitas Fratrum or Unity of the Brethren) are spiritual descendants of the Czech reformer Jan Hus, who was martyred in 1415. Their orderly and rich ecclesiastical life was very nearly smothered by the Counter-reformation and the Thirty Years War (1618-48). But within five years of the Renewal, Moravians were sending missionaries around the world - including North America in 1735. Permanent settlements were established in Pennsylvania (Bethlehem 1741), North Carolina (Bethabara 1753 and Salem 1766) and elsewhere.

The Lovefeast is a simple meal shared in a spirit of reverence and joy that Christ is present in our lives. The actual food and drink may vary considerably; in the Caribbean you may drink tea, in Africa you may eat peanuts. In America the traditional Lovefeast consists of a sweetened bun and coffee - but it could be a cookie and juice as well. Those who serve the meal are called Dieners, which is German for "server." The manner of serving may also vary - except that all wait until all have been served and the Pastor has asked the Blessing. Some congregations listen to the choir sign hymns and anthems while they enjoy the Lovefeast meal; in other congregations, people speak quietly with their neighbors about their spiritual journey. For 270 years the Lovefeast has maintained its dignity and grace, and is used by quite a few other demoninations to celebrate appropriate events.

All during the holidays, attending the lovefeast has always been the most special time of the year for me. We do not always attend, but each time is more memorable than the last.