Friedberg Moravian Church is celebrating the congregation’s 250th Anniversary in 2023. Special services and activities will be held throughout the year, including a Singstunde April 23, Anniversary Lovefeast May 7, Walk to Adam Spach’s homesite September 23, Praise and Worship Conference October 20-22, a commissioned choral anthem, and historical reflections.
Our activities will be guided by scripture – Psalm 100:5 “For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.” We are praising God for all the blessings and comfort He has provided for us over the years. We have so much to celebrate! God has surely been the rock of our salvation from generation to generation.
Our history began in August 1754 when Adam and Maria Spach came to what is now the Arcadia Township in Davidson County. While living in Maryland, Adam came to know the Moravians and helped found the Graceham Church. Based on his association with Moravians, he wanted to live near the new settlement in the Wachovia tract. Adam first visited Bethabara in September 1754. He and his family visited frequently, seeking safety in the settlement during the French and Indian War (1754-1763).
Within a few years, Spach and his neighbors had established a new community south of the Ens Creek. They continued to request that Moravians hold worship services there. Finally on November 24, 1759, Ludolph Gottlieb Bachhof held the first public service in Spach’s home.
On May 6, 1766, Brother Peter Frey, Sr. became the first person laid to rest in “God’s Acre”. During 1770, a Moravian Society was organized, Bachhof became the first minister, Sunday services began, and a school was started. The first lovefeast, Easter service and Christmas lovefeast were also held.
In 1771 the name “Friedberg” (Hill of Peace) was approved by the congregation. In 1772 the Society was consecrated as a Moravian Brethren’s Congregation. On April 4, 1773, Friedberg officially became a congregation of the World Wide Unity of the Brethren after action by Synod in Herrnhut. This is our anniversary date.
Friedberg has always been grounded in Biblical Truth. We honor our heritage and deep faith in the Lord Jesus Christ by proclaiming the Gospel openly through worship, witness, Bible study, missions, fellowship, and community service. Though we are certainly thankful for our past, we are most focused on our future. Please join us in celebrating 250 years!
Photo: Homestead of Adam and Maria Spach, where the first services of the congregation that would become Friedberg Moravian Church were held.