On Sunday, the Board of World Mission was pleased to be a part of Central Moravian Church’s worship experience to present the Ted Wilde Mission Service Award to Dr. Bill and Dr. Peg Hoffman for their many years in service to our Moravian brothers and sisters in Tanzania. The Central Moravian Congregation was also being honored with the Herrnhut Congregational Affirmation for its dedicated mission and service.
Recipients of the Ted Wilde Mission Service Award are Moravians who have been willing to “take up this great commission” by learning from our Chief Elder, Jesus Christ, and then engaging in humble service in his name. Named after the Rev. Theodore (Ted) Wilde, who served as Executive Director of the Board of World Mission from 1983 to 1995, this award honors those who have responded to God’s call to mission in the worldwide parish that we serve. Drs. Bill and Peg Hoffman began their ministry in Tanzania 21 years ago and have accomplished incredible feats since, including establishing a comprehensive AIDS diagnosis and treatment program; building, outfitting, and renovating many medical centers, schools, and churches; inspiring Moravians across North American to support the mission to Tanzania through the Adopt a Village program; and so much more. This award is a symbol of gratitude from a grateful church and community for a lifetime of service already lived as well as a symbol of anticipation of the many ways Bill and Peg will continue to demonstrate a servant’s heart in the years to come.
The Herrnhut Congregational Affirmation for Dedicated Mission and Service goes to a Moravian congregation in either the Alaskan, Northern, or Southern Province that is in some way following the example of the Moravian community in Herrnhut by actively giving of themselves in terms of time, talent, and treasure to be the light of Christ to others. The Board of World Mission was thrilled to name Central Moravian Church as the first recipient of this affirmation, in recognition of their involvement in local and international mission work. Globally, Central Moravian Church has generously supported Moravian work in Tanzania and Nepal with their prayerful, financial, and material support. More locally, we recognize Central Moravian Church’s work through many important ministries, including the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter providing a safe and warm place for the homeless during the winter months, Cynthia’s Boutique providing clothing for those in need, Central Santas providing Christmas gifts for about 165 local children, and so many more. It is clear that, at its core, Central Moravian Church is all about love. Their congregational mission statement gives witness to this: “Wherever you are in your journey of faith and whatever your identity may be, you are welcome at Central Moravian Church.”
Making these presentations on Sunday was the Rt. Rev. Chris Giesler, Director of Mission Engagement for the Board of World Mission. Mary Catherine Tachovsky, chairperson of the Central Mission Committee, accepted the Herrnhut Affirmation on behalf of the Central Moravian Congregation.
Watch the full presentation of the awards below:
