Moravian Church

Jan Hus

Kazani mistra jana husa v kapli betlemske 81x61m

Vaclav Brozik - Hus

Haidt Zizendorf

Herrnhut, Unität

Moravian Church

The Moravian Church, formally known as the Unitas Fratrum (Latin for "Unity of the Brethren"), is one of the oldest Protestant denominations in the world, with its roots tracing back to the early 15th century in the Kingdom of Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic. Founded by Jan Hus, a reformer who was executed for his beliefs in 1415, the Moravian Church emphasizes piety, personal faith, and the mission.

History

The origins of the Moravian Church can be traced to the pre-Reformation movements led by Jan Hus in the Bohemian region. After Hus's martyrdom, his followers, seeking to practice their faith freely, formed the Moravian Church as a separate entity from the Roman Catholic Church. The church faced persecution and many of its members were forced into exile. In the 18th century, under the leadership of Count Nikolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf, a significant revival occurred, leading to the establishment of the Herrnhut community in Saxony, Germany, which became a hub for missionary work.

Beliefs and Practices

The Moravian Church holds to the major tenets of Protestant theology, including justification by faith. It is known for its rich musical tradition, communal living, and missionary zeal. The church practices two sacraments, Baptism and the Lord's Supper, and is noted for its ecumenical spirit, often working with other Christian denominations in mission and service.

Mission and Expansion

From its base in Herrnhut, the Moravian Church launched extensive missionary efforts in the 18th and 19th centuries, reaching areas in the Caribbean, North and South America, Africa, and Asia. These missions were among the earliest Protestant missionary endeavors and were characterized by a respect for local cultures and languages.

Modern Day

Today, the Moravian Church has congregations worldwide, with significant numbers in North America, Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean. It continues to be involved in missionary work, education, and ecumenical activities. The church is governed by synods, and leadership roles are open to both men and women.

See Also

• Protestant Reformation
• Christianity
• Mission (Christian)