On a beautiful spring day, I would prefer to be in my garden, but I am trying to prepare ONWARD early this month and we have many new contributors. The Rev. Ted Wilde, retired Executive Director of the BWM and former pastor of Prince Moravian Church in Miami shares his thoughts on the victory of the life of Br. Ted Hartmann. He puts into words the feelings of all who worked for him and with him. The Provincial Ties of the Moravian Church, S.P. is the source of our announcement about the new BWM executive director. We will hear much from Br. Will in the days ahead. Sr. Debbie James of Friedberg tells of the exciting and dangerous time she had in Iraq. We are grateful for the service of the team led by Dr. Rick Marx. Br. Kenn Nowack, a regular contributor, has sent an e-mail from missionaries in the volatile Middle East, telling of the convoluted reasoning in the leadership of the Muslim countries by letting the movie The Passion of Christ into their countries. God turns evil for good! Br. Bob Iobst keeps us aware of many important events to tune our prayers. Our president reports on the congress that will effect our church in the cause of world mission. I report on the wonderful new enthusiasm for the new friendships with Cherokee people that has resulted in the formation of the Cherokee Moravian Historical Association. The records in our archives are bringing light on the events of the past to affect the actions of today. There are over a dozen books in process that will reflect new insights from these records. We hope many of you will attend the meeting on April 24 and catch the spirit.

As I write these words, we are conscious of the prayer needs on behalf of two former missionaries and pastors’ wives who are seriously ill and in the hospital. Sr. Lahoma Gray has been in and out of the hospital, and her family is dealing with her health. Sr. Jean Chiddie had quadruple bypass surgery this morning. We support Br. Joe and Br. George and their families at this difficult time.

Last Sunday I had the privilege of sharing one of the most exciting installations of a pastor that I have ever seen. The St. Philips Congregation was receiving a new pastor and Br. Bob Sawyer was leading the worship. The friends and former congregation of the Rev. Sandra Thigpen told the story of her life and ministry. Born and raised in St Croix and an ordained Baptist pastor, she has been drawn to the Moravian Church in recent years. But her sermon was a real thrill. The church was packed, the singing was great and the Spirit of the Lord was in that place. Welcome, Sr. Sandra!