2017 marks the 270th anniversary of the establishment of the Moravian Congregation in Emmaus. Founded in 1747, the original church was located on God’s Acre at Third and Adrain streets. God’s Acre remains the final resting place for many of the first Moravian settlers.

As part of the celebration of the landmark anniversary, the church sponsored Music of the Emmaus Moravian Church and Community Love Feast in Emmaus Community Park July 30. Approximately 200 attendees, a group that included people from the congregation and community, came together for musical presentations, sing-alongs and a love feast. The church’s brass choir, chancel choir and Main Street Connection Band performed songs with both religious and secular connections. The audience was invited to sing-along to the charming “Tis a Gift to be Simple” and tap their toes to the “Pennsylvania Polka.”

The festivities also included greetings by several local dignitaries followed by the love feast.

As explained by Director of Church Growth and Development Linda Wisser, participants in a love feast partake of a sweet roll and juice. This is not a communion sacrament. The practice symbolizes the desire of the participants to be at peace with one another.

According to Wisser, by including a love feast in the public anniversary celebration, the congregation is “shar[ing] a beloved tradition with the community.”