Labrador Moravian

Rev David Dickinson

2009-10-11T04:45:00.002-03:00

Labrador fondly remembers Rev. David Dickinson, who passed away after a long illness, October, 2009, in the UK.

He came to Makkovik as a student pastor in 1965. A handsome young man, only 23 years old, and soft spoken. A breath of fresh air amongst the dear old-timers, who were serving here at the time.

Rev. Dickinson wrote this from Fulneck in 1996: “Being called to Makkovik was something beyond my experience … because it was such a different life to the one I knew, I have a number of memories coming near to calamity. The one that stays in my mind the most is of an occasion when I took a walk to the south of Makkovik, across the Makkovik Brook, across the neck of land, and across the next bay. I really went too far, and as I reached the top of the forest to the south side of the bay, and looked on a series of islands, the sun went down. Dropping back down through the forest, I kept slipping into the boles of trees as I was not used to snowshoes and the shot gun I carried froze up. Curiously, I never felt in danger although I guess I was far from safe (and tired).

“As I came down to the rim of the bay, I saw the light of a snowmobile coming across the ice. It was Ted Andersen. My sense of relief was enormous. I was exhausted, with still a long way to go, and no certainty of making it.

“That day has stayed in my mind very clearly and it still reminds me of the degree of care our people on the coast have for one another.”

Rev. Dickinson endeared himself to other congregations that he served, in Hopedale and Happy Valley. He was easy to get along with, and people enjoyed the fact that he visited them in their homes.

He was an artist and his sketches were used to illustrate the booklet entitled “The Moravian Church in Labrador” that was printed in our bicentennial year, 1971.

We in Labrador take comfort in knowing his pain is over. May he rest in God’s peace.

Sr Joan Andersen

Don & Una Saunders

2009-10-08T05:22:00.001-03:00

Happy Valley Moravian Church held a farewell tea for Don and Una Saunders on October 1, 2009. They are moving to New Brunswick in order to be closer to their son and his family.

Just a little history... Happy Valley began in 1943 when three families who had come to find employment at Goose Air Base settled there. They were John Broomfield from Big Bay, Thorwald and Alice (Perrett)Perrault from Makkovik, and Gilbert and Eliza Saunders from Davis Inlet. The men found work with McNamara Construction Company which was building the base, and later worked on the ‘American side’. Gilbert Saunders, one of the founders, was the father of Don Saunders. Don would have been a young lad then. These same families, along with a few more, were instrumental in building the Moravian Church in 1954.

Don and his wife Una have always been actively involved with their community and church. It is with much sadness that we have to say farewell to them, but our good wishes go with them.

The following messages were read during the farewell tea held for Don and Una. They were presented with gifts made from Labrador tartan material, a vest and a shawl.

MESSAGES

Hello Don & Una,

I am only one in hundreds that will miss you in Happy Valley. One of the most memorable instances that I have of Happy Valley is when Bishop Graf and I entered the Happy Valley annex last January and you turned and upon seeing us you welcomed each of us with a big "Welcome Home." You and Una have made Happy Valley and all of Labrador feel like home to me. I am sure that you have made many others feel at home over your life of dedicated service in Happy Valley. I wish you many blessings as you relocate to New Brunswick. I am sure that within several weeks the locals there will feel that they have known you for your entire life. The Spirit of Christ is shown through your life.

Loren Jendro

Hi Don & Una,

Greetings from Lake Mills, WI. We have great memories from working with you and everyone at the church in Happy Valley. Best wishes as you move to your new home in New Brunswick.

Erna & Bill Kiessling

Don & Una,

When I walk into the church, I can feel with how much love it was built, and you were a big part of it.

When I stayed with you, I experienced more fun, laughter, and great work at the women's meetings, than anywhere else -- the heart and soul of the fall fair. Thank you for everything you did and everything you are. May God's rich blessing go with you and continue to bless others through you, as he blessed us.
Brigitte. (Schloss)

Don & Una,

You have been builders of the Happy Valley Church. To say you will be missed is an understatement. It is like removing the cornerstone from the church.

Don, I will miss your smiling presence. You were always there to see what needed to be done. Not only at church, but I remember you shovelling off the roof for Cheryl one winter! I hope you will get a well deserved break in your new home in New Brunswick.

Una, you are an inspiration. You have led so many projects for the church. With your health difficulties, this was not always easy. Yet you did not use that as an excuse to sit back. Your unruffled character encourages others to bear one's burden with dignity. I am so glad that you will now get to spend time with your family. We wish you and Don many joys in your new home.

Joan Andersen
on behalf of the Moravian Church in NL

TRIBUTE AND THANKS by Amos Lyall

This Christmas will mark the 55th anniversary of the Happy Valley Moravian Church. Don and Una Saunders have been faithful servants --- chapel servants --- during most, if not all of those years. From working on the construction of the building to shovelling snow in the winter; from sewing curtains and stitching altar cloths; to guiding other chapel servants and many ministers in wise discussion and decisions; from serving apples and candles on Christmas Eve to encouraging young people in their faith; to contributing knowledge and wisdom to provincial conferences and other meetings; in all of this and much, much more, Don and Una have been faithful servants.
On behalf of the Moravian Church in NFLD and Labrador it is my honour and duty to present you these parting gifts, small symbols of our appreciation. May you wear them with the pride that their heritage represents, both as Labradorians and as Christians: one a vest of courage; the other a mantle of protection. God bless you.

BENEDICTION

May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ.
The Lord bless you, and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Music Workshop Improvisation...

2009-08-18T13:03:00.003-03:00

This is an musical improvisation session; there is a foundational rhythm (the guy on the right w/ the cowbell), and then the drummers are adding their own rhythm to enhance the foundation - for which the staff leader (Andrew) adds his rhythm to it using his own sound. Collectively, they are looking to create music in its own through a variety of percussive sounds. Percussive instruments used at the workshop included: cowbells (not their technical name), indigenous drums, wooden sticks, snare drums, empty 5-gallon water bottles, shakers (made from gourd), and anything just about that made a sound that could be added. This was a break-off group, but the entire workshop participants collectively made their own music. Sometimes, the handchimes were solely used in an improv session. It can be very rhythmic and beautiful.

Sr Glenna Tasedan

Music Workshop

2009-07-13T06:07:00.003-03:00

We had 17 youth a-playing, 16 year-olds a tooting, 15 minute sessions,14 sopranos singing, 13 maids-a-milking (not really), 12 chimes-a-ringing, 11 recorders cording, 10 boys for pizza, 9 girls for chicken, 8 notes per octave, 7 hymns rejoicing, 6 drums-a-drumming, 5 guitars strumming, 4 guest musicians, finally 3 O'Clock!!!!!, 2 parts per canon, and a week at Moravian Music Camp DONE!

Moravian youth from Hopedale, Nain, Makkovik and Happy Valley converged upon Happy Valley Moravian on June 29th, full of an incredible wealth of musical talent. Many brought their instruments including guitars, clarinets, voices, recorders, and trumpet. In addition, Dr. Karen Bulmer came from Memorial University with her tuba, and two students came with a host of African percussion instruments and a trumpet. The kids worked hard in learning to read music, learning music improvisation, and learning Moravian music in a variety of ensembles. Moravian worship was experienced each morning including their own lovefeast. They retreated to their billets at 3pm each day, only to return in the evening for a variety of events; including a soccer game against an All-Star team in which they tied 5 to 5! Go Penguins! It was a stunning effort by all, and many thanks to Coach Joan. Just when you thought John had all the sport talent in the family.

Friday evening the youth shone brightly with a beautiful concert featuring a guitar solo, a youth band ensemble, a brass quartet, 2 handchime groups, a recorder ensemble, the Lovefeast Song, a staff handchime ensemble, a percussion number and 2 choral selections.

To complete the week of fun, the entire Workshop group visited the Interpretation Center, roasted marshmellows at Gosling Lake, and played volleyball at the gym.

The week revealed the kids musical abilities and potential, brought encouragement for them and developed their leadership skills. New friendships emerged and many kids expressed their desire to come to the next workshop.

With Christ, our all in all,

Sr Glenna J. Tasedan

An introduction to Br Gert Zenker

2009-05-05T12:57:00.002-03:00

Br Gert Zenker writes from Nain...

Dear Brethren, dear Sisters and Brothers in our Lord,

I'm Brother Gert Zenker, a minister. Born in October 1953, I?' now 55 years old. I am a Protestant theologian and also a member of the Moravian church in Germany. During five weeks I will stay with you in Nain, assisting all congregational work till 26th of Mai. I come from Saxony in Germany, from Herrnhut, this little town precisely, from where the first Moravian missionaries came over to Labrador in the 18th century and founded Nain in 1771. Herrnhut was founded in 1722 on the property, the land of the famous Count Zinzendorf. He is buried on the cemetery there, on the Hutberg. The Moravian Daily Texts (The Daily Watchwords) also come from Herrnhut; they are translated in many languages all over the world.

As to my education and my professional work: From 1973 - 1978 (during five years) I attended the University of Leipzig as a student of theology. In 1978 I got my Diploma. In the years after I did a doctorate. 1986 I finished my thesis for the doctorate degree of Systematic Theology. During 10 years I worked as an ordained Protestant Pastor in two large rural parishes near Leipzig. In the last three month (January till March 2009) I helped with the ministry of the Moravian congregation of Herrnhut in order to prepare spiritually my journey to Labrador.

I'm married. My wife's name is Hannelore (short form: Henny, like Hanny Hettasch). My family and I live in a village of nearly 1000 inhabitants not far from Herrnhut (about 12 kilometers). Two years ago we became members of the Moravian congregation in Herrnhut. We have got three children: five years, three years, and the baby of the family: seven months old. To say the truth, I have also some grown-up sons and daughters; the eldest son, Armin, is 35 years old. In the midst of May I will show you and all interested people in Nain, some pictures of my family and of the region where we live, the so called Upper Lusatia in Saxony, Germany. A beautiful landscape, too.

Now I'm here in Nain / Labrador, to stay with you and doing all work of a Moravian minister: the Sunday Service (step by step), Sunday school, visits, spiritual care, and studies in the school library etc. On Mothers Day 11.15, after the Inuktitut Sunday Service, we will start the Sunday- School, by the help of Sue Webb and others. The time of my assistance in Nain will last exactly five weeks, two are already gone. On Easter Monday I started in Germany, on 21st April I came to Nain, on 26th Mai (after five weeks exactly) I will leave Nain for Goose Bay and turn back to Germany on 3rd of June, 2009.

Why am I here, what's the purpose? There was, last year (and the year before) an interchange of letters between me and the Provincial Board of the Moravian church in NFLD and Labrador. Finally the Provincial Board invited me with the purpose to learn to know each other. To say it short: we try to find out whether we can work together in Nain or not. It will be a mutual decision; the result is yet open on both sides. In case of a good understanding (in case of a call) I could imagine coming back to Labrador next year, with my family, in order to work as a Moravian minister, living with you in Nain for five years and more.

It's not so easy for us to leave Germany for Labrador. In Germany is now full springtime, this means: we have blooming cherry-trees in our garden, children playing on green meadows, a blue sky and warm, summery weather (about 20 degree and more), as now in Vancouver / BC, maybe. Anyway, I like winter and snow. And I like people in Nain, I feel not as a stranger, indeed. Thank your for welcoming me in Labrador, in the Moravian congregation, in your beautiful church, in your town! Thanks to all people here, to the children, to young people I chanced to meet on the road, to the Moravian church elders (to Davis, Gordon and others), thanks to the chapel servants, thanks last but not least to Sister Tabea Murphy for all her kindness introducing me in the English Sunday Service.

Learning to know each other is very important among Christians and other people. We will like the other better when we understand him more. Most important, the main purpose is: that we can hear and understand God's Word, the Gospel of His Grace together (I underline also this together). Understanding the Gospel of Grace would be the best way, I think, in order to understand one another. I'm sure God will show us His way. - Such is the confidence that we have through Christ towards God (2 Cor 3 : 4, the second text of the Moravian Daily Texts at 3rd Mai, 2000).

To make it short: I came to Nain not by my own, not as a tourist. I'm a minister. - For you, for all people in Nain, I bring over the kindest regards and Blessings from the Moravian congregation in Herrnhut / Saxony, and also from the Moravian Provincial Board of the European Continental Province in Bad Boll / Germany. The Brethren in Germany support my journey and pray for us.

We all are human beings, creatures of the One Almighty God. And there is One Moravian Church all over the world. - What might be the foundation? In the Bible, 1 Corinthian 13:13 is written down: ?And now FAITH, HOPE, LOVE abide, these three; and the greatest of them is LOVE. Translated in Inuktitut: Ma'nale makkoa pingasut: okpernerlo, nerriungnerlo, naglingnerlo sokKoserniangilat. Naglingnerlo tamakkonangat anginerpauvok.

Let's praise our Lord! Amen.

Brother Gert in Nain
3rd / 4th Mai, 2009

Labrador welcomes a visiting minister

2009-05-05T07:52:00.003-03:00

Dr.Gert Zenker arrived in Labrador on April 16th. He travelled to Nain on April 21, and is serving the congregation there for five weeks. He comes from Germany, leaving behind his wife and three young children, while he realizes a personal call to serve in Labrador. If the work term proves to be beneficial to him as well as to the Nain congregation, Dr. Gert Zenker would like to return (with his family) to serve on a full-time basis.

He speaks English admirably, and is now making an effort to learn Inuktitut. We are pleased to welcome such a dedicated person into our province. We trust that he will benefit from the experience in Nain and that members of the congregation will be inspired by his faith and ministry.

Happy Valley Youth Sunday

2009-03-17T05:31:00.003-03:00

It was a cold snowy morning, . . . is there any other kind in Labrador during February? . . . and 16 Moravian youth began to assemble in the sanctuary, preparing last minute preparations for their very own youth worship service. Behind them, slowly forming were 2-3 dozen Girl Guides, anxious to take their vows during worship, and lining up with their handchimes to play for the service. With a team of 7 adults, the Moravian youth gathered for 3 weeks prior, to fellowship and plan their own worship service for regular worship time of the Happy Valley Moravian church congregation. The support of the congregation was strong, and the beauty of the worship on Sunday, February 22nd reflected all things coming together for the good of the Body of Christ and to God's glory.

The youth sang songs, shared their message about Christ-the light of the world, reading scripture, and sharing a drama to music, reflecting the abundance of gifts they possessed and their willingness to share those gifts. The Girl Guides brought a beautiful benediction to the service through handchime and organ music. This service was special to all attending, and the pews were full to the balcony. It was a joyful Sunday indeed and we will hopefully explore and use the gifts of our children for years to come.

Sr Glenna Tasedan

Official launch of the Inuktitut Bible (part 2)

2009-03-12T15:15:00.002-03:00

The second half of the celebration was held in the church annex. Hilda Lyall started things off by lighting the kudlik, a traditional Inuit stone lamp, which in the past would have contained seal oil for burning.

Sabina Hunter, coordinator for the Inuktitut Bible Project, introduced and thanked members of the Canadian Bible Society: Hart Wiens, Ed Peters, and national director Ted Seres.

A box of Bibles was presented to a representative from each of the four Moravian congregations.

Sr Joan Andersen
Chair person of the Labrador Province

Official Launch of the Inuktitut Bible (part 1)

2009-03-12T15:01:00.003-03:00

On January 20, 2009, the Inuktitut Bible "Gudib UKausingit" was officially launched at a ceremony in Happy Valley. An Inuktitut Bible has existed in the past, but in ten volumes. They had been printed by the British and Foreign Bible Society. Now the Bible is contained in one book. The publication was made possible thanks to funding received from the Tasiujatsoak Trust.

Hart Wiens of the Canadian Bible Society told of their involvement in the project. A video was made during the Launch, and it can be seen at www.biblesociety.ca

Julius Ikkusek of Nain expressed his appreciation for having the Inuktitut Bible under one cover.

The translators expressed their joy at seeing the completed Bible under one cover.

Rev. Brian Burrows (Hopedale) and Bishop Paul Graf (Wisconsin) conducted the bilingual service at the Moravian Church in Happy Valley.

Canadian Bible Society

2009-01-22T12:43:00.002-04:00

Hilda Lyall, Sophie Tuglavina, Sarah Townley, Andrea Webb, K. Naeme Tuglavina and Amos Onalik, along with the Director of Translations Hart Wiens and technical expert Ed Peters from the Canadian Bible Society are working on the second book of the "Walking with Jesus" series.

The translators are all working hard and providing their expertise to this continuing work. There are six books in the series and the first one was translated, completed, and printed before Christmas 2008.

Sophie Tuglavina has said that in Makkovik, the primary teachers are using that first book in their class. The books are geared toward children 0-3 years old.

Hopefully once the series is completed the incredibly gifted translators will work on a more contemporary version of the Bible.

Thank you to them for their dedication and expertise.

Sr Sabina Hunter

News from India...

2009-01-19T02:31:00.005-04:00

Br Russell Winfield writes with news from his latest placing...

Dear All,

I have exchanged the South African Rand for the Indian Rupee and I write to you from my new home in Rajpur, Dehra Dun, which is about 250km north of Delhi, in the foothills of the Himalayas.

I hope you have had a good Christmas and New Year, and are your winter, i hear that after an unusally warm spell of weather you have recently faced a lot of snow and it has got very cold. I have had a hectic few months, from finishing my work in South Africa, spending time at home in England with friends and family, and then travelling round the world to get to India. Leaving Cape Town was very difficult, not least saying goodbye to the street boys I had grown very close to, and the congregation (Moravian Hill) and friends I made during my year.

On my way to India(!) I was able to visit Vancouver and took in a hockey game - the Flames v Canucks, and here is a picture of me in the arena:

The Flames won which I was very happy about, although I could not find any Flames jerseys for a photograph with, so opted for a Canucks one, but my allegiances have definitely not changed. I had a look at the recent NHL standings and Calgary continue to do well, I note that Montreal are going strong, poor old Maple Leafs seem to be suffering!

I flew into India after Vancouver but then had to return home to England as my Grandma passed away. So I actually began my work here on 29th December. Thankfully my train stop was the final stop as I had fallen fast asleep and it was only when the minister of the Church here where I am working boarded the train looking for me that I woke up and was able to introduce myself! Not my best first impression. Dehra Dun is nice, much quieter than Delhi although still quite a bustling place, and the place where I am staying is about 10km outside in an area called Rajpur, which is beautiful.

I am based in a school called the Moravian Institute (MI) which has about 400 K-12 pupils, aged 4-18, and of these 180 or so are boarders. The MI is a free hostel and education facility established in 1963 for underprivileged children from varying backgrounds, be it street children, Tibetan refugees, poorer families, etc. The MI is led by a minister called Revd Thsespal Kundan, who is Principal of the School, and co-leads the local Church. I am staying with Thsespal and his family, in my own room, but share all my meals with them and report to him directly each day. They have truly welcomed me and I feel a really part of their family which has made settling so much easier, and they were very kind and considerate when my Grandma died. The Church is quite a spectacular building, which is separate from the MI although many of the pupils attend (it is their free choice).

My work is twofold, although it may become ‘more-fold’ I figure. Firstly it is in the school helping them with their administration and finances. Dehra Dun as an area is very famous for its education (Doon School is known as the Eton of India), but the cost of these places is very high for most Indians. The school I am based at is a more affordable, in fact free for vast majority of the students, and was started firstly to serve refugees from Tibet who could not afford or access education. The school is well organised and run but they just need some assistance in future planning. I am helping investigate and plan with the aim of improving the conditions and number of pupils that can study here.

Secondly my work is in the Church, helping out the pastors, and will include preaching. The main language here is Hindi, which I have yet to master, but English is widely spoken and understood and so with patience and some translation I am hopeful to be able to get my message across. I also am getting to know a lot of the younger people and I will be working with them as well.

Finally, the food. I wasn’t sure what to expect...being English our national meal is the supposedly Indian inspired Chicken Tikka Massala and our most popular restaurants are Indian, but I have tasted here nothing like what is served in them. Rice makes up the staple part of any meal, with daal and usually some curried vegetables and a rooti (a type of small chipati). Excuse my spellings on all these words. The food is delicious, my portions are always very large. I can easily judge how hot something is going to be by the number of eyes watching me eat...the hotter the more people expectantly wait for me to react, but so far so good.

I should get back to work now, the electricity here tends to breathe, as the lights brighten and dim in some strange rhythmic pattern.

It is no exaggeration to say I miss Labrador greatly, all the people, especially at this time of year.

My prayer is that you are all well, and continue to see God at work in your lives.

God Bless,
Br Russell

Welcome to Labrador!

2009-01-08T04:22:00.002-04:00

The Moravian Church in Labrador warmly welcomes Glenna Tasedan from North Carolina. She has come to serve for six months as Labrador lay minister. This is part of her course work, the final stint towards her Master of Divinity. She currently holds an M.Ed.

Glenna will serve the congregation in the Happy Valley Moravian Church for January and February. She heads to Makkovik for March and April, and if all goes as planned, to Nain for May and June.

Glenna is no stranger to Labrador. She has served at the Moravian Youth Camp held at Gosling Lake for the past two summers. She was also one of the organizers of the Moravian Music Workshop held in Hopedale, July 2008. She sings and plays the organ and it will be a treat to have a trained minister serve our congregations again.

Glenna pictured in 2007 at Gosling Lake

Welcome Rev Brian Burrows

2008-12-21T12:34:00.001-04:00

The Moravian Church in NL is pleased to welcome Rev. Brian Burrows to Hopedale. He arrived on November 21, 2008, and held services that Sunday.

Rev. Burrows is originally from England, but came to Canada in 1962. He served in Canada’s north as an Anglican minister for thirteen years. That is where he learned Inuktitut. He speaks the northern Quebec and Baffin Island dialects, and is keen to learn the differences found in the Labrador dialect.

Rev. Burrows was retired, but felt the call to Hopedale, and we thank him for his decision to share his Christian faith with the people of Labrador. This calling means he will spend time away from his family at Christmas time. Such devotion is an inspiration. Welcome!

Official Launch of the Inuktitut Bible

2008-12-21T12:36:00.002-04:00

The Bible has existed in the Inuktitut language for a long time, but in seven separate books. The Bible is now under one cover, and the official launch of the newly printed “Gûdib oKausingit” will take place on January 20, 2009 at the Moravian Church in Happy Valley.

This project was made possible by the Canadian Bible Society (CBS)and funding from the Tasiujatsoak Trust, as well as private donors.

Hart Wiens and Ed Peters from the CBS will be there. They did the training in the Paratext program with the translators, Sarah Townley, Hilda Lyall, Sophie Tuglavina, Amos Onalik, and Andrea Webb, along with Coordinator Sabina Hunter. After the launch, they will continue work on the second book in the “Walking with Jesus” series of children’s books.

Rev. John Duff, from St. John’s, will represent the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the CBS.

Two elders from each coastal congregation (Nain, Hopedale, Makkovik) are invited to attend. All will take part in a service conducted largely in Inuktitut.

We look forward also to the visit of Bishop Paul Graf from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. He is coming to commission Glenna Tasedan for her work term as lay pastor in Labrador, and will stay for the Launch.

News from Nain...

2007-04-23T21:27:00.000-03:00

We are pleased to announce that we have begun refurbishing the electrics in the Church and will have a new lighting system by the weekend (Sunday 29th April 2007).

The chapel servants held a meeting last week to decide on what would look best in the Church and we are hopeful that the congregation and community will appreciate this new look.

Here is a photo of the Church:

Broadcasting from Nain…

2007-04-26T12:31:00.000-03:00

Fran Williams is part of the team that broadcasts television and radio from the OKâlaKatiget Society in Nain, Labrador. Some of you may be familiar with the name Ok Society as it is sometimes referred.

The radio station has been broadcasting from the old mission house since June 1985. The OKâlaKatiget Society was first incorporated in 1982. The building, shown in the picture below, was originally built by the Hudson Bay Company and became a Cottage Hospital before being a boarding school house, and then finally its incarnation as Radio and TV centre.

This summer a new building project is being undertaken and will be hopefully completed by February 2008 allowing the OKâlaKatiget Society to move into new premises.

Fran started working at the OKâlaKatiget Society in Nain back in May 1984, and she is now a part of a team of 10 people, 4 of whom work on Radio, 4 on TV, and 2 in management roles. I have listed the current employees below.

The radio show broadcasts from Nain and can be heard from Happy Valley Goose Bay all the way up to Nain, with a potential target audience of roughly 7,000 people. There is live content broadcast from 1pm-3pm and 4pm-5pm Monday to Friday, and while they are not on air then CBC North is played.

On a Sunday morning they have two hours devoted to religious content. From 10–11am they broadcast the Nain Moravian Church Inuktitut Service live as the Church has been equipped with the necessary technology allowing this to happen. This means that this native language service can be heard across coastal Labrador by anyone with a radio. They also broadcast from 1-4pm on a Sunday afternoon, giving 20 hours total broadcast time per week.

There is a real mixture of content on the radio, including local news and interviews, a mixture of music styles and lots of requests. Fran says she enjoys the variation that her job brings, which means the job is never boring and allows her to keep up-to-date with both regional and national news, and meet lots of interesting people. Also as it is plays such a key role within the community they are very quick to receive feedback on the things that do and don’t work.

They have a great website set up with loads of information and it is well worth checking out at www.oksociety.com This is updated by the radio team daily with community news.

Current Employees of the OKâlaKatiget Society are as follows:

Fran Williams (in picture below)
Mitchell White (in picture below)
Bonnie Lyall
Joanna Dicker
K.Naeme Tuglavina
Maria Harris
Sarah Abel
Sybella Tuglavina
Paul Murphy

The Inuktitut Bible

2007-05-04T11:26:00.000-03:00

In 2005 the Moravian Church in Newfoundland & Labrador (MCNL) and the Canadian Bible Society partnered to gather, correct and edit the current Inuktitut Bible that is presently in 7 books and print it in one complete edition.

The MCNL had sought volunteers who are all seasoned translators in their own right, whowere willing to commit to this important project and they included Andrea Webb, Sarah Townley, Sophie Tuglavina, Hilda Lyall, and Amos Onalik.

Presently the spell checking and correcting of all the New Testament is completed, and there are now 8 books that still need to be completed and they are: Joshua, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Psalms, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Zechariah.

Once completed, hopefully by the end of May, pre-publishing can be done this summer and typesetting can begin in August, and printing in October.

The translators received training in March of 2007 in the use of a program called Paratext. The Canadian Bible Society uses Paratext for all their translation projects. Another program called Keyman allows the translators to type the unique symbols in Inuttitut, for example the symbol for the long vowel sound or the small K.

The translators are using the new spelling system that was developed by the Torngasok Cultural Centre. With these great tools, they are translating a children's reading series called"Walking with Jesus". Using the Good News Translation and the current Inuktitut Bible as helps, this translation will be easier to read and understand.

The original Inuktitut Bible was translated by German Missionaries and they had translated that Bible from the Martin Luther Version. The MLV is difficult to read and understand even in English, so this new translation will be more helpful, understanding, and easier to read.

Pray the translators will continue on in their great and awesom task. They have been patient, understanding, and are able to work together. May we continue on in this great purpose, for all to know God's Word.

Sr Sabina Hunter

Carl Sonnichsen reports on the Genaille's Labrador Tour

2007-06-08T15:32:00.000-03:00

I would like to report on the 2 weeks in which Bert and Liz Genaille were present in Labrador ministering to verious communities through song, testimony and preaching.

It was my pleasure to accompany the Genailles during their time here and can say they are a wonderful couple to work with. Both of them have a real heart to share the simplicity of the Gospel with others and also have a longing to bring people to a deeper walk with God.

I should acknowledge a husband and wife in North Carolina, USA, who, previous to the Genailles plans to come, were praying for Labrador and had contacted Tribal Trails (mentioned below) about the Genailles testimony on TT's website, with no knowledge of their plans to come to Labrador. We see this as part of God's grand plan beyond our doing. We are also grieved to hear that the husband, Fred, has succumbed to cancer only 1 month after discovery. May God give his wife, Judith, the grace to go on.

The morning after arriving, Bert and Liz were interviewed on CBC Radio for about 15 minutes. The recorded interview would be aired several times throughout the week. Laura and I had the Genailles stay with us when they arrived and are grateful to our friends, Herman and Linda, who so graciously fed all of us a couple of good traditional meals at their home.

The Genaille's being interviewed for CBC Radio

The first 2 nights in Northwest River were well attended. Being acquainted with Country Gospel, I was able to accompany the Genailles with my harmonicas. I thought it would only be during our time in Northwest River but it continued on the entire tour. I was glad to be able to help in that way. With the number of CD's sold on the first 2 nights in NWR, I was wondering if there would be enough to go around through the entire tour. There were also a number of people from Goose Bay who drove the 40 minutes to meet the Genailles. A number of people from Sheshasheit, an Innu community across the River, also came.

After 2 nights in NWR, we made our way up Labrador's Coast, stopping for the first 2 nights in Hopedale. Thanks to Marjorie for setting up 2 different homes for us as accommodations, as well as to the Flowers clan for putting us up. Shortly after arriving in Hopedale, the local radio station gave the Genailles time to introduce themselves to local residents. I ended up interviewing them along with a couple songs from some of their CD's. We met in the Moravian Church the first night. Since the Genailles are flexible in their style, part of the night turned into a time of singing for everyone who attended. During the stay in Hopedale, the Genailles were able to take in some of the traditional Children's Day celebrations. It was also good to get about town a bit and meet with various residents. The concert for the 2nd night would be held in the gym of the Amos Comenius School.

Bert speaking in Hopedale

Some of the young people in Hopedale

The very next morning, we left for Makkovik and were assured that there would be several skidoos and kamotiks to pick us up. Sure enough, there they were, almost into June and still beating around town on top of the remainder of last Winter's snow, of which there was plenty, especially in Makkovik. As usual and in style with Makkovik, we received a very warm welcome. Bert brought the message for the 4 p.m. service and a couple of primer songs for the evening. After a cold plate for all those who attended, the evening service began a couple of hours later. Uncle Jim (87 years old) and Henry came along with their instruments of choice and joined in on a few numbers.

A Makkovik welcoming party!

The very next morning, we were taken by skidoo and kamotik back to the airstrip to make our way to Natuashish, the only Innu (Mushuau Innu) community on the Labrador Coast. A resident pastor with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Newfoundland picked us up and both he and his wife so kindly looked after our lodging and meals. We ended up staying in Natuashish for an extra night due to inclement weather to the south (Makkovik, actually) which kept any flight from getting to us. This would reduce our 2 nights in Nain to just one. But it wasn't without reason. I was able to visit with a young couple that 3rd evening who I have known from the past to help them through some issues they are struggling with. During our stay, both Bert and I were able to visit with the Chief and some of the staff as well as with another family. With a handful of Christians there in Natuashish (workers from the outside) it was good to take in the Christian fellowship. The Christians there are actively involved in the community and are seeking to be a testimony for Christ in various ways. During our time in Natuashish, Bert and Liz were interviewed over telephone by the OKalaKatiget Radio Society in Nain.

Our last day would be spent in Nain, the most northern Inuit community in which Laura, the kids and I lived for 5 years. The Genailles were able to meet some of the staff at OKalaKatiget Radio Society. We made our way to visit with several homes before the evening concert in the Moravian Church. It was good to see the number of people out.

Outside Nain Church

The Genailles were well received in each community, as well as the 120 CD's which they brought with them. They left with barely a handful of CD's. They have another CD coming out which was not available during the tour.

Nain congregation

Though there was a minimal amount of more in-depth, one-on-one counseling, I observed that the Genailles were a great encouragement to both believers as well as to those on the fringes who have not made a decision for Christ. I, myself, was blessed to spend 2 weeks with Bert and Liz. Their love for God and people has been an inspiration to me, and I know to others. It was also good to laugh together (and boy did we laugh). It was difficult to see them go, but we hope to see them return again along with possibly others who will also come to minister to the Labrador communities around us. There were others that were wondering why the Genailles didn't come to their communties such as Postville and Rigolet. Possibly next time when there is more time set aside for such a tour.

Carl, Liz and Bert

A common thread that ran through this tour was people's acquaintance and admiration of the television program our Mission (NCEM) produces called Tribal Trails, a half-hour Native Gospel program that is aired all across North America. People equate Tribal Trails to authentic and down-to-earth people whose lives God has transformed, and the Genailles were no exception. People in each Labrador community respected and admired the Genailles for their genuine character and approach.
After arriving back in Goose Bay, the Genailles would minister in 2 local churches- the Happy Valley Moravian Church and the Northern Cross Community Church, as well as the Labrador Correctional Centre. They were also invited to accompany 2 local men who bring music to the elderly residents of the Paddon Home.

A big thanks to all those who oversaw the needs of our transportation both on arrival and departure in each community as well as moving the equipment from place to place. Thanks also to those who helped to get the word out and the posters hung before the Genailles arrival.

The funds for this tour came from several places: The Northern Canada Evangelical Mission, the Moravian Church of Newfoundland & Labrador and the Moravian Mission of North Dakota and the reduced fees and free flight arrangements were made by our friends at Air Labrador. We are grateful to all these people for making this tour possible through their generosity.

Lastly, thanks to those of you who backed up this ministry through prayer. We believe this was much more than just a musical tour. It was evident that hearts were touched and we will trust God to build on the work He has begun.

Thank you, Bert and Liz, for coming to Labrador to share your hearts, lives and the Gospel with the people here.

Gratefully submitted,
Carl Sonnichsen
Northern Canada Evangelical Mission

EDITOR'S NOTE: A special mention should be made for Carl's efforts and dedication in arranging, organising, and bringing to fruition this special trip. Without his hard work none of this would have happened. Thanks Carl.

Unity Board Meeting Report by Sr Joan Andersen

2007-06-08T16:16:00.000-03:00

It was great to feel the unity and diversity around the table at the Unity Board Meeting held in Barbados. There were representatives from most provinces around the world. (See link on right for more information.) The language spoken at Unity meetings is English, but away from the table you could hear Spanish, Swahili, and German. The various English accents lent a special flavour to the discussions. It was interesting to be reminded that South Africa, where Unity Board President Angelene Swart comes from, has eleven official languages. And here in northern Labrador we sometimes think that having two is a struggle!

(Photo courtesy of Moravian Church East West Indies Province web site) Rev. Robert Hopcroft seated at bottom right.

The bus picked up delegates at 7:30 each morning and returned us to our hotel around 9:00 p.m. We had full days, with meals cooked and served by ladies from the Moravian churches in Barbados. (We quickly acquired a taste for flying fish, ocra, and mangoes!)

Each morning started off with devotions at Sharon Moravian Church, conducted by a different minister from the Barbados area each time. Bishop Sam Gray played the organ at these services. Then we moved to the D. C. Moore Educational Centre next door where the meetings were held. There Bishop Gray started each day with Bible Study. This was a very meaningful time. Everyone got a lot from these sessions which had the theme “Discerning God’s Mission Through our Unity AND Discerning Our Unity Through God’s Mission”. There was singing and prayer also.

It was good to hear the reports from each province. I learned that some provinces, especially in Africa, are increasing their congregations rapidly. I presented the report on our Labrador province and told them about our desire to find full-time ministers for each of our four congregations. The Unity promised to support our efforts in prayer. Some suggested we write our request to their provinces to see if any candidates would step forward to serve. They also encouraged us to try to find our own candidates from Labrador to ordain. It was enlightening to hear of challenges faced in other provinces and how they are being dealt with.

On Saturday all delegates were given a bus tour of all the Moravian churches in Barbados. The tour guide was Rev. Dorothea Rohde who is the minister at Gracehill Moravian Church. She gave us some historical insights into the Moravian presence in Barbados. That afternoon we went to a picnic being held by three church congregations as part of their celebration of the 550th anniversary of the worldwide Moravian Church and were happy to have members of the Unity present to join in the festivities. Bishop Sam Gray showed more of his talents by entering the sack race, lime and spoon race, and being a genuine good sport (see below!).

On Sunday each minister was assigned a church in which to lead a service. Since I am not a minister, I got to accompany Sister Angelene Swart to Penuel Church at 8:30 a.m. and Mount Tabor Church at 10:00 a.m. Both congregations are served by Rev. Dr. Cicely Athill-Horsford . Penuel Church is very small and modest, with about fifteen persons present. But the singing and fellowship in that congregation was fantastic. Mount Tabor had an attendance of about two hundred. I was struck by the large number of youth, and persons of all ages who were in attendance. Some of the youth accompanied the singing with tambourines. One young girl sang a solo that she had written herself. Two more youth did the Bible readings. The whole congregation belts out every song of praise with vigor. The singing was lively with some clapping.

The Unity members went to the manse for a dinner prepared for us by church members. Then at seven o’clock we went back into Mount Tabor Church for an evening of song, dance, and instrument playing by mainly youth, and some adult choirs. Several churches took part in this presentation. Each Unity delegate was announced, giving name and where from, and was then led in on the arm of one of the young choir members. It was a gala occasion. One choir had even learned a song in Swahili especially for our African visitors.

This is the 550th anniversary of the worldwide Moravian Church, but it is also the 275th anniversary of the beginning of mission work by the Moravian Church. This work continues, and two new mission areas have been identified. One in Lima, Peru and one in southeast Kenya. Mission work started in the Caribbean, so it was fitting that we should meet together in the Caribbean at this time. We had a warm welcome and were treated royally. All delegates came away refreshed spiritually, with new ideas and information, and supportive of our brothers and sisters in this Moravian family.

Front row: Cora Antonioa (Nicaragua), Clement Mwaitebele (Southern Tanzania).
2nd row: Paul Gardner (Jamaica), Angelene Swart (South Africa), Brinmore Phaul (Guyana).
3rd row: Wayne Burkette (U.S. Southern Province), Peter Green (Alaska), Jackie Morten (Britain), Sadock Simwanza (Tanzania, SW Province),.
4th row: Joan Andersen (Labrador), Maarten Mingoen (Suriname), Bishop Nicodemo (Western Tanzania).
5th row: Frieder Vollprecht (Germany), Leopold Pixley (Costa Rica), Erord Simae (Tanzania, Rukwa Province), Bishop Sam Gray (South Carolina, U.S.A.)Top: Errol Connor (Eastern West Indies).

Sr Joan Andersen

Chair, Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador

Bernie Broomfield Memorial Merit Award

2007-06-11T09:27:00.000-03:00

The Moravian Church received donations after the death on November 12, 2006, of Chairperson Bernie Broomfield. The Provincial Board decided that since the youth had been a strong focus of attention under Bernie’s leadership, a merit award would be given out each year to a youth who was active in the Moravian Church. An award of two hundred dollars would be handed out at the closing of Sunday School in June of each year. The Provincial Board asked each congregation for a candidate’s name, and from these one was chosen to receive the award.

(Sr Joan Andersen presenting Cathy with her award)

The first recipient of the Bernie Broomfield Memorial Merit Award is Cathy Semigak of Makkovik. Cathy is a Level II student who has been helping Miss Rebecca Pretty with the Sunday School ever since September. She was confirmed in the spring of 2006. She has played with the violin group in church on a couple of occasions. She attends church services in the afternoon and has done Bible readings at that time. Ms. Pretty says, “She has been a great help with the Sunday School and the students really enjoy her presence. Cathy, thanks for all of your hard work in helping with Sunday School! Please continue to lift Cathy up in prayer as she continues in her Christian walk.”

(Sunday School leaders Cathy and Rebecca)

Sr Joan Andersen,
Chair, Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador

Nain Sunday School

2007-06-22T09:31:00.000-03:00

Some weeks back we wrote (see post on May 24) about a new Sunday School starting in Nain, and here are some pictures of the young people enjoying their time. So far numbers have been great, we started with 17, then went to 25, then up to 37, then last week 17 again (it was Fathers Day).

This weekend will be the last Sunday School of summer (June 24th) before starting up again in September.

A big thank you to everyone who has been involved, especially all the volunteers who come along on a Sunday, Big Land and Northern Foods for donating juice, and the Family Resource Centre for allowing us to use their building.

Enjoy the photo's...

Some of the children with "Bob & Larry"

Engrossed in the puppet show

Car Wash Fundraiser

2007-06-26T10:38:00.000-03:00

The kids from the Happy Valley Moravian Church raised $270.00 dollars on June 17th, 2007 that went towards their youth program Youth Quest and sending 9 kids for Camp July 1-8, 2007. Unfortunately due to a forest fire that was close to town, they were ordered to cut it short by the Town Office. The kids had a great time and enjoyed the time!

Makkovik Sunday School

2007-06-30T09:47:00.000-03:00

Makkovik Sunday School has just finished for the current year after an eventful 9 months of fun, games, teaching and learning about God.

The Sunday School was expertly led by Rebecca Pretty, the music teacher from the school who brought passion and a tremendous commitment to the group. She was ably assisted by Cathy Semigak.

Once a month the Church has held a family orientated service and encouraged the Sunday School to take part, and they have also produced much of the decoration on the walls of the Church with posters of memory verses and bible passages they have learnt during the week.

The Sunday School uses the Veggie Tales curriculum which has been great fun, and it was from Makkovik setting the standard of Sunday School that Nain borrowed the idea to use this resource as well. It really has been a blessing to have a good curriculum as it eases the burden from the volunteer leadership.

The parents of the children have been incredibly helpful, supporting the leadership and also assisting in many of the activities. The final Sunday School of the school year finished with a big party and was enjoyed by all.

Summer Camp 2007

2007-07-14T21:53:00.000-03:00

On July 1st till 8th 29 young people from the Moravian Church gathered at Gosling Lake Christian Youth Camp, Labrador. Some 10 months previous the late Bernie Broomfield had the vision to reinstate the youth camp for Moravian young people from all across Labrador, and this camp was the fulfilment of that vision.

The camp was attended by 6 young people from Hopedale, 6 from Makkovik, 6 from Nain, 9 from Happy Valley Goose Bay, and 2 from North Carolina, USA. The leadership team was made up of one person from Hopedale (Sarah Jensen), one from Makkovik (Rebecca Pretty), one from HVGB (Sabina Hunter), one from Nain (Russell Winfield) and 3 from North Carolina, USA (Revd Tim Byerly, George & Glenna Tasedan). We were also fortunate to have Emily Osmond and Joshua Wahl who are working full time for the Labrador Christian Youth Camp this summer.

On Sunday the young people from the coast arrived (on 3 separate planes), the US contingent was already in town, and the Happy Valley participants travelled out to the camp. After sharing in some food and playing some games (Volleyball and Touch Football) we settled into our groups for the week and took the time to get to know each other.

Each day followed a fairly simple pattern for the morning. Firstly we would serve breakfast at around 8.30am for an hour (expertly prepared by George everyday). The young people would filter in throughout this hour, and immediately following breakfast we would move to a time called “Daybreak” – a 20 minute session basically opening the day up to God, singing a couple of songs and giving the chance for the leadership to share a few thoughts. After this we would have some free time for the young people to relax whilst the leaders spent time in prayer for 15 minutes or so.

The rest of the morning would be split between “Explore” and “Create”. Within “Explore” the young people would be split into groups of 4 or 5 with a leader(s), and would look at the day’s theme, discuss different subjects, have role playing games and just be able to share things within that group of friends. “Create” was a time for creative work – and the youngsters would rotate between: photography, creative writing, photo framing, food, drama and music. This would take us up to lunch – which the young people prepared.

The afternoons were slightly more varied depending on whether we were on site or off site. On site activities included canoeing, archery, hiking, t-shirt painting, and volleyball. Off site activities saw us visit the 5 Wings Swimming pool twice (Tuesday and Friday) and the Soccer pitches to play the Goose Bay All Star team (we beat them 13 – 2!). After these acitivites when we were off site we visited Pizza Delight, A&W and Subway for food. When we were on site we had the privilege of two ladies from Happy Valley (Ann Marie and Wilma) visiting the camp site to cook the meal for us all. On Wednesday evening we stayed in Goose Bay a little longer to go ten pin bowling.

On the Friday of camp we visited Happy Valley congregation to serve a buffet of food and present an informal service, inviting the local congregation and friends, as well as Hopedale music band, who were in town for the 550th Celebrations. Despite being a very warm evening this was a lovely time for us all to share in worship together. On the way home we treated the young people to a visit to Tim Hortons for a drink and a donut!

The evenings on camp site were mixed between celebrations – in which we sung songs, performed drama skits, interviewed staff, and looked at photo’s of the day, along with more informal activities such as a quiz, and on the last night, a dance. Each evening ended with “Simmer Down” – an end of day review as we gave thanks to God for the day just enjoyed.

During the week the camp was also featured on CBC Radio, CBC Television, and The Labradorian Newspaper.

Despite some problems with flights up the coast, all the young people made it home safely by Monday afternoon, and back to their respective communities. The details given here are brief, so please do talk with the young people from your community to find out more about our week together.

We thank God for a wonderful week, for 29 wonderful young people, for the wonderful weather, and the chance to serve Him in this way.

Yours in Christ,
Br Russell Winfield

Past photo's

2007-07-31T05:17:00.000-03:00

Here are a couple of photo's taken and supplied by Sr Brigitte Schloss.

Two cannons overlooking Nain harbour. Photo taken in the 1980's. One cannon was moved here from Okak. They stood in front of the church and were fired to welcome the Harmony (Moravian Mission ship) when it arrived. They have since been buried under landfill.

This photo was taken in 1952 in Nain. It shows Rev. F. W. Peacock and Nain elder, Martin Martin, looking at the newly printed revised New Testament in the Inuktitut language. On the inside cover page, it reads: TESTAMENTITAK; London; The British and Foreign Bible Society; 1952.