September 25, 2011 was a proud day for the Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador. At a service in Happy Valley Moravian Church, Beatrice Hope made history as the first woman from Labrador to be ordained as a Moravian minister. Beatrice graduated from Queen’s College (affiliated with Memorial University of Newfoundland), in May 2011 with a Bachelor of Theology. In May of 2010, Queen’s College presented Beatrice with the Core Values Award, given to a student who most shows the characteristics of Jesus.Bishop Paul Graf from Wisconsin officiated at the ordination service. Members of the Provincial Board of the Moravian Church in NL and the representative from the Board of World Mission were present for the service. Beatrice’s parents also came from Nain to share in the special event. Surrounded by her friends and family, Beatrice, well known for her singing, sang “Draw Me Nearer” as her testament of faith.
The following day, Beatrice left on the MV Northern Ranger to serve the congregation of Hopedale Moravian Church.
Congratulations, Beatrice, for persevering through the challenge of being away for the years of study, and for achieving so well in the program! Labrador Moravians look forward to her sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are all proud of Beatrice!
