Below are links with lots of information explaining what the Moravian Church believes. Most of these links are from moravian.org – the website for the Moravian Church in North America. If you’d like more information about the Moravian Church, that website is a great place to start. What we believe today is tied to who we are today and who we were in the past. Find out more about Moravians by reading about our history.
A great summary of what’s on this page can be found in the Moravian Catechism. Read further for more detail.
First off, Moravians are Christians and share many of the same common beliefs as other churches.
What makes us different is our focus on simplicity. The Ground of the Unity is the only doctrinal document (a document outlining the set of beliefs taught by the church) of the Moravian Church.
Another thing that sets the Moravian Church apart is our focus on relationships and unity among all people. Our beliefs do not mean anything if we cannot put them into practice in our entire lives. The Covenant for Christian Living is a document that has been in the Moravian Church for centuries. It outlines how we vow to live as Christians in the world. This along with the Ground of the Unity are the two most important documents for Moravians today.
Simplicity is reflected in our adopted motto – “In Essentials, Unity; In Nonessentials, Liberty; In All Things, Love.” In other words, if we are united in the essential beliefs of our faith, then we can value the diversity of other opinions and actions and embrace everyone in love. What are The Essentials? God Creates, God Redeems, and God Blesses. In response, we live with Faith, Love, and Hope. Learn more below.
What do Moravians believe about the Bible? We believe it should be read in a number of ways. The Word of God doesn’t stop at the Bible for Moravians. We believe God speaks to us in many ways.
The Moravian Church recognizes two sacraments: Holy Communion and Baptism. The rite of Confirmation, which is typically celebrated once a child is older and able to confirm their faith and accept the responsibilities of being a member of the church, is the completion of Baptism. Read more about both of these sacraments below.