Community of the Cross: Moravian Piety in Colonial Bethlehem (Max Kade German-American Research Institute Series) [Hardcover]

Craig D. Atwood (Author)

Book Description

Series: Max Kade German-American Research Institute Series | Publication Date: March 24, 2004

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, was a unique colonial town. It was the first permanent outpost of the Moravians in North America and served as the headquarters for their extensive missionary efforts. It was also one of the most successful communal societies in American history. Bethlehem was founded as a 'congregation of the cross' where all aspects of personal and social life were subordinated to the religious ideal of the community. In Community of the Cross Craig D. Atwood offers a convincing portrait of Bethlehem and its religion. Visitors to Bethlehem, such as Benjamin Franklin, remarked on the orderly and peaceful nature of life in the community, its impressive architecture, and 'high' culture. However, many non-Moravians were embarrassed or even offended by the social and devotional life of the Moravians. The adoration of the crucified Jesus, especially his wounds, was the focus of intense devotion for adults and children alike. Moravians worshiped the Holy Spirit as 'Mother,' and made the mystical marriage to Christ central to their marital intimacy. Everything, even family life, was to be a form of worship. Atwood reveals the deep connection between life in Bethlehem and the religious symbolism of controversial German theologian Nicholas von Zinzendorf, whose provocative and erotic adoration of the wounds of Jesus was an essential part of private and communal life. Using the theories of Rene Girard, Mary Douglas, and Victor Turner, Atwood shows that it was the Moravians' liturgy and devotion that united the community and inspired both its unique social structure and mission effort.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This excellent religious history supplements earlier books that focus on the social history of early Bethlehem. A necessary purchase for collections emphasizing Colonial America, American religious history, and communitarian experiments, it will also interest those studying women and religion. --J. W. Frost, Choice

Nonetheless, Atwood's study is a superb contribution to Moravian studies. For readers interested in learning about eighteenth-century Moravians, this book is the place to start. --Beverly Smaby, Journal of American History

Atwood's volume provides a much needed balance to the historical account of the Moravian Church in North America with its exclusive focus on the radical theology behind the founding and organization of the congregation in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. --Katherine M. Faull, Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography

About the Author

Craig D. Atwood is Theologian in Residence at the Home Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He also teaches at the Moravian Theological Seminary.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 283 pages
• Publisher: Pennsylvania State Univ Pr (March 24, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0271023678
• ISBN-13: 978-0271023670
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.2 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #545,955 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Community of the Cross: Moravian Piety in Colonial Bethlehem, November 3, 2006

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WKSanders "WKSanders" - See all my reviews

This review is from: Community of the Cross: Moravian Piety in Colonial Bethlehem (Max Kade German-American Research Institute Series) (Hardcover)

Dr. Atwood writes a great work on this part of the Reformation involving Zinzendorf and the Moravian Church's struggle to discern their own faith issues during the Lutheran and Pietist period in Germany and Pennsylvania. Very honest and informative historical read for Christian and non-Christian reader alike.