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Lutheran churches and Moravian Provinces world-wide have been in virtual full communion, including the interchangeability of ordained clergy and Eucharistic hospitality for decades. Lutheran – Moravian Dialogue in the United States is catching up with where other Lutheran and Moravians are already.

Moravians and Lutherans regard themselves as distinct members of a single flock who are following their Shepherd in mission and ministry. These themes of “the Good Shepherd,” of following Jesus, and of fellowship through discipleship, were at the forefront of the Lutheran – Moravian Dialogue. Also present was the realization that this dialogue is unique for both churches.

The 1999 Churchwide Assembly voted overwhelmingly to accept the proposal for full communion as it was described in the foundational document, Following Our Shepherd to Full Communion. The Southern and Northern Provinces of the Moravian Church in America also approved this document; the first worship service of full communion was held on January 27, 2000 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  The Eastern West Indies Province of the Moravian Church in America joined the relationship of full communion in August 2006.  In August 2007, the ELCA extended an invitation to join in full communion to the Alaska Province of the Moravian Church in America.

The Lutheran – Moravian Coordinating Committee meets semi-annually in order to provide opportunities for Lutheran and Moravian relationships in North America.  

Lutheran - Moravian Coordinating Committee

The Lutheran-Moravian Coordinating Committee began meeting after the Full Communion celebration in January of 2000.  The Coordinating Committee charter is available here as are any related news communiqués and meeting minutes as they become available.

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