Home Moravian Church, Winston-Salem, NC

Home Moravian Church, located in the historic Old Salem district of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is one of the oldest and most significant religious institutions in the region. Founded in 1771 by Moravian settlers, the church holds deep historical and cultural importance as a center of worship, community, and Moravian heritage. The Moravians, a Protestant group originating from what is now the Czech Republic, fled religious persecution in Europe and established communities in the American colonies, including the original settlement of Wachovia, which later became Winston-Salem.

The construction of Home Moravian Church was a pivotal moment for the settlers, symbolizing their permanent commitment to their new home in North Carolina. Built using traditional European designs and local materials, the church’s architecture reflects the simplicity and functionality valued by the Moravian community. Its white stucco facade, steeple, and classic lines make it a striking example of 18th-century ecclesiastical architecture in the American South. The church’s interior is equally noteworthy, with simple wooden pews, arched windows, and a calm, minimalist aesthetic designed to reflect the Moravian values of humility, community, and devotion.

Home Moravian Church continues to be an active congregation, serving both as a place of worship and as a guardian of Moravian traditions. Services are still held regularly, and the congregation welcomes visitors to join in worship and explore the church’s history. The church’s service style is marked by music and hymn-singing, which have long been integral to Moravian worship. The Moravian love of music is exemplified in the church’s use of trombone choirs, an old-world tradition that is still practiced today. The trombone choir plays for special occasions and holidays, filling the church and surrounding areas with resonant, uplifting music that has become a beloved feature of the community’s cultural landscape.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Home Moravian Church is its annual celebration of Christmas and Easter. The Christmas season at the church is marked by a unique service called the Moravian Lovefeast, where congregants and visitors gather to share coffee and a sweet bread roll, symbolizing unity and fellowship. This Lovefeast service includes hymns and music, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over North Carolina. Another beloved Moravian Christmas tradition is the candle tea, where children and adults alike gather for carol singing and candle-lighting, an event that has become a holiday highlight in Old Salem.

During Easter, Home Moravian Church is known for its traditional Easter Sunrise Service, one of the oldest of its kind in the United States. Dating back to 1772, the service begins in the church’s sanctuary before moving to God’s Acre, the Moravian cemetery nearby, at dawn. As the sun rises, the congregation gathers among the graves, celebrating the resurrection in a solemn and moving tribute to faith, community, and remembrance.

As part of the Old Salem Museums & Gardens, Home Moravian Church plays an important role in educating visitors about Moravian history and culture. Its historic significance, architectural beauty, and active traditions make it a vital part of Winston-Salem’s heritage. Open to visitors year-round, the church offers tours that share insights into Moravian beliefs, their dedication to community, and their role in the founding of Salem. Through its services, celebrations, and community outreach, Home Moravian Church continues to honor the legacy of its founders while maintaining its mission as a place of faith, history, and hospitality in the heart of Winston-Salem.