The Tesh family migrated from Germany in the mid-1800s. My great-grandfather and grandmother on my mother’s side of the family raised my grandfather in the Moravian Church. The Moravian Church has extensive historical ties to Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The first Moravian settlement in Winston-Salem was founded on November 17, 1953, in Bethabara. Bethabara may have been the first settlement, but it isn't the most well-known in our area. Old Salem was founded by German-speaking immigrants from Eastern Europe in 1766. 

Moravians are known for their Love Feasts. My mother always attended the Christmas Eve Love Feast with her father's family and has continued that tradition with her children. The Christmas Eve Love Feast is a service of fellowship designed to create a deep sense of unity and connectedness within the family of believers. Lighted beeswax candles are held to symbolize the purity and sacrifice of Christ. Moravians welcome all to the Love Feast regardless of their personal faith or religious background. This reflects the love and unity that is at the heart of the service. 

Just like my mother, the tradition has become a highlight of the Christmas season. My sisters and I could not imagine Christmas Eve without the celebration and visit to the same Moravian Church my grandfather grew up attending. Something so simple holds such special memories for my family. It has always been and will continue to be a special part of our holiday celebration. 

– KH

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more