Moravian Church Settlements - Bethlehem

02/25/2026

💎 Upcoming Event! 💎
The 1792 Lehigh Bridge as a Turning Point in Bethlehem’s History
Lecture by Dr. Kate Carté / March 24, 2026 / 12pm / online

Register here --> https://tinyurl.com/bddtumfc

In late 18th century Bethlehem, leading citizens were divided over a bridge project proposed over the Lehigh River. The project, completed in 1792, was seen by some as a harbinger of further decline for the troubled town while others saw it as an opportunity to increase connections and commerce. These struggles provide a window into this unique moment in Bethlehem’s history, poised between Moravian enclave and economic engine.

02/25/2026

Happy 275th Anniversary to Central Moravian Church's 1751 Old Chapel ... part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Looking forward to honoring this special and sacred space with you this evening and beyond.

Does this look like the front wall of the Old Chapel? Learn more about the history and evolution of 275 years of worship space and more in today's Mid-Week Lenten Program at Central - Feb. 25. We share together in a meal of fellowship at 6 p.m. in the CE building (40 W. Church St) and then at 7 p.m - enjoy a short worship and devotional time followed by the begining of a focus on the 275th Anniversary of the Old Chapel. At Central, our history informs our present and future worship and ministry to the greater community - and we invite you to a living heritage of Moravian faith today! Zoom with us at 7 p.m. here.: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84564287979

02/05/2026

Main Street Bethlehem and the Second Single Brethren's House, then and now. In 1815, the Brethren's House was renovated and became the Moravian Seminary for Young Ladies.

Aerial photos by Ryan Humm for Moravian University

Learn more about our UNESCO World Heritage site at https://moravianchurchsettlements.org

01/28/2026

DISCOVER THE STORY OF MORAVIAN WOMEN IN AMERICA

PBS39 presents Moravian Women In Early America — a compelling journey through three centuries of faith, leadership, and resilience.

From the church's founding in 1722 to the settlement of Bethlehem in 1741, through the American Revolution and into today, Moravian women have shaped history in extraordinary ways.

This powerful documentary reveals their unique roles, contributions, and enduring legacy in one of America's most historic communities.

Featuring narration by:
• Rev. Janel Rice, Senior Pastor, Central Moravian Church

With interviews from:
• Dr. Katie Faull, Bethlehem World Heritage Site Manager
• Dr. Scott Gordon, Lehigh University
• Susan Ellis, Executive Director, Moravian Historical Society

Experience the remarkable heritage that still stands proudly in Bethlehem's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Watch now: https://youtu.be/xE78KiKsNwA?si=xXBfoAp2VSZlcfkr

"Moravian Women In Early America" tells the story of women’s unique roles in the Moravian Church from its founding in 1722, through its settlement of Bethleh...

10/23/2025

What an exciting opportunity for Moravian University students, faculty, and staff!

Attention Moravian University students, faculty, and staff!

October 23rd at noon, Dr. Katie Faull will be hosting a Zoom session about the interdisciplinary work the Institute for Moravian History & World Heritage is doing. Come join and learn more about the Institute and how you can engage with World Heritage!

The Zoom link can be found in the Provost Newsletter 10/17, or reach out to [email protected]

10/16/2025

It was our sincere pleasure connecting with Moravian University alumni over Homecoming Weekend during our walking tour of the Moravian Church Settlements — Bethlehem.

Dr. Katherine Faull shared valuable insights about this historic site and the work of the Institute for Moravian History and World Heritage.

Thank you to Amanda Maenza and the Moravian University Alumni Engagement for coordinating this event.

Photos by Rey Gabriel

09/16/2025

Moravian University secures $750,000 grant to preserve historic Second Single Brethren’s House. The National Park Service award supports landmark preservation as part of the United States' 250th celebration.

Moravian University Secures $750,000 Grant to Preserve Historic Second Single Brethren’s House September 16, 2025 National Park Service Award Supports Landmark Preservation as Part of Semiquincentennial Celebration Bethlehem, PA — September 16, 2025 — Today, Moravian University announced it ha...

09/15/2025

Thanks to Will Oliver and Lehighvalleynews.com for sharing this exciting development on the appointment of Dr Katie Faull as our new Site Manager!

https://www.lehighvalleynews.com/bethlehem/a-natural-fit-bethlehems-new-world-heritage-site-manager-has-studied-the-moravians-for-over-30-years

Dr. Katherine Faull, who is an internationally acclaimed scholar on Moravian studies, took on the role in September, according to a news release from Moravian Church Settlements — Bethlehem.

09/09/2025

HISTORIC PHOTOS!

Saturday's spirited Bethlehem block party celebrates World Heritage recognition with history, music, and fellowship.

Images by Nick Chismar, Moravian University

Check out complete gallery here: https://moravianchurchsettlements.org/photos-bethlehem-world-heritage-celebration/

09/07/2025

What an amazing day celebrating the heart of our history together. Thanks to all who attended Saturday’s World Heritage Community Celebration and to all who continue to share our incredible Moravian Church Settlements story and support our mission.