A Moravian Music Weekend Event
Celebrating America 250
May 16 – 17, 2026
Concert / Service – Sunday 3:00pm
Raleigh Moravian Church
Come Be a Part of History!
The Psalm of Joy is a service of word and music that was created by the Moravians in Salem, NC for July 4, 1783 as part of the first official Independence celebration.
1776 – 2026 Semiquincentennial
1783 Psalm of Joy giving thanks to God for the end of the Revolutionary War.
Choir and Band program.
Child care provided during rehearsals and concert.
Registration includes lunch on Sunday.
This year we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. First performed on July 4, 1783, as part of one of the first official July 4th celebrations, the Psalm of Joy is the perfect Moravian response to this event. After years of suffering and turmoil, the end of the Revolutionary War found the Moravians citizens of a brand-new nation. Tasked with celebrating the end of the conflict, the Moravians turned (as they always do) to music. Rather than revel in victory; however, it was the return of peace that spoke to them and inspired the music of this joyful work. Whether it is in regard to the end of armed conflicts or a respite from the chaos of everyday life, this message of peace and joy is something that we could all use.
This weekend is an unique opportunity to sing this work as part of the Semiquincentennial celebrations. Over two days, you can join with others in learning and performing this indelible contribution by the Moravians to American history. There is a track for vocalist to sing the Psalm of Joy and one for band members to learn and play music from the period. We are inviting everyone to come and be a part of history, whether you are Moravian or not—all are welcome and invited to come and raise your voices and instruments in this weekend celebration of music, peace, joy, and fellowship!
Psalm of Joy – Freudenpsalm
Peace is with us! (Service 56A)
This is a Day Which the Lord Our God Made (C. Gregor, 1723-1801)
Make a Joyful Noise Unto the Lord (Karl H. Graun, 1704-1759)
Full of joy our hearts are singing (Sleepers Wake 230A)
The Lord is a Mighty Warrior
You Are God (Holy Lord 119A)
The Land Is Calm (J. F. Peter, 1746-1813)
I will raise my voice in singing (Thanksgiving 214A)
He Closes in All Places the Gates of Suffering
O Rest So Softly Coming (J. P. Kellner, )
Glory Be to God (Sleepers Wake 230A)
Lord, Grant the Unity Your Benediction (37A)
Pour Out Your Richest Blessings Now (169)
God gives peace in this our Nation (23)
That In This Our Land There May Dwell Glory (C. Gregor)
Amen (Neander 4A)
Praise, O Jerusalem, the Lord (C. L. Brau or Joh. C. Geisler)
Hallelujah Without Ceasing (Sleepers Wake 230A)
Raleigh Moravian Church
1816 Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC
www.raleighmoravian.org
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