When every second counts in an emergency, being prepared can truly make the difference between life and death. Thanks to the support of the Moravian Ministries Foundation’s Healing and Health Fund, dozens of Moravians across the Southern Province have now completed CPR training and received certification, equipping them to act confidently when it matters most.
The initiative, titled “Connecting Hearts, One Press at a Time,” brought together participants from twelve different congregations and ministries at Friedland Moravian Church. They learned vital lifesaving skills from a local firefighter and first responder, gaining the knowledge needed to respond effectively in emergencies. More importantly, they’re now empowered to take that knowledge back to their communities, families, and churches.
A Heartfelt Call to Action
Behind this impactful project is Marianne Smith, a dedicated member of Friedland Moravian and the Administrative Assistant at Konnoak Hills Moravian Church. Recognizing the aging populations in many congregations, Marianne was inspired to make CPR training accessible across the province. Partnering with the Southern Province’s Commission on Congregational Development (CCD), she set out to ensure more people are prepared for emergencies. “I believe this has made a positive difference in our community,” Marianne shares. “Training 37 individuals in CPR means there’s a real chance of saving a life when the time comes.”
Building Confidence Through Training
Over several sessions held in Friedland’s fellowship hall, participants, some nervous, others eager, discovered the importance of staying calm and prepared. The classes were filled with questions, hands-on practice, and encouraging words, all designed to build confidence in emergency response.
For many, the training was personal: they wanted to be ready to care for aging loved ones or neighbors. For others, it was about ensuring safety during church events and community gatherings.
Drafted for the Unexpected
One of the sessions had to be rescheduled when the instructor, a firefighter and first responder, was called into service following Hurricane Helene’s devastation in the Southeast, particularly the Appalachian region. His quick deployment served as a stark reminder of how unpredictable emergencies can be.
Just as first responders race to serve those in need during storms and crises, the participants in this program now have the skills to respond when emergencies happen closer to home. Whether in a church kitchen, preschool classroom, or neighborhood, every moment counts.
That is what makes this project so powerful. With each certification, another person in the Moravian community is equipped to act when seconds matter most. “Connecting Hearts, One Press at a Time” isn’t only about CPR, it’s about readiness, resilience, and the quiet courage to be there when someone’s life is on the line.
If you are interested in supporting our Healing and Health Fund, which enables organizations to continue fulfilling their missions, consider donating to the fund here.
