While traveling through the Lehigh Valley recently, I began to read road signs pointing the way to Nazareth, Bethlehem, and Emmaus. These names are familiar to all of us who love the land and its people. But these towns are to be found in Pennsylvania.
These communities were settled in the 18th century by German Christians under the leadership of George Whitefield. The Moravians sought to honor holy places and names. Perhaps, the chosen names served as reminders for them of great faith events like the annunciation, the birth of Jesus, and the resurrection.
Parents often honor family and persons of influence when they name their children. Namesakes serve us well. Settlers in the Lehigh Valley chose well also.
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