Friis, John Jacob (1708-1793)

Moravian teacher and chaplain.

Taught in Moravian seminary in Saxony. Immigrated to America (1753). Deacon and chaplain to single brethren at Christiansbrunn. Held various church offices in North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Assistant to Philadelphia congregation (1770-74). Recalled to Bethlehem because he became too ardent in the American cause. Chaplain at Bethlehem (1777-93).

Born at Odense, Denmark. Studied theology at Copenhagen. Never married. Name also spelt “Fries.”