Moravian missionary and church leader.

Began life as a cloth-weaver. Emigrated to Pennsylvania with the “First Sea Congregation” of Moravian missionaries (1742). Missionary to Indians of Susquehanna River valley (1743). Rose rapidly through the ranks of Moravian church: superintendent of missionaries (1746), presbyter (1748), bishop (1758), head of church’s American provincial board (1762). Traveled extensively in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, the West Indies, and Surinam; also made several trips to Europe to report on progress of Moravian missions.

Born into a Bohemian Protestant family at Lauban, near Herrnhut, in lower Silesia. Married Anna Joanna Pietsch.