The Church of the Brethren

The Church of the Brethren is an evangelical, protestant church. It was formed in 1708 in Germany under the leadership of Alexander Mack with the beliefs in adult baptism and living life according to the teachings of Scripture. The first Brethren came to America in 1719 and the first church organized in Germantown in 1723. There are now approximately 1000 congregations and 135,000 members in the United States.

  1. This body of Christians originated in the eighteenth century with the church being a natural outgrowth of the Pietistic movement following the Reformation.
  2. We firmly accept and teach:
    • the Bible is the true inspired word of God
    • the personality and work of the Holy Spirit
    • the virgin birth of Jesus Christ
    • Jesus Christ is the Son of God
    • Jesus Christ died on the cross and everyone has the opportunity to call upon Him for the forgiveness of sins
    • Jesus Christ came back to life, ascended into Heaven, and will come back again. Those who are saved by Jesus’ blood will spend eternity in Heaven.
  3. Observes the following New Testament teachings:
    • baptism of repentant believers by triple immersion for the remission of sins
    • love feast: a service based on the last supper of Christ that consists of:
      • feet washing following the example of Jesus Christ in John 13
      • a simple meal
      • communion
    • orderly worship services
    • anointing those who are sick or facing difficulty in the name of the Lord
    • laying on of hands during prayer
    • These teachings are representative of spiritual graces which should be practiced in the lives of true believers and are essential factors in the development of the Christian life.
  4. Emphasizes:
    • that it is important for individuals and families to spend time with God in prayer and Bible study on a daily basis
    • the proper use of time, talents and money
    • using self control in all areas of life
    • taking care of orphans, widows, poor, sick and aged
  5. Believes in carrying out the Great Commission:
    • by sharing the love and work of Christ with everyone
    • so those who are lost in their sins will come to know Jesus Christ as Savior,
    • and so that Christ can change the life of everyone who calls upon His name
  6. Believes the New Testament is our only creed and we should live our lives according to the teachings that are found in it.