Though
the Brethren as a group have existed for nearly 300 years (1708), we
subscribe to no formal creed. We simply try to do what Jesus did.
Jesus
brought a message of life, love, and hope. But he offered much more
than inspiring words: he understood that people's spiritual needs also
include day-to-day human ones - food, health, rest, comfort, friendship,
and unconditional acceptance. "I am the way," he told his followers. He
showed them how to trust, how to care, and how to help.
Steadily,
lovingly, even radically, Jesus went about saving the world - by
serving its people. Because we believe his message, we seek to do the
same.
Peacefully
Whether the
conflict involves warring nations, racial discord, theological dispute,
personal disagreement, or mere misunderstanding, Brethren listen
conscientiously, seek guidance in the scriptures, and work toward
reconciliation. We practice peaceful living.
Our long standing
commitment to peace and justice includes a deep regard for human life
and dignity. Brethren reach world-wide to help repair the ravages of
poverty, ignorance, exploitation, and catastrophic events. Along with
faith, we bring food, books, classes, tools, and medicine.
Living
peacefully, to the Brethren, means treating each person with the
attentive, compassionate respect that all human beings deserve.
Simply
Years
ago, all Brethren were immediately recognized because of their plain
dress and reserved ways. Today's Brethren live very much in the world,
work in a broad range of occupations, and make use of the latest
technology.
Continually, though, we try to simplify our lives.
Practicing a modest nonconformity, we think carefully about our daily
choices. The ideal of simplicity guides our decisions: how will we
conduct our business, raise our children, spend our leisure time, tend
our natural resources? How will we use our money and why? How can we
live comfortably, but without excess or ostentation?
For the
Brethren, such considerations are not a requirement, but a privilege. As
we seek to live intentionally, responsibly, and simply, we find a deep
sense of purpose. And we find joy.
Together
Whether
worshiping, serving, learning, or celebrating, Brethren act in
community. Together, we study the Bible to discern God's will; we make
decisions as a group, and each person's voice matters.
During our
traditional love feast, we gather at the table of the Lord, and each
summer at Annual Conference we convene as a denominational family.
Because Jesus urged unity. Brethren work alongside other denominations,
at home and abroad, in world-wide mission and outreach.
Our
congregation welcomes all who wish to share with us in another way of
living; the way of Christian discipleship, life in community,
fulfillment in service.
