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"Though the
Brethren as a group have existed for more than three hundred years,
we
subscribe to no formal "creed" or set of rules.
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."* |
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Continuing the work of Jesus
Peacefully |
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Whether the
conflict involves warring nations, racial discord, theological
disputes, personal disagreement, or mere misunderstanding,
Brethren listen conscientiously, seek guidance in the
scriptures, and work toward reconciliation. We practice peaceful
living.
Our longstanding
commitment to peace and justice includes a deep regard for human
life and dignity. Brethren reach worldwide to help repair the
ravages of poverty, ignorance, exploitation, and catastrophic
events. Along with our 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. |
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Continuing
the work of Jesus
Simply |
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Years ago,
all Brethren were immediately recognizable 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. |
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Continuing
the work of Jesus.
Together |
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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 worldwide mission and
outreach.
Our congregations
welcome all who wish to share with us in another way of living:
the way of Christian discipleship, life in community,
fulfillment in service."
Used
by permission - from "Tell me more about the Church of the
Brethren" - Brethren Press
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