European Free-Church Family Churches
Church of the Brethren
General Notes
The Church of the Brethren developed out of the Pietism in early eighteenth
century Germany. Hearing William Penn's invitation to come to the American
colonies, most of the Brethren immigrated. Those who remained were absorbed
into the Mennonite movement. Until the early twentieth century, Brethren were
commonly known as "Dunkers" because of using three-fold immersion
Baptism.
In colonial Pennsylvania, the Brethren shared with the Mennonites a German
cultural background and Anabaptist theology, and with the Friends (Quakers) a
commitment to peace and simplicity. All of these groups sought a separation
from secular influences, wore distinctive plain dress, and opposed slavery.
Brethren practiced strong church discipline (although not the ban), selected
leaders who were not salaried or expected to obtain theological education, and
refrained from voting, taking oaths, or entering lawsuits. One of the most
distinctive features of Brethren worship has been their observance of the
"Love Feast," a Communion service that includes footwashing, a love
meal, and the taking of unleavened bread and wine/grape juice.
The twentieth century has seen rapid change. Following an important decision
on dress at the annual conference of 1911, the distinctive dress of the Church
has virtually disappeared. The free, plural ministry was transformed into
salaried, professional pastoral leadership. Women became eligible for
ordination in 1957. Efforts at evangelism and new church development have
produced a more inclusive membership that includes several black, Hispanic, and
Korean congregations.
Specific Religious Practices
Sunday, Easter, and Christmas receive special attention. Baptism, the Love Feast and Communion are seen as ordinances.
Understanding of Healing
An anointing service for physical healing and spiritual help is practiced.
As an exception, children or adults who are not conscious may be anointed for
the benefit of family and friends.
Reproductive
Issues
Genetic counseling is encouraged. Birth control is encouraged and should be
used in place of abortion. Sterility testing and artificial insemination is an
individual decision.
Abortion
Abortion on demand is opposed. There may be serious situations in which it
would be seen as justifiable, such as serious threat to the life or health of
the mother, incest, rape, or possible birth defect.
End of Life Issues/Terminal Care
The issue of prolonging of life should focus on the dignity of the
individual. Euthanasia would be left to the doctor and family.
Transplantation/Organ Donation
Donation is often encouraged.
Autopsies/Care of the Body
A simple burial is usual, including burial of the fetus. There has been
encouragement to families to donate the body to medical schools or for research.
Membership
In 1996, membership in the United States was 141,811.
Mennonite Church
General Notes
The largest and oldest of the Mennonite bodies is the Mennonite Church.
Doctrine is centered on Anabaptist separatist practices, pacifism, a
disciplined membership and believers' Baptism.
Each person is seen as responsible for making their own decisions based on
their understanding of the Bible.
Specific Religious Practices
Sacraments are Baptism and Holy Communion. Neither is viewed as necessary
for salvation. Either may be requested by a patient.
Understanding of Healing
Medical treatment as well as prayer is seen as a means of healing. A patient
may request anointing with oil or another practice that is meaningful to them.
Reproductive Issues
Genetics, birth control, sterility testing, and artificial insemination are
acceptable.
Abortion
Therapeutic abortion is accepted. Some churches have adopted statements
opposing abortion on demand.
End of Life Issues/Terminal Care
Prolonging of life is not required. Euthanasia would not be condoned.
Transplantation/Organ Donation
Transplantation and organ donation are accepted.
Autopsies/Care of the Body
Autopsy is accepted. There are no restrictions on burial. Fetuses are
usually buried without ceremony.
Membership
In 1995, total membership was 110,308.
Page was last updated on 08/14/00