Beliefs & Affiliation

The Brethren movement from its beginnings in 1708 had always avoided a formal creed, fearing that it would limit the work of the Holy Spirit in shedding new light on Scripture. We maintain our historic position that the Bible, and the Bible alone, is our all-sufficient creed and rule of practice.

With this unchanging creed, each generation of Brethren must struggle under the Spirit's guidance to discern the meaning of Scripture for its life. Such a process has several important values: it can give renewed purpose and direction to the church; it can bring the church to greater unity in thought and practice; and it assists the church in declaring its fundamental beliefs to the world.

Brethren beliefs can be listed best with the Brethren Church’s Centennial Statement which is not meant to be a creed but a milepost in the spiritual journey of The Brethren Church. It is a testimony of this generation's faith and life. For further information about Brethren Beliefs, a copy of the Centennial Statement may be found on the Brethren Church’s website at www.brethrenchurch.org.