In Nigeria, where a mission of the Brethren has grown into a partner, the Church of the Brethren is known as the "Ekklesiyar Yanuwa a Nigeria" (literally, the "Church of the Children of One Mother in Nigeria"). That's how we hear the word "Brethren." Early on in our story, our ancestors in faith knew one another as "brother or sister." Big titles and positions were not very important.

     In the beginning there were eight who gathered beside a river in Germany to start living out the faith. Religious refugees from other places and churches, they had been studying the Bible together, especially the New Testament, and finally decided to become a church. As adult baptism was against the law then (it meant re-baptizing someone baptized as an infant in an established church), they did this work early in the morning. By drawing lots, one person was chosen to baptize the leader, who in turn baptized the rest, brothers and sisters alike.

     Like many, the Brethren faced persecution not only for what they believed, but also for who they were. They were drawn to America, to that colony started by William Penn where kindred spirits, such as the Mennonites and the Quakers, also lived. Another baptism in a creek on Christmas Day, 1725, marked the start of a new chapter.

     The Brethren were often called "Dunkers" for how they baptized, completely immersing three times, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Others thought of them as a "peculiar people," not only looking but also living differently than the society around them. For one thing, Brethren refused to fight in any war. Secondly, fashion and possessions have been understood in light of Jesus' call to "consider the lilies" (Mt.6:28) . A Simple unencumbered life is best for those desiring to follow Jesus. In the third place, "church" has been considered to be more than a building. To be a disciple is a way of life walked in harmony and discipline with other believers.

     The story is a long one, primarily lived out on this continent until the call overseas to such places as Africa, China, India, and Latin America was heard. The Brethren were one of the few denominations that did not split during the Civil War, for slavery was never an issue. Brethren could not own another human being.

     Many changes have taken place in the story of this "peculiar people." In the 20th century we released our "German" background in language and name. Along the way we let go of some other things (for good or for ill), but we have sought to keep the essentials. Are we still known by the manner of our living? Well, you'll have to get to know us personally in order to find out.