Brotherhood Church

Brotherhood Church Southgate Road

The Brotherhood Church is a Christian anarchist and pacifist community in the United Kingdom. It was founded in the late 19th century and has been associated with various social and political movements, including Tolstoyan principles, anarchism, and socialism.

History

The Brotherhood Church traces its origins to the late 19th century, inspired by the writings of Leo Tolstoy, particularly his book The Kingdom of God Is Within You. The church was established by a group of individuals who were disillusioned with mainstream Christianity and sought to create a community based on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles of non-violence, communal living, and social justice.

The first Brotherhood Church was founded in London in 1887 by John Coleman Kenworthy and other like-minded individuals. The community aimed to live out the teachings of Jesus in a practical way, rejecting private property, military service, and hierarchical structures.

Beliefs and Practices

The Brotherhood Church is characterized by its commitment to Christian anarchism, which emphasizes the rejection of all forms of coercive authority and the practice of voluntary cooperation. Members of the church strive to live according to the principles of nonviolence, simple living, and communalism.

The church also places a strong emphasis on pacifism, advocating for the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means and opposing all forms of war and violence. This commitment to nonviolence extends to their stance on capital punishment and the use of force by the state.

Communities

Over the years, the Brotherhood Church has established several communities in the United Kingdom. One of the most notable is the community in Stapleton, North Yorkshire, which was founded in the early 20th century. This community has been a center for various social and political activities, including support for the peace movement, anti-war protests, and social justice initiatives.

Influence and Legacy

The Brotherhood Church has had a significant influence on various social and political movements, particularly in the areas of Christian anarchism and pacifism. Its members have been involved in numerous campaigns for social justice, including the anti-nuclear movement, civil rights movement, and efforts to promote economic equality.

The church's commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus in a practical and radical way has inspired many individuals and groups to pursue similar ideals. Despite its relatively small size, the Brotherhood Church continues to be a voice for peace, justice, and nonviolence in the modern world.

See Also

• Christian anarchism
• Leo Tolstoy
• Pacifism
• Simple living
• Communalism
• Nonviolence