The Basis of our Faith
Our life together is founded on Jesus, the Christ and son of God. We recognize the Bible’s authority over all aspects of our belief and life, and we affirm the rule of faith stated in the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds. We are particularly influenced and inspired by the New Testament’s Acts 2 and 4 and the Sermon on the Mount, which direct us to embrace communal living and lifelong service to others. We desire to remain true to this calling all our lives.
Founded in 1920 in Germany, the Bruderhof (“place of brothers” in German) has its roots in the Anabaptist tradition of Europe’s Radical Reformation. We practice adult baptism. We are also pacifists and conscientious objectors. While we love our countries and countrymen, our faith transcends political and nationalistic affiliations.
Other religious movements stemming from the Anabaptist tradition include the Mennonites and Amish. We, however, are most similar to and inspired by the sixteenth-century Hutterites, who shared a community of goods and sought to live in brotherly and sisterly love.
The Bruderhof does not want a religion that seeks the future of humanity only beyond this earthly life, thus satisfying people with mere spirituality. Humankind needs help here and now. By following Jesus’ practical commands, we feel we are doing what we can to advance God’s kingdom here on earth.