• The Church of the Brethren began in Germany in 1708 in an effort to put into practice the teachings of the New Testament. 
• Alexander Mack is credited as being the founder of the Church
• Came to America in 1719 to find a haven of religious freedom under the leadership of Peter Becker. 
• The first Brethren Congregation in America was at Germantown, PA
• Headquarters is located in Elgin, Illinois.
• Has historically been engaged in mission work in countries including India, China, Indonesia, Ecuador and Nigeria.
• Is a historical "Peace Church" and looks for ways to avoid war and conflict.
• Is known for service programs including Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS), Church World Service/ CROP, Heifer Project and the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Maryland.
• Has over 1,000 congregations in the United States with over 136,000 members. One-half of these members live in Virginia and Pennsylvania.
• Is affiliated with 6 accredited liberal arts colleges, including Bridgewater College.  Also, one theologial Seminary, Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Indiana. 
• Is affiliated with 25 retirement communities, including Bridgewater Retirement Community, and 33 camps in 36 states.
• Participate in a united witness through councils of churches-world, national, state and local.

         For More Information on the denomination visit Church of the Brethren