Brethren Bibliography

The following resources will hopefully give you a more detailed understanding of Church of the Brethren history, customs, traditions, lifestyles, hopes, and dreams. Older listings may currently be out of print, but thankfully, a few are in second and third reprinting. This is only a categorical sampling of the numerous publications and online opportunities that exist. Several genealogical works have advertisements in our Book Store. You may also wish to check our Genealogy Library section to inquire about inter-library loan possibilities. If you know of additional Brethren, Pietist, or Anabaptist related productions that should be included, please send the necessary information to Bibliography Submissions. Your comments or suggestions about the correctness of each entry are most welcome.

This topically compiled material was originally designed to augment the Christian Educational resources of the Pennsylvania Southern District and each box is maintained by one of the District Commissions. They filled large plastic boxes with books, pamphlets, brochures, charts, videos, CD’s, and similar literature for easier transportation. We list here the contents of each box so that you may also benefit from their efforts.

Reference

19TH CENTURY ACCULTURATION OF THE BRETHREN: COB-NET resource exploring the numerous influences that precipitated the transformation of the Church of the Brethren from their mainly isolated German sub-culture, to a people explosed to the social influences of the American industrial revolution. This acculturation resulted in some Brethren becoming more progressive than others, eventually causing a three-way schism.
ALEXANDER MACK, HONORS TO: William G. Willoughby, author of “Counting the Cost” structures an intimate view of the Schwarzenau Brethren founder especially for the Church of the Brethren Network. In this special treatment of Mack, Willoughby places the modern reader in center focus, so that “Honors” will have universal appeal beyond the Brethren denominations. Listed are several of Mack’s beliefs and practices that are correlated with other Pietists of his day. Includes short biography of the author.
ANABAPTIST CURRENTS: HISTORY IN CONVERSATION WITH THE PRESENT: Carl Bowman & Stephen Longenecker, Forum for Religious Studies, 1995. A collection of 22 Brethren and Mennonite scholars writing on many topics, such as worship, communion, symbolism, and nonconformity. Genealogists will appreciate the numerous Mennonite surnames. Contains 319 pages.
ANABAPTISM IN 16TH CENTURY EUROPE: COB-NET resource on the ecclesiastical/political conditions preceding the rise of Anabaptism. Includes history of the original personages, their activities, new theological interpretations that were spawned by this movement, and how some denominations have been influenced by Anabaptism.
ANABAPTIST LETTERS FROM 1635 TO 1645: Translation From the Ausbund by John Kauffman, written by Martha Coffman, 1994. Anabaptist letters written by suffering believers from Switzerland to their friends in Holland. Contains 29 pages.
ANABAPTIST STORY, THE: This material is the first chapter of the seminary text A Believers’ Church Theology: The Systematic Theology Lecture Notes of Stanley A. Nelson, Revised Ed. (Taejon City: Widow’s Mite, 1994). The full text comprises 24 + 314 pages comprising an introduction and four chapters, a general index, and a Scripture index.
ANABAPTISTS: SEPARATE BY CHOICE, MARGINAL BY FORCE: The Anabaptists of central Europe evolved in a time of social and religious chaos, developed unique ideas concerning the church and state, and retained a wildly radical view of society. They maintained this posture not only through serious persecutions at their beginnings, but retain many of these differences up through the present day.
ANABAPTISTS, THE CHARACTER OF: It is amazing how many names were applied, in the period of the Reformation, to the Baptists. They called each other brethren and sisters, and spoke of each other in the simplest language of affection. Their enemies called them Anabaptists because they repeated baptism when converts came from other parties.
BELIEFS OF THE EARLY BRETHREN 1706-1735: While most historical studies of the Brethren make some reference to the beliefs of the adherents of this movement, this is the first study devoted exclusively to an analysis of the beliefs of the founding members in the period roughly from 1706-1735. The author shows how the Brethren reflected not only the major Protestant beliefs, but some of the specific emphases of the Pietists, the Separatists, and the Anabaptists. Another significant contribution is Willoughby’s evaluation of these early Brethren beliefs (which evolved in a significantly different age and culture from ours). He identifies several areas in the early Brethren belief system that might be challenged on a contemporary perspective. He also considers several unique Brethren ideas as “beliefs of enduring value.” The book is essential reading for Brethren leaders today. Volume 6 of the Monograph Series. For More Information, contact Ronald G. Lutz
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY: David L. Miller, pastor of the Mohrsville Church of the Brethren reexamines this socially hot topic through a careful selection of Old and New Testament scriptures offering biblical assumptions concerning authority. Strait forward commentary guides the reader toward a better understanding of this issue, and how it affects individual Christians and their relationship to the Church.
BRETHREN ENCYCLOPEDIA, THE: 2,126 pages, Brethren Encyclopedia Inc., 1983-1984, with indexed. A three-volume encyclopedia of Brethren life, belief, practice, and history. This comprehensive work of reference with more than 230 articles on family history, exhaustive compilation of German pietism and anabaptism which has resulted in the growth of the Church of the Brethren, Brethren in Christ, and Mennonites. There are listings, indexes, biographies, illustrations, and even brief histories of local churches. It contains the most up-to-date information ever assembled on all Brethren groups, with many illustrations never before published.
BRETHREN BEGINNINGS: Donald Durnbaugh, Brethren Encyclopedia Inc., 1992. This volume was first written in 1960 for a dissertation and studies the origin of the Church of the Brethren that dates to the early 1700s in Europe. Contains 99 pages with index.
BRETHREN GENEALOGY: The most frequently visited online resource for genealogical information about the Brethren. It is divided into six different sections: Brethren Church Records, Brethren Affiliated Libraries, Photographs, Miscellaneous Lists, and additional Web Sites. Highlighed on the home document are the principal avenues that Brethren use to gain information about their ancestors: Brethren List Server, Brethren Denominational Groups, Brethren Encyclopedia, Fellowship of Brethren Genealogists, Brethren Historical Library & Archives, and the Brethren Life Series.
BRETHREN GROUPS: Outline form detailing the numerous denominations that contain the word Brethren in their denominational label. Most of which originated from either the Anabaptist or Pietist movements of 16th century Europe. There are so many Christian groups using the term Brethren, that questions frequently arise concerning their relationship with each other. Five main groups have now diverged from the original Schwarzenau Brethren: Church of the Brethren, The Brethren Church, Fellowship of Grace Brethren, Old German Baptist Brethren, and Dunkard Brethren. Additionally there are: Moravian Brethren - United Brethren - Evangelical United Brethren - Hutterite Brethren - River Brethren - Yorker Brethren - Brethren in Christ - Mennonite Brethren - Plymouth Brethren - Lutheran Brethren, with many other sub-groups within each larger body. When possible, links are included to other web sites that offer additional material to hopefully increase the understanding of a specific group. Reasonable consideration should therefore be exercised that opinions expressed are solely the responsibility of the editors of that web site, and may not, in some cases, represent an official position of the governing denominational body.
BRETHREN IN AMERICA, THE MIGRATION & EXPANSION OF: COB-NET historical resource of the immigration of the Church of the Brethren from their European origin to Pennsylvania, where they socially established themselves as a German sub-culture, and records their congregational expansion into other states. Included is a description of their social hardships and inner struggles in the New World, and their doctrinal conflict, as pacifists, with the Revolutionary War.
BRETHREN IN COLONIAL AMERICA, THE: Donald Durnbaugh, Brethren Press, 1967. This volume covers the Brethren story, internal strife and schism, and their beliefs during the colonial period until the end of the Revolutionary War.
BRETHREN IN THE NEW NATION: Roger Sappington, Brethren Press, 1976. This book is the classic resource in Brethren history of that period when the church moved west between 1785 and 1865.
BRETHREN LIFE: Merle Rummel, COB-NET. Have you ever wished that you could go back in time and experience life in a typical Brethren farming community? When life was at a much slower pace, without the vibration of noisy over crowded highways, and the word filth referred to something in a barnyard. Here is at least one opportunity to discover what simple family life was like during the 1840-1850’s, in and around the small farming community of Boston, Indiana.
BRETHREN NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: This commentary is part of a new series of studies that will feature a number of volumes covering all of the New Testament books. There will be reliable expositions of the Bible text, a careful analysis of key words, easy outlines to follow, and helpful material to aid serious Bible students. The explanations are written from a conservative evangelical Brethren and Anabaptist point of view. The goal is to expound the Bible text accurately, and to produce a readable explanation of God’s truth.
BRETHREN SOCIETY: Carl Bowman, Johns Hopkins Univ. Press, 1995. Reflects the culture of the Brethren in past years, and explores the progressive transformation of the Church of the Brethren, and endeavors to answer why the COB changed its identity much faster then other Anabaptist or similar groups, such as the Mennonites, Quakers, and Amish. Contains 491 pages, pictures, illustrations, charts, extensive footnotes, and nice index.
CHARISMA AND HISTORY: THE CASE OF MێSTER, WESTPHALIA, 1534-1535: The violent attempt by the Melchiorite Anabaptists in 1534/35 to establish the “New Jerusalem” in the city of Munster represents one of the most bizarre events of the Reformation. The whole crisis is often construed as an extreme outworking of some latent tendencies within Reformation thought. Luther’s widespread influence had greatly diminished the role of the priest as a mediator between the layman and God, thereby increasing the importance of the Bible and personal conscience in directing the layman’s spiritual journey. The outcome of this change was that many laymen gave birth to radical interpretations of scripture -- interpretations which often carried dangerous political implications.
CHRISTOPHER SAUERS, THE: Stephen Longenecker, Brethren Press, 1981. A popular written account of an influential father and son whose printing business and religious faith had a profound impact upon the social and political life of 18th-century America.
COMMUNION - See also The Love Feast by Frank Ramirez
CONCISE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF AMISH, BRETHREN, HUTTERITES, AND MENNONITES: Donald B. Kraybill, 2010. There are 340 entries about these various groups that explain customs, theology, social practices, and related issues. It also contains a topical finder, index of names, and provision for cross-referencing.
EPHRATA CLOISTER: COB-NET resource portraying the life of the mystic Conrad Beissel from his birth in Europe to his arrival in central Pennsylvania, with a chronicle of his visionary social experiment involving communal living, following his break with the German Baptist Brethren (Church of the Brethren). His charismatic success in drawing members from established congregations, often resulted in conflict, especially his relationship with the Brethren, whose congregations he persistantly raided for converts.
EUROPEAN ORIGIN ~ CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN: COB-NET resource detailing the historical and theological European setting, prior to the founding of the Schwarzenau Brethren in 1708. Explores the many contributing influences that helped to shape their beginnings and mold their doctrines, such as the Reformation, subsequent founding of Anabaptism, rise of Pietism, and their frequent struggles to avoid persecution from the big three state religions. Chronicles their early congregational history in different regions of Germany, and their emigration to America where they experienced their dream of self-determination.
EUROPEAN ORIGINS OF THE BRETHREN: “A Source Book on the Beginnings of the Church of the Brethren in the Early Eighteenth Century” - Donald Durnbaugh, Brethren Press, Elgin, Illinois, 1958. A very scrupulous investigation and documentation of Brethren activity in Europe. Contains 463 pages, complete with many illustrations, reproductions, letters, plus an extensive index.
FRUIT OF THE VINE: A HISTORY OF THE BRETHREN, 1708-1995: Donald Durnbaugh, Brethren Press, 1997. Fresh look at Church of the Brethren history with special emphasis on interpretation. Whereas other historians have painted either a wider brush on Brethren history which could easily apply to other denominations, or a more narrow brush through individual themes; Durnbaugh has re-examined our heritage, only as it applies to the Church of the Brethren. Analysis of diverse subjects is admirable, with in depth treatment of each topic. Contains 665 pages, numerous photographs, index, epilogue, and copious endnotes.
GENEALOGY OF THE DESCENDANTS OF CHRISTOPHER SAUER OF GERMANTOWN, PHILADELPHIA: Care Sower, Potts & Co., 1887. [ need description ]
HERITAGE AND PROMISE: Emmert Bittinger, Brethren Press, 1970. Impressive presentation of commentary about Brethren heritage through a generous examination of our beliefs, practices, and history. Leaping beyond the usual transmission of history, this work pleasingly attempts to explain why Brethren believe as they do. Major themes are: “Family Life Patterns, Life Styles, Developing Character, Foreign Missions, Numerical Growth, Spiritual & Intellectual Needs, and Identity Crisis.” Contains 158 pages, some illustrations, modest index.
HISTORY OF THE GERMAN BAPTIST BRETHREN: Martin G. Brumbaugh, Brethren Publishing House, 1899 and reprinted in 1961. Well researched history of the Brethren from Schwarzenau to the Westward Movement in America. Contains list of Sauer publications, illustrations, baptism & marriage lists. Contains 550 pages, no index.
HOCHMANN VON HOCHENAU: Heinz Renkewitz, (Translated by William G. Willoughby), Philadelphia, PA: Brethren Encyclopedia, Inc., 1993, $35.00. This is the definitive biography of Alexander Macks mentor, and according to Renkewitz the spiritual father of the Brethren movement.
LITERARY ACTIVITY OF THE GERMAN BAPTIST BRETHREN IN THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY: John Flory, Brethren Publish House, 1908. A professor of English and Literature at Bridgewater College, Flory skillfully explains the emphasis of many Brethren writers and their compositions. Contains 335 pages, brief index, no table of contents or illustrations.
LOVE FEAST, THE: Frank Ramirez, Brethren Press, 2000. A treasure of Brethren history and photographs depicting the observance of the Eucharist or Communion. Included are testimonial stories about Love Feast experiences with interpretation and many rich illustrations of utensils that were used during the service. Contains 164 pages, small bibliography, no index.
MARTYRS MIRROR: Thieleman J. van Braght, Herald Press, 1938. A well-documented record of Christian persecution from the first century until the rise of Anabaptism in the Sixteenth Century. A compelling account of men and women who gave their lives for what they believed. Contains 1,157 pages.
MENNO SIMON, COMPLETE WORKS OF: Translated by John Funk and originally published in 1871, with a Pathway Pub. 1983 reprint. Menno Simon, founder of the Mennonite movement, was a Dutch Catholic priest who broke with Rome and embraced anabaptist teachings, especially after one Sicke Freerks was executed at Leeuwarden in 1531, and particularly following the death of his anabaptist brother. Contains 740 pages.
NEW TESTAMENT BELIEFS AND PRACTICES: A BRETHREN UNDERSTANDING: Harold S. Martin, co-published by Brethren Press and the Brethren Revival Fellowship, 1989. Explores the beliefs and practices of groups whose Christian roots extend beyond the Reformation to the early Anabaptist and Pietist movements. A nice tool for questioning the biblical validity of ideas and measure the progress of discipleship. Contains 123 pages.
OLD BRETHREN, THE: James Lehman, Brethren Press, 1976. Interesting treatment of Brethren history in text-book fashion, but yet easily understandable. Contains 384 pages, wood block illustrations, and index.
PIETISM IN 17TH CENTURY GERMANY: COB-NET resource which is an extraction of the section on Pietism from the much larger European Origin of the Church of the Brethren. Designed with a minimum of graphical downloading, this resource should enable researchers to more quickly investigate the origin, history, personages, and legacy of Pietism.
SIMONS, MENNO: BEGINNINGS OF DUTCH ANABAPTISM: Abraham Friesen. Detailed examination of the beginnings and migration of Anabaptism in Switzerland, and how it became a religious theme in Holland after being espoused by the Dutch Catholic priest Menno Simons. Especially highlights the numerous historical events that influenced Simons and helped to mold his faith.
SPENER’S (PHILIP JACOB): RADICAL PIETISM: In 1666 a young pastor was called to become the head Lutheran pastor in Frankfurt am Main. He was well educated, holding the Doctor of Theology from the University of Strassbourg, and he had some strong notions that would soon galvanize Europe into another surge of reforming zeal--eventually reaching millions in every corner of the globe. Contents: the Pietist Revolt, Gottfried Arnold, Ernst Christoph Hochmann, Alexander Mack, and Historical Legacy.
STORIES FROM BRETHREN LIFE: J.E. Miller, Brethren Publishing House, 1942. Enjoyable reading of 137 stories on themes such as Early Leaders, The Dunker Way, Preachers & Sermons, Sisters Too, Following the Prince of Peace, Deacons in Action, Tabacco, Handicaps, and more. Contains 224 pages, Table of Content, no illustrations or index.
STUDIES IN BRETHREN HISTORY: Floyd Mallot, Brethren Publishing House, Elgin, 1954. A concise history of the COB from its beginnings in Germany to its rebirth in America with Brethren affiliated colleges. Contains charts, maps, illustrations, photocopies, and a rich appendix.
LEST WE FORGET AND TALES OF YESTER YEARS: Rolland Flory, Golden Rule Press, Orlando, 1973. Nice preservation of stories concerning our Brethren heritage. Memories grow dim after only a few generations and Flory has pleasingly collected many: “Perilous Journey, Open Letters, Doctrines, Buddies in War and Peace, Dunker Boy, Stowaway, Bark Cradle, and the Layman Pioneer.” Contains 229 pages, no illustrations or index.

Non-Fiction

A SIMPLE WAY OF LIFE FOR ALL: Paul Bechtold, Sutherland Printing Co., 1972. [ need description ]
BETWEEN THE FLOOD AND THE RAINBOW, Vol. 4, Nos. 1&2 - September 1996: Shantilal Bhagat, former director of Eco-Justice Concerns for the Church of the Brethren General Board. This is the first online publication of a newsletter by the General Board. Chapter titles include: Better Living Through Chemicals, Witches’ Caldron, Dioxin, Deadly By-Product, Chlorine, News from the National Council of Churches, Health Effects Associated with Dioxin, Glossary, What You Can Do, Resources, Acknowledgements, About This Newsletter.
BRETHREN BUILDERS OF OUR CENTURY: Multiple contributors with introduction by Rufus Bowman. This is a nice collection of biographical sketches (each written by a different writer) of prominent Brethren leaders. Included are I.N.H. Beahm, William Berry, Jacob Blough, Charles Bonsack, Mahlon Brougher, Martin Brumbaugh, George Carl, Franklin Crumpacker, Henry Early, Charles Ellis, George Falkenstein, Ezra Flory, John Flory, Edward Frantz, Samuel Hertzler, Emanuel Hoff, C.S. Ikenberry, Daniel Kurtz, John Lear, Daniel Lichty, John Miller, Henry Ober, Galen Royer, Ida Shumaker, Wilbur Stover, Isaac Taylor, Albert Wieand, J.H.B. Williams, Otho Winger, Joseph Yoder, plus a list of each contributing writer.
BRETHREN DRESS - A TESTIMONY TO FAITH: Rupel, Esther Fern, and William Eberly, Brethren Encyclopedia Inc., 1994. This is the first extensive treatment of the character and significance of the Brethren dress with over 220 illustrations.
BRETHREN HYMNBOOKS, THE HISTORY OF: Nevin Fisher, Beacon Publishers, 1950. Contains 153 pages. [ need description ]
BRETHREN IN CHINA: Frank Crumpacker, Brethren Publish House, 1937. Nicely written presentation of missionary efforts in mainland China before the communist revolution. Highlights dedicated workers and their influence on people of another culture. Emphasizes the significance of prayer, both on the mission field, and the supportive efforts from friends back home. Also describes the conditions of poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate public health. Contains 96 pages, a few maps, charts, lists, no index.
BRETHREN SOCIETY: Carl Bowman, Johns Hopkins Univ. Press, 1995. Reflects the culture of the Brethren in past years, and explores the progressive transformation of the Church of the Brethren, and endeavors to answer why the COB changed its identity much faster then other Anabaptist or similar groups, such as the Mennonites, Quakers, and Amish. Contains 491 pages, pictures, illustrations, charts, extensive footnotes, and nice index.
BRETHREN STORY CARAVAN: Mary Garber, House of the Church of the Brethren, 1950. It is directed toward a younger audience of readers (8-12 year old students), easy to read, and covers the very basics of denomination history. Most are written in story form for easy comprehension. Contains 79 pages, some illustrations, no index.
CARING: A HISTORY OF BRETHREN HOMES 1889-1989: Mary Rosenberger, Brethren Homes and Hospitals Association, 1989. History of the development of Brethren retirement communities in this century. Nice documentation and survey of programs and facilities with a list of homes and their administration (1989). Contains 208 pages, many photographs, list of homes, appendix, statistics, and bibliography.
CHILDREN’S CLOTHING OF THE 1800’S: Bobbie Kalman & David Schimply, Crabtree Publishing, 1994. A reflection on the appearance of children in the Nineteenth century, with descriptions of knickers, petticoats, crinolines, and skeleton suits. Contains 32 pages and illustrations.
COUNTING THE COST: William Willoughby, Brethren Press, 1979. The gripping story of Alexander Mack, the first minister of the Schwarzenau Brethren, and leader of the eight Pietists baptized by trine immersion in the Eder River in 1708. This action led to the founding of the Brethren movement, of which there are now five main Brethren Groups.
DUNKER BOY BECOMES ECUMENICAL, A: Bernard King, Center Square Press, 1997. Meet the boy who grew up on the 265-acre Homestead farm in the Southern culture of the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Read of his pietistic roots and his love of nature in the changing seasons of the year. The author pastored Churches of the Brethren from 1930 in Maryland, Illinois, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and Florida. In the objective story of his life, societal issues then and now are treated such as: race relations, adolescence, his mother’s death and the adjustments to a step-mother, mothers in public jobs, aging, community ministries, and family affairs.
GLIMPSES OF THE PAST: A STUDY OF BRETHREN HERITAGE: Comprehensive view of the historical elements that led to the founding of the Brethren in Europe and tracings of their migrations in America. It also provides a study of the lifestyle and beliefs of the Brethren and how issues have changed them over the years. Spiral-bounding is handy for the classroom. Contains 104 pages.
HERITAGE AND PROMISE: Bernard King, Center Square Press, 1997. Meet the boy who grew up on the 265-acre Homestead farm in the Southern culture of the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Read of his pietistic roots and his love of nature in the changing seasons of the year. The author pastored Churches of the Brethren from 1930 in Maryland, Illinois, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and Florida. In the objective story of his life, societal issues then and now are treated such as: race relations, adolescence, his mother’s death and the adjustments to a step-mother, mothers in public jobs, aging, community ministries, and family affairs.
INVITATION TO THE JOURNEY: MEMBERSHIP IN THE CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN: John David Bowman, Brethren Press, Elgin, Illinois, in 1990. A manual for church leaders who wish to understand the meaning and process of church membership from the perspective of Annual Conference statements and Brethren faith perspective. It includes not only definition and theological perspective but official denominational polity. Contains 68 pages and helpful index.
LIFE OF JOHN KLINE 1797-1864: Benjamin Funk, Brethren Publishing House, Elgin, 1900. Elder John Kline was a circuit-riding Brethren minister and missionary who pioneered the gospel into the small localities of Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. He was tragically shot and killed on June 15, 1864 while on horseback, presumably by civil war agents who suspected his movements as military spying. A monument marks the spot where he fell in martyrdom.
LITTLE MAN, THE: Dorothy, Sara, Carl Davis, Brethren Press, 1966. Children’s book detailing the life of Isaac Newton Harvey Beahm. Rich and colorful illustrations.
MOVING TOWARD THE MAINSTREAM: 20th Century Change Among the Brethren of Eastern Pennsylvania - Donald Fitzkee, Good Books, 1995. Lively reading which traces the gradual acculturation of the mostly rural, plain Brethren from the late 19th century to the increasingly urban religious Protestant mainstream of the present day, including a gradual move from the free ministry to salaried professionals.
PSALMS: John David Bowman, Brethren Press, 39 pages, printed in 1989. Designed to facilitate a small group’s 10 session exploration of the power of the Psalms to express the depths of human emotions, this book immerses the reader into Psalms 4, 8, 13, 32, 38, 51, 58, 90, 91, 93, 104, 123, 130, 133, 139, 142, 146, 147, and 150. Emotions examined include: Praise, anguish, despair, loneliness, anger, joy, guilt, awe, loneliness, and fear. No index.
RUTHIE, BRETHREN GIRL: Ruth Stokes, WinePress, 1996. This biography takes you back in time to life as it was during the Depression, when she was a child musician and radio entertainer. She lived through World War II and worked at a defense plant in the 1940s. You will enjoy her exciting journey into all-girls baseball as it was in the 1950s when she played for the "Norristown Nifties" and the “Philadelphia Fillies.” And she recounts her twenty-three years at Sportsman’s Paradise sporting goods store in Ambler, PA, working with her husband Harry. Ruth was a church volunteer, wife, mother, and businesswoman in a three-generation household which is in her opinion a true celebration of family!
SIDELIGHTS ON BRETHREN HISTORY: Freeman Ankrum, The Brethren Press, Elgin, Illinois, 174 pages, illustrations, photographs, printed in 1962. A lineal descendant of Alexander Mack, Ankrum pleasingly offers the human-interest approach to history with numerous “off the beaten path” short-stories about little known incidents in Brethren history.
STORIES FROM BRETHREN LIFE: J.E. Miller, Brethren Publishing House, 1942. Enjoyable reading of 137 stories on themes such as Early Leaders, The Dunker Way, Preachers & Sermons, Sisters Too, Following the Prince of Peace, Deacons in Action, Tabacco, Handicaps, and more. Contains 224 pages, Table of Content, no illustrations or index.
TALL MAN, THE: Dorothy & Carl Davis, Brethren Press, 1963. Children’s book detailing the life of John Naas. Rich and colorful illustrations.
YOUR EXPERIENCE AND THE BIBLE: Anna Mow, Harper & Row, 1973. Often referred to as the “matriarch” of the COB, Anna Mow lets the Bible tell its own story of God in search of man, and man's discovery of the meaning of that search. Warm, friendly, down-to-earth commentary on experience, witnessing, and humanitarian service.

Fiction

CHARIOTS IN THE SMOKE: Margaret Epp, Kindred Press, 1990. Fictional account tracing the history of one Anabaptist family from the Reformation until the present. Contains 380 pages.

Local History

A CENTENNIAL HISTORY: FIRST CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN HARRISBURG 1896-1996: Murray L. Wagner, Harrisburg, 1996. Celebrating our first 100 years of ministry, this 79 page book is a case study in how one urban Brethren congregation has tried to remain faithful to its Lord Jesus Christ in its changing context. Murray L. Wagner has placed the local church history in the context of events happening in the larger church as well as of secular activities of the nation and state. Covers the life of the congregation during the pastorates of each of its 21 pastors. In addition to listing pastors and community ministers it lists ministers, ordained and licensed here and Brethren Volunteer Service Workers how have served here.
A CHURCH IN MISSION: HANOVER CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN OBSERVES ITS CENTENNIAL: The Hanover Church of the Brethren will be l00 years old next March, 2002, and they are planning for an early observance of this important phase of the congregations life. Some of the families trace their beginnings in York County to the days before the County was formed (March, l749) as a separate political unit. Contains 300 pages, history, heritage, and genealogy, hardbound, $18.00 plus $2.00 for shipping and handling made payable to the: Hanover Church of the Brethren, 601 Wilson Aveue, Hanover, Pennsylvania 17331
ALLEGHENY PASSAGE: CHURCHES AND FAMILIES OF WEST MARVA DISTRICT 1752-1990: Emmert Bittinger, 1991. History and growth of Brethren churches in the Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia over a two century period. Contains 856 pages, illustrations, and index.
AMBLER CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN, EARLY RECORDS OF THE: Peggy C. Cramer (compiler), 1990. Founded in 1840 as the UPPER DUBLIN GERMAN BAPTIST CHURCH, the name change occurred in the 1920s. Volume includes: Membership Records 1852-1957, Council Minutes 1875-1940, Sunday School records 1896-1903, Aid Society Minutes 1911-1922, marriages, deaths, burials, plus announcements from Sunday Bulletins 1936-1949. Photos, index of 1,900 names. (Some volumes remaining at the church office.)
CHANGE AND CHALLENGE: HISTORY OF PA SOUTHERN DISTRICT: Elmer Gleim, Triangle Press, Harrisburg, 1973. A history of the COB in the Southern District of PA, authorized by the 1972 Southern District history committee. Nicely documented with a comprehensive section on each congregation including pictures of churches and pastors. Contains biographies of pastors and district notables, plus indexes, several appendices, and illustrations.
HISTORY OF LITTLE COVE OF FRANKLIN COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA: Harry E. Foreman and printed in 1967. This is a good companion book to the above history of Stone Bridge Church of the Brethren. It explains the settlement of this southern region of Franklin County. Included are histories of other churches in the area, tax lists, family histories, and cemetery records.
HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA: The District Committee, New Era Printing Company, Lancaster, PA, printed in 1915. The Eastern District appointed a committee of five individuals (S.R.Zug, John Herr, G.N.Falkenstein, J.G.Francis, and D.C.Reber) in 1911 to write the history of the Church of the Brethren in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN OF THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA: Jerome Blough, Brethren Publishing House, 1916. [need description]
HISTORY OF THE STONE BRIDGE CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN 1871-1971: Written by the historical committees of the Stone Bridge and Pleasant Ridge Churches of the Brethren. Hagerstown, Maryland: Dixie Press, Inc. This volume contains a good history of the Brethren from Schwarzenau to the Western Movement in America with a detailed history of the Licking Creek congregation, and sister churches; Pleasant Ridge, Welsh Run, and Damascus Christian Church. Extensive records of baptisms, deed transfers, marriages, remodeling, and families. Contains 95 pages.
LOST CREEK CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN: Two Hundredth Anniversary of - Written jointly by the Bicentennial Committee, 1990. Organized in 1790, the Lost Creek COB was previously composed of the Bunkertown and Free Spring Meeting Houses, and served by one pastor until 1989. It was the first congregation of PA Southern District to have a salaried, full-time pastor in 1916. Having outgrown the capabilities and responsibilities of one pastor, each church amicably decided to separate and pursue their own congregational identity. Many joint activities are still conducted.
OUT OF THE WILDERNESS 1780-1980: The Brethren and Two Centuries of Life in Central Pennsylvania - Earl Kaylor, Jr., Cornwall Books, 1981. Extensive history of the Church of the Brethren in Pennsylvania and the congregations of PA Middle District, including an overview of Juniata College. Contains 380 pages, illustrations, footnote section, and index.
SETTLEMENT OF THE BRETHREN ON THE PACIFIC SLOPE: Gladdys Muir, Brethren Publishing House, 1939. Detailed account of the westward movement of Brethren into the regions of Oregon, Washington, and California. Description of the Pacific Mission controversy. History of Lordsburg and La Verne Colleges.
TWO CENTURIES OF BROTHERSVALLEY CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN 1762-1962: H. Austin Cooper, 1962 & 1992 reprint. History of the Stony Creek Church of Somerset, Pennsylvania, with a generous presentation of the colonial background of the area. Contains 544 pages and index.

Music & Poetry

ADINGRAY MINISTRIES: Here is music for peace and social justice from a Christian perspective is available on the AdinGray release “Peace by Piece.” Original compositions by Jonathan Adin Shively and Barry Gray Atticks include such titles as “Power of the Towel” about foot washing, “The Edge” based on the 1994 NYC theme, “The One” dedicated to persons who work with disadvantaged children, and “You Have to Believe” confirming God's never-failing presence. Jonathan and Barry have been performing together for over a decade, having met as music majors at Elizabethtown College in 1986. See their ad in the Book Store.
FIGHT NO MORE FOREVER: Brethren songwriter Michael Stern, Odium Interuptus Music, 1995. Available in CD & audio cassette with printed lyrics. Victory Music Review wrote: “...tender and powerful lyrics..., subjects that matter ..., warm voice, beautiful poetry, and rich arrangements draw us into the heart of compassion ...”

Videos & Films

BRETHREN HERITAGE TOUR: Donald Durnbaugh, Brethren Encyclopedia, 1996. A personal tour of many European nations where early Brethren lived, worked, and died. It also features exchanges with members of the Schwarzenau Heritage Society, and the Mennonites of Krefeld, Germany.
BY WATER AND THE WORD: David Sollenberger, Church of the Brethren General Board. Founding and early life of the Brethren narrated by Jill Eikenberry.
JOURNEY IN JESUS' WAY: David Sollenberger. Brethren beliefs and practices in 13 segments in a 4 tape set.
MINISTRY OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE, THE: David Sollenberger, Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee. A review of the year-round work that takes place in order to make Annual Conference happen.

Periodicals

MESSENGER: Published by General Services Commission of the COB General Board, Elgin, Illinois. This monthly publication is the official voice of the COB. It is a veritable COB who's who & doing what. Rich with photographs, articles, and letters to the editor. It also includes input from the Associated Church Press, Religious News Service, and Ecumenical Press Service.
NEWSLINE: A weekly online newsletter of the Church of the Brethren posted most weeks by the Communications Dept. through cobnews@aol.com. To receive Newsline by fax, call (800) 323-8039, ext. 263; or to receive by e-mail, contact COBNews@AOL.Com. Newsline is produced by the General Board's News and Information Services. Excerpts may be reprinted in newsletters, magazines and other publications, including electronic publications, as long as Newsline is attributed as the source and the date of publication is listed.
WITNESS: A bi-monthly publication of the Brethren Revival Fellowship reaching about 10,000 people. Each issue is in a simple pamphlet form, with usually one main subject or Bible teaching, plus a major article of six to nine pages. Additionally, there are one page column articles such as “The Bread Basket” and “A Word About Words.”

This section became so large that we created a separate document and called it the Brethren Web Directory. It is a listing of the major Brethren web sites categorized in eight different sections.

“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments;
For length of days, and long life, and peace shall they add to thee.”
Proverbs 3:1-2