Customer Reviews

Moving Toward the Mainstream: 20th Century Change Among the Brethren of Eastern Pennsylvania

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This well-researched and well-written book was a pleasant surprise for me. I was raised in the Church of the Brethren, but left it over 40 years ago. Now in reading this, I'm understanding and appreciating my heritage. The story of the Brethren, and the enormous changes they made in 100 years...the struggle to remain separate from the "world", yet to witness to the world...the questions of dress; of biblical interpretations; of love feasts and baptisms and church architecture...are well discussed and very interesting. I imagine all denominations have had to struggle with similar questions. I think this book would be enjoyed by anyone who is interested in Protestant church history. It is a MUST for all Church of the Brethren members!

Yes, this is a history book, but it's so much more than that. Don Fitzkee writes with a style that makes the bare facts INTERESTING. While all the pertinent facts are contained here in detail, this is written by one who is obviously a great storyteller.

Since "oral tradition" plays such a huge part in the history of religion in America as well as the current climate of most congregations not only in the Church of the Brethren, but in all other denominations as well, this book is a jewel.

Every member of the Church of the Brethren should read it for sure, but those of other faith traditions will find it interesting and learn a great deal from the author's ability to tell the tale in such a way as well!

Part of the message here is: Aren't we swell for recognizing the error of our ways so soon? But more than that, it's about how we can hurt one another along the way if we are not very careful and considerate and PRAYERFUL. Fitzkee doesn't take sides, but simply and beautifully tells the story of what happened so that we can all learn and learn well.