“Separation from evil” defines a core belief of the Exclusive Brethren here in Melbourne. This underpins much of their way of life. Let me tell you more about the Exclusive Brethren.
The Exclusive Brethren’s origins trace back to Ireland in the late 1820s. Anglicans and other Christians began meeting informally. They celebrated the Lord’s Supper and discussed the Bible. These gatherings were non-denominational. They lacked presiding ministers or a set order of service.
Brethrenism soon spread to England. Plymouth and Bristol became key centers. Anthony Grove, John Nelson Darby, Benjamin Newton, and George Muller led the movement. The first meeting in Plymouth occurred in 1831. By 1845, the assembly had over 1,000 people. They became known as the Plymouth Brethren.
A major schism occurred in 1848. Darby sought uniformity. Newton and Muller asserted congregational independence. Darbyites became the Exclusive Brethren. Their opponents were the Open Brethren. Splits continued among the Exclusive Brethren after Darby’s death in 1882.
Itinerant preachers spread Brethren ideas. They reached British colonies, the United States, and Europe. Dating the start of Brethrenism in Australia is difficult. It grew from lay gatherings. There was no central hierarchy. Both Open and Exclusive groups existed in Melbourne in the 1850s. An assembly formed near Nelson, New Zealand, in 1863. Assemblies emerged in other colonies later.
In 1888, Sydney had eight assemblies. Newcastle had three. Brisbane had three. Queensland had at least seven provincial assemblies. Overseas preachers often influenced these formations. Some stayed in the colonies for years. John Nelson Darby visited Sydney and Melbourne in 1876. Charles Perrin came from Dublin in 1866. He worked in Melbourne, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Walter Douglas arrived in Melbourne from America in 1866. Other evangelists included William Brown and Edward Moyse in the 1860s. Harrison Ord and Thomas Manders preached in the 1870s. George Grove and Frank Brewster followed in the 1880s.
John Nelson Darby was a key figure. He led the early Brethren and later the Exclusives. Jules Berney thanked Darby for writing to Melbourne and Adelaide in 1878. James G Deck wrote to Darby about a possible conference in Wellington. He mentioned sectarian problems in Nelson and Darby’s visit to New Zealand. James F Capper wrote to Darby about his visit to New Zealand. He noted the Winters had gone to Melbourne.
Ransome Wallace Cooper was another notable figure. He was born in North London. He qualified as an analytical chemist. He married Grace Pledger. They shared evangelical missions in Europe. After a visit to New Zealand in 1950-1955, they settled there in 1966.
The Exclusive Brethren maintain a unique identity. They often operate businesses. These businesses support the religion. The religion supports the business. This creates a symbiotic relationship. Members may be discouraged from attending university. They are expected to take up careers in business.
Here at the Exclusive Brethren, the story is one of faith. It is also one of community and separation. Their history in Melbourne reflects a global movement. It has adapted and evolved over time. Their beliefs shape their lives. They also influence their place in the wider world.