“What does it mean to follow Jesus with service, simple living, and active peacemaking?” That is the guiding question at Washington City Church of the Brethren. This small friendly church is located on Capitol Hill. It stands just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol Building.
Washington City Church of the Brethren is one congregation. It exists within the broader Christian denomination Church of the Brethren. Locals often shorten the name to “The Church of the Brethren”. The church was established in 1894. Its building was completed in 1899.
The Church of the Brethren uses a simple tagline. It describes their common church life. The tagline is “Continuing the work of Jesus. Peacefully. Simply. Together.” This means they try to live as Jesus did. They focus on love and service.
The word “brethren” refers to a community. It includes people of all genders. These people chose to live like Jesus. The Church of the Brethren started three centuries ago in Germany. It still attracts people who want to continue Jesus’ work. They value faithfulness and loving service. The church does not subscribe to a formal creed. Members simply try to do what Jesus did.
Jesus offered more than inspiring words. He understood people’s needs. These needs included food, health, rest, comfort, friendship, and acceptance. Jesus showed his followers how to trust. He taught them how to care and help others.
Brethren seek guidance in the scriptures. They work toward reconciliation. This applies to warring nations or personal disagreements. They practice peaceful living. The church helps repair the ravages of poverty and catastrophic events worldwide. Along with their faith, they bring food, books, classes, tools, and medicine. Living peacefully means treating each person with respect. They believe all human beings deserve compassion.
Years ago, Brethren dressed plainly. Today’s Brethren live very much in the world. They work in many occupations. They use the latest technology. They try to simplify their lives. They think carefully about their daily choices. Simplicity guides their decisions. How will they conduct business? How will they raise their children? How will they spend their leisure time? How will they tend to natural resources? How will they use their money? How can they live comfortably without excess?
Brethren act in community. They worship, serve, learn, and celebrate together. They study the Bible. They discern God’s will. They make decisions as a group. Each person’s voice matters. Because Jesus urged unity, Brethren work alongside other denominations. They engage in worldwide missions and outreach. Their congregations welcome all. They invite them to share in Christian discipleship. They promote life in community. They encourage fulfillment in service. The community extends from the congregation to the district. It reaches the church as a whole.
The Washington City Church of the Brethren seeks justice. It promotes wholeness and community. It does this through the gospel of Jesus. The church values peacemaking and social justice. It also values simple living. The congregation operated the Brethren Nutrition Program for 37 years. This program provided lunch to neighbors in need.
Smallness has brought openness to change for Washington City Church. It has created a willingness to experiment with new models. They explore different styles of worship. Smallness has provided space to build intimate relationships. The church is rebounding and renewing. It is rediscovering itself. It is a church in transition.
Washington City Church of the Brethren stands on ancestral lands. These lands belonged to the Nacotchtank and Piscataway Peoples. The church acknowledges this history. Washington D.C. is a present-day home to indigenous people. These people come from many Native American tribal nations. The church pays respect to the past, present, and future elders. These elders care for this region.