Christmas and Easter observed; simple celebration; no elaborate religious festivals
The Brethren in Christ observe the major Christian holidays: Christmas (celebrating Christ's incarnation and birth) and Easter (celebrating Christ's resurrection and the foundation of Christian hope).
These holidays are affirmed as commemorations of central Christian truths. However, the Brethren in Christ historically have practiced simple celebration without elaborate rituals, ornate decoration, or excessive materialism. The emphasis is on the spiritual meaning and the gathering of the church community rather than on secular accretions.
Other holidays (such as Pentecost, Thanksgiving, etc.) may be observed, but Christmas and Easter are the primary Christian observances. The denomination does not celebrate holidays derived from non-Christian traditions or that might draw the church away from simplicity and spiritual focus.
Key Distinctions
- Christmas easter observed:
- Pentecost and Thanksgiving may be observed; secular holidays de-emphasized
- Rationale:
- simple; emphasis on spiritual meaning, not materialism or elaborate ritual
Scripture References
Sources
- Brethren in Christ Church Manual and pastoral practices
- BIC hymnody and liturgical traditions
- Anabaptist and evangelical theological principles