Nuanced
Traditional Brethren skeptical of Christmas/Easter; contemporary variation.
Traditional Plymouth Brethren were skeptical of observing Christmas and Easter as unbiblical, human traditions not commanded in Scripture. Early Brethren emphasized that all days are alike to the Lord. However, contemporary Open Brethren show increasing diversity on this issue. Some assemblies maintain the traditional skepticism toward holidays; others celebrate Christmas and Easter as appropriate recognition of Christ's incarnation and resurrection. Exclusive Brethren remain more uniformly skeptical. There is no universal Brethren position.
Key Distinctions
- Christmas easter observed:
- generally rejected as formal observances
- Biblical feasts observed:
- not observed liturgically
- Rationale:
- scripture does not mandate calendar holy days; every day equally sacred
Scripture References
Sources
- Early Brethren writings
- Contemporary Brethren practice