Schwarzenau

historical site, Germany

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July 13, 2026

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Schwarzenau, Germany, is historically significant as the origin point for the Brethren movement, a group of Protestant churches. In 1708, seven individuals, led by Alexander Mack, formed a brotherhood in Schwarzenau dedicated to following Jesus Christ's commandments. This group was influenced by Protestantism, Pietism, and Anabaptist teachings. They were initially known as New Baptists or Schwarzenau Baptists. Due to religious and political pressures, the congregation eventually dispersed, with many members migrating to Pennsylvania in the early 18th century.1

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Brethren
…that trace their origin to Schwarzenau, Hesse, where in 1708 a group of seven persons under the leadership of Alexander Mack (1679–1735) formed a brotherhood dedicated to following the commandments of Jesus Christ. The brotherhood was shaped by three influences—the Protestant faith in which its organizers had been raised, the…
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…that trace their origin to Schwarzenau, Hesse, where in 1708 a group of seven persons under the leadership of Alexander Mack (1679–1735) formed a brotherhood dedicated to following the commandments of Jesus Christ. The brotherhood was shaped by three influences—the Protestant faith in which its organizers had been raised, the…
Read More