In the fall of 2022, the congregation began to reexamine our Core Values and statements that describe who Jesus is calling us to be together.  After more than a year of prayer, small group work, and Bible Study, these values and statements reflect who we strive to be, with God’s help.

Purpose Statement
In joyful community, we follow Jesus to embody God’s love with all our neighbors.

Core Values
*Extending Love: we model Jesus’ care and compassion for all people through deep listening and acceptance without judgment.

*Forming connections with God and our neighbors through: worship, prayer, faith formation, as we mature in our faith.

*Pursuing justice: we uphold the dignity of all people and act to promote peace and justice.

*Modeling generosity: we willingly and joyfully share our time, talents, and treasures – our resources.

*Embodying service: we serve each other and work to address and meet the needs of our local and global neighbors.

Vision Statement
Mountville Church of the Brethren will passionately live the transforming discipleship of Christ as we pursue God’s kingdom on Earth.

Mission Statement
Mountville Church of the Brethren strengthens community connections; expands outreach; and models Christ’s love, justice, and generosity to reflect God’s light in the world.

Who is the Church of the Brethren?

At the end of the 20th Century, the Church of the Brethren captured its identity with the phrase:
Continuing the work of Jesus. Peacefully. Simply. Together.

• The Church of the Brethren, founded in 1708, grew out dissatisfaction with the
  state churches in Germany. Anabaptist & Pietist traditions influenced early
  Brethren.
• The Brethren came to America (Germantown, PA) in 1717 seeking religious
  freedom. The Mountville congregation was established in 1881.
• We follow no creed, but rely on the New Testament as our rule and guide. We
  simply try to follow the teachings and example of Jesus.
• As an Historic Peace Church, we try to resolve conflicts peacefully. We have a
  deep commitment to justice and preserving human dignity. However, we also
  respect that not all consciences lead towards paths of pacifism. We are open
  to differences in this matter.
• In the past, Brethren were recognized for their plain dress and hesitation to be
  involved in the larger culture. Today, our “simple living” manifests itself in our
  conscious choices about how we spend our time and money. We seek to live
  responsibly and compassionately in our world.
• Community is deeply valued in the Church of the Brethren. Early Brethren
  studied the scriptures together to discern God’s will. They often sacrificed
  personal resources for the good of another. There is often a sense of “family”
  within our congregations as we worship, fellowship, and join together for acts of
  service.