As members of the Christian faith, our lives are guided by the Holy Bible.

We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, provided by God for man. The Bible is therefore an essential companion and authoritative guide for our members.

Our members gather at Gospel Halls several times a week to study the Bible, share fellowship, and strengthen our commitment to the Plymouth Brethren faith.

Then, every Sunday, our congregations join each other to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, also known as Holy Communion.

This is a cornerstone of our Christian faith and is a central event in our week.

Here, we come together in unity to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and strengthen the bonds of fellowship.

The Doctrine of Separation is a teaching found in the Bible that is followed by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.

For those who may be new to Christian practices, it might sound unusual at first. It’s understandable, but there is nothing mysterious about it.

The doctrine reflects the guidance of Scripture to live in a way that honours God, maintaining purity in our beliefs and actions.

By following this principle, we seek to distance ourselves from practices and influences that conflict with guidance from the Bible, while remaining fully engaged in family, work, and community life.

While our interpretation is slightly different, it is fair to say that Christians of many denominations separate themselves from the world to some extent – avoiding certain activities, entertainments or language that conflicts with their religious beliefs.

The Plymouth Brethren’s Doctrine of Separation does not mean withdrawing from the world.

Instead, it helps our members to stay close to God by keeping a clear focus on Christian principles, with the Lord’s Supper at the heart of our faith and fellowship.

This practice does not imply that we see ourselves as superior to others.

While upholding Plymouth Brethren beliefs and Plymouth Brethren values, our members fully engage with their neighbours and local communities, including through their charitable work.

Family life sits at the heart of the Plymouth Brethren faith, shaping the daily experiences, relationships, and values of members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.

In the church, family extends beyond the immediate household. Relationships with extended family members are strong and actively maintained, creating a close-knit network of support and companionship.

Much of life is shared together, whether through everyday routines or time spent in leisure. Families regularly come together to enjoy music and singing, to cook and share meals, and to take part in outdoor activities.

These moments reflect the Plymouth Brethren's beliefs in unity, fellowship, and the importance of spending time together.

The home is also where values are lived out in practical ways.

Parents play a central role in teaching children the importance of kindness, respect, and responsibility. Through daily life, children learn what it means to live according to the Plymouth Brethren faith, observing how these principles guide decisions, relationships, and behaviour.

Beyond the home, these same values extend into the wider community. Members place a strong emphasis on being helpful, caring, and compassionate people and community members.

Whether offering practical assistance or giving time through volunteering and charitable work, families are encouraged to contribute positively to the communities in which they live. This outward expression of care reflects the Plymouth Brethren values and demonstrates that family life is closely connected to a broader sense of responsibility and service.

In this way, family and the home form the foundation of life in the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church as a place where faith is nurtured, relationships are strengthened, and values are lived out daily.

Video: Faith and the Family Unit - Arne and Janet Wallace

People of every religion and no religion all have their own beliefs and customs when it comes to marriage. Each is different and all should be respected.

In the Plymouth Brethren, marriage is a cornerstone of life within our faith, providing the foundation for family and community life. It is regarded as a sacred institution and is approached with care, a strong sense of commitment, and our belief in living according to Scripture.

Members of our church all understand marriage as a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, entered into voluntarily, and based on mutual respect, shared values, and a desire to build a life together grounded in faith.

Our faith provides guidance that supports strong and lasting relationships once members of our church choose their partner. It helps to provide a consistent framework for marriage and family life, encouraging unity in belief and stability in the home.

One tradition that we have, is that marriages are often held on Tuesday. This stems from John 2 which references a marriage occurring on the third day.

Meals and Marriages: The Hales brothers on the way of life of the Plymouth Brethren

Living a life guided by Scripture and strong moral principles is a fundamental part of the Plymouth Brethren faith.

Members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church seek to reflect the teachings of the Bible through their daily actions and choices.

The beliefs of members emphasise the importance of conduct that aligns with Scripture. This includes being truthful in work and personal life, showing kindness and patience to others, and acting responsibly within the wider community. These principles are lived out day by day, shaping how members interact with family, colleagues, and neighbours.

The Church’s charitable-arm, Rapid Relief Team (RRT), was established to help our members express the Christian values of care and compassion.

Since it was established in 2013, Rapid Relief Team has grown to operate in 14 countries with support from more than 16,500 volunteers from our community.

Today, Rapid Relief Team plays a valuable role in helping the local communities of our members. This includes providing on-the-ground support to first responders and those affected by disasters, as well as assisting young people, individuals facing health and disability challenges, and those experiencing homelessness, poverty, or hardship.

Video: RRT Global Corporate Video

Humility is an equally important part of life in the Church.

Our members are encouraged to undertake a thoughtful approach to life by living faithfully and supporting others.

In this context, Plymouth Brethren ‘rules’ are understood as shared guidance that helps members maintain a consistent and considerate approach to life. Rather than being restrictive, this guidance provides a framework that supports moral decision-making and encourages individuals to act with care, discretion, and respect in all circumstances.

Ultimately, morality and humility are closely connected within the Plymouth Brethren faith and guide members to live a life that reflects their beliefs, marked by a genuine commitment to helping our communities.

Video: Raising our Voices – Bill & Hannah Baker