While the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has a long history as a faith-based community practicing Christian values, misconceptions persist about us. Some people mistakenly refer to us as a Brethren Cult or use the label “Exclusive Brethren”. Both are incorrect. There is no Exclusive Brethren movement, or Exclusive Brethren community. The correct name for our Community, and the one we prefer, is the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.

We hope that transparency will help clear up confusion regarding our community and we want to provide clear answers to common questions such as:

• What are the Plymouth Brethren beliefs? We are mainstream Christians who believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God.
• What are the Plymouth Brethren rules? Our "rules" are often more guidelines about how to practically apply Biblical teachings, such as dressing modestly and acting with integrity.
• Do members pay Brethren Tax? Of course we do! Like many others, members of the Plymouth Brethren work hard, run ethical businesses, and pay standard government taxes. For a fuller explanation, please click here.
• How do we view technology? We advocate for the safe and ethical use of digital tools, ensuring that technology serves as a bridge for business and education rather than a distraction from God and our beliefs and values.

Many young people from our community attend OneSchool Global. OneSchool Global is an independent school network that is rich in technology, delivers the local curriculum in each of the 20 countries in which it operates, and has an innovative and award-winning learning and teaching framework. Generally, students from the PBCC community attend other state or independent schools until Year 2 and join OneSchool Global from Year 3 onwards.

At OneSchool Global, students develop the skills needed for the modern workplace.
Brethren students are able to interact freely and positively with children who share their Plymouth Brethren values. Having a school that they all go to helps in practical ways as well – given that one of our traditions is that we only eat with members of our church.

OneSchool Global is a school founded on the values of the Brethren. Education at OneSchool Global ensures children are ready to contribute to society when they graduate, with many going on to continue to earn and learn for years to come.

While we hold to the principle of separation, choosing to share religious fellowship and meals with those who share our Plymouth Brethren faith, this does not mean we are isolated. On the contrary, we are deeply committed to serving our local communities.

Our charitable arm, the Rapid Relief Team (RRT), is a testament to this. The Rapid Relief Team provides local support to those in crisis, offering catering and emergency relief to frontline workers and victims of natural disasters. This work is a direct reflection of our Plymouth Brethren beliefs regarding charity and care for our neighbours.

The family unit is an essential part of the lives of Plymouth Brethren members. Families are close-knit, with a strong emphasis on support, care and a shared sense of belonging.

Key themes that characterise family life include:

• Spending meaningful time together: Families recognise the importance of spending quality time together. Whether through playing music, singing, cooking or hosting others, these activities help to build lasting relationships and reinforce a sense of unity within the home and the wider Plymouth Brethren fellowship.
• Continuity, stability and belonging: Family relationships remain strong across generations. Young adults continuing to live at home until marriage supports this stability, allowing for guidance, care and a consistent sense of belonging.

These values reflect a way of life that champions the importance of family and fellowship.

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