Civic holidays, birthdays, honoring the American flag, patriotic songs, and military service are rejected. Baptism and the Lord s evening meal are observed as symbols but not sacraments. The practice of faith healing is forbidden. Miraculous healing is seen as having ended in the first century. No genetic counseling is condoned.
Sterilization is forbidden.
Artificial insemination is forbidden, although one source says that it is permitted using the husband s sperm. All sexual activity outside of marriage is forbidden, and sexual immorality is seen as permanently condemning the believer. The group s official literature has been inconsistent, but at least at some points has taught that a woman who has been raped is condemned by that fact. Some statements indicated that her status would only change if she didn't scream and fight against the attacker. Obviously how rape is viewed would be very important in caring for a woman who has been sexually assaulted.