HOME LOCATIONS VISIT US ENGLISH SEARCH LIFE IN COMMUNITY OUR FAITH ARTICLES REACHING OUT CARING FOR EACH OTHER HOME LIFE IN COMMUNITY CARING FOR EACH OTHER Caring in Community In caring for each other, we remember especially those with burdens to carry: widows and widowers, orphans, the disabled and sick, those with mental and emotional ailments, and those who are lonely. We embrace the opportunity to demonstrate compassion in these circumstances. Safeguarding Our Children We are committed to providing a safe environment for all children who live or attend school on the Bruderhof. We have adopted a Safe Environment policy which is followed at all Bruderhof communities as well as in all Bruderhof schools. Single People In many parts of society single people can feel isolated and alone. In the Bruderhof community they are honored and respected in their singleness. Younger singles are typically welcomed into a family to share meals and activities when the single doesn’t have other plans. Older singles are also welcomed into a family but will also often have their own apartment where they can welcome guests and visitors. I didn’t choose celibacy, but through the grace of God I have learned to see the blessing in it.” Read Vivian Warren's reflections on singleness in community. People with Disabilities The Bruderhof views each person with disabilities as a gift from God, to be valued and cherished. We will go to any length to ensure that each person is cared for and included in the community throughout his or her life. That includes as much work and social participation as is possible. The young people in our community help care for and look after those with disabilities – a growth and life experience that profoundly touches many of our youth. The Elderly As members age, they continue to intimately participate in the lives of their extended families. There are always young people around to both assist and draw guidance from the elderly in our community. In modern society, the elderly can become invisible, and it can be difficult to support someone’s physical and mental needs inside the family. In the Bruderhof, every older person lives in and is cared for in his or her own home. Seniors continue to feel valued by working as many hours per day as they are able, typically doing so in the company of their friends. They are a tremendous resource, and we look to them constantly for counsel, wisdom, and perspective. Health Care We are grateful for the God-given help of medical science to preserve life and alleviate suffering. Our larger settlements have health-care clinics and dental clinics on-site, run by Bruderhof clinicians and administrators. Our health-care clinics act as primary care providers, practicing preventative care including regular check-ups and vaccinations, and treating anything we can handle on-site, such as setting a broken bone or managing a chronic condition. For more complex situations, we refer to area specialists and hospitals. The benefit of community means our staff can make house calls within the Bruderhof. The doctor often knows everyone in a family and may care for a patient for many years of that patient’s life. I chose family practice because I love the idea of accompanying a person from birth to death.” Dr. Monika Mommsen describes practicing medicine in community. “We have all known the long loneliness, and we have learned that the only solution is love, and that love comes with community.” Dorothy Day LEARN MORE about mutual care at the Bruderhof. FOUNDATIONS OF FAITH CONNECT ONLINE Learn more in an introductory Zoom session with a Bruderhof member SIGN-UP NOW COMMUNITY OF GOODS FAMILY EDUCATION CARING FOR EACH OTHER WORKING TOGETHER LIVING SIMPLY FAQS WELCOME TO THE BRUDERHOF We are an intentional Christian community of more than 3,000 people living in twenty-nine settlements on five continents. We are a fellowship of families and singles, practicing radical discipleship in the spirit of the first church in Jerusalem. We gladly renounce private property and share everything in common. Our vocation is a life of service to God, each other, and you. LIFE IN COMMUNITY Community of Goods Family Education Caring for Each Other Working Together Living Simply FAQs OUR FAITH Foundations Membership Baptism Our Journey Resources ARTICLES REACHING OUT Common Causes Our Initiatives Connecting Different Paths CONTACT US © 2021 Bruderhof Subscribe Privacy Policy Terms of Use Sign up for a free weekly email