Friends and Colleagues, Although the first few messages on this topic were fairly acceptable, the nature of the thread was such that it soon veered in the direction that we have long asked our members not to pursue. Perhaps it is time to review some points from the Welcome Message: * From PURPOSE AND USE: Because this list is for the discussion of Brethren history and genealogy, questions and answers regarding past customs and practices among the Brethren groups are welcome, but this is not a place for the advocacy, criticism or comparison of religious doctrines. * From A FEW FORBIDDEN THINGS: 2. SOCIAL AND/OR POLITICAL ADVOCACY. Although as individuals we may be sympathetic to such "causes", we need to keep in mind the Purpose of this List. While it is rare that an entire message is posted that is this far "off-topic," people sometimes forget that their signature lines may contain statements of such a nature. Remember the purpose and intent of this list does not include such controversy-inducing topics. There are any number of us who are fairly knowledgeable regarding Brethren History, especially in our own local geographic areas, and within our own denominations. Several people have provided helpful thoughts and ideas when someone asks for advice. This we do not wish to curtail. However, we respectfully request that we keep our opinions to ourselves regarding the MERITS of current practices, especially, and by extension, those of the past, in both the religious and the political areas. This List is not designed nor intended as a place for that kind of discussion. If, in the future, you feel urged to reply to someone with your personal opinion, and you send a message directly to that individual and no one else, we as moderators of this Brethren List have no control over that. But when you send it to all of us, then the tone and content of the message does become our business. That is when such "rules" as the two cited above will apply. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation! -- __________________________ James Shuman, Co-Moderator [email protected] __________________________