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Archiver > BRETHREN > 1997-12 > 0882987337


From: JYoung6180 <>
Subject: Re: BROOKS
Date: Wed, 24 Dec 1997 13:15:37 EST


In a message dated 97-12-24 13:10:17 EST, you write:

> Would appreciate an explanation of "dunkard." I first found this term
> in the Norht Carolina Alligance, something like 'swear allengence and if
> the Dunkard won't then they can move out."
>
> I assume that this is a reference to baptizem by emmersion

Dori, yes it is a reference to the practice of baptism by emmersion. The
members of the Church of the Brethren were often referred to as Dunkers and
Dukards due to the practice of "dunking" three times in stream of water to
baptize. The rest of the quote you give would refer to the fact that Dunkers
would not "swear" alegience--the reference being to their refusal to take an
oath much like the Quakers.

Joan Myers Young

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