|
These words sum up the basic philosophy Rapp espoused. His followers pledged to combine worldly goods and live as one family - a spiritual entity separated by an invisible wall from the world. Joined in a communal bond with God, they were awaiting the return of Christ which they believed would occur in their lifetime.
In 1807, during a religious revival, members of the Harmonie Society, as this communal group became known, adopted celibacy in the belief that it would keep them more spiritually pure. Married members were encouraged to live together as brother and sister. The adoption of celibacy was actually a giant step toward the Society's ultimate extinction. |
 Continue History
|
