History
The Episcopal Church’s oldest ministry is also one of its most effective
A group of 12 young men meeting regularly for prayer and Bible study at St. James Church, Chicago, Illinois, under the direction of Mr. James L. Houghteling, recognized a need in their parish and the community. They asked permission from their rector, the Rev. W. H. Vibbert, to form a group to reach out and minister to men, following the example of Andrew in bringing his brother Peter to meet Jesus. They brought men from rooming houses and the streets – even drunkards – to their Bible study. The first meeting of this new brotherhood was held on St. Andrew’s Day, 1883.
Who We Are & What We Are Doing
Today, the Brotherhood of St. Andrew is a worldwide ministry with chapters in Africa, Japan, the Philippines, Great Britain, Canada, Haiti, and the United States. Its 4,192 members in 357 U.S. chapters perform myriad ministries, from building and operating a medical mission ship to sponsoring homes for women and children in need. Brothers are quick to respond with both manpower and money during national emergencies, such as Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and during the deadly year of 2013, when an explosion devastated the town of West, Texas, a tornado leveled Moore, Oklahoma, and a tsunami struck northern Japan..
“But we have lasted so long because men like to get together for support, to offer service projects – and for fellowship.”
Brotherhood Chapters
A Brotherhood Chapter is the basic parish level organization. It is supported by a parish and typically has a “sponsor” attached to it. Sponsor examples would include a Diocesan Coordinator, Province President, or any other member of the National Council.
To form a chapter, there must be a minimum of five members, including the parish rector or other clergy. That clergyperson may be male or female. There are provisions for females to be members. They are called “Associate Members.”
Mission
To bring men and youth to Christ.
Vision
To inspire, empower and equip men and boys to fulfill the Great Commission.