Apostolic Brethren

Apostolic Brethren, the name given to various sects which professed to live after the manner of the Apostles. The most notable was founded by Segarelli of Parma in 1260. In 1300 Segarelli was executed, and was succeeded by Dolcino, who, however, after a desperate resistance was taken by Bishop Raynerius, and was burnt in 1307. The doctrines of the Brethren were renunciation of marriage, property, and all worldly ties, and denunciation of papacy and the corruption of the Church.