This collection consists of the dissertation of K. James Stein at Union Theological Seminary, submitted in 1965. There is a single volume of roughly 320 typed pages. Its focus is on the various Ecumenical currents within the Church of the United Brethren in Christ and its forerunners, along with its occasional attempts at union with denominations such as the Methodist Episcopal Church. Stein examines the attempts and explains their origins, progress and ultimate reasons (in attempts at union) for failure. The time-span largely focuses on the 19th century, with some early focus on the late-18th century. Stein depicts the ethos, and rural emphasis of the Brethren sects along with their involvement in foreign missionary work. He also makes a significant focus of the pietistic elements in Church of the United Brethren doctrine, attitude, and worship.