BRETHREN, Moravian. See BOHEMIAN BRETHREN.
BRETHREN, White (Fratres Albati seu Candidi), were the followers of a leader about the beginning of the fifteenth century, who arrayed himself in a white garment; and as they also clothed themselves in white linen, they were distinguished by this title. Their leader was a priest from the Alps, who carried about a cross, like a standard, and whose apparent sanctity and devotion drew together a number of followers. This deluded enthusiast practised many acts of mortification and penance; endeavouring to persuade the European nations to renew the holy war, and pretending that he was favoured with divine visions. Boniface IX. ordered him to be apprehended and burnt at the stake, upon which his followers dispersed.