A small but tenacious sect, known for their home-based worship and adherence to the original unstructured methods of the early church.
The Cooneyites, also known historically as “the Go Preachers” or “Tramp Preachers,” are a religious sect that emerged from a schism within the Two by Twos, a Christian-based new religious movement. The split occurred primarily due to differences in beliefs and practices, emphasizing the controversial and unique aspects of the group.
Founded by William Irvine around 1897 in Ireland, the original movement, often referred to by outsiders as “the Two by Twos,” “No-Name Church,” and other names, stressed a radical approach to Christianity. Irvine, originally part of the evangelical Faith Mission, preached a doctrine of radical itinerancy and communal living, drawing inspiration from the biblical instruction that Jesus’ disciples should preach in pairs, without material possessions, reflecting the lifestyle of the apostles as described in the New Testament. Although he was initially associated with the Faith Mission, William Irvine advocated for a complete separation from the world, following the principles outlined in Mark 6:7 and Matthew 10:9–10, which led to a dissociation from the Faith Mission and eventually the formation of the Two by Twos.
Edward Cooney, a key figure in the movement, sold his stake in a family business to become an itinerant preacher with Irvine, becoming prominent within the movement due to his fiery preaching and strict adherence to what he saw as the fundamentals of Christian life and doctrine. Cooney advocated for a return to early Christian practices, emphasizing open-air preaching, communal living, and the renunciation of personal property. His approach was notably anti-clerical, as he was vocally critical of established churches and paid clergy, which he viewed as contrary to the teachings of Christ. Cooney’s teachings were controversial, denouncing other churches and proclaiming that salvation could only be found through their group.
In 1928, Edward Cooney was expelled from the main group over doctrinal disputes, particularly his rejection of the “Living Witness Doctrine” which the main church emphasized. This doctrine posits that faith is primarily conveyed through observing the gospel lived out in the lives of others. Cooney, advocating for a more direct and personal interpretation of the scriptures and evangelism, continued his ministry independently of the Two by Twos, leading to the formation of the group now referred to as the Cooneyites.
Cooney’s followers continued to adhere to his teachings, emphasizing the necessity of personal sacrifice and a life of evangelism. The Cooneyites distinguished themselves by a rigorous adherence to Cooney’s interpretation of the gospel, which was less structured and more charismatic than that of the Two by Twos. They maintained a minimalist approach to church organization, sharply critiqued the professional clergy, and continued to meet in homes rather than adopting church buildings. Their practices included public baptisms by immersion and a staunchly anti-clerical doctrine, which eschewed formal religious hierarchies in favor of a more dispersed spiritual authority among believers. Leadership within the Cooneyites is not formalized; instead, it is based on the collective agreement of the community members.
Cooneyites are known for their discreet and somewhat secretive nature, often avoiding prolonged discussions about their beliefs with outsiders. Their meetings are characterized by modest dress and a focus on scriptural readings and hymns. They engage in outreach primarily among people who already identify as Christians, rather than focusing on evangelizing non-believers.
Doctrine-wise, the Cooneyites hold controversial views on several fundamental Christian beliefs. They have a unique interpretation of the Trinity and the nature of Jesus Christ, often not aligning with mainstream Christian doctrine. They see Jesus more as a role model or a pattern for living rather than a divine figure. This group also places a significant emphasis on the teachings and actions of their itinerant preachers, who are seen as modern-day apostles conveying the direct word of God. The Bible is considered a secondary, almost supportive document to the spoken word of these preachers. They believe that understanding the Bible requires the interpretation of their preachers, without whom the scripture remains a “dead book”.
Salvation for the Cooneyites is not assured through faith alone but is seen as a result of following the strict lifestyle and teachings propagated by the group. This includes a life devoid of personal possessions and a commitment to evangelism. They practice baptism by immersion and require a strict adherence to their community’s standards. Their approach to conversion is both exclusive and intensive, often requiring potential converts to sever ties with non-believing family members and renounce previous religious affiliations.
Globally, the Cooneyites remain a minor sect compared to the larger Two by Twos. with presence in parts of Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Their meetings are characterized by simplicity, focusing on scriptural readings, prayers, and hymns without the accompaniment of musical instruments. The leadership within the group is not formalized; instead, elder members who are more experienced typically take on a guiding role during their gatherings. This structure reflects Cooney’s original vision of a Christian community that operates without the trappings of institutionalized religion.
Despite their small size, the Cooneyites continue to practice and maintain the teachings of Edward Cooney, emphasizing a direct and personal engagement with the scriptures and a life of evangelical poverty, which they believe reflects the true spirit of early Christianity.
image via Wikimedia Commons
