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The concept of excommunication is discussed in the [[New Testament]] and was made famous during the [[Middle Ages]] and [[Renaissance]] periods in references to the [[Catholic Church]]. It continues to be practised into the 21st century.

The concept of excommunication is discussed in the [[New Testament]] and was made famous during the [[Middle Ages]] and [[Renaissance]] periods in references to the [[Catholic Church]]. It continues to be practised into the 21st century.

A similar practice is utilized by churches such as the [[Conservative Mennonites]], [[Amish]], and some non-denominational churches, which is often called 'shunning', 'disfellowshipping', 'church discipline', or similar terms.  The practice has been criticized by both liberal Christians and genuine ones.

A similar practice is utilized by churches such as the [[Conservative Mennonites]], [[Amish]], and some non-denominational churches, which is often called 'shunning', 'disfellowshipping', 'church discipline', or similar terms.  The practice has been criticized by both liberal Christians and genuine ones, especially when a church attempts to discipline a member who either seeks to leave (or has left) the congregation.

Cults such as the [[Jehovah's Witnesses]]<ref>Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. "Discipline That Can Yield Peacable Fruit" in ''The Watchtower''; (April 15, 1988) [http://www.watchtower.org/e/19880415/article_01.htm]</ref> also practice a similar form of excommunication.  However, they also encourage family and friends of the person disciplined to totally shun the person.

Cults such as the [[Jehovah's Witnesses]]<ref>Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. "Discipline That Can Yield Peacable Fruit" in ''The Watchtower''; (April 15, 1988) [http://www.watchtower.org/e/19880415/article_01.htm]</ref> also practice a similar form of excommunication.  However, they also encourage family and friends of the person disciplined to totally shun the person.