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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, especially when a church attempts to discipline a member who either seeks to leave (or has left) the congregation.

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, or who has brought forth genuine concerns (e.g. church leadership engaged in false teachings, or financial or moral wrongdoing).

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.