Mennonites and Amish

In our quest to determine the difference between the Mennonites and Amish we went over to the Mennonite Information Center in Lancaster. They were very helpful in trying to explain to us, but there was also a small museum which outlined the origin of both groups as well as two short films which we watched. I’ll try to explain what I think I learned.

During the time of Martin Luther and the Reformation in Northern Europe, a small group felt that church membership could not be forced upon a person, but rather a person’s faith should be voluntary. This group was known as the Anabaptist because they “re-baptized” adults wishing to commit their lives to Christ who had been baptized as infants. This struggling group of believers soon came under the leadership of Menno Simons, thus the name Mennonites. In the late 1600s, a division occurred in the Mennonite church because some felt the Mennonites were drifting away from their original strict teachings. This group was led by Jakob Ammann, thus the name Amish. Both groups suffered persecution in Europe for their religious beliefs. William Penn invited them to come to what became Pennsylvania where they would be free to worship as they wished.

Today, the Mennonites have embraced modern technology and blend in with the communities in which they live. They drive cars, wear modest, but modern dress, and are educated in community schools, even colleges. The Amish still live a life close to the earth, working large farms, using propane instead of electricity, using horses and mules for transportation as well as pulling farm equipment, and dressing in their traditional clothing. Both groups lead lives of faith in Christ and service to others.

Laundry Day

As we drive about this community this simple life of the Amish is evident everywhere. We see laundry which seems to stretch for a mile drying in the sun. We see the women out there in the yards mowing or raking. They are even in the fields driving the mule team. I think the thing that is the most awesome to me is how a family can work a farm as large as these are without the aid of a tractor. I admire them for their dedication to their faith which requires them to be so different from the world about them.

Hitching post at the Post Office

Two horse garage

I am impressed by these people, but I haven’t the words to express adequately what I am experiencing. Look at the photos. I think you will be a little awestruck as well.