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Unlock the Secrets of Amish Success: 10 Virtues that Will Transform Your Life

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish,Amish Life,Uncategorized

Unlock the Secrets of Amish Success: 10 Virtues that Will Transform Your Life

The Amish are a religious group known for their traditional way of life and strong sense of community. They value simplicity, humility, and a strong connection to God. One of the key elements of the Amish lifestyle is the emphasis placed on certain virtues, which are considered essential for living a good and moral life.

Respect For Authority

One of the most important virtues among the Amish is respect for authority. The Amish believe that authority is a gift from God and that it is necessary for maintaining order and harmony within the community. Children are taught from a young age to respect their parents and elders, and to obey the rules of the community. This respect for authority extends to all aspects of life, including work, church, and family.

The Amish teach respect for authority through a combination of teachings from the Bible, community customs, and daily interactions. Children are taught to respect their parents, elders, and other leaders within the community. This respect is demonstrated through obedience, deference, and a willingness to submit to the authority figures in their lives.

One example of the Amish demonstrating respect for authority is during the trial of the shooter in the 2006 Amish school shooting. Despite the tragic loss of their loved ones, the Amish community publicly forgave the shooter, Charles Roberts, and offered support to his family. They also reached out to the Roberts family and attended his funeral, demonstrating their belief in the importance of forgiveness and the value of showing compassion even towards those who have caused them harm.

Another example is when an Amish community had to deal with a barn that was destroyed by fire. The community leaders came together and discussed a plan of action to rebuild the barn. The members of the community had to follow the leaders’ instructions, and they worked together to rebuild the barn in a short period of time. This demonstrates how the Amish community follows the authority figures in their community, even in difficult situations.

In addition, Amish children are taught to respect the laws of the land, even if they disagree with them. They do not engage in protests or political activities, they willingly pay taxes and obey the laws of the government, again, demonstrating their respect for authority.

Overall, the Amish view respect for authority as a fundamental virtue that is necessary for maintaining order and harmony within the community. They believe that authority is a gift from God and that it is necessary for living a good and moral life.

Amish Life

Hard Work & Diligence

Hard work and diligence are also highly valued among the Amish. The Amish believe that work is a gift from God and that it is a means of glorifying Him. They place a strong emphasis on manual labor and self-sufficiency, and believe that through hard work and perseverance, one can achieve great things.

The Amish value hard work and diligence as important virtues that are necessary for leading a fulfilling and productive life. From a young age, Amish children are taught the importance of hard work and are expected to contribute to the community through their labor. This includes participating in farming, construction, and other manual labor tasks.

One example of how the Amish families manage their farms. They work hard to take care of their land, animals, and crops, often from dawn to dusk, and they take pride in the fruits of their labor. They practice traditional farming methods, such as using horse-drawn plows and hand tools, which require a significant amount of physical labor.

In addition, the Amish value honesty and integrity, which is demonstrated through their work ethic. They are committed to doing the best job possible, even if it means putting in extra effort, and they take pride in their work. They believe that hard work and diligence are not only necessary for their livelihood but also for their spiritual growth.

Overall, the Amish view hard work and diligence as virtues that are essential for leading a fulfilling and meaningful life. They believe that through hard work and diligence, one can achieve a sense of purpose and contribute to the well-being of the community.

Honesty & Integrity

Honesty and integrity are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that honesty is the foundation of all relationships and that it is essential for building trust within the community. Children are taught to be truthful and to take responsibility for their actions.

The Amish value honesty and integrity as important virtues that are necessary for living a moral and ethical life. They believe that honesty and integrity are essential for building trust and maintaining relationships within the community. From a young age, Amish children are taught the importance of being truthful and honest in their interactions with others.

One example of the Amish demonstrating honesty and integrity is in their business practices. The Amish are known for their commitment to honesty and integrity in their business dealings. They are known to be fair and honest in their transactions and they keep their promises. They believe that honesty and integrity are essential for building trust with their customers and maintaining a good reputation.

Another example of this virtue is how the Amish take care of their land. They believe in using sustainable farming practices and they make sure that their land is not overworked or overused. They also keep accurate records of their land and animals to ensure that they are not taking more than what is fair. They are known for their commitment to maintaining the integrity of their land and preserving it for future generations.

In addition, the Amish place a strong emphasis on living a simple and modest life, which is reflected in their dress code and the way they live. They believe that living a simple and modest life is an expression of honesty and integrity. They believe that by avoiding the trappings of materialism, they are able to remain true to themselves and their values.

Overall, the Amish view honesty and integrity as essential virtues that are necessary for leading a moral and ethical life. They believe that by being truthful and honest in their interactions with others, they can build trust and maintain strong relationships within the community.

Self-reliance & Self-control

Amish Laundry

Self-reliance and self-control are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that it is important to be able to take care of oneself and to make good decisions. Children are taught to be independent and to take responsibility for their own actions.

The Amish value self-reliance and self-control as important virtues that are necessary for leading a responsible and disciplined life. They believe that by being self-reliant and able to control one’s emotions, one can make better decisions and navigate life’s challenges. From a young age, Amish children are taught the importance of being independent and responsible for their actions.

One example of the Amish demonstrating self-reliance and self-control is in their approach to problem-solving. The Amish have a strong sense of community and they rely on one another for support and guidance. However, they also believe in being self-reliant and solving problems on their own. They are taught to think critically and to be resourceful in finding solutions to problems.

Overall, the Amish view self-reliance and self-control as important virtues that are necessary for leading a responsible and disciplined life. They believe that by being self-reliant and able to control one’s emotions, one can make better decisions and navigate life’s challenges.

Humility & Modesty

Humility and modesty are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that humility is the key to a good and meaningful life. Children are taught to be humble and to put the needs of others before their own.

Humility and modesty are central values in the Amish community. These values are taught through the community’s religious beliefs, practices, and way of life.

One example of how the Amish teach humility and modesty is through their practice of “plain dress.” This means that the Amish dress in a simple and unadorned manner, avoiding flashy or trendy clothing. This practice is meant to promote humility by discouraging vanity and pride in one’s appearance.

Another way the Amish demonstrate humility is through their practice of nonresistance, meaning they avoid physical confrontation and do not believe in violence. This is believed to promote humility by avoiding the pursuit of power and dominance over others.

Compassion & Charity

Hard Work

Compassion and charity are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that it is important to be kind and compassionate to others, and to help those in need. Children are taught to be generous and to share with others.

The Amish teach compassion and charity through their religious beliefs and practices. They believe in living a simple and humble life, helping those in need, and treating others with kindness and respect.

The Amish belief in compassion and charity is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, and they put these values into practice by helping those in need, being kind and respectful to others, and striving to live a simple and humble life.

Faith & Devotion To God

Faith and devotion to God are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that faith is the foundation of all things and that it is essential for living a good and moral life. Children are taught to have faith in God and to follow His teachings.

Faith and devotion to God are central values in the Amish community, which are taught and reinforced through the community’s religious beliefs, practices, and way of life.

The Amish have a strong belief in the Bible, and they strive to live their lives according to its teachings. They attend church services every other Sunday, and also have a prayer before and after their meals. They also have a strong emphasis on living a pious life, and they are expected to follow a strict code of conduct, which is meant to reflect their devotion to God.

One specific way the Amish demonstrate faith and devotion to God is through their practice of “nonconformity” which means they avoid the trappings of modern society and strive to live a simple, pious life that is focused on God and community. They believe that by avoiding the materialism and distractions of modern life, they can better focus on their faith and their relationship with God.

Simplicity & Humility

Simplicity and humility are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that simplicity is the key to a good and meaningful life. Children are taught to be simple and to put the needs of others before their own.

Simplicity and humility are closely related values in the Amish community and they are taught through the community’s religious beliefs, practices, and way of life. The Amish believe that living a simple and humble life is a way to show devotion to God and to avoid the distractions and temptations of the modern world.

One way the Amish teach simplicity is through their practice of “plain dress” which means they dress in a simple and unadorned manner, avoiding flashy or trendy clothing. This practice is meant to promote humility by discouraging vanity and pride in one’s appearance. They also practice simplicity in their daily lives by avoiding the use of modern technology and conveniences, such as electricity and cars, in order to maintain a simple way of life that is focused on God and community.

Simplicity and humility are closely related values in the Amish community, and they are taught and reinforced through the community’s religious beliefs, practices, and way of life. The Amish believe that living a simple and humble life is a way to show devotion to God and to avoid the distractions and temptations of the modern world.

Forgiveness & Patience

n BuildingAmish Bar

Forgiveness and patience are also important virtues among the Amish. They believe that it is important to forgive and to be patient with others. Children are taught to be forgiving and to be patient.

In October 2006, a shooting occurred at an Amish school in the Nickel Mines community of Bart Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The shooter, Charles Carl Roberts IV, entered the West Nickel Mines School and took hostages, before shooting and killing five schoolgirls aged 6–13 and injuring five others. He then committed suicide. The shooting was widely covered by the media and was met with shock and grief, both locally and nationally. The Amish community responded with forgiveness and compassion towards the shooter and his family, and provided support to the victims and their families. The Amish community also donated money and materials to help rebuild the school, and several families who lost children in the shooting took in children who were orphaned by the tragedy.

Responsibility & Accountability

Responsibility and accountability for one’s actions is also an important virtue among the Amish. They believe that it is important to take responsibility for one’s actions and to be accountable for them. Children are taught to be responsible and to take responsibility for their actions.

Responsibility and accountability are important values in the Amish community, which are taught and reinforced through the community’s religious beliefs, practices, and way of life. The Amish believe that taking responsibility for one’s actions and being accountable to God and to the community is essential to living a virtuous life.

One way the Amish teach responsibility is through their practice of “Ordnung” which is a set of unwritten rules and customs that govern the behavior and conduct of Amish individuals and families. The Ordnung ensures that everyone in the community is held to the same standards and is held accountable for their actions.

Another way the Amish teach responsibility is through their emphasis on hard work and self-sufficiency. The Amish believe that by working hard and being responsible for their own livelihood, they are demonstrating their accountability to God and to the community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Amish place a strong emphasis on virtues such as respect for authority, hard work and diligence, honesty and integrity, self-reliance and self-control, humility and modesty, compassion and charity, faith and devotion to God, simplicity and humility, forgiveness and patience, and responsibility and accountability for one’s actions. These virtues are considered essential for living a good and moral life and for maintaining harmony within the community.

Who Are The “Black Bumper” Mennonites?

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish,Amish Life,Mennonites

Black Bumper Mennonites

The “Black Bumper” Mennonites are a subgroup of the Old Order Mennonite community, known for their rejection of modern technology and their adherence to traditional values. The term “black bumper” refers to the fact that these Mennonites use cars and trucks that have black rubber bumpers instead of the traditional chrome bumpers, which serves as a visible marker of their rejection of modernity and their desire to maintain a more traditional lifestyle.

Black Bumper Mennonites are generally farmers and live in rural communities. They adhere to traditional dress codes, which typically involve plain clothing for men and women. They also avoid using modern conveniences such as electricity, and telephones. They tend to be self-sufficient and have a strong sense of community. They have a strong faith, and their religious beliefs often shape their daily lives and decision making.

One of the defining characteristics of Black Bumper Mennonites is their rejection of modern technology. This includes not only the use of modern vehicles but also the avoidance of electricity and other forms of technology that are commonly used in everyday life. This can be seen as a way of maintaining a more simple and traditional lifestyle, free from the distractions and temptations of the modern world.

Another defining characteristic of Black Bumper Mennonites is their adherence to traditional dress codes. Men and women typically dress in plain clothing, without ornamentation or bright colors. This is in line with their belief in simplicity and humility, and it is also a way of distinguishing themselves from the broader society.

Education is also limited for Black Bumper Mennonites. They tend not to engage in higher education and usually limit their education to primary education. This is in line with their belief that education beyond the basics is not necessary for living a simple, traditional lifestyle. They also tend to avoid contact with the outside world and forms of modern communication such as the internet.

Despite their rejection of modern technology, Black Bumper Mennonites are not isolated from the broader society. They often participate in the local economy and maintain relationships with non-Mennonite neighbors and businesses. However, they do maintain a strong sense of community and tend to rely on each other for support and assistance.

In conclusion, the “Black Bumper” Mennonites are a subgroup of the Old Order Mennonite community known for their rejection of modern technology and adherence to traditional values. They live in rural communities, are farmers, and maintain a strong sense of community and faith. Their rejection of modern technology and adherence to traditional dress codes are visible markers of their desire to maintain a more traditional lifestyle. Education is usually limited to primary education and they tend not to engage with the outside world. Despite this, they maintain a relationship with the broader society and participate in the local economy.

Ten Things To Do Before Visiting Amish Country

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish,Amish travel,Ohio,Pennsylvania,Travel,Uncategorized

Ten Things To Do Before Visiting Amish Country

Are you planning a visit to Amish Country? This picturesque region of the United States is home to one of the most unique and fascinating cultures in the world. The Amish people, known for their simple and traditional way of life, have captured the hearts of many visitors with their strong sense of community and deep religious beliefs.

To make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled a list of 10 things to do before you go.

  1. Research the culture: Before visiting Amish Country, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of the Amish people. This will give you a deeper understanding of the way they live and help you to appreciate the unique aspects of their lifestyle.
  2. Plan your transportation: The Amish do not use cars or buses, so the best way to get around is by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage. Be sure to plan your transportation in advance so that you can experience the true Amish way of life.
  3. Dress modestly: The Amish dress in a simple and modest manner, so it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting their communities. Avoid bright colors, tight clothing, and revealing clothing, and opt for something comfortable and casual.
  4. Respect their privacy: The Amish are a private people and do not like to be photographed or stared at. Be sure to ask permission before taking any photographs and avoid staring or pointing at the locals.
  5. Learn about the history: The Amish have a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Learn about the history of the Amish people and the reasons for their beliefs and customs. This will help you to understand the culture and appreciate the significance of the visit.
  6. Sample the local cuisine: Amish cuisine is known for its delicious, hearty, and simple fare. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies such as shoofly pie, chow-chow, and homemade bread.
  7. Visit an Amish farm: One of the best ways to experience the Amish way of life is to visit an Amish farm. You can watch the farmers at work, learn about their crops and animals, and sample some of the delicious homemade products.
  8. Learn about their religion: The Amish are deeply religious people, and their beliefs play a significant role in their daily lives. Learn about the history of their religion, the reasons for their customs, and the significance of their beliefs.
  9. Make a reservation with a tour company: A good tour company will provide you with a pleasant day of sight-seeing and shopping, and they do the driving.
  10. Shop local: The Amish are known for their craftsmanship, and you will find a wide variety of handmade products in the local shops. Be sure to take home a piece of Amish Country with you by purchasing a handmade quilt, a piece of furniture, or a piece of jewelry.

By following these 10 tips, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the culture of Amish Country and have an unforgettable experience. Remember to always be respectful of the Amish people and their beliefs, and to take the time to appreciate the simple beauty of their way of life.

I highly recommend visiting Amish Country, you will have the opportunity to learn about their customs, culture, and beliefs in a way that is not possible through books or TV. The Amish people are incredibly welcoming and are happy to share their way of life with visitors.

With a good tour company, you will visit local farms, markets, and workshops, and get a taste of the local cuisine. You may also have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the countryside. Experienced tour guides will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the history and culture of the Amish people and make sure that your visit is both enjoyable and informative.

The Five Best Places To Experience The Amish Culture and Food

Amish Country is a picturesque region of the United States that is home to one of the most unique and fascinating cultures in the world. The Amish people, known for their simple and traditional way of life, have captured the hearts of many visitors with their strong sense of community and deep religious beliefs. If you’re planning a visit to Amish Country, here are the 5 best places to see the Amish and experience their culture.

  1. Lancaster County, Pennsylvania: Lancaster County is the heart of Amish Country and the largest Amish community in the world. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the countryside, visit local farms and markets, and sample delicious Amish cuisine. The county is also home to the Amish Village, an open-air museum that allows visitors to experience the Amish way of life firsthand.
  2. Holmes County, Ohio: Holmes County is the second-largest Amish community in the United States and offers visitors a chance to experience the Amish culture in a more rural setting. Visitors can take a buggy ride through the countryside, visit local craftsmen and artisans, and sample delicious homemade goods. A favorite place to visit in Holmes County is Berlin.
  3. Shipshewana, Indiana: Shipshewana is a small town located in the heart of Amish Country and offers visitors a chance to experience the Amish culture in a more intimate setting. Visitors can take a buggy ride through the countryside, visit local craftsmen and artisans, and sample delicious homemade goods.
  4. Elkhart County, Indiana: Elkhart County is home to a large Amish community and offers visitors a chance to experience the Amish culture in a more rural setting. Visitors can take a buggy ride through the countryside, visit local craftsmen and artisans, and sample delicious homemade goods.
  5. Geauga County, Ohio: Geauga County is located in northeastern Ohio and offers visitors a chance to experience the Amish culture in a more rural and secluded setting. The county is home to a small but tight-knit Amish community and offers visitors the opportunity to visit local farms and markets, take a buggy ride through the countryside, and sample delicious homemade goods. The county is also home to the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center, which offers visitors a chance to learn more about the history and culture of the Amish people through exhibits and interactive displays.

Each of these places offers a unique perspective on the Amish way of life, from the bustling streets of Lancaster County to the more rural setting of Holmes County and Elkhart County. No matter where you decide to visit, you’re sure to be charmed by the simple beauty of the Amish culture and the warmth and hospitality of the Amish people.

When visiting any of these places, make sure you’re respectful of their culture and customs. Remember to ask permission before taking photographs and dress modestly. Always be mindful that they are a private people and they cherish their privacy.

In conclusion, visiting Amish Country is a unique and enlightening experience that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a simpler way of life. From the bustling streets of Lancaster County to the more rural setting of Holmes County, there’s something for everyone in Amish Country. Don’t hesitate, plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Amish people.

Five Amish Tour Companies

  1. “Amish Experience” – located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of tours including a bus tour, buggy tour, and a farm tour.
  2. “Amish Country Tours” – located in Holmes County, Ohio, offers buggy tours, walking tours, and a chance to learn about the Amish way of life and culture.
  3. “Discover Lancaster” – located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of tours including bus tours, buggy rides, and farm tours.
  4. “Berlin Village Tours“ – located in Berlin, Ohio, offers buggy tours, walking tours, and a chance to learn about the Amish way of life and culture.
  5. “Amish Acres” – located in Nappanee, Indiana, offers a variety of tours including a bus tour, buggy tour, and a farm tour.

This is not an exhaustive list and there might be other tour companies that are not mentioned here. It’s always a good idea to do your own research and read reviews before booking a tour.

Two Reasons Why The Amish Limit Education

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Two Reasons Why The Amish Limit Education

So why do Amish only go to school through the eighth grade?

Well, there’s two main reasons for this, and the first one is what you might call practicality. Amish occupations are much more manual or craftsmanship oriented. They’re farmers, they’re woodworkers, they’re builders. So therefore, they really emphasize things like hands-on learning and apprenticeship. So they don’t see a great need for education beyond eight grades.

Once you get the basics, mathematics, reading, writing, the tools that you need to function in the world, they don’t see a whole lot of value for the more abstract learning, and that can come beyond those skills. So one is practicality.

Another one would be what you might call religious objections or seeing higher education as contrary to Amish values. The Amish tend to feel that higher education can promote ideas that are counter to Christian values. The Amish have a literal view of the Bible and the creation story, so they would object to things like evolution.

The Amish also see centralized large schools in more urban settings as also threatening to the small scale rural Amish orientation or Amish values. So for the Amish, they typically educate their children. In one room, Amish run school houses, typically grades one through eight.

In one school, there’s usually one teacher that might have an assistant. The teacher is most of the time a younger Amish female. Students typically get a solid grounding in the three Rs, reading, writing, and arithmetic, as well as some history andome geography. They get German language training because the Amish speak as their first language, Pennsylvania, Dutch or Pennsylvania German, which is not the same as the church German that the Bible would be written in. Some of them may get health or limited science, but there’s not a lot of science taught in Amish schools.

When you look at Amish schools themselves, there can be differences between them as well.

The most plain Amish groups are gonna have a, an even more limited education than the more progressive communities. Some Amish do send their children to public schools. In some communities this is fairly common.

Some Amish may take further supplemental courses. For example, an Amish business person might take a course in accounting. But again, the idea there is what’s practical in what’s needed. Sometimes Amish may go to high school, though it’s not common. Sometimes Amish may get a GED degree, but that is also rare.

So a desire for more education is one reason that some people decide that they don’t want to be baptized in the Amish church or maybe even leave the church. And outright religious education is not provided in Amish schools. That’s not the venue for teaching religion. That’s something they would learn outside the school. However, the Amish do appreciate that prayer and singing of religious songs is something they can do in their own schools.

The key event here to know is the 1972 Supreme Court Decision, Wisconsin versus Yoder. That decision resulted from conflict between Amish parents and school administrators. That decision essentially granted Amish the ability to limit their children’s formal education to eight grades.

So the Amish aren’t anti-education. They definitely continue learning throughout their lives. Just because formal education ends doesn’t mean learning ends. And there’s some very intelligent Amish people and some that are very knowledgeable. You can have your own private library at home.

Many do self-study. So they’re not anti-education. They just don’t see higher education fitting the context of their culture and their values.

I hope that explains that.

Who Are The Old Colony Mennonites?

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish,Amish Life

Who Are The Old Colony Mennonites?

The Old Colony Mennonites are a conservative Anabaptist sect that traces its origins to the Russian Mennonite community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They are known for their traditional way of life, including their plain dress, horse-drawn transportation, and rejection of many modern technologies.

Old Colony Mennonites were first established in the early 1800s in the Chortitza colony in present-day Ukraine. They later settled in other parts of Russia, as well as in Canada and Mexico. However, they faced persecution in Russia and many chose to emigrate to North and South America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

In Canada and Mexico, Old Colony Mennonites have largely maintained their traditional way of life and have mostly segregated themselves from the non-Mennonite population. They live in small, rural communities, often organized around a central church, where they work as farmers, carpenters, and blacksmiths. They speak a dialect of Low German called Plautdietsch, and also use High German and English in church services.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Old Colony Mennonite culture is their adherence to strict codes of conduct, which are based on their interpretation of the Bible. This includes a prohibition on the use of certain technologies such as cars, telephones, and electricity, which they believe are distractions from a simple, God-centered life. They also reject higher education and involvement in politics.

Old Colony Mennonites also place a strong emphasis on community and family. They are known for their strong sense of mutual aid and support, and they often help each other with tasks such as planting and harvesting crops. They also place a strong emphasis on the traditional roles of men and women, with men working outside the home and women responsible for domestic tasks and child-rearing.

In recent years, Old Colony Mennonites have faced some challenges to their traditional way of life. The increasing modernity of the world around them has led to some members questioning the strict codes of conduct and seeking more engagement with the outside world. Additionally, there have been some controversies surrounding the treatment of women and children within the community, which have led to some calls for reform. Despite these challenges, however, the Old Colony Mennonite community remains a vibrant and distinctive part of North American society.

Old Colony Mennonites are also known for their commitment to nonviolence and peacemaking. They believe in turning the other cheek and refuse to participate in military service or hold political office. They also avoid litigation, instead using their own church-run dispute resolution process to settle conflicts.

The community also has a strong sense of social responsibility and often engage in charitable activities such as disaster relief, feeding the hungry, and supporting refugees. They also provide a lot of support to their own community members, through the mutual aid system, where everyone pitches in to help in times of need.

Despite their conservative and traditional lifestyle, Old Colony Mennonites have not been immune to the impact of modernity. Some of the youth, in recent years, have started to question the strict codes of conduct and have sought to engage more with the outside world. There have also been instances of members leaving the community to pursue higher education or professional careers. However, most of the Old Colony Mennonite community still holds on to their traditional way of life and values.

In recent years, the Old Colony Mennonite communities have also been facing some legal issues. Some Canadian and Mexican government officials have tried to force them to send their children to public schools, citing the importance of education. But the Old Colony Mennonites argue that their own religious schools provide a moral education that is just as important as academics.

In conclusion, the Old Colony Mennonites are a distinctive and conservative Anabaptist sect that traces its origins to the Russian Mennonite community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They are known for their traditional way of life, commitment to nonviolence and peacemaking, and strong sense of community and social responsibility. Despite facing some challenges in recent years, the Old Colony Mennonite community remains a vibrant and distinct part of North American society.

What Is Unusual About The Old Order Mennonites?

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish,Amish Life,Mennonites

Old Order Mennonites

Old Order Mennonites are a subgroup of the Mennonite Christian denomination that originated in the late 19th century. They are known for their adherence to traditional Mennonite beliefs and practices, which include a strong emphasis on simplicity, separation from the world, and a commitment to living according to the teachings of the Bible.

Old Order Mennonites are often distinguished by their plain dress, which typically includes long dresses and head coverings for women and plain, unadorned clothing for men. They also tend to reject modern technology and transportation, and often use horse-drawn buggies or wagons for transportation.

One of the key beliefs of Old Order Mennonites is the concept of “separation from the world.” This means that they believe it is important to separate themselves from the secular world in order to maintain their spiritual purity. This can manifest in various ways, such as rejecting modern technology, avoiding worldly entertainment and fashions, and even avoiding contact with non-Mennonites.

Old Order Mennonites also place a strong emphasis on the importance of living a modest and simple lifestyle. This includes a rejection of materialism, as well as a commitment to living in small, close-knit communities. They also tend to reject modern technology and transportation, and often use horse-drawn buggies or wagons for transportation.

Another important aspect of Old Order Mennonite theology is the belief in the concept of “the visible church.” This means that they believe that there is a true, biblical church, and that only those who are members of this church can be saved. They also believe in the importance of baptism, and that only those who have been baptized in the Old Order Mennonite Church can be considered true members of the church.

In terms of worship and religious practices, Old Order Mennonites often have a very traditional approach. This may include the use of hymns and a cappella singing, as well as a strong emphasis on Bible study and preaching. They also place a strong emphasis on the importance of following the Bible’s teachings in daily life, and often have strict codes of conduct for members of the community.

Old Order Mennonites

Old Order Mennonites are known for their strict adherence to traditional Mennonite beliefs and practices. They are committed to living a simple, separated lifestyle, and place a strong emphasis on the importance of living according to the teachings of the Bible. They are often distinguished by their plain dress and rejection of modern technology and transportation, and often use horse-drawn buggies or wagons for transportation.

Old Order Mennonites are found primarily in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with large communities in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario. They are a relatively small subgroup within the larger Mennonite community, but they are an important and unique part of the denomination.

Despite their traditional beliefs and practices, Old Order Mennonites are not isolated from the larger society. They may have different beliefs and practices, but they still participate in the broader Mennonite community, and have a positive relationship with their neighbors. They also participate in the larger society through their agricultural and small business activities and their children attend public schools.

In summary, Old Order Mennonites are a subgroup of the Mennonite Christian denomination that is known for its strict adherence to traditional beliefs and practices. They are committed to living a simple, separated lifestyle and place a strong emphasis on the importance of living according to the teachings of the Bible. They are often distinguished by their plain dress, rejection of modern technology and transportation and often use horse-drawn buggies or wagons for transportation. They are primarily found in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and are considered a small but unique part of the larger Mennonite community. They have a strong belief in the concept of “the visible church” and that only those who have been baptized in the Old Order Mennonite Church can be considered true members of the church.

Old Order Mennonites tend to have a traditional approach to worship and religious practices, often using hymns and a cappella singing, as well as a strong emphasis on Bible study and preaching. They also place a strong emphasis on the importance of following the Bible’s teachings in daily life, and often have strict codes of conduct for members of the community.

Despite their traditional beliefs and practices, Old Order Mennonites are not isolated from the larger society, they participate in the broader Mennonite community, and maintain positive relationships with their neighbors. They also participate in the larger society through their agricultural and small business activities and their children attend public schools.

In addition, Old Order Mennonites are known for their dedication to hard work and their commitment to their families and communities. They are known for their strong sense of community and their willingness to help others in times of need. They also tend to be self-sufficient, often raising their own food and maintaining their own homes and vehicles.

Overall, Old Order Mennonites are a distinct subgroup of the Mennonite Christian denomination that is known for its strict adherence to traditional beliefs and practices. They are committed to living a simple, separated lifestyle, and place a strong emphasis on the importance of living according to the teachings of the Bible. Despite their traditional beliefs and practices, Old Order Mennonites are not isolated from the larger society, they participate in the broader Mennonite community and maintain positive relationships with their neighbors. They are a small but unique part of the larger Mennonite community, known for their hard work, strong sense of community, and dedication to their families and communities.