Amish Strawberry Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Crumble: A Delightful Summer Dessert
When the warm rays of the summer sun grace us with their presence, it’s time to indulge in the bountiful harvest of seasonal fruits. One such delectable treat that perfectly captures the essence of summer is the Amish Strawberry Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Crumble. This delightful dessert combines the goodness of ripe strawberries and juicy apples, topped with a crunchy oatmeal crumble that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
A Glimpse into Amish Cuisine:
The Amish community, known for its simplicity and self-sustenance, has a rich culinary heritage that revolves around fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their dishes reflect a deep connection to nature and a commitment to preserving tradition. The Amish Strawberry Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Crumble is a prime example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
The Fruits of Summer:
The heart of this dessert lies in the combination of two star fruits of the season – strawberries and apples. Juicy, ruby-red strawberries add a burst of sweetness and a hint of tartness, while the apples bring a delightful balance with their natural sugars and subtle tang. The combination of these two fruits creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
The Oatmeal Crumble Topping:
What sets this Amish dessert apart is the irresistible oatmeal crumble that crowns the luscious fruit filling. The crumble is a textural wonderland, made with rolled oats, butter, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. Baked to perfection, it forms a golden, crispy layer that beautifully complements the softness of the fruits beneath.
INGREDIENTS
Strawberry Apple Filling
1 (14.1) ounce box refrigerated pie crust or homemade double pie crust
4 cups fresh strawberries; cleaned, hulled, and sliced
3 cups apples fresh; any variety; peeled, cored, and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup fresh berries; any variety or combination
1 small lemon juiced
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 rounded tablespoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sliced almonds
1 egg beaten
¼ cup raw sugar
Oatmeal Crisp Topping
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup old fashioned oats
⅓ cup brown sugar packed; light or dark
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon finely ground sea salt
½ cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 425°F.
On a lightly floured surface, stack two pie crusts on top of one another (or roll homemade double pie crust dough) into a 12 x 18-inch rectangle.
Lay into a 9 x 13-inch pan and work it so that it’s firmly pressed into the bottom and up the sides with some overhang on the edges.
Use a pie crimper to remove the overhang and use small cookie cutters to cut shapes from the overhanging scraps if desired.
In a large bowl, combine strawberries and apples with lemon juice.
Add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, flour, and almonds and stir well to combine.
Gently fold in the mixed berries.
Transfer the fruit mixture into the prepared crust in an even layer.
Whisk an egg and use a pastry brush to brush the pastry cutouts if you’ve made any and exposed edges (and walls) of the crust.
For the oatmeal crisp topping, combine all ingredients in a large bowl EXCEPT for the melted butter. Whisk everything together.
Pour cooled melted butter over the mixture and use a pastry blender, a fork, or your fingers and mix and squeeze into clumps at the same time.
Scatter over the fruit filling. Arrange the pastry cutouts to be ‘tucked in’ here and there in a playful pattern on the crispy topping and sprinkle the entire top and cutouts with raw sugar.
Bake for 35 minutes BUT check at the 20-minute mark for browning.
Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to begin cooling.
Because of the size, this dessert will take at least one hour to cool to the point of being able to serve it warm.
Serve with vanilla ice cream and/or garnish with additional sliced or whole strawberries or mixed fresh berries.
What sets this Amish dessert apart is the irresistible oatmeal crumble that crowns the luscious fruit filling. The crumble is a textural wonderland, made with rolled oats, butter, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. Baked to perfection, it forms a golden, crispy layer that beautifully complements the softness of the fruits beneath.
In the picturesque countryside of Millersburg, Ohio, lies a treasure trove of Amish culinary delights, and one dish that stands out is the mouthwatering Amish Fried Zucchini Fritters. These delectable treats, lovingly crafted by the skilled hands of Amish cooks, offer a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and tradition. Let’s delve into the secrets of this beloved local delicacy and discover why it has become a must-try for visitors and locals alike.
The Amish Way of Life
Before we indulge in the delightful taste of Amish Fried Zucchini Fritters, it’s essential to understand the community behind these tasty creations. The Amish, known for their steadfast commitment to simplicity, humility, and tradition, reside in close-knit communities, preserving their distinctive way of life for generations. Their cuisine reflects these values, relying on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and time-tested preparation methods.
The Zucchini Harvest
In the verdant farmlands surrounding Millersburg, Ohio, summer brings an abundant harvest of zucchini. The Amish farmers take great pride in cultivating this versatile vegetable, allowing it to grow to the perfect size before harvesting it with care. The squash’s tender, nutrient-rich flesh forms the heart and soul of the Amish Fried Zucchini Fritters.
The Art of Crafting Zucchini Fritters
The process of creating these delectable fritters is a true labor of love, passed down through generations. Amish homemakers possess an innate knack for combining simple ingredients to achieve culinary perfection. To make the fritters, grated zucchini is combined with flour, eggs, and a pinch of secret spices. The batter is then gently mixed until it reaches a smooth consistency.
The Secret: Traditionally, lard or butter is used for frying, imparting a rich, savory flavor to the fritters. As they sizzle in the hot skillet, a tantalizing aroma fills the air, beckoning all who catch a whiff to partake in this delightful treat.
Serving and Enjoyment
Amish Fried Zucchini Fritters are best enjoyed hot, fresh from the skillet. Many local restaurants and farmers’ markets in Millersburg offer these golden-brown delights to locals and tourists alike. Served as a side dish or a delectable snack, the fritters can be accompanied by homemade applesauce or a dollop of sour cream, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Preserving Tradition in Modern Times
Despite living in a world of ever-changing trends and innovations, the Amish community remains deeply rooted in tradition. The preparation and enjoyment of Amish Fried Zucchini Fritters is a testament to their dedication to preserving the old ways. In an age of fast food and convenience, savoring these fritters serves as a reminder of the beauty of simplicity and the importance of staying connected to one’s heritage.
INGREDIENTS
4 ½ cups fresh grated zucchini, about 4 medium length zucchinis
¾ cup self-rising flour
2 extra large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup thinly sliced scallions, light and dark green parts only, about 4 scallions
¼ to ½ cup lard or butter
DIRECTIONS
Place a rack over a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet.
Place into a preheated 200°F oven.
Place grated zucchini in a sieve over a bowl and let stand 10 minutes.
Using a clean kitchen towel over the sink, transfer the semi-drained zucchini and twist the ends tightly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from zucchini.
In a medium sized bowl, add the flour and eggs. Use the tines of a fork to stir until combined. Batter will be very thick and difficult to stir.
Mix in the drained zucchini and sliced scallions. The moisture left in the zucchini will loosen the batter.
Warm the oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Working in batches, add the batter in heaping tablespoon-sized mounds to the hot skillet, spacing fritters so they do not touch.
The fritters will rise to the top and float as they cook.
Fry until golden brown and crisp, 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of sea salt and remove to rack on baking sheet in oven to keep warm.
Repeat with remaining batter, adding more oil to skillet if necessary between batches.
Amish Fried Zucchini Fritters from Millersburg, Ohio, are more than just a tasty snack; they represent a way of life deeply tied to tradition and community. As you savor each delectable bite, you can taste the love and history behind these golden treats.
Amish Harvest Tomatoes: Enjoy Your Fresh Tomatoes With This Amazing Recipe
Discover the delightful charm of an authentic Amish delicacy with our easy-to-make Amish Harvest Tomatoes. This farm-favorite dish showcases the rich, ruby red tomatoes immersed in a tangy and lovingly crafted homemade marinade. Whether you have a flourishing garden of homegrown tomatoes or you decide to pick up the vibrant beauties from the local Amish market, this healthy salad perfectly complements any of your favorite main courses. Prepared with heart and tradition, these Amish Harvest Tomatoes are guaranteed to win the hearts of your entire family with their irresistible flavors and family-style appeal.
The Amish community is renowned for its commitment to living a simple and wholesome lifestyle, and this philosophy is also reflected in their traditional culinary delights. One such culinary gem is the Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe – a farm favorite that celebrates the bountiful harvest of ruby red tomatoes. Bathed in a tangy homemade marinade, this healthy and delicious salad is a true testament to the Amish way of life and their appreciation for fresh, homegrown produce.
A Heritage of Simplicity: The Amish Way
The Amish people, known for their strong sense of community and adherence to tradition, have long maintained a way of life that cherishes simplicity and self-sufficiency. This cultural ethos extends to their culinary practices, where fresh, locally grown ingredients are preferred over commercially processed alternatives. The Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe perfectly encapsulates this approach, using nature’s bounty to create a dish that is both flavorful and nourishing.
The Star Ingredient: Ruby Red Tomatoes
At the heart of the Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe lies the star ingredient – ruby red tomatoes. Whether plucked from the garden of an Amish homestead or sourced from the bustling Amish markets, the tomatoes used in this recipe are always fresh and ripe. The vibrant red hue of these tomatoes is a testament to their rich antioxidant content, making this salad not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
The Tangy Homemade Marinade: A Flavorful Fusion
What truly sets the Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe apart is the tangy homemade marinade that bathes the tomatoes. Simple yet tantalizing, this marinade combines a harmonious fusion of flavors, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate. The exact blend of ingredients may vary slightly from one family to another, but common components include apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and a sprinkling of fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the tomatoes with a burst of tanginess that complements their natural sweetness, making every bite a delightful journey of flavors.
Embracing Seasonality: Homegrown vs. Market-Fresh Tomatoes
One of the beautiful aspects of the Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe is its adaptability to the seasons. During the warm summer months, homegrown tomatoes take center stage, straight from the fertile soil of Amish gardens. The care and attention given to cultivating these tomatoes imbue them with unmatched freshness and taste. As the seasons change, and summer turns to fall, the Amish community turns to the local markets, where ruby red beauties are still found in abundance. Regardless of the source, the focus remains on using the freshest and ripest tomatoes available.
A Versatile Accompaniment: Pairing with Main Dishes
The Amish Harvest Tomatoes salad is a versatile dish that pairs effortlessly with a wide array of main courses. Whether it’s a hearty farm-style roast, a tender grilled chicken, or a comforting bowl of homemade stew, these tomatoes add a burst of freshness and tanginess to every meal. Their ability to complement various flavors and textures makes them a favorite choice for Amish families during both daily meals and special gatherings.
A Family-Style Hit: Creating Lasting Memories
The Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe not only delights the taste buds but also fosters a sense of togetherness and community. In Amish households, preparing this dish often becomes a cherished family affair, with each member contributing their unique touch to the marinade or sharing stories while slicing the tomatoes. The act of savoring the final creation at the dining table becomes an opportunity to bond and create lasting memories.
Ingredients
3 large tomatoes, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 large onion, cut into thin half-moon slices
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
In a large bowl, combine tomatoes and onion; set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until sugar is dissolved.
Pour over tomato mixture; mix well.
Serve or cover and chill until ready to serve.
The Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe stands as a testament to the Amish way of life – embracing tradition, simplicity, and the goodness of nature’s bounty. Whether using homegrown tomatoes nurtured with love or selecting the finest ones from the Amish market, this tangy and flavorful salad is a celebration of the harvest season and a reflection of the close-knit Amish community. So, why not embark on this culinary journey and experience the heartwarming taste of Amish tradition with the Amish Harvest Tomatoes recipe?
What Are The Difference Between The Amish & The Horse And Buggy Mennonites?
Name three differences between the Amish and the Mennonites. Well, that’s a very hard question to answer. Since there are hundreds of different Amish communities and Mennonite communities across America. There are many different forms of Amish and many different beliefs among the Mennonites and customs. And so I will try to give some insight into the difference between the Arthur Illinois Amish and the horse and buggy Mennonites that live in the Pen Yan New York area.
It’s the Finger Lakes area of New York. It’s a very beautiful spot. And first we’ll go over some of the customs and things at the Amish in Art Arthur, Illinois. It’s located in central Illinois.
They have fairly large Amish community here. And first thing you notice is that the Amish men have beards and they wear plain colored clothes. They usually wear suspenders and homemade pants, and then they wear large black felt hats. They, of course, drive horse and buggy, and they also farm with horses, those that farm.
The women wear plain long dresses with capes and large white coverings with strings. The young girls also wear coverings in their homes. They have no electric or phones in their homes. Some businesses do have telephones for their businesses, and if they want to go out of state or any distance, they will hire a driver. They also, they own cabinet shops, bulk food stores, hardware, and many other types of businesses.
They have their churches in their homes, but they do have their own school houses, and they speak Pennsylvania Dutch, and English.
To compare that with the horse and buggy Mennonites in the Penn Yan New York area. The men do not wear beards. They do wear suspenders and they do wear jeans and pants that are bought. Then they either wear a tan straw hat or a black derby type of hat. And the ladies all wear very modestly dressed, but they have a pattern in their material. They’re not plain material.
They wear similar coverings and most of them cover the ear. Most of the younger girls do not wear coverings. But lot of ’em, have their hair in two pigtails and we’re also very modestly dressed.
Same as Illinois, they drive horse and buggy, but they are allowed to farm with steel wheel tractors. Any piece of equipment that is self propelled has to be on steel wheels. The reason for that is so they are not tempted to drive them to town. You cannot have steel wheels on the highway.
They’re also a little more modern as far as their homes. They have electricity in their homes and telephones, and they also hire drivers to go out of state or any long trips.
They’re very industrious and they have many dairy farms. They grow grapes and own a lot of the businesses in the area.
Unlike the Illinois Amish, they have their own church houses, but they also they have their own school houses, and then they also speak Pennsylvania Dutch, and English.
The problem with this question is that, you know, when you say Mennonite, it can be many different things. If you say Amish, you have a pretty clear picture of what you mean. You mean someone plain clothes, a beard or a prayer covering on their head using a horse and buggy using very low or restricted levels of technology.
When you say Mennonite, now that can mean a variety of types of people. You can be anything from a very modern person who uses computer, the internet, cars, and would be indistinguishable visually from, most other Americans. Mennonite can also be someone who also uses a horse in buggy as their primary transportation. That also wears plain clothing, that also speaks Pennsylvania German and that also restricts the use of technology. As you know, a lot of things in common with the Amish.
There’s a lot of range in the churches that use the word Mennonite to describe themselves. So the Amish and Mennonites a couple other groups, the Hutterites, they all share a similar history. They come from a group known as the Anabaptists. Both come from that background in their history.
There was a division, and you had a certain group of followers that followed the leader of Jacob Amman eventually became known as the Amish. They were kind of the more plain and more traditional groups there.
Over time, you’ve had, even within the Amish groups, some that have become more modern and progressive, some churches that have eventually become car driving churches. In contrast to that, you have the Old Order pathway.
When we talk about the Amish today, we generally talk about the Old Order Amish. So the further you get away in those terms, the fewer similarities of Mennonites would have with Old Order Amish.
So the groups that are most similar to the Amish within the Mennonites would be the Old Order Mennonites. And also you could include the Old Colony Mennonites.
The Old Order of Mennonites are significantly smaller group than the Amish, but you’ll find them living side by side just as neighbors with the Amish in certain communities, one would be Lancaster County. There’s a very large old order of Mennonite community there.
You’ll see the Amish and Mennonite Old Order Mennonites living side by side in some places. They also wear plain clothing, though it’s a different style than the Amish. The women wear head coverings, prayer coverings. They use the horse and buggy drive similar buggies to the Amish. Older Mennonite buggies will be a different style. In Lancaster County, you can tell it’s an Amish buggy. By its color, it’s a gray color.
And then the Mennonite buggies there would be black, kind of a little bit different design. They also use restricted levels of technology. The older Mennonites also speak Pennsylvania German as well. So the Amish mission and Mennonites have that in common.
The Old Order Mennonites also cooperate with the Amish in certain ways. They’re culturally close to one another. So you may have things like joint auctions. Certain school houses in Lancaster County are essentially joint Amish and Mennonite schools. So you’ll have children that are Amish and then also plain Mennonites attending those schools.
There are also some conservative Mennonites like Black Bumper Mennonites. And some of those children may also attend those schools. You even have some shared cultural aspects in forms of recreation specifically there as a game called Corner Ball.
That’s a game that I had a chance to witness on one occasion. And it’s basically kind of like a game of dodge ball where you have two teams and they try to hit one another with kind of like a hard ball. I hear the ball can hurt pretty pretty badly if you get hit. And it was Amish teams versus Mennonite teams. And there was, you know, quite a few spectators there.
The Old Order Mennonite men do not grow facial hair, and the Amish men do grow the beard, and they see there’s a biblical basis for that. Another one would be the place of worship.
Steve-Guttman-NYCFlickr.
Now, the Old Order Mennonites will worship in a meeting house. A specially built structure made for worship. Most Amish will worship in the home. It could be in the basement of the home. They have their church gathering there, or in a workshop or another building, even the barn.
Another difference there would be the church structure. The Amish church district, which typically is made up of about 25 to 35 families, somewhere around 150 people total. Each district will have typically its own bishop ministers and a deacon.
Those are some of the differences there. But they tend to be culturally quite alike. So, you know, you’ll see the Amish and the Mennonite cooperating on different things, and they’re gonna be able to relate to each other on the same level.
They have a shared history. They have shared faith essentially. Now, the Old Colony Mennonites are a group that are primarily found in Mexico. They’re found in Belize. Some are located in Canada. There are even a few in the United States, some in other Latin American countries, but the bulk of them would be in Mexico.
This is a group which also uses highly restricted technology. You know, they have differences in their style of plain clothing. They don’t wear beards either. Some of the Old Colony Mennonites do permit and use automobiles, although some do use horse drawn transport. They also speak a different dialect of German.
They often live in significant poverty as well. And there’s been an interesting project where Amish from states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, other places have been going down to Mexico to help teach in Old Colony Mennonite schools. There been a long tradition of Amish doing that now for over two decades.
Old Order Mennonites, Old Colony Mennonite, these are two groups that have similarities with the Amish culturally, and also I would say probably mentaly as well.
When you ask the question, “what’s the difference between the Amish and the Mennonites?” I would say, “Well, “what group of Mennonites are you talking about? Right?”
The plainer Mennonites, are more similar to the Amish. Even in the very ways they live. But even some of the more conservative Mennonites that are car driving would feel like an affinity or like closeness to one another kind of a cultural similarity. Even though one would drive a car, they may still dress in plainer clothing and have plainer ways.
The range within Mennonites is even greater in terms of diversity. You have all the way from horse and buggy driving Mennonites to modern car driving professional people. You have university professors that are Mennonites. You have doctors that are Mennonites. That’s another difference, the more progressive Mennonites will have a higher level of education. They permit a higher level of education, which the Amish don’t. They stop at in eighth grade.
Amish Cast Iron Peach and Blueberry Cobbler with Ginger Biscuits
Nothing quite captures the essence of comfort food like a homemade cobbler, and when it’s made in a cast iron skillet, it takes on an extra dose of rustic charm. The Amish Cast Iron Peach and Blueberry Cobbler with Ginger Biscuits is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of peaches and blueberries with the warmth of ginger-infused biscuits. This irresistible treat is a perfect way to showcase the flavors of summer and bring a taste of the countryside to your table.
The Amish community has a long-standing tradition of using simple, wholesome ingredients in their recipes, and this cobbler is no exception. By combining fresh, ripe peaches and plump blueberries, you can enjoy the best of both fruits in a single dish. The juicy peaches add a delightful sweetness, while the blueberries lend a vibrant burst of flavor that perfectly complements the ginger-infused biscuits.
The aroma of warm peaches and blueberries mingling with the ginger will fill your kitchen and entice everyone nearby.
Ingredients
Peach Cobbler
4 cups peaches firm, ripe, pitted and sliced
3 cups blueberries fresh, washed and dried
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest freshly grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Ginger Biscuitss
1 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter COLD; cubed
⅓ cup crystallized ginger chopped into fine pieces
6 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons buttermilk divided
2 teaspoons turbinado sugar
Directions
Fruit Cobbler
Place a medium cast iron skillet in the oven; preheat to 425°F.
Combine peaches, blueberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, lemon zest, and cornstarch in a large bowl and stir gently. Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and coat with cooking spray. Add the fruit mixture. Cover loosely with foil. Bake until the peaches are starting to soften, about 15 minutes.
Ginger Biscuits
Whisk all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. Using your fingertips, rub butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
Add crystallized ginger and use your fingers to separate the tiny pieces from sticking to one another.
Make a well in the center and gradually pour in 6 tablespoons buttermilk, stirring with a fork, until just combined and no streaks of flour remain.
Using a large spoon, drop 6 equal-sized spoonfuls of biscuit batter on top of the hot fruit mixture.
Brush the tops with the remaining 2 teaspoons buttermilk and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
Bake, uncovered, until the biscuits are golden brown, about 15 minutes more. Let cool for about 30 minutes before serving.
Once the cobbler is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The warm, tender ginger biscuits and the juicy, sweet fruit combine to create a delightful harmony of flavors. Serve the cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
The Amish Cast Iron Peach and Blueberry Cobbler with Ginger Biscuits is a dessert that celebrates the simplicity and richness of homemade cooking. From the tender peaches and blueberries to the comforting warmth of ginger, every bite is a reminder of the joys of gathering around the table and savoring a delicious, homemade treat.
Whether you’re sharing it with family and friends or enjoying it by yourself, this delightful cobbler is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So grab your cast iron skillet, embrace the flavors of the season, and indulge in a slice of this delightful dessert that pays homage to the Amish culinary traditions.
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites are a conservative Mennonite group that originated in the 1920s in the United States. They are often referred to as “Beachy Amish” because of their more relaxed dress codes compared to traditional Amish communities, which allow for the use of brighter colors and more fashionable styles.
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites represent a distinct branch within the Amish-Mennonite community, characterized by their embrace of certain modern conveniences while maintaining their traditional values. Unlike their horse-and-buggy counterparts, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites incorporate car transportation into their daily lives and prioritize community outreach efforts. Just as there are diverse subgroups among the horse-and-buggy Amish, the Amish-Mennonites also exhibit variations in their beliefs and practices.
Although the Beachy faction is the largest among the Amish-Mennonites today, comprising over 50% of the community, there are seven other groups that contribute to the overall diversity. The Beachy Amish-Mennonites utilize automobiles, cameras, and computers while abstaining from radio and television. They adhere to prescribed dress codes and maintain a somewhat evangelical approach to their faith.
Like other Mennonite groups, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites believe in non-violent conflict resolution, adult baptism, and separation of church and state. However, they are more accepting of modern technology and do not strictly adhere to the plain dress codes and technology restrictions of traditional Amish communities.
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites have a strong emphasis on evangelism and outreach, and they operate many mission-oriented organizations and institutions, including colleges and hospitals. They also have a tradition of summer youth programs, which often include outdoor activities and camp meetings.
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites have automobiles, electricity in their homes and businesses, and many use the internet. They do not use radios, television or attend movies.
They are evangelistic and also provide a lot of disaster aid services. They generally have their own meeting houses and schools. Their church services include much singing but they eschew musical instruments.
If you ever visit one of their churches, you can expect to be invited to a member’s home for dinner. They are very hospitable and generous.
They are mostly famers, carpenters and woodworkers, but many of the young ladies will work as nurse’s aides before marriage and a few do go to school for nursing.
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites, a distinct ethno-religious society, exist as a unique blend of Amish and Mennonite traditions. Neither purely Amish nor Mennonite, their identity is shaped by elements from both groups. As the largest faction within the Amish-Mennonite movement, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites emerged in 1927 in Pennsylvania following disputes within the Old Order Amish community. This article delves into the history, beliefs, and practices of the Beachy Amish-Mennonites, shedding light on their place within the religious landscape.
A Fusion of Traditions:
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites, often described as “in-betweens,” draw from the rich traditions of both the Amish and Mennonite communities. Scholars such as Kraybill and Redekop have noted the dual influence on their identity. While being distinct from the contemporary Amish, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites maintain a connection to their roots, showcasing their affinity to conservative, plain Anabaptist values.
Origins and Historical Context:
The formation of the Beachy Amish-Mennonite community can be traced back to a series of disagreements within the Old Order Amish in Pennsylvania during the early 20th century. Conflicts over practices such as shunning, the use of automobiles, and electricity prompted a group of brethren to part ways with the Old Order Amish. These dissenters, often inspired by the empathetic Bishop Moses M. Beachy, adopted the name “Beachy” to identify themselves and formed separate congregations.
Congregational Autonomy and Diversity:
Unlike other Amish-Mennonite groups, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites do not adhere to a centralized conference structure. Instead, they prioritize congregational autonomy, allowing each congregation to determine its own practices and beliefs. This organizational approach has resulted in a range of dispositions and practices within the Beachy Amish-Mennonite community, spanning from conservative to progressive. The flexibility within the group offers individuals the opportunity to align themselves with a congregation that closely aligns with their personal beliefs.
Key Beliefs and Practices:
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites embody a set of core beliefs and practices that emphasize simplicity, community, and faith. While they embrace certain modern conveniences such as automobiles and electricity, they remain selective in their adoption of technology, abstaining from radio and television. Prescribed dress codes are also a significant aspect of their identity, distinguishing them visually from the wider society. Moreover, their loose organizational structure allows for a certain degree of evangelical outreach, enabling them to share their faith with others.
The Beachy Amish-Mennonites occupy a unique space within the Amish-Mennonite movement, embodying a blend of Amish and Mennonite traditions while forging their own distinct identity. Their origins in Pennsylvania and their subsequent growth into the largest group within the Amish-Mennonite community have marked them as a significant religious and cultural presence. By valuing congregational autonomy and embracing select modern practices, the Beachy Amish-Mennonites navigate the delicate balance between tradition and progress, seeking to live out their faith in a changing world.
