Mennonite

The Mennonites are a group of Christian Anabaptist denominations named after and influenced by the teachings and tradition of Menno Simons. They are one of the peace churches, which hold to a doctrine of non-violence, non-resistance and pacifism.

Old Order Mennonites

Some Mennonite communities conscientiously reject the use of modern technology, such as electricity or motor transport, much the same as the Amish denominations, to whom they are related. Such Mennonites are often referred to as Old Order Mennonites (although the term strictly refers to a particular church within that group) in order to distinguish them from Mennonite denominations that fully accept modern inventions. They also reject modern notions of insurance, preferring to rely on their neighbors when disaster strikes. Old Order Mennonites have a distinctive form of dress which they call "Plain", often looking rather like Central European countrymen.

Related Topics:
Technology - Electricity - Amish - Old Order Mennonites - Invention - Insurance - Central Europe

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In addition to Old Order Mennonites, throughout the United States and Canada, there are many groups of conservative Mennonites whose practice of New Testament teachings makes them distinct from the larger Western culture. Many of these groups withdrew from mainstream Mennonite groups during the 1960s and 1970s. During that time, mainstream groups were abandoning traditional Mennonite practices such as the headship veiling for women, modesty and simplicity in dress, ordination from the laity, and nonparticipation in government. In the years since, the groups that have held to a literal interpretation of Biblical Mennonite practices such as the headship veiling have actually increased at a much more rapid rate than those groups that have rejected these standards.

Related Topics:
1960s - 1970s

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