Our denominational affiliation is basically Mennonite. That conjures up many ideas of just who the Mennonites are. This is in part due to the media exposure and picturesque scenes of the Amish riding in their buggies. What do we believe? Do we drive cars? Do we have radio and TV? Do we believe in the new birth? The list goes on.
On any Sunday morning, you will find Mennonites gathered for worship in about 60 countries around the world. With over one million members, the Mennonite church has been in existence for more than 475 years. They also include a huge variety of people, all the way from the Midwest farmer to a European architect and from the African chieftain to the South American sociologist.
The Mennonite movement began in Europe in the 16th Century when a small group of believers challenged the reforms of Martin Luther and others during the Reformation.
In 1525, several men set themselves apart from the official church by publicly declaring their faith in Jesus Christ and re-baptizing each other. The Church-state structures did not tolerate this movement and over the course of two generations, thousands met their death as martyrs.
Mennonites are known for their peace stand. Taken because they believe Jesus Christ taught the way of peace. Many members choose not to participate in military service. They choose rather to serve in hospitals and in other humanitarian efforts.
Mennonites place a high value on marriage and the family unit. Divorce is almost non-existent in these groups and the large numbers of young people who choose to stay with church testify to the value placed on the family.
They take very literally the command of the Lord Jesus to help their neighbors. They are some of the first ones on the scene when disasters strike. They contribute millions to relief efforts as well as thousands of volunteers.
As with any denomination, there are extremely varying differences in practices; all the way from the Amish who own no automobiles, to those who drive the sportiest vehicles and dress in the latest fashions.
At Living Word Church, we drive automobiles, wear modest store bought clothing and avail ourselves to the many forms of media as long as we determine it is not detrimental to our spiritual health.
Feel free to visit and worship with us. We’d love to meet you!
Click here to go to Past Rich's page to read about how it came to be that he and his family ended up in the Mennonite church coming from non-Mennonite background.
Who are the Mennonites?
Living Word Church A Community of Hope
