Mennonites appear to always live by themselves shunning the material world and it’s negative influence. They look as if they are completely self sufficient in their own universe. Mennonites may not leave on a regular basis but they do let the outsiders in.
After Mennonites have settled in an area and start to prosper they tend to feel they no longer need to do the menial tasks in life. Enter the hired in help. This help comes in the form of natives from in and around the area. They are relatively cheap labour but are always offered a hearty meal and drinks when on site.
The type of jobs tackled by the helping hands are the ones not considered fun. Examples include fence making, logging and cleaning up debris on freshly cleared land. Having got comfortable, the boring jobs that were once required for survival just seem like extra work and aren’t fun any more so why not get someone else to do it?
After this has gone on for a while, the more religious branches leave to start their own village in a new barren land. They feel the need to struggle to survive. The cycle repeats itself.
November 1, 2011 at 12:18 am
I would love to do a story on the ways of the Mennonite community. If such a thing is allowed by your people, please let me know. I feel by writing such a book it would help to further the fellowship of your people and bring about more interested in the lifestyle. If willing to let an English Major do a story on your community send an email to the account listed. Thanks for the website. K. Jerome Schmidt
December 12, 2011 at 7:30 pm
I am newly discovering the Mennonite Community, I didn’t even know you existed! Well I am very pleased at the wonderful work of ministry you have done around the world, is there is book about this blueprint of settling in an area, farming and outreach? I guess this is the ministry to Spirit of God has given you, which is beautiful to hear about.
December 13, 2011 at 9:21 am
Tony, I am sure there is good literature regarding the settlement and outreach work of the Mennonites, however I am not your best source for this information. What I can do though is point you in the direction of GAMEO which is on the best and most thorough online Mennonite resources I am aware of.
July 24, 2012 at 7:24 pm
i have been researching my family tree and this weekend found out I was related to the mennonities…would like to have information on mennonite life
August 16, 2012 at 9:49 pm
The layout of this blog is hideous. I can’t even read it for fear it will give me a seizure. So loud! So complicated!
September 6, 2012 at 12:12 pm
I agree. Wouldn’t it be nice if the site was simple and plain, just like the Mennonites?
September 4, 2012 at 1:23 pm
I have a growing interest in the Mennonite and Amish way of life since visiting Shipshewanna Indiana.Is it possible for an outsider to convert,marry and live amongst them?just curious.
September 6, 2012 at 12:09 pm
In North America, the answer is usually yes, depending on how traditional they are.