The Amish

Living apart from mainstream society, the Amish have been successful in keeping a close nit community in spite of the modern world surrounding them.

“To the Amish, the idea of separation from the modern world and non-conformity to its ways are stated clearly in the New Testament---"Be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed." The Amish have adopted some facets of modern technology and shunned others. The fact that the Amish population is growing, and that the majority of their young people decide to join the faith through adult baptism, testifies that there are important values in this culture. This economic function, the family and its members working as a unit within the supporting Amish community, creates a strong bond and gives each worker a clear and vital “place” through the work he performs.” (Igou, 1994)

Descending from the 16th century fellowships the Amish Mennonite was known as the Swiss Brethren. “The Swiss Brethen were Anabaptists and are often viewed as being part of a Radical Reformation”. (americanamish) Anabaptists emphasized the teachings of Jesus, “especially the Sermon on the Mount. They sought to practice the teachings of Jesus in daily life, and they gave greater allegiance to the Bible than to civil government. They were, in fact, some of the earliest proponents of the separation of church and state.” (Snyder, 1995 ) The Amish reject the idea of baptizing infants because they believe that it should be the persons voluntary decision to be baptized as an adult and follow Jesus.

As a symbol of the Amish faith, their clothing style is simple. Their simplicity represents separation from the modern world. “Amish life style varies between and sometimes within the community”. There are many lifestyles that define the Amish culture. The Ordnung dictates the Amish lifestyle from how they dress, their buggy style and hair length. The rules vary from community to community. Depending on the Congregation that the Amish belong to they may...