A congregation of Mennonite Church USA

Mennonites share essential core beliefs with Christians of Catholic, Protestant, and Evangelical persuasions.

  1. We believe in one God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
  2. We recognize God created all things, and made man in his own image.
  3. Acknowledging the fall of humanity into sin, we understand its consequences of depravity and death.
  4. We affirm Jesus Christ as the sole Savior, who died for our sins and triumphed over death through His resurrection.
  5. Salvation is a result of God's grace, received through faith in Christ, and granted to those who repent and believe.
  6. The Holy Spirit affects the new birth, guides, and empowers believers.
  7. We regard the Bible, encompassing both the Old and New Testaments, as God’s inspired revelation.
  8. We believe that Jesus taught the way of love as opposed to the use of force.
  9. We view the church as the body of Christ, comprising true believers across various denominations.
  10. The church is a community of believers committed to each other in a covenant relationship.
  11. We eagerly anticipate Jesus' second coming when He will unite with His bride, the church.

For a fuller account of what we believe, check out our Confession of Faith.

Deconstructing Stereotypes of the Mennonite Faith

  1. Mennonites are not the same as the Amish: While both Mennonites and the Amish have similar roots in the Anabaptist tradition, they are distinct groups with their own beliefs and practices. Mennonites typically embrace modern technology, dress in contemporary clothing, and engage with society to a greater extent than the Amish.
  2. Regarding Technology: While some Mennonite individuals or communities may choose to limit their use of technology for personal or religious reasons, it is not a universal practice. Many Mennonites embrace technology and use it in their daily lives, including in their worship services, communication, and work.
  3. Community: Mennonites value community and often have close-knit congregations, but they are not inherently closed or isolated from the larger society. Many Mennonites actively engage with their local communities, participate in social justice initiatives, and collaborate with people of various backgrounds.
  4. Views on Pacifism: While pacifism is a prominent belief among many Mennonites, it is not universally held by every individual or congregation. Some Mennonites may hold nuanced views on issues of peace and nonviolence, and opinions can vary within the faith community.
  5. Are Mennonites only of European descent? Mennonites have a diverse global presence and can be found in various parts of the world. While the Mennonite faith originated in Europe, Mennonite communities exist in North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and other regions, encompassing people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
  6. Local and Global Reach: While some Mennonite communities may have a rural or agricultural focus, Mennonites can be found in urban, suburban, and rural areas, pursuing a wide range of professions and lifestyles. The diversity of Mennonite communities reflects the diversity of the societies they live in.

Mennonites, like any religious group, exhibit a wide range of beliefs, practices, and cultural expressions. The above misconceptions overlook this diversity and can lead to generalized assumptions about the faith.

Read Our FAQ