Showing posts with label Amish. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Amish. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Amish Virus
You've just received an Amish Virus. Since we don't have electricity or computers, you're on the honor system. Please delete your files. Thank thee.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Amish: Part 1
To answer Tulsi's question about my Father being Amish, and to answer a few other questions I've received about "what is Amish" and "what do they believe", I've decided to post what I *do* know... I have never been Amish, so I don't profess to know all about it. But I used to question my cousin Cheryle a lot and her mom, Lorene when I'd go and visit on their Amish Farm. Also, I wrote a religious Thesis on the Amish when I was in college many moons ago. Today I'll share a little bit of their Religious Beliefs & Background, and next time I'll share more about their Cultural Beliefs and way of Living. The lines do blur a little, as I have mentioned the religion governs their way of life. But here goes... (and Dad, feel free to correct any mistakes).
Is Amish a religion, a culture, a race or ethnicity, or What?
Amish is a Religious Culture. Meaning, they use religious beliefs to govern their life... but more so than in the way that perhaps other religions do. Amish is an Anabaptist religion (Amish, Hutterites, Brethren, Mennonites, etc.)
Race/Ethnicity:
Amish are of European decent, thus are Anglo/Anglo-saxon.
Religious Background:
16th century Anabaptists rejected "modern" Christian practices such as wearing wedding rings, taking oaths, and participating in civil government. They lived a more literal interpretation of the Sermon on the Mount and Believer's baptism. However, all other major Christian denominations during that period saw baptism as necessary for salvation - including infants, and declared it wrong to delay baptism until the child had reached a certain age. Anabaptists believed that baptismal candidates need to make their own confessions of faith, and therefore refused infant baptism.
This is the main reason they were persecuted the 16th & 17th centuries by both Roman Catholics and Protestants. Many of these Anabaptists were persecuted and martyred for their beliefs. Those who survived attacks migrated to Southern Germany and parts of Switzerland. .
Menno Simons, a Catholic priest from Holland, joined the Anabaptists. From his teachings, he created a loyal flock of followers who were named Mennonites.
Jacob Amman, a Swiss bishop, broke away from the Mennonites and his followers were known as Amish. Ammann had views such as the wearing of the untrimmed beard, uniformity in dress, foot washing and prohibition of attendance at services of the state church.
Persecutions did not cease and many Anabaptists fled to Russia while others continued to Southern Germany. From Russia some went back to Germany and then the United States while others went from Russia to places like Paraguay.
Amish are NOT Quakers. Many people confuse the Amish or Mennonites with the Quakers. They are not Quakers, but I can see why they might be confused. Groups of Amish and Mennonites settled in Pennsylvania during the 1720's.. Obviously their European exodus was in search of Religious Freedom, as in most religious movements from Europe to the United States at that time. But why Pennsylvania? Well, the majority of the population of Pennsylvania at that time were of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The Quakers were tolerant of other religious beliefs and would not persecute them. Similarly, the Friends, also opposed to violence and killing, were killed and persecuted by the Puritan settlers. (The Quakers settled in the Pennsylvania area in the mid 1600's to maintain a holy experiment in living in peace centered in the city of Philadelphia (city of peace).) The Amish knew this and decided to settle nearby in Lancaster County, PA.
In accordance with the teachings of Jacob Amman, old-order (traditional) Amish still abide by this simple-living, non-modern way of life.
It is very rare for someone who is Amish to marry outside of the church. If someone chooses not to be baptized in the Amish faith, normally they do not marry someone that is. Once they join church, it is also extremely rare for them to leave. This is an ultimate sin, because if you were old enough to proclaim your faith in Jesus Christ and are baptized, it was *your* choice (unlike an infant). When you are baptized you are not only professing your Faith in Jesus Christ, but you are covenanting to live the Amish way of life. So, if living an Amish lifestyle is not in accordance with your personal beliefs, then it is better to not be baptized than to be baptized and fall away.
Is my father still Amish? No.
My father knew from an early age he would not stay Amish and therefore was never baptized in their church.
He did however meet my mother who was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). They were probably around 18 or 19 at the time. He took lessons from the LDS missionaries while he and my mother dated. If I remember correctly, they dated for about a year. In studying out the LDS religion, he felt a lot of "gaps" were filled (questions answered). He married my mother and was baptized into the LDS religion. My parents are both still very active in the LDS church.
In studying for my Thesis Paper, I found many similarities between the Amish and the LDS (Mormons). This was very interesting to me.
There is the whole persecution aspect; being driven from one place to another, tar & feathering, and even Martyrdom. This is similar to the early days of the LDS as well.
Like the Amish, LDS believe that one is not ready for baptism until they reach an age of accountability. Additionally, baptismal covenants are made and believed to be sacred.
Amish ministers are "Lay" clergy. LDS Bishops are "Lay" clergy. In the Amish faith, just as the husband is head of the household, Jesus is the head of the Church. "Within the church members are those who are assigned special duties to minister and serve the needs of the congregation. They do not believe that one member is more important than another, but that everyone has a certain duty to perform for the flock. Some duties require personal care to the members who cannot care for themselves. Others are in the service to serve the Word of God. In between, there are other positions for members. Those not in a position of an office are equally important in the congregation." (Who Are The Amish?) The LDS believe that every member plays an equally important part of the ward as well. Members are given various callings to teach or to lead the singing, etc. and some of course are called to be Bishops or High Priests. LDS also believe that Christ is the cornerstone of our religion.
Amish are divided into "districts" based on geographic location and attend church in that district. LDS are divided in to "wards" and "stakes" based on geographical locations.
Amish practice the law of tithes as well as contribute offerings to care for their own. LDS practice the law of tithing, and additionally practices fast offerings and has instituted other welfare programs.
Both Amish and LDS believe in the Creation. Both believe God then sent His Son to redeem them from becoming eternally lost. Both believe the Savior was conceived in the Virgin Mary through the Holy Spirit to be born in the house of David. Both believe in the resurrection.
I remember at the time of my report thinking it was interesting how there were many parallels and similarities between the Amish and the LDS.
Anyway... Stay tuned. Next week I will post more about the cultural aspect. Hope I didn't bore you all to sleep :)
Is Amish a religion, a culture, a race or ethnicity, or What?
Amish is a Religious Culture. Meaning, they use religious beliefs to govern their life... but more so than in the way that perhaps other religions do. Amish is an Anabaptist religion (Amish, Hutterites, Brethren, Mennonites, etc.)
Race/Ethnicity:
Amish are of European decent, thus are Anglo/Anglo-saxon.
Religious Background:
16th century Anabaptists rejected "modern" Christian practices such as wearing wedding rings, taking oaths, and participating in civil government. They lived a more literal interpretation of the Sermon on the Mount and Believer's baptism. However, all other major Christian denominations during that period saw baptism as necessary for salvation - including infants, and declared it wrong to delay baptism until the child had reached a certain age. Anabaptists believed that baptismal candidates need to make their own confessions of faith, and therefore refused infant baptism.
This is the main reason they were persecuted the 16th & 17th centuries by both Roman Catholics and Protestants. Many of these Anabaptists were persecuted and martyred for their beliefs. Those who survived attacks migrated to Southern Germany and parts of Switzerland. .
Menno Simons, a Catholic priest from Holland, joined the Anabaptists. From his teachings, he created a loyal flock of followers who were named Mennonites.
Jacob Amman, a Swiss bishop, broke away from the Mennonites and his followers were known as Amish. Ammann had views such as the wearing of the untrimmed beard, uniformity in dress, foot washing and prohibition of attendance at services of the state church.
Persecutions did not cease and many Anabaptists fled to Russia while others continued to Southern Germany. From Russia some went back to Germany and then the United States while others went from Russia to places like Paraguay.
Amish are NOT Quakers. Many people confuse the Amish or Mennonites with the Quakers. They are not Quakers, but I can see why they might be confused. Groups of Amish and Mennonites settled in Pennsylvania during the 1720's.. Obviously their European exodus was in search of Religious Freedom, as in most religious movements from Europe to the United States at that time. But why Pennsylvania? Well, the majority of the population of Pennsylvania at that time were of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The Quakers were tolerant of other religious beliefs and would not persecute them. Similarly, the Friends, also opposed to violence and killing, were killed and persecuted by the Puritan settlers. (The Quakers settled in the Pennsylvania area in the mid 1600's to maintain a holy experiment in living in peace centered in the city of Philadelphia (city of peace).) The Amish knew this and decided to settle nearby in Lancaster County, PA.
In accordance with the teachings of Jacob Amman, old-order (traditional) Amish still abide by this simple-living, non-modern way of life.
It is very rare for someone who is Amish to marry outside of the church. If someone chooses not to be baptized in the Amish faith, normally they do not marry someone that is. Once they join church, it is also extremely rare for them to leave. This is an ultimate sin, because if you were old enough to proclaim your faith in Jesus Christ and are baptized, it was *your* choice (unlike an infant). When you are baptized you are not only professing your Faith in Jesus Christ, but you are covenanting to live the Amish way of life. So, if living an Amish lifestyle is not in accordance with your personal beliefs, then it is better to not be baptized than to be baptized and fall away.
Is my father still Amish? No.
My father knew from an early age he would not stay Amish and therefore was never baptized in their church.
He did however meet my mother who was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). They were probably around 18 or 19 at the time. He took lessons from the LDS missionaries while he and my mother dated. If I remember correctly, they dated for about a year. In studying out the LDS religion, he felt a lot of "gaps" were filled (questions answered). He married my mother and was baptized into the LDS religion. My parents are both still very active in the LDS church.
In studying for my Thesis Paper, I found many similarities between the Amish and the LDS (Mormons). This was very interesting to me.
There is the whole persecution aspect; being driven from one place to another, tar & feathering, and even Martyrdom. This is similar to the early days of the LDS as well.
Like the Amish, LDS believe that one is not ready for baptism until they reach an age of accountability. Additionally, baptismal covenants are made and believed to be sacred.
Amish ministers are "Lay" clergy. LDS Bishops are "Lay" clergy. In the Amish faith, just as the husband is head of the household, Jesus is the head of the Church. "Within the church members are those who are assigned special duties to minister and serve the needs of the congregation. They do not believe that one member is more important than another, but that everyone has a certain duty to perform for the flock. Some duties require personal care to the members who cannot care for themselves. Others are in the service to serve the Word of God. In between, there are other positions for members. Those not in a position of an office are equally important in the congregation." (Who Are The Amish?) The LDS believe that every member plays an equally important part of the ward as well. Members are given various callings to teach or to lead the singing, etc. and some of course are called to be Bishops or High Priests. LDS also believe that Christ is the cornerstone of our religion.
Amish are divided into "districts" based on geographic location and attend church in that district. LDS are divided in to "wards" and "stakes" based on geographical locations.
Amish practice the law of tithes as well as contribute offerings to care for their own. LDS practice the law of tithing, and additionally practices fast offerings and has instituted other welfare programs.
Both Amish and LDS believe in the Creation. Both believe God then sent His Son to redeem them from becoming eternally lost. Both believe the Savior was conceived in the Virgin Mary through the Holy Spirit to be born in the house of David. Both believe in the resurrection.
I remember at the time of my report thinking it was interesting how there were many parallels and similarities between the Amish and the LDS.
Anyway... Stay tuned. Next week I will post more about the cultural aspect. Hope I didn't bore you all to sleep :)
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Anyone Home???
In case you missed it, I went home last weekend. While there I visited with family and a couple of friends. My Father's family is Amish.
Let me just get this part out of the way now: Yes. I did take pics of some of my cousin's children. Yes, the Amish are against having their pics taken (graven imagery). But some Amish (like many of my cousins) don't mind if the kids are in a pic once in a while because 1) they are not yet baptized and therefore held by a different standard. 2) because it is ME asking :)
Anyway...so back to the post. My aunt asked me if it felt good to "be home". I said, "yes". Then she said, "Well, you probably feel at home in UT though now. Since you lived there for so long by now." Actually, I had to correct her and tell her that Indiana still felt like home. I asked a few other friends, since they moved away from home, if they feel like they are home now or when they go back to visit? I was surprised at how many feel at home just because they are in the company of loved ones. Perhaps because things were not "settled" for me in my home for well over ten years... perhaps that is why I did not feel "at home".
And while it is true that I have loved ones here, there are only a handful compared to the number of people back home who love me and support me. I hope that one day, when I *do* feel settled (whenever that may be) then, I will feel at home.
So what about you? If you live somewhere far from where you grew up, do you feel at home now? What do you think makes someone feel "at home" in their current town or city?
And now, for your viewing pleasure... my cousins, when I went to visit back "home".
My uncle Leo makes his own rugs and then sells them...
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Let me just get this part out of the way now: Yes. I did take pics of some of my cousin's children. Yes, the Amish are against having their pics taken (graven imagery). But some Amish (like many of my cousins) don't mind if the kids are in a pic once in a while because 1) they are not yet baptized and therefore held by a different standard. 2) because it is ME asking :)
Anyway...so back to the post. My aunt asked me if it felt good to "be home". I said, "yes". Then she said, "Well, you probably feel at home in UT though now. Since you lived there for so long by now." Actually, I had to correct her and tell her that Indiana still felt like home. I asked a few other friends, since they moved away from home, if they feel like they are home now or when they go back to visit? I was surprised at how many feel at home just because they are in the company of loved ones. Perhaps because things were not "settled" for me in my home for well over ten years... perhaps that is why I did not feel "at home".
And while it is true that I have loved ones here, there are only a handful compared to the number of people back home who love me and support me. I hope that one day, when I *do* feel settled (whenever that may be) then, I will feel at home.
So what about you? If you live somewhere far from where you grew up, do you feel at home now? What do you think makes someone feel "at home" in their current town or city?
And now, for your viewing pleasure... my cousins, when I went to visit back "home".
My uncle Leo makes his own rugs and then sells them...
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Monday, March 30, 2009
Introducing Home
Today, we are taking a bloggy trip back home, to MY hometown in Middlebury, IN. I will tell you about some of the stuff in my home town, and in the surrounding areas too.
If you have any interest in Amish Country, this is it. Good food, one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest, and lots of hometown goodness. That's home.
And here's a tip before I forget. When shopping for "Amish Goods" such as jellies, jams, breads, throw rugs, quilts, furniture, etc. Look for roadside shops or shops in Amish homes. You will most likely get a better deal here than shopping at the touristy boutiques in town.
Das Dutchman Essenhaus (click here) Translated, this means "The Amish Eating House", or restaurant. You better not pass thru Middlebury without eating lunch or dinner here. They have Menu dining or Family Style. They also have a bakery. However, because the nearby flea market is open on Tues & Weds, I would avoid going these two days or be prepared for a long wait. However, if you do have to there are several shops on their "campus", including a candy shop which is oh so yummy. Or you can do a round of mini-golf across the street while you wait too!
Private Amish Dinner - The above Amish house is my Aunt's & Uncle's. Many Amish Families offer private Amish Dinners in their homes on their farms, as a side business. Not to worry - they comply with the state food service licensing laws. Anyway, my Aunt does this -She provides Authentic Amish Dinners for groups. It is yummy, and you never leave hungry. They serve it Family Style, and each dish is passed around at least twice. So, you can take as much as you want, and of course, homemade Amish pie is the best dessert. You will definitely get your money's worth. The downside is it may not be worth it if you have a bunch of little children. (My kids are good eaters, so it was never a problem.)
Rise 'N Roll Bakery - (click here for more info and address) I ran across this new Amish Bakery two years ago when we were visiting back home. We were on our way to Shipshe for the Flea Market, and I always look for Amish roadside bake sales to get my fix of Whoopie Pies or Shoo Fly Pie, and of course homemade breads. I happened to see this bakery and pulled in. I walked in and guess who I saw??? It was one of my Amish Friends from elementary school. This cute little bakery is owned by my childhood friend, Viola and her husband! How cool is that? Incidentally he sells his handmade furniture at the store as well.
UPDATE: My friend Viola no longer owns the Rise & Roll. It was purchased by someone else, and moved down the road from it's original location. Still very good maple rolls. However, it does have more of a commercial/touristy feel to it.
UPDATE: My friend Viola no longer owns the Rise & Roll. It was purchased by someone else, and moved down the road from it's original location. Still very good maple rolls. However, it does have more of a commercial/touristy feel to it.
Country Lane Bakery - (click here for more info & address) This is one of the best finds ever. Open Tue-Sat, early in the morning, only until late afternoon. Get their early for best selection of Amish pies, breads and cookies. I actually love this place better than the Rise 'N Roll. It's not as crowded or commercialized. Just a sweet Amish couple running their bakery. Seriously, the Whoopie Pies, the cinnamon rolls, breads, and other pies are the best here!
Deutsch Kase Haus -(click here for more info) Every time we visit my kids insist on going to the Amish Cheese Factory. I admit, it's one of my favorites too. You can watch cheese making if you get there during the right hours. Also, you can sample every kind of cheese they make. Tip - if you are planning to be out all day, fill a cooler with ice, because you will not want to leave without buying cheese. My favorites are the Colby Cheese (which I can't find around here. Everyone here in UT sells Colby-Jack, not just plain Colby), Butter Cheese and Farmer Cheese. Mmm-Hmm!
FunnyMan, PrettyPrettyPrincess and LittleDuckling 2 years ago at the Cheese Factory.
Flea Market in Shipshe
Shipshewana Flea Market - The flea market is only open on Tuesdays & Wednesdays, from 8a-5p, between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Make sure to take plenty of water to keep you hydrated. The food there isn't all that great and it's over-priced. The good news is that there are fresh fruit stands. The nearby fast food places are good, but the lines are long on these days. We usually go to the flea market right after we eat breakfast. We pack fruit snacks, PB&J sandwiches and lots of water. We are usually done by 2pm and head out to clean up, relax and find a nice place to sit and eat.
Yoder's Dept Store - Across from the Flea Market is Yoder's Dept Store. Whether you're looking for fabric, souvenirs (this is where we go for our Shipshe tee souvenir tees), Amish straw hats, pioneer bonnets, or a quick snack, Yoder's Dept Store has it.
Yoder's Dept Store - Across from the Flea Market is Yoder's Dept Store. Whether you're looking for fabric, souvenirs (this is where we go for our Shipshe tee souvenir tees), Amish straw hats, pioneer bonnets, or a quick snack, Yoder's Dept Store has it.
Wanawaves Splash Universe (click here)/ had just opened 2 years ago, and we didn't have time to stop and play. However, my sister took her kids there for the weekend and said they had a blast. She highly recommends it.
UPDATE: This fun waterpark closed its doors in 2013. Not enough year-round business to stay open. So sad, it was a great place.
UPDATE: This fun waterpark closed its doors in 2013. Not enough year-round business to stay open. So sad, it was a great place.
If you're gonna be in Shipshewana anyway - you have to stop here - The Davis Mercantile. There are several adorable shops (like Millie's Candy) and there is also is carousel for the kids to ride. Here are a few other of my favorite shops there:
JoJo's Pretzles - (click here for more info) My second cousin, Jo Jo owns this pretzel place with her husband. My favorite is the Honey Whole Wheat pretzel. The smell is enough to drive you crazy. You won't be able to turn them down!
Lolly's Fabric Store - click here for more info ... Jo Jo's Mom, Elsie owns Lolly's Fabrics. Elsie is married to my father's cousin. Anyway - Elsie has lots of specialty fabrics, quilt squares, and quilts for sale. It's right next to the pretzel shop.
YUPs - (click here for more information) If you find yourself in need of some of the best ice cream you'll ever taste, be sure to hit up Yup's Dairyland Ice Cream Stand. Better than any DQ in my opinion. It's a darling little stand located at the corner of State Roads 13 & 120.
YUPs - (click here for more information) If you find yourself in need of some of the best ice cream you'll ever taste, be sure to hit up Yup's Dairyland Ice Cream Stand. Better than any DQ in my opinion. It's a darling little stand located at the corner of State Roads 13 & 120.
Where to stay? In "Crystal Valley" there are tons of B&B's, RV parks, Inns, cabins and campgrounds. There are also hotels and motels in abundance in nearby towns.
One of my favorites is to stay is here: Amish Country Log Cabin Hideway While this location is not in the town of Middlebury, it's in between Middlebury and Goshen and the scenic (but short) drive is gorgeous. This is a lovely cabin that feels like home away from home. Seriously the best prices around for larger groups too. (We've stayed here for family reunions before.) The price cannot be beat, but you usually have to book far in advance. Email them to see if it's available for you. They also own two other cabins in Middlebury.
One of my favorites is to stay is here: Amish Country Log Cabin Hideway While this location is not in the town of Middlebury, it's in between Middlebury and Goshen and the scenic (but short) drive is gorgeous. This is a lovely cabin that feels like home away from home. Seriously the best prices around for larger groups too. (We've stayed here for family reunions before.) The price cannot be beat, but you usually have to book far in advance. Email them to see if it's available for you. They also own two other cabins in Middlebury.
No matter when you plan your trip, plan to relax on Sundays. Most everything is closed on Sundays in both towns. It's safe to say that majority of the locals are church-goin' folks. In my small town alone, there are at least eight different churches- all different religions- and even more if you search the county. (see town link and search for "churches" on the left-hand side.)
Here is a link to my home town. middlebury, indiana We may be small, but we're on the Web!
FunnyMan, PrettyPrettyPrincess and LittleDuckling, getting a "pony-cart" ride from their second cousins.
Thanks for coming "home" with me on our Bloggy Spring Break Trip today! Come Back tomorrow to see where we're headed!
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Sunday, September 28, 2008
Sappy Falls...
I LOVE the fall. To me, Fall reminds me of back home in Indiana. I LOVE Indiana Fall Season. I love the changing colors of the leaves. But here is what I REALLY MISS.I miss getting fresh Apple Cider from Miller's Cider Mill in Middlebury. I miss the local High School Football games (Go Raiders!). I miss the harvest season; big pumpkins, squashes, and Indiana Sweet Corn.
And let me tell you that you have NOT tasted GOOD - I mean REALLY GOOD - Sweet Corn, until you've had some from Indiana. We actually have the corn all summer, but the fall is when I remember trying to hurry and eat it before the season ended. Often times dinner at our house was Corn on the Cob and bread & butter. It was divine!!! Let's see... I also miss seeing the pails hanging from the sugar-maple trees in Amish Country.
I remember my Grandpa (Miller) used to make his own maple syrup. I remember when I was little, and he'd hang the buckets to collect the sap. And behind his house was a shed, and inside was a bit Vat over a fire pit. He would cook the sap in there to make the syrup. I also recall my grandma gathering pie tins and butter knives and bringing them out to the shed to gather a little syrup on them. Then, all the older kids and adults would "work" the syrup with their knives to "pull" homemade taffy...mmm. I sure do miss that!!!
Funny thing...now that I remember the "vat" in the shed, I remember when Grandma and Grandpa had pigs, and finally about this time of year, the pigs were "ready". I don't ever remember a pig roast or anything like that. However, I DO remember Grandpa cooking (deep frying) pork rinds in that vat as well. (Hopefully it was cleaned out before the sap was added!)
Wow - I really have a hankering for maple taffy and pure maple syrup right about now...mmm.
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