Understanding HISTORY often helps to explain the present. More importantly, by understanding past events we can help shape the future. The sixteenth century has particular significance for us, especially the years 1517-1560. The Mennonites grew out of the Anabaptist movement in these years and are named for Menno Simons (1496-1561) who came from the Frisia area of the Netherlands. These years remain very influential for us.

During that time, the first (modern) adult baptism took place and a church was founded independently from emperors and the popes. Our spiritual forbearers refused to perform military service and held fast to their faith despite harsh persecution. They traveled widely and told other people, at the risk of their own lives, about their convictions.

Past and Present

So much has happened since the 16th century. In the intervening years, Mennonites have not always remained true to their ideals. There were also many new developments, new theological discoveries, institutional structures, and partnerships. In order to make Mennonites’ past and present more comprehensible, we have established a library in our church building. It includes books on Mennonite history, theology, and ethics. Additionally, there are many novels that can also be checked out.

On the internet, the Mennonite encyclopedia “Mennlex”, written by professors and other specialist, has many articles about the history and theology of Mennonites. While this site is in German, readers can also use the English-language website “Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online.”

Anyone who wants to learn more about Mennonite history is invited to visit the Mennonite Research Center (Mennonitische Forschungsstelle) in Weierhof. The Mennonite Historical Society (Mennonitischer Geschichtsverein) built an extra building to house old documents and other historical sources. There, researchers have many opportunities to delve into Mennonite history. The Mennonite Historical Society also welcomes non-Mennonites.