Introduction to Old Order and Conservative Mennonite Groups: People's Place Book No. 12

People's Place #12

by Stephen Scott

          This book tells a story which until now has not been available in such an interesting and comprehensive form. What holds these people together? Why are they growing in number? Where do they live? The Old Order Mennonites are less well known than the Amish, but are similar in many beliefs and practices. Some Old Order Mennonites drive horses and buggies. Others use cars for transportation. Conservative Mennonite groups vary a great deal, but in general espouse strong faith and family life and believe that how they live should distinguish them from the larger society around them.           The author details courtship and wedding practices, methods of worship, dress, transportation, and vocation. Never before has there been such an inside account of these people and their lives. The author spent years conferring and interviewing members of the various groups, trying to portray their history and their story in a fair and accurate manner. An enjoyable, educational, inspiring book.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction

362 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Jordan Varey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dealing with Conservative Mennonite Groups in the USA and Eastern Canada primarily, Scott provides a detailed account. The narrative is easy to follow and charts are provided for quick review of the various factions. Scott also makes good use of photographs to illustrate the particular dress, transport, and architecture in each sect. I live in Saskatchewan and would have appreciated the inclusion of groups in my area but growing up in Ontario I still found it relevant and I presume many of the central doctrines carry over to Russian Mennonites as well.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

This a study of the Mennonites in the United States. It examines their culture and practices to include basic religious and political beliefs. It has brief examinations of several individual Mennonite conclaves throughout the the northern part of the United States. The work is a nice introduction to the Mennonites.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mennonites can sure quibble over details...

[Emil Rekasi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A detailed description of the specific versions of conservative Mennonites. An easy read but be ready for information only. Scott does not flower his work with his opinions or own feelings. Very informative and what do ya know? A paragraph on Hershey. Yeah he's got the genes.

[Samuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unmatched resource describing conservative Mennonite groups from the "Swiss" Mennonite background. Unfortunately becoming a bit dated, but the late Stephen Scott did a masterful job.

[Stephanie]

A helpful reference for udnerstanding theology, dress and origins of conservative Mennonite groups.