Mennonites

Mennonites are a Christian religious group tracing its roots to the Anabaptist movements of 16th‑century Europe. Named for Menno Simons, they emerged from communities in the Low Countries and German-speaking areas that advocated adult baptism, church discipline, and separation from the state church. Today Mennonites form a global family of communities with varied doctrines and practices, united by shared Anabaptist heritage.

Beliefs and practices center on believer's baptism, pacifism, and discipleship. Most Mennonites practice baptism upon confession of faith and observe the Lord's Supper as an ongoing remembrance. Nonresistance is a hallmark of many groups, leading to strong withdrawal from military service and political violence. Church governance is often congregational and guided by a community-defined Ordnung, a set of ethical and behavioral norms.

Diversity within the Mennonite world is wide. Some groups, known as Old Order or Conservative Mennonites, maintain plain dress, limited use of electricity, and a simple lifestyle; others are more integrated into modern society, with churches that use contemporary worship and higher education. Distinct groups include the Mennonite Church, Mennonite Church USA, and various regional fellowships.

Geographically, Mennonite communities are concentrated in North America, especially the United States and Canada, with significant populations in Mexico, Belize, and parts of Central and South America. There are also Mennonite congregations in Africa and Asia, and a global Mennonite World Conference network of millions of adherents in hundreds of churches.

History: persecution in Europe during the 16th-17th centuries prompted migrations to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries, where they established farming communities, schools, and churches. In the 20th century, many Mennonites engaged in global mission, humanitarian aid, and professional work, while some groups maintained distinctive rural traditions.