One of the most frequent emails I receive are about visiting a Mennonite church. Maybe there are a few more of you who have wondered but didn't have the courage to ask.
Can I visit a Mennonite church?
Yes. All Mennonite churches, as far as I know, welcome visitors. When Ed and I have been traveling, we have visited several new-to-us Mennonite churches and have always been warmly welcomed.
What should I wear when I visit a Mennonite church?
Mennonites churches are meant to be places to worship God and it is expected for the audience to be dressed respectfully. But it is not expected that a visitor wear a head covering or any other special kind of clothing.
Where is the closest Mennonite church to me?
This is one of the most common questions I am asked. And in the past I have struggled to find a church in a particular region. But recently I found a handy church finder. This map shows conservative Mennonite churches around the world. You can zoom up the map to look at a particular area and click on a church button to find more information about that church. I'm so glad I found this convenient resource for the next time we are traveling and maybe this church finder can be a blessing to you.
What can I expect when I visit a Mennonite church?
Mennonite churches vary in their routines and traditions. Many of the more conservative Mennonite churches practice separate seating for the men and women - the men sitting on one side of the church and the women on the other. The music is usually acapella congregational singing, with no instrumental accompaniment and no choir or worship team. Prayer is often done while kneeling.
Typically after the service, the congregation lingers for a time of talking and fellowship. Please feel free to converse and ask questions. You may find that we are as curious about you as you are of us. We would love to hear about your spiritual journey.
You will soon find that we are not perfect. We attempt to follow the Lord in literal obedience to His Word, but at times we fail. Maybe we can together encourage each other in our walk with God.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
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Very well written Gina - thanks!
ReplyDeleteI have considered visiting a Mennonite church, in large part because it seems to me that many of todays churches have gone astray. I have looked at a lot of Mennonite activity online, and I found that just as you have said, Gina, some are more much more conservative than others, and some some have little distinction from other more mainstream churches. As you have pointed out, each individual church has it's own personality, even if each church holds to the same basic principals and traditions of the denomination.
ReplyDeleteI still miss my ladies Bible study from years ago. We were from different churches and denominations. We were different ages. Some had much more Bible learning than others. It was the most lively, sisterly, fun, profound Bible study ever! We had differences of opinion and the discussions were just awesome. We have all remained friends til this day.
I have always preferred a setting where the focus is Christ, and not a particular preacher.
I loved "Cowboy Church' in Montana. Usually outdoors, a preacher would open with a prayer, and just a few words, then the meeting was open to anyone who had a Scripture to share and comment, a song, a testimony etc. I found these meetings to be the most powerful and wonderful times of sharing.
Thank you Gina, for sharing about visiting Mennonite churches, and the Church Finder!
Thank you Gina for this great post. We have visited a Mennonite church in the past and I love it. I really am desperate for fellowship but the Mennonite church we have visited is too far away. Currently we it is not possible to visit them due to my elderly father in law's health.
ReplyDeleteHello All!
ReplyDeleteJust had to post a reply to this entry! I did in fact take the plunge and visit a Conservative Mennonite church 14 years ago - and never left. Knew no one there - just totally curious, as we were in a very liberal setting where the pastor preached in shorts and sandals, people drank coffee and ate during the sermon, and people wore pretty suggestive clothing to church. It was all the setting we knew, and saw Mennonites pictures in some homeschool curriculum we were using - so we asked around and found a church. It has been a roller coaster ride for sure, but I hope you, too, will take that first step and visit one or more - you will meet some of THE nicest people full of hospitality and often a simple, refreshing, uncluttered view of Christ. Be sure to ask questions as to what/why they do what they do - it is good for them - AND us!! Wish there were a forum for women wondering about Mennonites online to feel free to ask their questions! God bless you all as you seek to serve Him - In Christ, Jonna Statt in NY jonnafromny@cleaninter.net
Thanks Jonna for your testimony. I know that you have blessed those you have had contact with to.
DeleteGina
Gina, I just moved to Pennsylvania. I lives next door to a Mennonite church. I want to go one Sunday. I'm just scared they would reject me. I don't own a dress or skirt, but I could go to a thrift store and buy one. Would it be OK to just show up one Sunday Morning? The sign outside says all is welcome. I just don't want anyone to there to think I am weird. I do have many reasons to why I want to go. None of which are curiosity. Should I go? My desire is strong. Every time I pass by I feel as if something is drawing me there.
DeleteIf you would stop by our church on a random Sunday, we would be thrilled. I hope that the church that you live next to will feel the same. Please give them a chance to welcome you.
DeleteGina
I checked the map and wanted to let anyone (who might be around my area) know that there is a large Mennonite community not on the map in Gentry, AR. They even have their own school :) It is too far of a drive for us (and we have a church already) but in case anyone is close to there. P.S. Some of them run a restaurant called "The Wooden Spoon" in Gentry as well. It is just about the best food you have ever had and all from scratch!
ReplyDeleteHello Gina
ReplyDeleteWould you know of any Mennonite churches that accept homeschooling (of the more Conservative Mennonite groups)? Of course, we would be using a R&S or CLE curriculum. Thank you and God Bless!
There are many Mennonite churches that allow homeschooling - and some that don't. Just ask the church that you are considering attending what they think about homeschooling.
DeleteGina
Hi Gina, do Mennonite churches similar to the ones you and your attend allow smart phones for children? My son and daughter both have iPhones, and we’re wondering if this is something a church like yours would be comfortable with.
ReplyDeleteThere is no rule against smart phones, just a caution to use them wisely and have safeguards for yourself and your children.
DeleteGina
What sorts of safeguards would you recommend?
DeleteI'm not current on what kind of tools are available but I would recommend some kind of accountability app such as EverAccountable that would show you what sites your child is visiting and how much time spent there.
DeleteGina
Hi Gina, I’m 17 years old and I’m currently attending a Mennonite church (relatively liberal, they allow computer and internet), and it’s mostly gone well but I was slightly uncomfortable today. I went to an event at one of the church member’s houses (at outdoor cookout) and while I was sitting by myself an older woman approached me, chatted with me for a few moments, and then said “you know, we generally expect young men in our church to wear button-up shirts”.
ReplyDeleteI was wearing a tee shirt (logo of my school) and jeans and there was nothing inappropriate about it, and I informed her that I wasn’t a member of the church, and she sort of shrugged and said “just keep that in mind for the future”.
I’m not that good at picking up on social queues; was she trying to say that I am being considered for church membership? Or simply that she wanted me to start dressing more similar to others my age in the church?
Hoping you can give me some insight on this.
Thanks for asking. I want to be respectful, since I don't know the lady who spoke to you, but doesn't ever church of every denomination have an older woman who likes to make sure everyone knows what to do? I wouldn't let her comments bother you. I'm sure she meant well and thought she was helping you out, but I wouldn't take her comments too seriously. Or maybe you can take this comment that she is accepting you and she can speak freely. Older people in the church are often afraid that the young people are not going to continue the traditions that they hold dear so just try to respect her concern without stressing over it.
DeleteBlessings in your journey to do God's will,
Gina
So, I'm confused. Is she saying that she wants me to know that if I join the church, then I'll be expected not to wear tee shirts? Or just that I should be mindful that others in the church my age follow different standards than I do?
DeleteAnd when you say "respect her concern", sorry, what do you mean by that?
Thanks so much for your help.
I don't know what is expected at the church you are attending. Why not ask the other young men or one of the church leaders? Then you'll know whether this is what one lady wants or what the church as a whole had chosen to do.
DeleteDoes that make sense?
Gina
Hi Gina, the guys in my church wear button-up shirts as part of their dress. It’s what the church has decided. But, like I said I’m not a member, so I’m unsure why the lady said that.
DeleteBasically, guys who are church members wear button-up shirts, not tee shirts. She knows I’m not a member, but came up to me and told me that “we generally expect young men in our church to wear button-up shirts”. When I reminded her that I wasn’t a member, she said she knows that but that I should “keep this in mind for the future”.
Like I said, I’m not sure if this is some indirect, cryptic way of telling me that I’m being considered for membership, or telling me that I should start dressing more like the church members, or something else. That’s why I’m asking. Hope this helps.
Rainer
Well, I'm not a mind reader so I have no idea what she meant by that comment. I wouldn't worry about it. If you really have a concern, ask someone else at your church what they think she meant. Otherwise, I wouldn't lose any sleep over it. She might not have meant anything by it.
DeleteGina
Hi Rainer & Gina,
DeleteRainer, I myself came into a Mennonite church when I was teenager. If you will accept my advice, I don’t know how long you’ve attended your church, but generally after some time of continuous attendance the church leadership will begin to think of you less as a member and more as a member of the church body (albeit one who hasn’t become a member yet). Since you are young, and have likely been attending this church for some time, they may see you as someone who may wish to be a member of the church in the future. Visitors to a Mennonite church are of course not required to dress like them, but if you have been attending there for several months (as it seems you have) and have been accepted enough by the members to where you are invited to attend their events, they may believe that if you are “serious” about being a member, then you will start to dress like them and express more interest in their beliefs.
Like Gina said, we can’t read minds. However, that woman’s comment may be an indication that the members feel comfortable with you (which is great!), but that, out of respect, you should respect the standards of their body should you wish to continue to attend. If you were working in an office, for example, and your boss stopped by your desk and said “looking a bit casual today, huh Rainer?”, you would probably take that as an indication that you are underdressed. Same thing here.
In the future, when you are around the members of that church, whether it is an outdoor cookout like here or somewhere else, I would dress a little more conservatively (no tee shirts). If you’d like my advice, you can stick with the jeans, but find a nice button-up shirt (flannel or otherwise) and wear it tucked in with a nice belt. I think they will appreciate your effort and your respect of their beliefs.
I hope this helps. Gina might be able to give you more specific advice since your churches are more liberal than mine.
George
I have been wanting to visit a Mennonite community. I was invited to go to church by a Mennonite lady who comes into the retail store where I work. I want to go but want to dress appropriately... I also would like to see if I can visit their community. Any tips on how to go about asking? Or is it off limits?
ReplyDeleteI hope you accept her invitation. She wouldn't have invited you if their church doesn't welcome visitors. Don't worry too much about what you wear. They won't expect you to dress like them, just choose something decently modest. Most Mennonites enjoy having guests into their home. Start by visiting their church and see what doors open (literally!)
DeleteGina
Hi Gina,
ReplyDeleteWe go to a Mennonite church in the northeastern us and have a very young church, with a lot of teenagers and college age students in our congregation. It’s recently become a bit contentious in our congregation because many of our young people do not follow the church policies set out by leaders on things like dress and media usage, etc.
For instance, our official policy is that women (married and unmarried) who are members wear a white covering as dictated by scripture, but most of our young women do not wear one. We call for cape dresses, and while many of our young ladies do wear them, they wear them with modern jackets or wind breakers. Combined with the absence of a covering, they do not look like they are members of our congregation.
I’m wondering if you know of a way to speak to these young women and ask them to respect the rules of our congregation.
That is tough. I don't know that I have any answers except lots of prayer and seeking God for wisdom on what you should say/do.
DeleteGina
What a wonderful blog site! I'm inspired! I have visited our local Mennonite church in Oregon, though I am not Mennotite but more of a Baptist or Presbyterian. I enjoyed the church but I am so used to sitting with my husband in church. This was a hard thing for me, but we were encouraged to remain together during the service. I wore a very long skirt and modest long sleeve shirt but I was caught off guard because I didn't cover my hair! I am struggling what the other women may be thinking of me if I come back. Should I sit apart from my husband and also cover my hair if I come for more visits? And on another subject for you, I raise sheep. Do you have any recipe for sheep cheese? It is hard to find. And lastly, I would like my 23 yr old daughter to come with me to the Mennonite church in our town but I don't have a long dress or skirt for her. They are hard to find.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for writing. I'm glad you enjoyed the church your visited. If you visited my church, we would not have any problem with you sitting with your husband. Neither would we expect you to cover your head unless you want to. Neither would your daughter have to wear a dress or skirt. We have had visitors who wore pants, and though we appreciate attempts at modesty, we don't require visitors to wear anything special. We just appreciate visitors so much.
ReplyDeleteI don't have any experience making sheep cheese so I can't help you with recipes.
Blessings,
Gina
My husband and I are getting ready to attend church this Sunday locally. I am very excited about this journey. We have been working under a contractor who is mennonite. He has been most uplifting to be around. He invited us to join and I have had a feeling of complete calmness within me every since being invited. I would love to be able to come back and share my experience next week.
ReplyDeleteI have been attending Alum Creek church here in Ohio for about two years now. Not a full member yet still have some issues and they still call me the widow from the Brethren Church, but I have come to love my new congregation as my family which has become a new chapter in my life; I say come visit and we are really great putting on a Sunday Meal
ReplyDeleteHello Gina, I've been up all night (4:06 am) in the morning reading about the different Christian groups.for most of my life. Since I was younger I've been wanting to be baptized. When I was a teen I had a very strong interest in the Mennonites.i still do. Is there any tips like how I should go about being baptized with a Mennonite Church?
ReplyDeleteThanks for writing. Start with attending a Mennonite church and decide if that is the church that God is leading you to be part of. Talk to the church members of the church you choose to decide what the next step should be. Many Mennonite churches have a series of Bible studies for those who want to be baptized.
DeleteGina
Thank you. I was up all night trying to find information about it. I do believe God is leading me to it
DeleteHi Gina,
ReplyDeleteI am an unwed single mother of two who has wished for some time to visit and fellowship with a Mennonite church. I've been harshly judged in the past at conservative Baptist churches, and while I know that every church and every attendee is different, I am hesitant to visit because I don't want to be disruptful or disrespectful to customs and culture. If I do visit, what can I expect (remembering that every church is different) with my children? Do kids typically sit in a service? Is there a children's church, where the kids are taken aside or a different room and taught about the bible? Thanks for any insight you may have for me.
Liz
Thanks, Liz, for writing. I wish you lived close by so you could come to church with me. We love to have visitors, and I think that most Mennonite churches would welcome your attendance.
DeleteMost Mennonite churches would have Sunday School where the children and adults would have classes according to their age group, but during the worship service, all children sit with their parents. I know this can be a challenge for children who are no used to sitting in a service. You could sit near that back if you are worried that your children will not sit still, but I hope that most people would be understanding and welcoming.
Blessings,
Gina
Hi there. I like your blog. I tried to follow you on Pinterest also. I will have to see if it worked. I have been going to a Mennonite church since June of 2020. I enjoy the people there and the way they are so close and community minded. They are opening up a thrift store soon, and I am so thankful to be part of help it come along. My experience with the New Holland Mennonite church in Batesburg, SC has been sweet and lovely. I look forward to what God has in store for me with them.
ReplyDeleteI'm Bobby perkins from va and would like too go too church services sometime I'm in Bassett va would like something close you have suggestions
ReplyDeleteI suggest looking up this area in the Church Finder.
Deletehttps://www.pilgrimministry.org/congregations/map
Blessings,
Gina