Thank you for sharing your journey! I can relate to so much of it. I was expelled 1 year ago. The reason they gave for expelling me was an unteachable spirit. Like you, the time came when I could no longer affirm that I agreed with the doctrines, as we were expected to do before partaking of communion. I knew deep in my heart that one church doctrine was not biblical. We asked for explanations but were never given satisfactory scriptural answers. Rather very vague answers. Those years were very difficult. Leaving wasn’t even an option. Too life changing. But the time came when the church said I needed to affirm or be excommunicated. Though it has been deeply traumatic at times & the loss is huge, the gains are bigger!! I would do it again. God has been there every step of the way. Sometimes I didn’t “feel” Him at the moment, but He was there. And my christian life is more joyful & fulfilling than I ever imagined it could be.
Wow! Thank you for sharing! There's definitely similarities in our stories. I'm so sorry for what you've been through and still face. My love and prayers! 💕🙏🏻
I really appreciate your sharing. I have had my eyes so opened since working in a mennonite retirement community. I am a born again christian and love Jesus so much. But no matter what I do or say or what is in my heart ♥️ I am considered unsaved and an outsider and I see I always wiĺl be because I am not holdeman mennonite. I also know I am talked about behind my back and i notice that gossip is very prevalent. It is that way everywhere, but I thought working in a Christian community owned by the mennonite church, I would be loved and accepted. So this has put me in spiritual and emotional stress. I don't even know who I can talk to. Im praying every day and studying my bible and researching all I can. But I KNOW I am saved!! I am excited about my walk with Christ, and I think accepting what Jesus did for me on the cross is more important than any man made doctrine. I am trying so hard not to be wordly and materialistic. But I know I cannot earn my salvation. I dont ever want to abuse the grace of God. I want to be set apart and holy, but what do I have to prove to people? I will pray for you in your journey! Thank you for reading my comment. May God bless you and guide you as you walk with Him.
My heart goes out to you, sister. I pray God continues to shower you with grace and strength to let the love of God flow through you. Remember that you do not need to prove anything to anyone. Just follow God daily. He never fails us or confuses us. Continue to build up your own support group of Godly persons. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you for sharing this! Ive been expelled for 14 years from the holdeman mennonite church and last year i had a experience and re dedicated my life to Christ. I have been doing lots of Bible study and i dont agree with some of the doctrines also and it gives me courage when i see others voicing their concerns. May God bless your journey!
I am glad that you are no longer under their control. When one starts reading the Bible one will find not only the things that one thought was right or true but the doctrines of the church they went to and realize they were wrong. Keep reading the Bible and don't let the mind or the mind of others to dictate what the Bible is saying. One of the main problems many Christians have is having to deal with man-made churchianity / denominationalism, doctrines that cannot be substantiated. God bless.
I listened to your life story of having been a Holdeman Mennonite member with great interest. I am a student of various religions especially of cults as they relate to religions. From your account, I can say with certainty the reason why you were able to spot all of the inconsistencies and fabrications in this religious system. It is in a word..... your superior intelligence. This aspect is the one thing that all cultic groups fear the most because those who are intelligent will and can question all of the practices and religious dogma that are built out of straw and little else. When you wondered why the other members including your family and friends could not SEE what you could, the reason is that they simply did not possess your degree of intelligence that allowed you to observe, analyze, and arrive at your independent conclusions about the inconsistencies all around you. This also explains that how you were put in the position of general manager of a business even though (at that time) you did not have a GED. These groups always thrive upon a membership that is either without advanced intelligence or those who deny their native intelligence and opt for submitting their souls to a group that in the end will destroy them. Be thankful that you were graced with Light from above. It has served you well.
Thank you for your support. You may be right. There is something quite frustrating about being even slightly more intelligent than the average person. It is more difficult to find like-minded people to fellowship with. However, I am grateful for my mind since I can use it to learn truth and educate others, and I can't blame God entirely since I did ask for wisdom and understanding from a young age. lol. Wishing you all the best in your life journey!
Thank you for your honesty! I left my church too because of what the Bible says and what goes on is completely different. I personally feel once God shows you something the grace period is over and a person is expected to follow I they choose and you can only do it for so long before he disciplines. God is a father and he won't be mocked and showing up for church doesn't protect a person. Follow man or follow God that's how I see it.
Stay close to God my sister! He loves you and is ordering your steps. I honestly never knew anything about these groups. I was just looking up groups of Christians that are not baptist north Catholic nor Orthodox but somewhere in between. I found Anabaptists online and then it led me to Mennonites and I thought it was nice to learn about but NO WAY would I live like that. Then your genuine video came up and I thought wow God can reach us anywhere! So Thank you for sharing and continuously searching for the best Christian expression of God. It is within you and you'll find it!! God bless!!
I was raised in a very strict independent denomination, but have left that stronghold and am serving the Lord in freedom. My encouragement to you would be to not get so caught up in “being free to do everything I couldn’t do as a Mennonite to thinking you have to meet the world’s expectations as far as your education and career choice.”Too many Christian women today disobey God’s word about being a mother that works outside the home. Don’t get caught up in the whirlwind of education and accomplishments that please the world. Stay in the Word and you won’t go wrong! God bless you.
Thank you for your encouragement! Stay-at-home mothers are truly one of the world's most priceless treasures and the place where many women can thrive and serve best. Trust I am not running from that role. I did when it was my only option, though! Lol. No, men and women were truly created differently. However, I will not pursue men and at this stage, must prepare for two possible futures, singleness and marriage.
Bless you sister and thank you so much for sharing this. I feel like our journeys are so similar in so many ways. You spoke so much into where I am at and where I an going. It truly was from God that I saw this video today and it brought me to tears. Me and my husband are transitioning away from the mennonite world as well and it looks huge. I dont know the first thing about doing my hair different or make up. But I know that God is calling us this way and it would be wrong to not follow Him where ever He leads. It feels like I am going to be loosing a lot as well and its sort of bittersweet. But I cant wait to see where God will lead us and how He can use us for His kingdom. 🙂 Thank you again! I would love to meet you someday!
Thanks so much for your video. Your journey is very inspiring! I love the way you have followed the Lord and have remained so non-judgemental and gracious to the community you left. It is particularly striking how God has answered your childhood prayer for wisdom and discernment! I'm sure you have an amazing journey with the Lord before you!
Thank you so much for sharing. My wife and I left not long ago and it’s absolutely amazing how god has opened our eyes. I can relate to pretty much everything u shared. That part about idolizing the Bible doctrine and practice book. And how we only need Gods word. And it’s crazy to me how they don’t believe in some very fundamental things that Jesus taught. Anyway may God bless each one thas on this journey. And give u courage and strength to go on.
One of my parents joined the holdemans when i was child. (Coming from being raised in Southern Baptist background) i understood some of the things you mentioned from being taught and just seeing it, but i was never actually part of the holdeman myself, so i didn't know much of what you said. About 13 years ago i was saved, and only recently i began finding information online about holdeman beliefs, assuming they were Christians but a sect with a few "off" beliefs, which happens easily. I was sad to find the anti biblical teachings about Jesus' "celestial" flesh, and the works based and one church theology. I'm praying for my family member and anyone else that may hear the truth! Thanks for your story!
You are an inspiration! I left the Amish community, and my reason for leaving was because I seeked God's guidance, and He showed me Biblical truth. Praise Jesus! I would love to know more about the mennonite side of the Anabaptist and how close the doctrines or Ordnung is to the Amish.
Thank you for sharing a piece of your story. Honestly there are so many different kinds of Mennonites with very different levels of conservatism. It really just looks like people's desire to create a safe place, a place that to them is perfect and flawless, but in the process they cut off many other followers of Jesus.
God bless you on your faith journey, good thing you got out of the cult. The Bible is the only book we need to follow to understand Gods plan for life .
Gosh, thank you for sharing your experience. O my goodness, it is worth going back to school. You are making wonderful positive decisions. Are people who leave or are expelled who go back happy? I am so astonished how much being in the system has impacted your life now that you left the system. I always wonder about much diversity there actually is across the members with the various practices. Do some members have investments they shouldn't? I would think that might be easy to hid. How much change is the younger generation bringing in? The internet has taken the isolation away. There are a lot of positive images, videos, messaging from the other denominations of Amish-Mennonites who are allowed to interact with the internet. But it's the reverse for the Holdemans. I was astonished when reading an article speaking about putting software on a smart phone to control what one would have access to on the phone. A laptop would be wide open. It seems like this level of control (totalitarian regimes do this) would create more problems than help. It infantalizes (holds back growth) and ability to critically think and make good decisions when left to make a decision alone. I'm not saying they should change their policy toward social media, but make a way for the members to be adult about avoiding it if that's a criteria for membership.
Thanks for the support! Some people are in and out for awhile and then give up. Others are expelled once and come back for good. This is usually because they believe they deserved to be expelled. There's much less diversity of actions among the Holdemans than almost any other group of Christians worldwide. There are changes of actions happening with the newer generations. However, they can't openly admit it or discuss it if it is directly related to the doctrines. Even with the filters on the internet that they encourage people to use, there is still so many people who are finding other Christian material online and building Christian friendships outside of the church. They are finding things about Christianity that just don't exist in their church. The whole concept or focus is about protecting the church from 'losing the way'. However, the filters are not mandatory unless someone is directly asked to install it.
The church you described as acting like they are an extention of the church seems traumatic, a d abusive. Even if its meant well, it's damaging. I'm so glad that you are removing yourself from that and find your own friends that can be as equally yolked as you ❤
God bless you on your journey focus on what you gain and less focus on what your loss and God will bless you our family knows very well what you’re going through
Thank you for sharing your journey! It is refreshing to hear you have a strong belief in Christ, sadly lot of people come out of these groups with no faith at all, or mad at God. A few things that stood out to me...Satan is the author of confusion! Try not to get wrapped up in what the modern woman looks like; nails, makeup, hair, & clothes, none of that means anything! Don't let satan use those things to get you comparing yourself to others. The other is music, again satan is the author of confusion. I think you could join the worship team now! You don't have to know how to play an instrument to sing, and most folks don't sing using sheet music. Satan's whole game is to steal, kill, & destroy. We have to be vigilant, he is sneaky.
Thanks for the encouragement! I just sent for an application for the team since they are always looking for volunteers, but I definitely still feel like backing out 😂 and yes, I need to remember that Satan likes to confuse while the Holy Spirit is clear if we listen. Modesty is important to me, but I'm still learning 😊
Hey! Fellow ex Mennonite here (old colony). Thanks for sharing your story. I really enjoyed listening... also it sounds like maybe youre Albertan as well?
I was a member in the Holdeman Church but i left. There so much negativity , there so much guilt. They oppose higher education but the irony is i became a professor now that i am out of the Church Of God in Christ Mennonite
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been expelled years and years ago. I have since been born again but could never be believable by a Mennonite. I have to be a Mennonite as I should know better.
I’m very familiar with Mennonite fellowships, there’s a lot of richness within their congregations but you’re right, there’s also a lot of fruit being quenched due to unbiblical doctrine. When the fruit gets quenched the liberty in Christ diminishes and people can start to navigate out of guilt/fear and that’s where it gets tricky. There’s only one true doctrine this is it: The words of Jesus Christ and that which leads to a Christlike life 🕊
Please google Hudson Harmony Band. Cindy, the mother grew up in the Mennonite church where she learned to sing. Each member sings and plays an instrument. They sing a capella as well as with instruments. They are now in Phoenix arizona though Cindy grew up in Pennsylvania. They are on you tube as well as other media. Although Cindy has left the Mennonite church the whole family truly loves our Lord and it shows.
Years ago, I bought eggs from a Mennonite, and went to the door to pay the woman. She didn’t even know how to make change for me, so I had to help her 😢
That sounds like half of the cashiers a few years ago at our upper Midwest Walmart before they replaced them with self checkout. Hand a 20 year old or younger worker cash and watch them stare at the screen even when it told them the proper change due. Not unique.
So I’m personally leaning in the direction of the Eastern Pennsylvanian Mennonite Church. From what I’ve read, the Holdeman Mennonites specifically seem to have false doctrine around “we’re the one true church”, which other conservative Mennonites recognize as false doctrine. As for head coverings and other issues.. I’ve come from mainline Protestantism and I wouldn’t be quick to abandon per se that doctrine (pray about it) it’s very much a (relatively) recent change in the church, and contradicts a thousand plus years of historical and nearly universal precedence on the issue and coincides squarely with the early feminist movement. Many of the founders of the movement were expressly anti-Christian, and were very irked by notions like “wives, submit to your husbands as to the lord” even going so far as to write and distribute false doctrine commentaries about the Bible that they thought invalidated what they considered patriarchal notions. As for modesty, I question what there is to relearn. Same with doctrine on vanity, etc. I personally found abstaining from jewelry and vain things of this world to be a net positive. Why adopt what are secular standards for makeup, jewelry, head coverings etc? That in of itself seems to be as biblically contradictory as the Holdeman doctrine of being the “one true church”.
Thanks for sharing! I actually don't wear jewelry although I don't judge those who do. I do actually prefer to cover my head when praying and speaking about things God has taught me. It's a journey....as a Holdeman our headcoverings were worn on the back of the head while I feel more comfortable having the top of my head covered. As far as modesty....I recently left a group where the women make their own dresses. I don't feel the conviction to continue with that although it is fun when one has time for it. So yes, I do have to learn what it looks like to be modest without having my entire appearance pre-dictated for me. I hope you find the church you're looking for, and that it is the place God wants you to be. 🙏🏻💕
Personally, I believe that I should separate myself from sin and evil while not separating myself from the rest of the body and bride of Christ, God's Church on earth.
@@katietoews5562 I appreciate your reply! I see what you mean now by "having to relearn modesty" since it isn't prescribed, and standards in society more broadly are variable on what that constitues. What I've found is it's difficult to find mass produced clothes that are particularly modest, so the conservative Mennonite model of making dresses.. seems like a fair solution. As for head coverings, I've found that the kapp is "a solution" but certainly not the only one, and is certainly a culturally specific solution. From my understanding of the Bible what you're doing now is certainly biblically sound as far as having your head covered. I think the most basic interpretation is that women are to do so when praying or prophyseying (many Orthodox churches still do this), but many Mennonites do so continously in order to outwardly show respect for their head and by extension God as well. Ultimately, I'm glad you're more satisifed with your spiritual life with the Church you're with now. I would only caution to also be on the lookout for false doctrine that's emerged in the last 100 years that conservative Mennonites, as a benefit of being more insular, have avoided adopting. I can definitely see where you're coming from, and I do believe you when you say God led you away from the Holdemans. If you don't mind me asking, did somewhat less conservative Mennonite groups like the Beachy Amish or Pilgrim ever cross your mind?
@@katietoews5562 So on this line of thought, I'm open-minded as to what solutions there are to make that happen. As a realist, I've noticed that we as human beings have a tough time walking the Christian walk without strong, positive communal influence, as was common in the early church, and that we need each other very much to make it through, especially with all the negative influences that are in the broader culture these days. When I look at mainstream denominations, they are demographically imbalanced (very few youth) and they're shedding members rapidly. That isn't the case for conservative Mennonites, some of which have doubled membership over the last few decades. I can see your concerns about a church being too doctrinaire, and letting that become idolatrous, especially with the Holdeman church. But what do you think about statistics like the fact that 80% of Christian women who go to college leave the faith? Statistics like that indicate that conservative Mennonites are onto something when they discourage higher education for members. I'd posit that when you're surrounded by a secular student body, groupthink often prevails and dissuades many from their beliefs. That alone seems like a fair argument against higher ed for any Christian. To boot, as you mentioned, most make decent money in these circles and still make ends meet, by God's grace and the diligence of mostly ethical people working hard.
@@Brennan746 With my past experience, I have not yet felt led to any particular denomination. I believe the Mennonite circles serve a valuable purpose in the body of Christ, but I personally feel called to minister among those who didn't have the same upbringing as myself. Outreach is something that's been on my heart for years, and I would rather sacrifice the security of a conservative Christian community than not fulfill what's on my heart.
I came from the church of christ, extremely conservative and very superstitious, suits are mandatory, "come as you are" is completely ignored, my father would beat us mercilessly, because he would claim we brought satan into his house, i am terrified of ever exposing my children if i have any to this type of monolithic behavior,i am on my owm spiritual journey exploring the world and spiritually through my own eyes instead of a eyes of a man who claimed he knew god, Christianity was important in me understanding my place but my purpose is always changing just like the ocean.
Hi. thanks for sharing your life and being so open. i was raised in the plain Mennonite church! first, follow God's word in the Bible. follow your Gods given dreams in life keep the faith and serve only GOD and his word the true bible! so many denominations are going astray.! God's word in the bible will never change it is TRUE!
Hey ! I watched a good portion of this, took a few notes First of all , im from Norway and we dont have any mennonites here, nor am I a Mennonite, but I felt like commenting on some points... *You said that you felt like going out and finding likeminded who were passionate about Jesus, yeah this sounds wise , if your church society isa bit stagnant and aren't really doing outreach then I highly support this , at the end of the day its Jesus we re following, not a denomination.... And telling the unsaved about Jesus is the greatest act of love and we need to have living faith when it comes to this , hell is a gruesome place and we have to tell people about Christ *You think your church are emphasising doctrines more then bible , I dont know the mennonites personally , but this sounds about right, as a church becomes decades old , centuries old and millennia's old - there seems to be a good chance that things become "set" in a way thats not good, and they start to follow tradition more then God , similar to the pharisees in Jesus times - they had a "denomination" that was 1400 years old at this point , and they had made up 600 extra commandments that was NOT from God. *The leaders in the church controls how much education you can get and the cloths you were , not knowing anything more about the background for this this generally sounds bit harsh yeah , but with female clothing there should definitely be some guidelines tho, nothing revealing / thin fabric / tight fitting and so on... this is basicallyy stirring up fornication or adultery in the opposite sex And it says that women should dress modestly, I would assume that all in all the monazites are doing good here compared to all the liberalism in modest churches " a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump" *You said you have a boyfriend , fornicators will not inherit eternal life... just so thats said A few things Id like to say thats really positive about the mennonites is that 1) they dont allow remarriage , they re one of the few churches thats still solid here , its such an important topic because adulterers will not inherit the kingdom of heaven, and modern protestant churches base things on sentimental rationalistic humanism, instead of the word of God , and they re blessing false marriages 2) Headcovering for women is biblical, the corinthian church had a literal physical head covering for their women according to a christian historian in the 3rd or 4th century, mennonites are great here , AND they practice gender roles it seems 3)There was a video a few years that went viral of two mennonite sisters getting asked questions about pop culture, and they re so innocent and sweet , so they are a great testimony and a honor both to God and the mennonite church check the video , I watched it like twenty times when I searched up the link for you , you too have a great character it seems, so you should be thankful to mennonites and God for that , maybe you ll get back to them when you re older , hold on too what's good about them and improve those things you feel can be improved Heres the link: ifunny.co/video/ktok-asking-sisters-pop-culture-questions-G72RgLpY8 check out a ministry on CZcams that live streams every Sunday called praise power and prayer temple , its a conservative pentecostal ministry that also stands for marriage , like the mennonites , pentecostals are abit more "bubbly" and joyous then some of the traditional church societies
Holdemans teach that Jesus didn't come in the flesh but rather had what they call celestial flesh. They believe they can't confirm or join with Christians outside their church, as they are the one true church. Leadership determines what is acceptable dress and lifestyle options. When I was a kid you shouldn't own a new car but needed to get an older used one. Now many have car loans on a new car because their opinions changed. People got kicked out for wearing the wrong style or pattern dress for women or hair cut on a man... Anyways authority lines are definitely crossed and this group of people tend to live in constant fear of not following the rules
It’s important for people to understand that most Mennonite groups do not feel like they are the One True Church. Most Mennonite groups do teach the Gospel. While they might have some blind spots in the legalism department, many, many of them are true believers. This is your experience, and I’m sorry for you, I really am. But it isn’t what all Mennonites are, across the board.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I hope you find a place where you can come from live and let go I'd fear. It is good to question. The world and God are a fun mystery. NOBODY has all the answers. It is so much fun to be free to search and explore. You're doing great. Being true to yourself doesn't mean you aren't a Christian and don't revere God and the Bible. Love and peace to you.
Don't let others influence what you wear or makeup . Just be the beautiful child of God which he created . I used to live in Alberta . Praying God to supply you the Job he wants you to have . I will be pray for you .
X-conservative-Mennonite I can sorta relate to you. I'm an atheist but culturally I'm part Mennonite always probably will be. Despite our differences in opinion as an atheist, I still love my siblings and parents and I am very close to them. I've been happily unchurched 20+years. I feel that I'm a good and kind person so if there is a God and he is going to send me to hell for being a good and kind person well that's on him.
That's great you have healthy relationships with your family :-) The way I see it...I could look at people that do bad things I don't do and think I'm good...but I know that I have a lot more work to do on myself. I understand that a righteous God cannot tolerate sin of any kind (aka action or inaction that hurts others). I understand that is why He sent Jesus to cover our sins so we would not need to be separated from Him. Jesus is the most influential man to ever walk this earth, and the Bible is the most historically proven document in the world, cross-referenced with hundreds of other historical documents. That combined with all of the testimonies of miracles, testimonies of people who've died and come back, testimonies of freedom from addictions, plus this incredible galaxy..... it's proof enough for me. In a court of law, the story with the most evidence wins...not the story with all the evidence. I love being a Christian because it makes me a better person and it makes me happier. There's literally zero negatives for me. Being an atheist is pretty darn risky. You can do whatever you want and risk spending eternity in hell. I don't get the logic...and let's be real...most people actually do believe in God but just don't want to live without sin or ... They've developed some kind of resentment and anger towards Him over things they've experienced. Not great reasons to burn forever....in my opinion. Wish you all the best here in this life and on the other side! 💕🙏🏻😊 Side note: watch 'After Death'....very interesting documentary on people who've died and come back. Includes interviews with doctors and scientists as well, I believe.
Which group of Mennonites? I am only familiar with the doctrines of the Holdemans. It sounds like you have sought after God and strive to live as you believe He asks you to. I admire that 😊
@@katietoews5562 Thanks for the reply, Katie. What I appreciate most about the Mennonite groups is the approach they used to reform. The Liberal Protestant Reformation was actually a movement to corrupt the Holy scriptures and destroy the Church. Martin Luther, John Calvin, Desiderius Erasmus, and other so-called reformers were patronized by King Henry VIII. King Henry VIII's demand was a new translation of the holy scriptures that would relax the marriage laws. In particular, he wanted to allow for divorce and remarriage. The new translation (King James Bible) altered certain scriptures in a discrete way that made it possible for arguments like 'Pauline Privilege'. Whereas, Mennonite leaders sought genuine reform and looked to the foundation of the faith for guidance. This approach is known as paleo or primitive Christianity. It involves reading the letters of the early church Bishops and reading the books (Teaching of the Apostles, Canon of the Apostles, Jubilees, Enoch, and the Apocalypse of Peter, ) that were removed from the canon by the Catholic Church.
With all due respect studying the scriptures shouldn't lead anyone to any denomination. In fact it should cause one to never partake in any denomination. 1st Cor. 1:10-13 teaches us that we shouldn't be part of separating groups, which they were doing. To be a part of any denomination is to disregard these verses as it clearly teaches that we should be in the same mind and the same judgment which would not be possible if one is with a group who differs in doctrines. No where in the bible does it say we are to be part of any particular sect. I think the speaker made it very clear as to the odd (non biblical) reasons why she left. This man made church created a book of doctrines (which many sects do) that is unnecessary. If you have the Bible one does not need to create another book. But sects that try to control others create doctrines. The fact that she mentioned that to be married one needs to have "permission" from the church and there are many other man-made rules. That is control. There is a lot of misinterpreted verses that it would take too much time to list.
@@FA-God-s-Words-Matter Thank you for sharing your perspective and support! I don't judge anyone in any denomination as long as they are doing the best they know how to do. Perhaps some groups' doctrines do not separate them from other groups. It is beautiful to see churches and denominations working together in unity instead of focusing on minor differences.
@@katietoews5562 But to roll over on biblical doctrines is not the way a Christian should treat the Bible. They are important and are of God. Now if it means more to follow unity regardless of scripture, then it would clearly show where one's alliance really is. This is where all of the church's problems stem from. Instead of standing up for bible truths like not being a part of a dividing group as Paul is teaching. If I had that attitude then I would still be a Catholic and I would be going along with this ecumenical idea of not showing the truth of Scripture so as to appear accepting. The Bible tells us "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Eph 5:11-13 Most people avoid this verse and others like it because it is controversial but this is where we see who really believe in God's words and those who say they do. God bless.
I'm in Ohio which is actually the largest population of Amish and Mennonites in America, not Pennsylvania as so incorrectly regarded. I'm one of the "English" that sees a lot of technology as evil, ESPECIALLY the television and internet, so I often wander into looking at how Mennonites and Amish live and cope with the world. I'm familiar with your culture's religious journey and expectation to join the Ordnung. *I suppose I'm posting because no matter how committed and strict some of you are, I chronically see straight up Amish folks whipping out cell phones and shopping in Walmart lol.* I don't see the bible as God's word though and for very good reasons considering it's sourced from Judaism and no sect of Christianity wants to confront this. *In fact, there's millions of people that claim to be Christians that are so lazy, they don't even know this.* Faith is my connection to God, not a book and organized religion. I'm not some idiot that thinks abortion is birth control and women can be born with dicks though lol. *I do however think that when the Amish are even getting intertwined with modern technology on a daily basis, it's a very good warning sign to where humanity is going as a whole.* Unfortunately, technology has become both the new religion and the new government and ironically, my background is in science as an electrical/electronics engineer but I often vilify technology because how it is being used. Ultimately, I think religion needs to be put aside to avoid conflicts and we as a species need to focus on changing the path all of humanity is currently on. We're this far along in development yet there are still religious wars that started over 2000 years ago.
Have you ever had the urge to go back or had them tried to pull you back I was part of an Eastern church and then was Amish for a little while seems very confusing sometimes when you see the way the world is it almost makes you want to go back but really do you want all the rules and everything that goes with it
The culture is a beautiful thing, but there are also other amazing churches. The problem is many people stay or leave because of what they want or what they can gain. Following Jesus is key. It's not about what we want or what's easier for us. God bless 🙏🏻
@@katietoews5562 do you have children? Just wondering because that is one of my main concerns is my children growing up with smartphones Tik-Tok other things like that at an inappropriate age
@@andrewbowman5601 I do not have my own children, and that is a very valid concern. The good thing is, you can still choose when and how they use technology while they remain in your care...and teach them the lessons they need to choose right not wrong themselves as they grow older. That's not an organization's job. It's the parents' and then the children's responsibility. Like many things, technology can be a good or bad tool depending on the user. Wishing you the best of luck!!! Maybe I'll post a technology video at some point 😊
@katietoews5562 I just feel like it's easier when the church is all like minded in the area of technology..like I don't have to worry about my children being peer pressured to have a smart phone
One needs balance... too much "freedom" is chaos... too much rigidness is legalism. Christ grants Justification and Sanctification... the first is immediate and the second is a life-long process in walking with Him... rightly dividing the Word of God... and worshiping God in both Spirit and in Truth. Take care not to "throw the baby out with the bathwater". Look to Christ and walk upon the spiritual waters with Him in Love and Grace.
I’m Anna I am very familiar with what you describe we left. I’m in a group as well. I just have one question. I didn’t quite understand. You said you were cooking for your boyfriend. Do you also live with him
No, I certainly don't live with my boyfriend! The Bible clearly teaches against fornication. It also teaches me to hate even the appearance of evil and to flee the devil. I personally believe that it is important not to intentionally place ourselves in circumstances where we will be tempted to do wrong.
It is so crutial when and where a person is born. If you were Thai you wouldnnot have heard of these doctrines and will not have these conflicts in your life. I was raised religous by my grandmother, just her not a congregation or some.kind of church. At 7, 8 I strated questioning many strange doctrines and I grew out of faith. Honestly, I prefer living this way, I am agnostic and ofc not sure if God exists or not, but I can't pretend to beleive when I don't. Knowledge is power, but ignorence is bliss. It is no coincidence education is reateicted in your community. To me the more clever and open minded people usually start questioning hypocritical dogmas and this is the beginning of the end. ❤ Men would not speak about the errors because as usual this is misogynistic society and it is very comfortable for them and their needs...😢
Yes, it is important that people engage in religious and scientific education rather than insisting on blind faith. One of my favorite podcasts is Think Biblically with professors as the hosts.
You should consider Catholic church, true church Jesus Christ left on earth Matthew 16:18. Attend RCIA and pray about it. Ask for Holy Spirit guidance. God Bless!
The earliest churches as detailed in the book of Revelation are Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. No pagan idol worship, no bead counting and certainly no calling on the dead.
Thank you for sharing your journey! I can relate to so much of it. I was expelled 1 year ago. The reason they gave for expelling me was an unteachable spirit. Like you, the time came when I could no longer affirm that I agreed with the doctrines, as we were expected to do before partaking of communion. I knew deep in my heart that one church doctrine was not biblical. We asked for explanations but were never given satisfactory scriptural answers. Rather very vague answers. Those years were very difficult. Leaving wasn’t even an option. Too life changing. But the time came when the church said I needed to affirm or be excommunicated. Though it has been deeply traumatic at times & the loss is huge, the gains are bigger!! I would do it again. God has been there every step of the way. Sometimes I didn’t “feel” Him at the moment, but He was there. And my christian life is more joyful & fulfilling than I ever imagined it could be.
Wow! Thank you for sharing! There's definitely similarities in our stories. I'm so sorry for what you've been through and still face. My love and prayers! 💕🙏🏻
I really appreciate your sharing. I have had my eyes so opened since working in a mennonite retirement community. I am a born again christian and love Jesus so much. But no matter what I do or say or what is in my heart ♥️ I am considered unsaved and an outsider and I see I always wiĺl be because I am not holdeman mennonite. I also know I am talked about behind my back and i notice that gossip is very prevalent. It is that way everywhere, but I thought working in a Christian community owned by the mennonite church, I would be loved and accepted. So this has put me in spiritual and emotional stress. I don't even know who I can talk to. Im praying every day and studying my bible and researching all I can. But I KNOW I am saved!! I am excited about my walk with Christ, and I think accepting what Jesus did for me on the cross is more important than any man made doctrine. I am trying so hard not to be wordly and materialistic. But I know I cannot earn my salvation. I dont ever want to abuse the grace of God. I want to be set apart and holy, but what do I have to prove to people?
I will pray for you in your journey!
Thank you for reading my comment. May God bless you and guide you as you walk with Him.
My heart goes out to you, sister. I pray God continues to shower you with grace and strength to let the love of God flow through you. Remember that you do not need to prove anything to anyone. Just follow God daily. He never fails us or confuses us. Continue to build up your own support group of Godly persons. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Just live as a free person and be confident. It may draw them to the true Lord.
Thank you for sharing this! Ive been expelled for 14 years from the holdeman mennonite church and last year i had a experience and re dedicated my life to Christ. I have been doing lots of Bible study and i dont agree with some of the doctrines also and it gives me courage when i see others voicing their concerns. May God bless your journey!
Thank you for your support 😊 I wish you wisdom as you continue to study His Word.
I am glad that you are no longer under their control. When one starts reading the Bible one will find not only the things that one thought was right or true but the doctrines of the church they went to and realize they were wrong. Keep reading the Bible and don't let the mind or the mind of others to dictate what the Bible is saying. One of the main problems many Christians have is having to deal with man-made churchianity / denominationalism, doctrines that cannot be substantiated. God bless.
Enjoyed your story. As one who has been out of the group many years, its interesting to learn others stories of the Holdeman Mennonites.
I listened to your life story of having been a Holdeman Mennonite member with great interest. I am a student of various religions especially of cults as they relate to religions. From your account, I can say with certainty the reason why you were able to spot all of the inconsistencies and fabrications in this religious system. It is in a word..... your superior intelligence. This aspect is the one thing that all cultic groups fear the most because those who are intelligent will and can question all of the practices and religious dogma that are built out of straw and little else. When you wondered why the other members including your family and friends could not SEE what you could, the reason is that they simply did not possess your degree of intelligence that allowed you to observe, analyze, and arrive at your independent conclusions about the inconsistencies all around you. This also explains that how you were put in the position of general manager of a business even though (at that time) you did not have a GED. These groups always thrive upon a membership that is either without advanced intelligence or those who deny their native intelligence and opt for submitting their souls to a group that in the end will destroy them. Be thankful that you were graced with Light from above. It has served you well.
Thank you for your support. You may be right.
There is something quite frustrating about being even slightly more intelligent than the average person. It is more difficult to find like-minded people to fellowship with. However, I am grateful for my mind since I can use it to learn truth and educate others, and I can't blame God entirely since I did ask for wisdom and understanding from a young age. lol.
Wishing you all the best in your life journey!
So glad that God opened your eyes to the truth. Thank you for sharing your story. 🙂
Thank you 🙏🏻
Thank you for your honesty! I left my church too because of what the Bible says and what goes on is completely different. I personally feel once God shows you something the grace period is over and a person is expected to follow I they choose and you can only do it for so long before he disciplines. God is a father and he won't be mocked and showing up for church doesn't protect a person. Follow man or follow God that's how I see it.
Stay close to God my sister! He loves you and is ordering your steps. I honestly never knew anything about these groups. I was just looking up groups of Christians that are not baptist north Catholic nor Orthodox but somewhere in between. I found Anabaptists online and then it led me to Mennonites and I thought it was nice to learn about but NO WAY would I live like that. Then your genuine video came up and I thought wow God can reach us anywhere! So Thank you for sharing and continuously searching for the best Christian expression of God. It is within you and you'll find it!! God bless!!
This reminds me of Matthew 23:13-36. I wish you all the best on your journey and look forward to hearing more of your story.
I was raised in a very strict independent denomination, but have left that stronghold and am serving the Lord in freedom. My encouragement to you would be to not get so caught up in “being free to do everything I couldn’t do as a Mennonite to thinking you have to meet the world’s expectations as far as your education and career choice.”Too many Christian women today disobey God’s word about being a mother that works outside the home. Don’t get caught up in the whirlwind of education and accomplishments that please the world. Stay in the Word and you won’t go wrong! God bless you.
Thank you for your encouragement! Stay-at-home mothers are truly one of the world's most priceless treasures and the place where many women can thrive and serve best. Trust I am not running from that role. I did when it was my only option, though! Lol. No, men and women were truly created differently. However, I will not pursue men and at this stage, must prepare for two possible futures, singleness and marriage.
If you think women are there to only marry and give birth you're part of the problem that leads to abuse.
Bless you sister and thank you so much for sharing this. I feel like our journeys are so similar in so many ways. You spoke so much into where I am at and where I an going. It truly was from God that I saw this video today and it brought me to tears. Me and my husband are transitioning away from the mennonite world as well and it looks huge. I dont know the first thing about doing my hair different or make up. But I know that God is calling us this way and it would be wrong to not follow Him where ever He leads. It feels like I am going to be loosing a lot as well and its sort of bittersweet. But I cant wait to see where God will lead us and how He can use us for His kingdom. 🙂 Thank you again! I would love to meet you someday!
Thank you for sharing your testimony 🥰🙏🏻 God bless you and give you peace.
Beautiful testimony sister. Thank God he opened your eyes. I pray God does the same for your family and friends ❤️❤️❤️
Your such a wise young woman. I hope God blesses you greatly ❤
Thanks so much for your video. Your journey is very inspiring! I love the way you have followed the Lord and have remained so non-judgemental and gracious to the community you left.
It is particularly striking how God has answered your childhood prayer for wisdom and discernment!
I'm sure you have an amazing journey with the Lord before you!
Thank you for the encouragement, sir.
Thank you so much for sharing. My wife and I left not long ago and it’s absolutely amazing how god has opened our eyes. I can relate to pretty much everything u shared. That part about idolizing the Bible doctrine and practice book. And how we only need Gods word. And it’s crazy to me how they don’t believe in some very fundamental things that Jesus taught. Anyway may God bless each one thas on this journey. And give u courage and strength to go on.
Thank you for your testimony and support!
I would like some one to me what teaching of Jesus taught that we don't believe in.
???
One of my parents joined the holdemans when i was child. (Coming from being raised in Southern Baptist background) i understood some of the things you mentioned from being taught and just seeing it, but i was never actually part of the holdeman myself, so i didn't know much of what you said. About 13 years ago i was saved, and only recently i began finding information online about holdeman beliefs, assuming they were Christians but a sect with a few "off" beliefs, which happens easily. I was sad to find the anti biblical teachings about Jesus' "celestial" flesh, and the works based and one church theology. I'm praying for my family member and anyone else that may hear the truth! Thanks for your story!
My wife and I left the amish 5 yrs ago and your story is so much like our own, thanks for sharing
Glad I could encourage you! 😀
You are an inspiration! I left the Amish community, and my reason for leaving was because I seeked God's guidance, and He showed me Biblical truth. Praise Jesus! I would love to know more about the mennonite side of the Anabaptist and how close the doctrines or Ordnung is to the Amish.
Thank you for sharing a piece of your story. Honestly there are so many different kinds of Mennonites with very different levels of conservatism. It really just looks like people's desire to create a safe place, a place that to them is perfect and flawless, but in the process they cut off many other followers of Jesus.
God bless you on your faith journey, good thing you got out of the cult. The Bible is the only book we need to follow to understand Gods plan for life .
Gosh, thank you for sharing your experience. O my goodness, it is worth going back to school. You are making wonderful positive decisions. Are people who leave or are expelled who go back happy? I am so astonished how much being in the system has impacted your life now that you left the system. I always wonder about much diversity there actually is across the members with the various practices. Do some members have investments they shouldn't? I would think that might be easy to hid. How much change is the younger generation bringing in? The internet has taken the isolation away. There are a lot of positive images, videos, messaging from the other denominations of Amish-Mennonites who are allowed to interact with the internet. But it's the reverse for the Holdemans. I was astonished when reading an article speaking about putting software on a smart phone to control what one would have access to on the phone. A laptop would be wide open. It seems like this level of control (totalitarian regimes do this) would create more problems than help. It infantalizes (holds back growth) and ability to critically think and make good decisions when left to make a decision alone. I'm not saying they should change their policy toward social media, but make a way for the members to be adult about avoiding it if that's a criteria for membership.
Thanks for the support! Some people are in and out for awhile and then give up. Others are expelled once and come back for good. This is usually because they believe they deserved to be expelled. There's much less diversity of actions among the Holdemans than almost any other group of Christians worldwide. There are changes of actions happening with the newer generations. However, they can't openly admit it or discuss it if it is directly related to the doctrines. Even with the filters on the internet that they encourage people to use, there is still so many people who are finding other Christian material online and building Christian friendships outside of the church. They are finding things about Christianity that just don't exist in their church. The whole concept or focus is about protecting the church from 'losing the way'. However, the filters are not mandatory unless someone is directly asked to install it.
The church you described as acting like they are an extention of the church seems traumatic, a d abusive. Even if its meant well, it's damaging. I'm so glad that you are removing yourself from that and find your own friends that can be as equally yolked as you ❤
God bless you on your journey focus on what you gain and less focus on what your loss and God will bless you our family knows very well what you’re going through
Thanks for the encouragement. I didn't know what I would gain, but I'm learning 🙂
Came here from the podcast Cults to Consciousness. You are brave to to have shared your story.
PS God is there for you with or without the Membership.
Thanks!
Thank you for sharing your journey! It is refreshing to hear you have a strong belief in Christ, sadly lot of people come out of these groups with no faith at all, or mad at God. A few things that stood out to me...Satan is the author of confusion! Try not to get wrapped up in what the modern woman looks like; nails, makeup, hair, & clothes, none of that means anything! Don't let satan use those things to get you comparing yourself to others. The other is music, again satan is the author of confusion. I think you could join the worship team now! You don't have to know how to play an instrument to sing, and most folks don't sing using sheet music. Satan's whole game is to steal, kill, & destroy. We have to be vigilant, he is sneaky.
Thanks for the encouragement! I just sent for an application for the team since they are always looking for volunteers, but I definitely still feel like backing out 😂 and yes, I need to remember that Satan likes to confuse while the Holy Spirit is clear if we listen. Modesty is important to me, but I'm still learning 😊
Hey! Fellow ex Mennonite here (old colony). Thanks for sharing your story. I really enjoyed listening... also it sounds like maybe youre Albertan as well?
Never mind you answered my question at the end. I don't live that far from you 🤣
Very interesting. Thank you for sharing!
I was a member in the Holdeman Church but i left. There so much negativity , there so much guilt. They oppose higher education but the irony is i became a professor now that i am out of the Church Of God in Christ Mennonite
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been expelled years and years ago. I have since been born again but could never be believable by a Mennonite. I have to be a Mennonite as I should know better.
Good to hear from you! Praise God that He found you. I've also had some beautiful experiences long after I was baptized as a young teen.
I’m very familiar with Mennonite fellowships, there’s a lot of richness within their congregations but you’re right, there’s also a lot of fruit being quenched due to unbiblical doctrine. When the fruit gets quenched the liberty in Christ diminishes and people can start to navigate out of guilt/fear and that’s where it gets tricky. There’s only one true doctrine this is it: The words of Jesus Christ and that which leads to a Christlike life 🕊
Beautiful and so true. Thank you for sharing.
@@katietoews5562 For sure, you’re welcome. Thanks for sharing your testimony too.
Please google Hudson Harmony Band. Cindy, the mother grew up in the Mennonite church where she learned to sing. Each member sings and plays an instrument. They sing a capella as well as with instruments. They are now in Phoenix arizona though Cindy grew up in Pennsylvania. They are on you tube as well as other media. Although Cindy has left the Mennonite church the whole family truly loves our Lord and it shows.
Years ago, I bought eggs from a Mennonite, and went to the door to pay the woman. She didn’t even know how to make change for me, so I had to help her 😢
Yikes! I think that would be somewhat uncommon.
That sounds like half of the cashiers a few years ago at our upper Midwest Walmart before they replaced them with self checkout. Hand a 20 year old or younger worker cash and watch them stare at the screen even when it told them the proper change due. Not unique.
I’ve had these experience a lot with non-Mennonites. Is this how we judge people, with their ability to handle money? Yuck.
lol!! Most Mennonites love making money 💴
We shop at a Mennonite farm and she can add up our load faster than my calculator. Some people are good at math and some aren’t. 🤷🏼♀️
So I’m personally leaning in the direction of the Eastern Pennsylvanian Mennonite Church. From what I’ve read, the Holdeman Mennonites specifically seem to have false doctrine around “we’re the one true church”, which other conservative Mennonites recognize as false doctrine. As for head coverings and other issues.. I’ve come from mainline Protestantism and I wouldn’t be quick to abandon per se that doctrine (pray about it) it’s very much a (relatively) recent change in the church, and contradicts a thousand plus years of historical and nearly universal precedence on the issue and coincides squarely with the early feminist movement. Many of the founders of the movement were expressly anti-Christian, and were very irked by notions like “wives, submit to your husbands as to the lord” even going so far as to write and distribute false doctrine commentaries about the Bible that they thought invalidated what they considered patriarchal notions. As for modesty, I question what there is to relearn. Same with doctrine on vanity, etc. I personally found abstaining from jewelry and vain things of this world to be a net positive. Why adopt what are secular standards for makeup, jewelry, head coverings etc? That in of itself seems to be as biblically contradictory as the Holdeman doctrine of being the “one true church”.
Thanks for sharing!
I actually don't wear jewelry although I don't judge those who do.
I do actually prefer to cover my head when praying and speaking about things God has taught me. It's a journey....as a Holdeman our headcoverings were worn on the back of the head while I feel more comfortable having the top of my head covered.
As far as modesty....I recently left a group where the women make their own dresses. I don't feel the conviction to continue with that although it is fun when one has time for it.
So yes, I do have to learn what it looks like to be modest without having my entire appearance pre-dictated for me.
I hope you find the church you're looking for, and that it is the place God wants you to be. 🙏🏻💕
Personally, I believe that I should separate myself from sin and evil while not separating myself from the rest of the body and bride of Christ, God's Church on earth.
@@katietoews5562
I appreciate your reply!
I see what you mean now by "having to relearn modesty" since it isn't prescribed, and standards in society more broadly are variable on what that constitues.
What I've found is it's difficult to find mass produced clothes that are particularly modest, so the conservative Mennonite model of making dresses.. seems like a fair solution.
As for head coverings, I've found that the kapp is "a solution" but certainly not the only one, and is certainly a culturally specific solution. From my understanding of the Bible what you're doing now is certainly biblically sound as far as having your head covered. I think the most basic interpretation is that women are to do so when praying or prophyseying (many Orthodox churches still do this), but many Mennonites do so continously in order to outwardly show respect for their head and by extension God as well.
Ultimately, I'm glad you're more satisifed with your spiritual life with the Church you're with now. I would only caution to also be on the lookout for false doctrine that's emerged in the last 100 years that conservative Mennonites, as a benefit of being more insular, have avoided adopting.
I can definitely see where you're coming from, and I do believe you when you say God led you away from the Holdemans.
If you don't mind me asking, did somewhat less conservative Mennonite groups like the Beachy Amish or Pilgrim ever cross your mind?
@@katietoews5562 So on this line of thought, I'm open-minded as to what solutions there are to make that happen.
As a realist, I've noticed that we as human beings have a tough time walking the Christian walk without strong, positive communal influence, as was common in the early church, and that we need each other very much to make it through, especially with all the negative influences that are in the broader culture these days. When I look at mainstream denominations, they are demographically imbalanced (very few youth) and they're shedding members rapidly. That isn't the case for conservative Mennonites, some of which have doubled membership over the last few decades.
I can see your concerns about a church being too doctrinaire, and letting that become idolatrous, especially with the Holdeman church. But what do you think about statistics like the fact that 80% of Christian women who go to college leave the faith? Statistics like that indicate that conservative Mennonites are onto something when they discourage higher education for members.
I'd posit that when you're surrounded by a secular student body, groupthink often prevails and dissuades many from their beliefs.
That alone seems like a fair argument against higher ed for any Christian. To boot, as you mentioned, most make decent money in these circles and still make ends meet, by God's grace and the diligence of mostly ethical people working hard.
@@Brennan746 With my past experience, I have not yet felt led to any particular denomination. I believe the Mennonite circles serve a valuable purpose in the body of Christ, but I personally feel called to minister among those who didn't have the same upbringing as myself. Outreach is something that's been on my heart for years, and I would rather sacrifice the security of a conservative Christian community than not fulfill what's on my heart.
I came from the church of christ, extremely conservative and very superstitious, suits are mandatory, "come as you are" is completely ignored, my father would beat us mercilessly, because he would claim we brought satan into his house, i am terrified of ever exposing my children if i have any to this type of monolithic behavior,i am on my owm spiritual journey exploring the world and spiritually through my own eyes instead of a eyes of a man who claimed he knew god, Christianity was important in me understanding my place but my purpose is always changing just like the ocean.
Hi. thanks for sharing your life and being so open. i was raised in the plain Mennonite church! first, follow God's word in the Bible. follow your Gods given dreams in life keep the faith and serve only GOD and his word the true bible! so many denominations are going astray.! God's word in the bible will never change it is TRUE!
Hey ! I watched a good portion of this, took a few notes
First of all , im from Norway and we dont have any mennonites here, nor am I a Mennonite, but I felt like commenting on some points...
*You said that you felt like going out and finding likeminded who were passionate about Jesus, yeah this sounds wise , if your church society isa bit stagnant and aren't really doing outreach then I highly support this , at the end of the day its Jesus we re following, not a denomination....
And telling the unsaved about Jesus is the greatest act of love and we need to have living faith when it comes to this , hell is a gruesome place and we have to tell people about Christ
*You think your church are emphasising doctrines more then bible , I dont know the mennonites personally , but this sounds about right, as a church becomes decades old , centuries old and millennia's old - there seems to be a good chance that things become "set" in a way thats not good, and they start to follow tradition more then God , similar to the pharisees in Jesus times - they had a "denomination" that was 1400 years old at this point , and they had made up 600 extra commandments that was NOT from God.
*The leaders in the church controls how much education you can get and the cloths you were , not knowing anything more about the background for this this generally sounds bit harsh yeah , but with female clothing there should definitely be some guidelines tho, nothing revealing / thin fabric / tight fitting and so on... this is basicallyy stirring up fornication or adultery in the opposite sex
And it says that women should dress modestly, I would assume that all in all the monazites are doing good here compared to all the liberalism in modest churches " a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump"
*You said you have a boyfriend , fornicators will not inherit eternal life... just so thats said
A few things Id like to say thats really positive about the mennonites is that
1) they dont allow remarriage , they re one of the few churches thats still solid here , its such an important topic because adulterers will not inherit the kingdom of heaven, and modern protestant churches base things on sentimental rationalistic humanism, instead of the word of God , and they re blessing false marriages
2) Headcovering for women is biblical, the corinthian church had a literal physical head covering for their women according to a christian historian in the 3rd or 4th century, mennonites are great here , AND they practice gender roles it seems
3)There was a video a few years that went viral of two mennonite sisters getting asked questions about pop culture, and they re so innocent and sweet , so they are a great testimony and a honor both to God and the mennonite church
check the video , I watched it like twenty times when I searched up the link for you , you too have a great character it seems, so you should be thankful to mennonites and God for that , maybe you ll get back to them when you re older , hold on too what's good about them and improve those things you feel can be improved
Heres the link:
ifunny.co/video/ktok-asking-sisters-pop-culture-questions-G72RgLpY8
check out a ministry on CZcams that live streams every Sunday called praise power and prayer temple , its a conservative pentecostal ministry that also stands for marriage , like the mennonites , pentecostals are abit more "bubbly" and joyous then some of the traditional church societies
Holdemans teach that Jesus didn't come in the flesh but rather had what they call celestial flesh.
They believe they can't confirm or join with Christians outside their church, as they are the one true church.
Leadership determines what is acceptable dress and lifestyle options. When I was a kid you shouldn't own a new car but needed to get an older used one. Now many have car loans on a new car because their opinions changed. People got kicked out for wearing the wrong style or pattern dress for women or hair cut on a man...
Anyways authority lines are definitely crossed and this group of people tend to live in constant fear of not following the rules
All that to say, Holdemans aren't even Christian so she and other believers need to leave.
I was a holdeman mennonite for 25 years...
Been out for 10 years....
I love the people....
VERY WRONG DOCTRINE.
100%
It’s important for people to understand that most Mennonite groups do not feel like they are the One True Church.
Most Mennonite groups do teach the Gospel. While they might have some blind spots in the legalism department, many, many of them are true believers.
This is your experience, and I’m sorry for you, I really am. But it isn’t what all Mennonites are, across the board.
❤ praise God for the changes in your life and Christian living ❤
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I hope you find a place where you can come from live and let go I'd fear. It is good to question. The world and God are a fun mystery. NOBODY has all the answers. It is so much fun to be free to search and explore. You're doing great. Being true to yourself doesn't mean you aren't a Christian and don't revere God and the Bible. Love and peace to you.
Thank you!
God Bless you ,Sister
Don't let others influence what you wear or makeup . Just be the beautiful child of God which he created . I used to live in Alberta . Praying God to supply you the Job he wants you to have . I will be pray for you .
Thank you 🙏🏻😊
X-conservative-Mennonite I can sorta relate to you. I'm an atheist but culturally I'm part Mennonite always probably will be. Despite our differences in opinion as an atheist, I still love my siblings and parents and I am very close to them. I've been happily unchurched 20+years. I feel that I'm a good and kind person so if there is a God and he is going to send me to hell for being a good and kind person well that's on him.
That's great you have healthy relationships with your family :-)
The way I see it...I could look at people that do bad things I don't do and think I'm good...but I know that I have a lot more work to do on myself. I understand that a righteous God cannot tolerate sin of any kind (aka action or inaction that hurts others). I understand that is why He sent Jesus to cover our sins so we would not need to be separated from Him. Jesus is the most influential man to ever walk this earth, and the Bible is the most historically proven document in the world, cross-referenced with hundreds of other historical documents. That combined with all of the testimonies of miracles, testimonies of people who've died and come back, testimonies of freedom from addictions, plus this incredible galaxy..... it's proof enough for me. In a court of law, the story with the most evidence wins...not the story with all the evidence. I love being a Christian because it makes me a better person and it makes me happier. There's literally zero negatives for me. Being an atheist is pretty darn risky. You can do whatever you want and risk spending eternity in hell. I don't get the logic...and let's be real...most people actually do believe in God but just don't want to live without sin or ... They've developed some kind of resentment and anger towards Him over things they've experienced. Not great reasons to burn forever....in my opinion. Wish you all the best here in this life and on the other side! 💕🙏🏻😊
Side note: watch 'After Death'....very interesting documentary on people who've died and come back. Includes interviews with doctors and scientists as well, I believe.
My study of the Holy scriptures led me to the Mennonites. They seem to be strict adherents to the Word of God. What doctrines do you reject?
Which group of Mennonites? I am only familiar with the doctrines of the Holdemans. It sounds like you have sought after God and strive to live as you believe He asks you to. I admire that 😊
@@katietoews5562 Thanks for the reply, Katie. What I appreciate most about the Mennonite groups is the approach they used to reform. The Liberal Protestant Reformation was actually a movement to corrupt the Holy scriptures and destroy the Church. Martin Luther, John Calvin, Desiderius Erasmus, and other so-called reformers were patronized by King Henry VIII.
King Henry VIII's demand was a new translation of the holy scriptures that would relax the marriage laws. In particular, he wanted to allow for divorce and remarriage.
The new translation (King James Bible) altered certain scriptures in a discrete way that made it possible for arguments like 'Pauline Privilege'.
Whereas, Mennonite leaders sought genuine reform and looked to the foundation of the faith for guidance. This approach is known as paleo or primitive Christianity. It involves reading the letters of the early church Bishops and reading the books (Teaching of the Apostles, Canon of the Apostles, Jubilees, Enoch, and the Apocalypse of Peter, ) that were removed from the canon by the Catholic Church.
With all due respect studying the scriptures shouldn't lead anyone to any denomination. In fact it should cause one to never partake in any denomination. 1st Cor. 1:10-13 teaches us that we shouldn't be part of separating groups, which they were doing. To be a part of any denomination is to disregard these verses as it clearly teaches that we should be in the same mind and the same judgment which would not be possible if one is with a group who differs in doctrines. No where in the bible does it say we are to be part of any particular sect. I think the speaker made it very clear as to the odd (non biblical) reasons why she left. This man made church created a book of doctrines (which many sects do) that is unnecessary. If you have the Bible one does not need to create another book. But sects that try to control others create doctrines. The fact that she mentioned that to be married one needs to have "permission" from the church and there are many other man-made rules. That is control. There is a lot of misinterpreted verses that it would take too much time to list.
@@FA-God-s-Words-Matter Thank you for sharing your perspective and support! I don't judge anyone in any denomination as long as they are doing the best they know how to do. Perhaps some groups' doctrines do not separate them from other groups. It is beautiful to see churches and denominations working together in unity instead of focusing on minor differences.
@@katietoews5562 But to roll over on biblical doctrines is not the way a Christian should treat the Bible. They are important and are of God. Now if it means more to follow unity regardless of scripture, then it would clearly show where one's alliance really is. This is where all of the church's problems stem from. Instead of standing up for bible truths like not being a part of a dividing group as Paul is teaching. If I had that attitude then I would still be a Catholic and I would be going along with this ecumenical idea of not showing the truth of Scripture so as to appear accepting.
The Bible tells us "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Eph 5:11-13
Most people avoid this verse and others like it because it is controversial but this is where we see who really believe in God's words and those who say they do. God bless.
Praise God that he delivered you from man-made sects like this. May God open all of their eyes.
🙏🏻
God set you free for a reason. He has a plan for your life. ❤❤❤
Thank you, Tracy. I appreciate the encouragement 😊
God bless you in your new walk with Christ
I'm in Ohio which is actually the largest population of Amish and Mennonites in America, not Pennsylvania as so incorrectly regarded.
I'm one of the "English" that sees a lot of technology as evil, ESPECIALLY the television and internet, so I often wander into looking at how Mennonites and Amish live and cope with the world. I'm familiar with your culture's religious journey and expectation to join the Ordnung.
*I suppose I'm posting because no matter how committed and strict some of you are, I chronically see straight up Amish folks whipping out cell phones and shopping in Walmart lol.* I don't see the bible as God's word though and for very good reasons considering it's sourced from Judaism and no sect of Christianity wants to confront this. *In fact, there's millions of people that claim to be Christians that are so lazy, they don't even know this.*
Faith is my connection to God, not a book and organized religion. I'm not some idiot that thinks abortion is birth control and women can be born with dicks though lol. *I do however think that when the Amish are even getting intertwined with modern technology on a daily basis, it's a very good warning sign to where humanity is going as a whole.*
Unfortunately, technology has become both the new religion and the new government and ironically, my background is in science as an electrical/electronics engineer but I often vilify technology because how it is being used.
Ultimately, I think religion needs to be put aside to avoid conflicts and we as a species need to focus on changing the path all of humanity is currently on. We're this far along in development yet there are still religious wars that started over 2000 years ago.
I'm a part of the Mennonite and we don't affirm the doctrine. There are different types of Mennonites.
Yes, very true. Thanks for sharing.
Have you ever had the urge to go back or had them tried to pull you back I was part of an Eastern church and then was Amish for a little while seems very confusing sometimes when you see the way the world is it almost makes you want to go back but really do you want all the rules and everything that goes with it
The culture is a beautiful thing, but there are also other amazing churches. The problem is many people stay or leave because of what they want or what they can gain. Following Jesus is key. It's not about what we want or what's easier for us. God bless 🙏🏻
@@katietoews5562 do you have children? Just wondering because that is one of my main concerns is my children growing up with smartphones Tik-Tok other things like that at an inappropriate age
@@andrewbowman5601 I do not have my own children, and that is a very valid concern. The good thing is, you can still choose when and how they use technology while they remain in your care...and teach them the lessons they need to choose right not wrong themselves as they grow older. That's not an organization's job. It's the parents' and then the children's responsibility. Like many things, technology can be a good or bad tool depending on the user. Wishing you the best of luck!!! Maybe I'll post a technology video at some point 😊
@katietoews5562 I just feel like it's easier when the church is all like minded in the area of technology..like I don't have to worry about my children being peer pressured to have a smart phone
@@andrewbowman5601Yes, it is easier. I won't disagree with that 😊
What were some of the things you didn't believe
One needs balance... too much "freedom" is chaos... too much rigidness is legalism. Christ grants Justification and Sanctification... the first is immediate and the second is a life-long process in walking with Him... rightly dividing the Word of God... and worshiping God in both Spirit and in Truth. Take care not to "throw the baby out with the bathwater". Look to Christ and walk upon the spiritual waters with Him in Love and Grace.
Which congregation were you from I'm a Mennonite from Zimbabwe.... I wish you could reconsider and see what i see
I’m Anna I am very familiar with what you describe we left. I’m in a group as well. I just have one question. I didn’t quite understand. You said you were cooking for your boyfriend. Do you also live with him
No, I certainly don't live with my boyfriend! The Bible clearly teaches against fornication. It also teaches me to hate even the appearance of evil and to flee the devil. I personally believe that it is important not to intentionally place ourselves in circumstances where we will be tempted to do wrong.
It is so crutial when and where a person is born. If you were Thai you wouldnnot have heard of these doctrines and will not have these conflicts in your life. I was raised religous by my grandmother, just her not a congregation or some.kind of church. At 7, 8 I strated questioning many strange doctrines and I grew out of faith. Honestly, I prefer living this way, I am agnostic and ofc not sure if God exists or not, but I can't pretend to beleive when I don't. Knowledge is power, but ignorence is bliss. It is no coincidence education is reateicted in your community. To me the more clever and open minded people usually start questioning hypocritical dogmas and this is the beginning of the end. ❤ Men would not speak about the errors because as usual this is misogynistic society and it is very comfortable for them and their needs...😢
Yes, it is important that people engage in religious and scientific education rather than insisting on blind faith. One of my favorite podcasts is Think Biblically with professors as the hosts.
Good for you...
I’m Anna is there a private way that I could chat with you
Yes, Anna. You can reach me on my Instagram. haddash_into_esther
You should consider Catholic church, true church Jesus Christ left on earth Matthew 16:18. Attend RCIA and pray about it. Ask for Holy Spirit guidance. God Bless!
No I came from Catholic and it's all doctrines, no salvation and personal walk with the Jesus!
The earliest churches as detailed in the book of Revelation are Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. No pagan idol worship, no bead counting and certainly no calling on the dead.
I just wanna be your friend
hello I want to marry a Mennonite
@@user-ss2zx1tx7t thanks smart mouth
Not worth listening to you
I'm sorry you feel that way. You certainly don't need to listen to me.