3 comments about What Mennonites Believe.

1. This book provides a good baseline and is written by one of the best-known writers in Mennonite circles. It gives a good overview of the basic traditional Mennonite beliefs. By reading this book and comparing the text with current beliefs and practices in the Mennonite Church and General Conference Mennonite Church, the reader can see how the church has drifted from its traditional beliefs.



2. I thought this was a very decent overview of mennonite history and beliefs. It is by no means a detailed description of mennonite theology or current practices, but it does give a good glimpse of the basics.

   If you want an introductory read, this is it. For more advanced theological resources, look elsewhere.




3. In this short but fascinating book, Mennonite scholar and author Rev. John Christian Wenger (1910-95) explains who Mennonites are, and what they believe. Originally published in 1946, it was updated and republished in 1991 by Herald Press. The book is divided into four chapters that explain 1) how Mennonites and other Christians are alike, 2) what were the cause and effects of the 16th century Reformation, 3) how Mennonites are different than other Christians, and 4) what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

   I found this book to be a great introduction to Mennonite beliefs; the writing was very much to the point, keeping down the length of the book without sacrificing too much detail. I liked the organization of the book, with its explanation of how Mennonites agree and disagree with other Christian sects. Overall, I found this to be a great book, one that I highly recommend to anyone interested in understanding Mennonite beliefs.

1 comments about God's Shalom Project.

1. I found God's Shalom Project to be a great source of information on the understanding of complex theological issues linking the Old and New Testaments, describing the choice of Israel to be God's set apart people, the 1st Century Church, non-jewish Christians or Gentiles and the church of today which includes many different people groups. Bernhard Ott's writing and Timothy Geddart translation is very readable and comprehendable on the subject matter. I highly recommend the book for any student, scholar, or the average person wanting more information about whether God is a "selective" God who favors one particular people group over another or extends his grace and forgiveness to all humanity.

1 comments about Making Peace With Conflict: Practical Skills for Conflict Transformation.

1. The Mennonite Conciliation Service's well-practiced manual provides a practical system of conflict mediation for use in one-on-one and group conflict mediation. The book assumes a Mennonite Christian perspective on why and how we seek to resolve conflict in our lives. The system is somewhat complicated, so I would urge you not to just dive in and assume you can solve people's problems on your own. However, taken in conjunction with some practical experience and guidance, or as an addition to conflict training on your own, this manual will help you to solve conflict without resorting to win or lose situations.

1 comments about Swing Low: A Life.

1. I really enjoyed reading "Complicated" but this book didn't have quite the same tone as complicated. It was still well written, but a little maudlin. I like to have a break from feeling low myself, and I think people DO read to escape, therefore, I can't say all that much was wrong with the book. It just wasn't a clear picture like Toews' other book was.

4 comments about Why Do They Dress That Way? (Rev ed) (People's Place Book, No 7).

1. This is a good addition to the library of someone studying the Old Order or 'plain people' groups. I have yet to find a more thorough breakdown of the different types of clothing worn by the four main branches of Old Order Anabaptist sects.

   On the down side, the writing was not particularly well done and there were a few typographic errors. The section on Catholics and Hasidic Jews, though appropriate, were very short.

   Despite the problems mentioned above, this is still a very good reference.




2. This book is a fascinating look at the various Protestant (mainly Anabaptist) groups that wear plain clothes, focusing primarily on the Amish, Hutterites and Old Order Mennonites. The author grew up in a nominally Christian home, but over the years he found himself drawn more and more to the commitment of the plain clothes Christians that he saw. Eventually he himself embraced the plain clothes style mode, and this book is his labor of love.

   This book tells you everything that you might want to know about these plain clothes groups, including why they dress the way that they do, how they dress, and the differences that exist in the items worn by plain clothes people. Along the way, the reader is treated to many wonderful black-and-white pictures of plain clothes people.

   Overall, I found this to be a fascinating and informative book. If you are interested in the plain clothes people, then I would have to say that you must get this book. It is an excellent resource!




3. This book is a well written, sensitive look at one aspect of plain people's practices. Quite often misunderstood, this book explains the "reasons" behind the dress practices as well as the distinctions. It is my understanding that the author is not just writing this from an impersonal, analytical vantage point, but rather plain dress is a personal and important value of his being a member of the Old Order River Brethren in Lancaster County, PA.



4. The question asked by the title is thoroughly addressed by Mr. Scott in a very admirable manner of respect. With a heritage of plain dressing himself, the author necessarily focuses mostly on the people he is most familiar with. The book is thorough to a degree that is quite surprising - plain dress is complicated! There's a lot of information on practice as well as purpose, and the photos and diagrams are extremely imformative.
   
   It is a rather poorly presented book. I think the publisher is to blame for photo quality that could have been better with a finer halftone screen. The paper choice combined with a magazine-like screen hampered the photos in my copy, and the photos are vital. It may simply be inconsistent print quality control, but this is an annoyance when I lay out good money for a book.
   
   Overall, I have a very high opinion of the author and the book's content. This is perhaps the best book for anyone interested in the history and practice of plain dress.

5 comments about Amish of Illinois' Heartland, The.

1. Wow! Rebecca Mabry has taken time to study the CURRENT Amish community and smashes many of the widely held beliefs. For example, no longer do most Amish depend on farm income to support their families; instead, they are woodworkers. Sensitive to cultural issues, tender in portraying individuals, and comprehensive in its approach, this is the best book on the Amish culture that I've seen in the last decade. Add to that Mabry's fine writing and this is the new standard on the topic. Stunning photos.
   If you want to know what the Twenty-First century Amish are like (instead of the Twentieth century Amish), read this book. Recommended for middle grade and high school classrooms, as well as a great read for any adult.



2. 
   This book takes you straight to Amish country and into the homes and hearts of the people who live there. Chances are, anything you ever wanted to know about the Amish - weddings, funerals, religious beliefs, schooling, clothing and much more - are included in "The Amish of Illinois' Heartland."
   Breathtaking photos illustrate just how different the Amish are from what they call the "English" - but show they're thriving as a separate society.
   By the end of this easy-to-read book, you'll feel like you know the Amish personally.



3. This singular and sensitive exploration of the Amish culture is beautifully-written and photographed. It's a must-read for anyone who has ever wondered what life is like in this religious community that continues to live in the world, yet be not of the world. Readers will enjoy a journey into the hearts, minds, homes and businesses of the Amish Community in the Illinois' Heartland, and emerge feeling peaceful and whole themselves.
   Ruth Siburt,
   Children's Writer



4. I sit and read this wonderful book and honestly feel you will never get a better understanding of the life of the Amish. Rebecca Mabry has put her heart and soul into this book and it shows. She brings these wonderful people to life and shows how they live each day and continue with their lifestyle among the hustle and bustle of day to day living. I think the rest of us could learn some valuable lessons from the Amish. Don't hestitate when it comes to buying this book, you will love it and send it out as a present, your friends will love you for it.



5. I have lived in central Illinois most of my life and often pass through
   the Amish area, seeing only part of the picture of their lives and wanting
   to know more. Rebecca Mabry, through beautifully written words, and Vanda
   Bidwell, with her sensitive photographs, have filled in the missing parts
   of the picture with this superb book. The Amish faith, which places
   priority on faith in God and the importance of family, is an inspiration
   to us all. I highly recommend it to anyone who would like to know more
   about a fascinating and admirable people.
   -- Cindy Pringle

1 comments about Mennonite Handbook.

1. This book is a hoot. It also contains a lot of valuable facts and information. Recommend

2 comments about Cookbook from Amish Kitchens: Cakes (Cookbooks from Amish Kitchens).

1. I have most of the books in this series and love them all. These little books make great gifts. I bake one of the cakes and package the cake and the book together for a fun Birthday gift. No one has ever complained and everyone loves the cake.



2. I have all of these adorable little 'Cook Books from Amish Kitchens', and have really enjoyed them. The are very small and simple... the complete opposite of a coffee-table/display-style cookbooks we see most often today. This is a thin pamphlet with matte paper and does not include interior photos of any recipes (excluding the cover). The text is in a handwritten-style font and clearly explained. The recipes are very homey with basic ingredients and techniques; nothing fancy. Simple, delicious recipes in a simple, small booklet. RECOMMENDED.

No comments about God's Story, Our Story: Exploring Christian Faith & Life.

2 comments about The Journey Toward Reconciliation.

1. A professional mediator and former director of Mennonite Conciliation Service reveals honestly and thoughtfully the heart and guts of the work required for reconciliation. Each chapter weaves stories from personal experience, with scripture and practical advice, into a conclusion. He tells stories that we need to hear. It's an important journal and a helpful guide.



2. The need for understanding among families, nations, church members and individuals has never been greater. In clear, readable language the author tells stories of his efforts to bring peace between warring factions, which at times resulted in threats against him and his family. The chapters are filled with wise words for anyone who may be dealing with deep seated conflict. The book could be life changing for families, churches, or other groups who find themselves caught in a toxic situation. The objective is to transform enemies into friends. It is a book that makes for peace.