4 comments about Complete Writings of Menno Simons: Circa 1496-1561.

1. This book edited by J. C. Wenger's contains a new translations of Menno Simons' writings and is worthwhile reading for those looking to understand the Anabaptist-Mennonite view of Christianity. Another book by Bro. Wenger, "Introduction to Theology", is also a good source book on Mennonites. This book is again in print.



2. The Complete Writings of Menno Simons is the standard English translation of Menno Simons' work. Menno Simons was the 16th century Dutch Anabaptist leader from whom modern day Mennonites derive their name. Menno's work is doctrinal and theologically apologetic, as he generally was writing in defense of Mennonite thought against other Reformation era groups. This book would be one of the foundational books for Mennonite and Amish groups today, particularly those of a more conservative bent. The translator was a Reformed theologian well qualified to undertake 16th century texts; the editor, J.C. Wenger, was a long-time theologian in the Mennonite Church, and professor at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary.



3. This book is awesome, informative, and historically accurate. This work gives insight into the mind of a reformation Anabaptist. Menno did not shy away from condeming the ungodliness of his day, and did so despite being a wanted criminal; accused of being a heretic by the Catholic (harlot) church. True reformation Anabaptism rests within the confines of this book. True Anabaptism and the Apostolic vision have been lost. Reading this work reveals the essence of those traditions, and calls for a complete return to "the faith once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3). If you want truth, and want it hardcore...this is your book!



4. I am growing more and more sympathetic to the Anabaptist movement, thanks in large part to this book, which I have continually come back to read as a primary reference. Simons represented the best in Anabaptist thought, matched only by Balthazar Hubmaier, the movement's other major theologian.
   
   I would recommend Simons' Complete Writings for a simple reason. Some writers have a timeless quality about their work. Though they may have written during a time and context completely different from our own, somehow their 'voice' or message seems as contemporary and as relevant as things written in our own day. If you ever read something by Augustine, such as his confessions, you may understand what I'm talking about. Its the same with Simons. When I read him, I am not painfully aware that he wrote almost 500 years ago. Rather, I feel like I am in dialogue with a contemporary theologian. In this expansive work, the relevance of what Simons writes varies, but on the whole, the work is remarkably lucid.
   
   At a time in history when the Christian right in America (with whom I identify at least in part) is progressively taking on a Constantinian form of Christendom (which I do not identify with), and seems to endlessly embark on belligerant crusades across the globe, Simons' message of a non-violent, communal, self-denying faith in Christ, is desperately needed.

No comments about Shaping Your Family's Future - A Resource for New and Expectant Parents.

1 comments about Reuben (Ellie's People).

1. Reuben is the grandson of Daniel and the oldest child of Adam and Lucy Weaver. He is a young Amish man who struggles to prove himself to his friends. His horse, Princess, is his pride and joy, but she will also turn out to be his downfall. When he is dared to race Princess something happens that is shocking, but shows what not using good sense can do. Don't miss reading this exciting story of a young Amish boy.

No comments about Cookbook from Amish Kitchens: Cookies (Cookbooks from Amish Kitchens).

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.

3 comments about Amish Cooking.

1. What a great cookbook! The recipes are easy to understand. Recipes vary from dinner entrees, breads, soups, desserts and candies to canning, making juice from grapes and much more. It contains helpful hints throughout. This would make a great gift for all! There's a recipe for making taffy that would be lots of fun for children, too. Take a look and see for yourself.



2. I bought this book to see different recipes. These recipes are good for a person that's fixing for an Army. I know the Amish fix bulk when they cook. Like there's one recipe that you are casin and you need 50 pounds of meat and lots of spices. If I was feeding for my entire family that would be different. Overall this book has some great recipes and tips that's why I gave it three stars.



3. This is a great Amish cookbook, try the shoo-fly pie, yummy...and the Cherry pudding, it is not really a pudding!!

1 comments about An Amish Table.

1. This is a good book but I gave it 3 stars for being so tiny and not including much at all. I don't think I paid that much for it though so I guess that's why.

4 comments about More Food That Really Schmecks.

1. The recipes in More Food that Really Schmecks are interesting, easy, use ingredients that many of us have on hand and above all, yield food that everyone loves. This is one of my "desert island" cookbooks. Among the 400+ in my collection, this is one of the top five! (Likewise Food that Schmecks, the first in the series.) I also love the little stories about Edna's mother and friends. There is a strong influence from old order Mennonites (similar to the Amish in the US.)



2. It's great to see that this book has been reissued, as the original has been out of print and copies difficult to find. Like Food that Really Schmecks, More Food that Really Schmecks is a great cookbook filled with many Mennonite inspired recipies that Edna Staebler has gathered from her friends and family, and is complimented by numerous anecdotes about the Waterloo region (and more) of which she is a native. I am not a big cook, but I really enjoy this book, and am greatful that Edna Staebler has done so much to preserve some of Canada's German cooking heritage.



3. This was one of my first cookbooks in the 70's. I recently reached for it, and found that it was missing - I was delighted that it was still available after all these years. Although there are no pictures, the recipes are easy, use staple ingredients and are fun to read. Lots of comfort food. I own close to 200 cookbooks, and this is one of my all time favorites.



4. Edna Stabler is one of the best cooks, and writers, I've ever encountered. Her very readable cookbooks are packed with solid information and mouth-watering recipes and I've had rave reviews on everything I've tried. I can't recommend this book highly enough, and if the first column, Food That Really Schmecks, can be bought or bagged or stolen or otherwise annexed into your cookbook collection you'll be ready for anything.

1 comments about The Kansas Guidebook for explorers.

1. In The Kansas Guidebook for explorers, Marci Penner has succeeded in compiling a beautifully complete, lovingly researched and composed, well-photographed, and impressively easy to use guide to everything Kansas.
   
   After seeing all the Kansas fence posts made of rock, are you wondering where the post rock capital of Kansas is and why? The index will tell you to check page 77. Planning a trip to Wichita and need to know what to see in the area? The book is divided into geographical sections, color coded and tabbed, so in this case you can go right to the South Central section and see not only what there is in Wichita, but what towns and areas are near and what they offer, including a detailed map at the beginning of the section. And if you like to just browse through and read whatever catches your fancy, this book is useful for that, with fun, interesting, and colorfully illustrated entries on every page.
   
   And here is my favorite thing: The book is so well indexed, one can look up, say "sculptures and statues" and find a list of every location in the book where sculptures and statues are mentioned, every place in the state. This type of detailed index is a rare and wonderful aspect of a guide book, one I find enormously helpful.
   
   My family and I are enjoying this book. I highly recommend it. Five stars!

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