Instruction for Baptism
Baptism celebrates God’s act of redemption in the believer. It is an outward, visible sign of an inner, spiritual transformation made possible through the resurrected Christ. --Minister’s Manual
BooksFinding Ourselves in God's Story by Michele Hershberger
Invites readers into a conversation about faith from an Anabaptist perspective. It connects two key stories: the Bible’s story of God restoring creation through Jesus Christ and our own lives today. How do we engage with God’s story? Where is God at work in us? Based on honest discussions with Mennonite youth, young adults, and pastors, this book addresses real questions of faith, guiding readers toward deeper understanding as they consider baptism or church membership. May 2025 Living the Anabaptist Story This accessible history tells the story of how adult Christians of the 1500s first shaped the Anabaptist believers church tradition and of how it lives on today and can be joined by any who identify with Anabaptist understandings of following Christ. Radicals and Reformers by Troy Osborne Traces Anabaptist and Mennonite history from Europe to global expansion. Historian Troy Osborne explores how Anabaptists shaped their identity amid changing contexts, drawing on current scholarship and diverse sources to show their adaptation and resistance from Zurich to Zimbabwe. Through Fire and Water: An overview of Mennonite History Harry Loewen, Steven Nolt, Carol Duerksen and Elwood Yoder; Herald Press, 2010. Presents the Mennonite faith story within the sweep of church history. Written as a textbook for students in Mennonite high schools. Anabaptist Essentials by Palmer Becker A clear, readable guide on what makes Anabaptist Christianity distinctive. Organized around the core values, “Jesus is the center of our faith; community is the center of our life; reconciliation is the center of our work.” Confession of Faith in Mennonite Perspective A statement in 24 articles adopted by Mennonite Church USA for teaching and nurture. What we believe together by Alfred Neufeld Explores the seven "Shared Convictions" adopted by the Mennonite World Conference General Council. The Bible as Story: An introduction to biblical literature by Marion G. Bontrager, Michele Hershberger and John E. Sharp The biblical narrative is and has always been one overarching story of God interacting with people to bring healing from the devastating effects of sin. Beliefs: Mennonite Faith and Practice Stories: How Mennonites Came to Be Practices: Mennonite Worship and Witness All by John D. Roth; Herald Press, 2004, 2006, 2009. |
CurriculaTesting the Waters: Basic Tenets of Faith
Discover the biblical roots for the central Christian concepts of covenant, community, and baptism. This short course is a way to test the (baptismal) waters of Christianity before diving in, or review the basics for those who already have. 6 sessions. Generation Why series. Begin Anew Empezar de Nuevo by Palmer Becker, Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada, 2014. A 16-session series of studies to make adult disciples in small groups and congregations. Based on the idea that Christianity is a combination of believing, belonging, becoming, and behaving, this discipleship resource is for anyone interested in growing in Christian faith from an Anabaptist perspective, regardless of their background or previous church experience. Find 16 videos that accompany the series here. Online resourcesConfession of Faith in Mennonite Perspective 1995
What is an Anabaptist Christian? by Palmer Becker VideosThe Quickest Ever DVD Guide to Anabaptists and their Values. Mennonite Health Services Alliance, 2009. 4 minutes.
The Radicals. Based on the Myron Augsburger book, Pilgrim Aflame, the story of the Michael and Margaretha Sattler and the early Anabaptists in 1525. 99 minutes. Who are the Mennonites? Can you tell if someone is a Mennonite just by looking? This 3 1/2-minute video dispels that myth and explores Mennonite history, beliefs and practices. |
