Saturday, October 19th at 10 AM: Open to Public
This is the second presentation in a series, exploring how Mennonites have responded to wartime and drafts in particular. We explore historical contexts, theological basis for decisions, and the varying paths taken as each individual considers for themselves what being a Christian means in times of war. During this presentation, we will focus on World War II and Vietnam.
We have invited several people from the Mennonite faith to speak on personal experiences with war and alternative service, exploring different perspectives on what it means to love our enemies. Would you be willing to starve to help humanity? We will learn about a group of conscientious objectors that volunteered to do just that.
Everyone is welcome to stay for lunch following the meeting. A free-will offering will be taken to help cover costs.
Reviewing Mennonite family genealogies, oral histories, and historical records can tell interesting stories of the difficult and varying choices Mennonites have made regarding faith, citizenship and the violent nature of war. Our library is full of resources if you are interested to learn more about Mennonite faith and history or dive into your own genealogy!
For more information of the perspective of Mennonite churches on pacifism, here are some helpful resources:
Mennonite Church USA Confession of Faith, Aritcle 22 – Peace, Justice and Nonresistance
Mennonite World Conference – Declaration on Conscientious Objection