NatGeo: "Amish: Out Of The Order"

[Dagwood]

Did anyone see the series on NatGeo, "Amish: Out Of The Order" recently? Although it was probably tweaked since it was on TV, I was really shocked to hear of the experiences told overall. But, one statement the main person (Mose Gingerich) said was this: "Am I going to Hell? Probably." Very disturbing. To hear the stories of their exile from religious extremism and pursue a life of normality, still assuming they love God, I found very interesting and even sad with all they had to deal with.

I knew Amish were different, but I had no idea of the extremes invovled: you're either with them, baptized into "the church," or you're not and doomed to Hell and not allowed to contact family unless you decide to get back into "the church." That's pretty much the underlying message I took from it.

Someone with more insight, knowledge, or experience can chime in...

[Hoovie]

Amish do not believe non Amish are going to hell. However, they do take the adult decision of believers baptism and "joining the church" very seriously. If one leaves after joining the church they are viewed as in error to God and the church and are banned and shunned until they come to repentance and rejoin. I was raised similarly to the Amish - Old order Mennonite. A primary difference was this issue. We did not practice the Shunning nor viewed those who left as lost- though I am sure there are a few exceptions among Amish and Mennonites both.

[Dagwood]

Originally Posted by Hoovie

Amish do not believe non Amish are going to hell. However, they do take the adult decision of believers baptism and "joining the church" very seriously. If one leaves after joining the church they are viewed as in error to God and the church and are banned and shunned until they come to repentance and rejoin. I was raised similarly to the Amish - Old order Mennonite. A primary difference was this issue. We did not practice the Shunning nor viewed those who left as lost- though I am sure there are a few exceptions among Amish and Mennonites both.

I just took it for face value, but it was interesting to watch. Surely, like anything on TV, there will be a slight lean toward one point of view or another.

[coadie]

I really don't see the "english" as the Amish call them as very accurate in portraying Amish beliefs. The simple life has so incredibly many advantages. Shunning is their deal as it is with utah Mormons.

[Dagwood]

Originally Posted by coadie

I really don't see the "english" as the Amish call them as very accurate in portraying Amish beliefs. The simple life has so incredibly many advantages. Shunning is their deal as it is with utah Mormons.

I've been down that road before, as a child. Very nice people, no doubt. But, 10 or 15 years after leaving, you'd think they'd get the hint and not knock on the front door with a tithing envelope in their hand to give to us. But, again, they're very nice people with genuine and giving hearts (to be continued on a different thread).