How Did Mennonites Begin?
Mennonites trace their roots to the 16th century Protestant Reformation in Switzerland. They are set apart from other Christian denominations by their belief in pacifism and believer’s baptism. Early Mennonites met persecution and martyrdom as the movement spread through Europe. In search of freedom, Mennonites moved to places including Russia and North America. In the late 1800’s they organized home and foreign missions. A substantial ministry of emergency relief and development aid was initiated after World War II, alongside of missions. Today Mennonites are found in about sixty countries with over one million members worldwide.
