Continuity and Change in a Southern Beachy Amish-Mennonite Congregation

Keywords

Beachy Amish-Mennonites; Montezuma, Georgia; social change; community; education; technology

Abstract

Key leaders in a Beachy Amish-Mennonite church in southwest Georgia were interviewed to discuss the congregation’s history and position on religious beliefs and practices, gender roles and family life, education, work life, and areas of current concern. I then use the framework of boundary maintenance to assess the congregation’s viability. I conclude that while this congregation has experienced a variety of changes, its history reflects continuity rather than change.

Acknowledgements

I am grateful for the warm reception and the cooperation I received from the members of Montezuma Mennonite Church, the assistance provided by Miranda Scott, and for the funding from a College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Faculty Research and Creativity Seed Grant.

Recommended Citation

Smith, William. 2013. "Continuity and Change in a Southern Beachy Amish-Mennonite Congregation." Journal of Amish and Plain Anabaptist Studies 1(2):48-68.