Fillmore County, MN

[Charles Austin]

Don’t want to condemn anybody. But I can be concerned about what some people are and do concerning such things as tax laws and public safety.

[RPG]

For some reason, this just keeps coming to mind over and over and over...

https://youtu.be/A030wZ8kjyQ?t=10

RPG+

[Terry W Culler]

I have read there are variations in practice among different Amish communities with respect to what is an allowable usage of modern activities.  In one case an Amish carpenter rented work space in a large warehouse type of facility.  Because there were already electrical outlets in that space he was allowed to use power tools.  Had there been no outlets already in place he could not have had them installed nor then used power tools.

As to Mennonites, Washington Country MD and south central PA. have many farms owned and operated by them.  I've been told we are known in the country for having some of the most old order Mennonites.  They are wonderful neighbors who take care of their own without outside insurance.  Unfortunately, they are also very works righteous folks in their religious views. 

[J. Thomas Shelley]

For further reading on the variations of practice:

https://amishamerica.com/what-is-the-amish-ordnung/

Amish review the Ordnung twice yearly before Communion service.  During the Counsel meeting, which takes place two weeks before Communion, the Ordnung is reviewed and members are asked for their concurrence.  A congregation must be in unity over the Ordnung, and outstanding issues must be addressed in order for Communion to take place.

THAT brings a deeper layer of meaning to the concept of being in "full communion".  Ironically, very parallel to Roman Catholic teaching that one must be in full agreement with the Catechism of the Catholic Church in order to receive the Eucharist.

[JEdwards]

the Amish ... have objected to an education system requiring their children to attend to go beyond the eighth grade, contending that in their society, they don’t need a high school education.

And their objection was affirmed by the Supreme Court in the landmark case of Wisconsin v Yoder, a precedent even older than Roe v Wade.  So, as is sometimes said in these precincts, "we" have already decided this issue.  Government officials who don't like it can always find another job.

[David Garner]

I find it odd that in these discussions, some default to the position that religious belief ought to be protected, and some default to the position that government power ought to be protected.

I wonder, if government power was being abused against the latter, whether their tune would change.