How to Join the Amish: The Step-by-Step Guide
Atlee Miller, an Ohio New Order Amish father of ten, tells you how to do it at amish-heartland.com.
In a nutshell: come live with us, go to church, get a job, learn Pennsylvania Dutch, do all this for a year and then get educated in the ways of the church, and finally, get voted in by the church. Voila. It’s that simple.
Simple but far from easy. A handful have done it, but not without sacrifice and struggle. Why do they go through with it? ‘A woman’, joked one Amishman I know. ‘That’s usually what’s involved.’
Bonus: Click for what the Amish think about outsiders wanting to join, and a bit about a few real-life converts. (update: articles removed at source)
Have you read the following article about Amish converts? http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17268211&BRD=1698&PAG=461&dept_id=21849&rfi=6
In it, Eric Miller (from the Behalt) is quoted. “The number of so-called Yankee-to-Amish conversions may be higher than observers believe, according to Paul Miller, executive director of The Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center in Berlin, Ohio. “I have a friend who converted from Catholicism to Amish. He said there were 100-some people that have become Amish from other backgrounds,” Miller said. “The interesting thing was, as he pointed it out, the majority of those are from Catholicism to Amish.””
I think it would be a very interesting sociological study to compare converts to the Amish faith and identify common threads. And especially to pinpoint the event that made them go from an observer who admired and integrated the lifestyle and faith into their own personal life to seeking membership in the Amish church and living in community. Of course a maiden could always have something to do with it :-).
I have e-mailed Mr. Miller in an attempt to obtain an address to write to a convert, but have not received a response yet.
Matthew
Replying a bit late to this thread
About converts to the Amish faith from Catholicism… I am of the R.C. faith, but there is so much about Plain witness that appeals to me more – especially humility. Humility is a value that is no longer in fashion, much to the detriment of our wider society. In general, though, it is the connection to the land and a life of non-negotiable, “first values” (respect for life, family, honest work – to name just these) that speak to me on a very basic level as a Christian.
I want to be Amish, or, try, anyway!
I would be very interested in talking with you about becoming Amish. I’m planning a trip to Ohio next week, Feb 19-25 and I want to try living with a family for maybe a year, to see if it is indeed something I truly want to continue. If u would email me,I would love to talk with u! Chawntelh@gmail.com thanks so much for you’re time!
GRATEFUL
I am so pleased and grateful to GOD that there is a way OF LIFE to be closer to him ,to partake in him and HOLISTICALLY.NNOT just when things are going good or in my favor but being able to forgive he unforgivable,being able to pray when it appears i do not have the strenght to do so.IF GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY and someone showed up at my door to take me away to live as they do i would probably run all the way back to the Amish community beating them by horse and buggy.
To Chantel
I’m thinking that you’d have better luck going to person to talk to their community. I doubt they check email. 🙂
This Amish website.
Diann, Amish don’t have computers in there homes but in many areas, they do still have access to them and probably know how to check email. This might be especially true in the Elkhart county and Lagrange county Indiana sects of Amish. I have seen them in public libraries using computers. I don’t know where this website originated, but I don’t see where else it could have come from but from someone who is Amish. Who else would be giving people instructions on how to be Amish?
The Amish and the bible.
Chantel, Before you move to an Amish community, it is crucial that you understand the importance of why they live the way they live. It is not just a way to live, it is also a religion. Everything about the way they live does come out of biblical scripture even though they translate the bible very literally. The bible does say that Christians are not to be worldly and the old testament does say a married man is to have a beard. First Corinthians 11 does say a Christian women is to keep her head covered and especially during worship. Many churches fail to realize that there was a time when all churches required that women keep there heads covered during worship, even the Catholic church at one time required it. Old Testament says a man is to dress like a man and a women is to dress like a women, that means there must be a difference. People ask where does it say in the bible we should all drive a horse and buggy, but they neglect to realize that it doesn’t say we should have to drive a car either. But it is a communal way of life, a horse and buggy prevents them from going places a Christian should not go and it keeps them within the confines of there own area where they will always have fellowship with one another. Not having a phone is not about trying to live in the past, it is because they are afraid having phones will break down there togetherness. It is a quiet peaceful way to live, but it is not simple, there is a lot of work involved. But the peace they have among-st each other makes it all worthwhile.
I’m an almost 55 yr old disabled God Fearing Loving Christian Woman that has had my share of a long existence of mistakes and conviction but Still a woman after God’s Heart !
I’m still and will always be trying to get it right !But maybe most of us in the struggle with the flesh struggle with some issues.
But what I really have to say here is that I Absolutely Admire You and Really Always Have !
I feel that this selflessness and desire to give yourself so fully and completely is Nothing Short of Complete Respect and Admiration !!!
I am very humble and desperately seeking the closeness of God that I can humanly possibly achieve !
There is Nothing More or Less than I Want , Need , Desire Than My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and ALL That ,That In tells !!!
I’m a down home southern country girl that has been searching for my place here in this world and I know that I belong elsewhere and I may not be able to keep up with the physical demand of this precious God loving lifestyle but I just had to applaud you and the mere Beauty of your words and your beautiful life !
You are Truly Blessed !
Stay in Jesus .
And May God Keep You Always !
Your Sister in Christ…
Bea 🙂
The things you described appeals very much to me to be in a community like that. I’m just not sure on how to go about it, im a 49yo man.
Step-by-step-guide
Hello, I’m presently attending a Pilgrim Mennonite Church in the Gulf Shores area. I have been only attending their church for a year, but I feel totally immersed in the lifestyle and love God more than anyone anywhere because of what He’s done for me and others. But I am finding it hard to find a conservative church where i live, and many close by communities are drifting and beginning to take in people as members and clergy that go against what the Bible says is acceptable. I can only attend this church once a month, but I feel the Amish would not allow such things. The Pilgrim church does not do these things, but I now live too far away to attend and am looking for a church near me. To me I’d welcome the simplest form of annabaptists living. I am not deeply attached to the world, have only one living relative and could relocate to a community with ease. How can I begin this process. Or at least talk with someone. Very Respectfully, Pat Carter imabrassygirl@gmail.com
Tempting
I already speak High German and Pa Dutch, and I am a ChristianIch con Deitsch unn Hochdeitsch schunn schwetza. Ich daed es arrich guud, fer Amisch wadda, weil ich es life schtyle arrich gleicha.
Machs guut.
wunderbar!
Well, I wish you could teach me Mr. John how to speak PA Dutch… High German too, but PA Dutch first I think. I like what I have heard of the language. Sometimes words sound english, maybe spoken in a different order of sorts. Love it.
Learning to speak German.
It would help a lot to speak the actual German language because that is what is spoken in there church services. Buy an Amish bible and an Amish church hymnal. This is a good way to practice to learn to speak German. There are also software you can use to learn to speak German. It is said that if you can speak low German you can still pick up what there saying in high German.
Actually....
The Penslyvania Dutch dialect and language is very different from High German.It’s almost a slang version of German. “Letz gain mit nana” vs. “Lasst unz alle zusammen gehen.” And the Church hymnal is 1000 small hymns words only. The most amazing thing is that when a hymn number is called, everyone knows the tune and the vowels are drawn out very long. The true only way to understand the lifestyle is to become friends with a family. It was a wonderful experience for me 🙂
Plain Catholics
Look up “Plain Catholics” websites for further info. There are
individuals and families who follow such. Old Order Roman Catholic
(not Old Catholic churches)would follow the nonresistant teaching
of Jesus and not be part of nor approve of any military related
involvement,wear plain clothing, and use horse and buggy, while
others(related ones)would drive only simple black cars in a spirit
of separation in following the Lord Jesus, going back to the earliest
Catholic Biblical Christianity in all its simplicity.
Br. J. Dominic
br.jeremy10@yahoo.com
reply
Have you looked through the websites on “Plain Catholics,”
Paul? Much in common plus more.
Br. J. D.
br.jeremy10@yahoo.com
It’s interesting to see that folks try to convert and that the Amish are even amenable to it.
I wonder how many of those who make the “attempt” to convert are under 30 verses over 30. I bet a person’s age and worldly experience would contribute greatly to the success or failure of a conversion.
Good question Dave, I am curious myself…I imagine the majority would come from the under-30 age range, what do you think?
age
Hello, Im 60 years old, but if I could I’d join. God bless you all!
I would also join...
I am 51 and I would join the Amish faith in a split second if I had the opportunity. I love the way that they live so simply and peaceful with very little outside interference. I used to have Amish friends and I would sit and talk to them for hours.
Just do it
Katie, it doesn’t matter if you are 51 or 61 or more just do it. They don’t turn people away unless they feel they have a substantiated reason for it.
Why I was turned away.
Katie, I did get turned away when I tried to become Amish, but partly because I had the wrong Bishop and there was a certain Amish old lady south west of me who was never married and tried her hardest to stop me. She told wicked lies about me and acted very cruel to me. But I later heard she even did it to others in her own church. But as I stated in a previous statement, the Amish in my area pride themselves to much in there high earnings. I don’t and have never made a lot of money. I now have a disability which would give them even more reason to turn me away. I doubt they would want to spend money to help support me. If you want to become Amish, don’t try it in northern Indiana.
me too. Im 49
Do Catholics join the Amish?
About Catholics becoming Amish, I wonder how many of those were in modern times, vs. how many happened a couple hundred years ago when there was still a European Amish presence, and when there weren’t the issues of dealing with a drastic lifestyle change and so on.
My first guess would be that more nowadays come from Anabaptist-related faiths, but that is pure speculation.
Matthew thanks for the link to the article. I liked it. I believe I heard about this fellow, the former pilot, joining, but hadn’t read anything about it.
A study like you describe would be interesting. I wouldn’t be surprised in Kraybill or one of his colleagues has something like that on tap. If not, someone ought to look at it. Would make a great book.
Catholics joining the Amish
I have a couple of friends who also came from non-Mennonite background and we noticed that observant Catholics seemed to have a easier time adjusting than Protestants. I think sociologically it is probably more similar and that shouldn’t surprise anyone because the Amish and Mennonites came out of the traditional Reformation period Catholic Church.
1) Protestants tend to be more individualistic, Catholic and Anabaptists tend to be more group oriented.
2) There is a greater acceptance of church hierarchy in the Catholic groups, acceptance of rules, ritual, that sort of thing.
3) Protestants tend to be calvinistic where the Anabaptists and Roman Catholic Church are not.
4) Evangelical Protestants (rather than the older mainline denominations) tend to be very into Dispensational eschatology, and patriotic. Catholics, older mainline groups and Anabaptists tend to be amil in their view of prophecy.
5) Footwashing is practice in the Anabaptist groups; it is still used in some Catholic orders and at least once a year you see a picture of the Pope washing the Cardinals’ feet (at Easter maybe?).
6) Catholic nuns wear a headcovering; Catholic women wore a mantilla to church even as late as the 1970s when I was growing up.
7) Catholics and Anabaptists the families tend to be larger.
There are just alot of little similarities that can make the fit easier.
Just my observation, nothing scientific.
If someone wants to do a study on why people pick Anabaptist churches, I am willing to be a guinea pig and answer questionnaire.
The following log “How to Join the Amish: The Step-by-Step Guide” was very interesting and I would like to know how to get practical if I wish to join the community for a year and monger. Please write back with detailed-information. Ready to join.
Hi Sebastien,
I would be glad to offer what help is within my scope, but what would you like to know, more specifically?
I am a 16 yr old female who wants to become Amish, but does not know what to do. Could somebody help me with this?
Advice for Shenendoah.
Shenendoah,
The first thing to do would be to talk to an Amish convert to get some advise. Be sure to ask his opinion of the right bishop to talk to. Many bishops are very stubborn about it. Once you have talked to a bishop he would probably tell you to start coming to church but not start dressing the Amish way and start living it until you are certain this is what you want. Acceptance can be very difficult for you than one of there own and they will be suspicious of you. It would be good to explain to them why this means so much to you. It will impress them even more if you can give some biblical scripture for why you think you should do this. You might be invited to come live with an Amish family but don’t be certain of it. You will much more likely to be accepted if you get married to an Amish man because then you will become a member of an Amish family.
I am a 16 yr old female who wants to become Amish, but does not know what to do. Could somebody help me with this?
I am a 16 yr old female who wants to become Amish, but does not know what to do. Could somebody help me with this?
I am a 16 yr old female who wants to become Amish, but does not know what to do. Could somebody help me with this?
I can relate to that quote about ‘a woman’—if I met an Amish girl who was hot, I would probably look into converting.
Michael, you are wrong.
Michael,
Just finding a pretty and hot looking Amish girl is not the reason for joining the Amish church.
i would like to know the amish ladies would like to get a man like me
i’m a single male looking for a amish ladie for marrage and to raiseb a family with i am 49 years old so is there any single amish ladie that would like to meet me
Put an Ad in The Budget..other Amish do..
-Ethan
Ethan,
It’s great to have another experienced Amish seeker adding to the discussions here on AA. Notice the date of the comment you are replying to? 2008? Those people are long gone, mostly.
That said, don’t go away! This blog needs comments from those that know the Amish personally. Notice that flaming rarely happens, let’s keep it that way.
If you know how to use google’s website search feature, you will see that I have been commenting on and off here for a while.
Sehen dich, und ich hoff Gott will dich selig machen,
Lance
I love ur comment! That and that guy was looking for an Amish girl? Oxymoron! She’s not going to be on here…lol! I too am looking to try and move choose to an Amish community…u think the budget is a good idea?
Thanks, and I try to keep up with the comments on here!
Chantel Hayes
I suggest learning about the differences between the various Amish groups and then directly contacting those that match who you are and what you are looking for.
The Amish are NOT monolithic, they are very diverse. Learning how they are different is somewhat fun. If you are worried that they might change too much during your life time, look at the conservatives. Want the least differences from the ‘english’ world, look for Beachy or New Order. Amish and Mennonite history would suggest that the more progressive the group, the more likely they will drop the Amish label and identity over time. Unlike the large denominations of Protestantism, there is no oversite committee keeping the groups monolithic. The ministers of full fellowships do communicate and advise each other, but the only real authority over each individual church district is itself. So, over time, they have gone many different directions. You just have to sort through the various groups to find the best match. Even the Amish themselves do this.
It gets a lot harder, the farther you currently live from different Amish groups. If you want to explore the different groups, you really need to move near them.
Good luck. I wish you well, and God’s blessing on your interest in the ‘plain’ people.
Amish Seeker
Amish seeker and Mom of three boys. My son Christian is terminally ill and we need help and a place with love and Gods word and advice to help, grow and heal. I am tired of gangs, violence and technological advancements. We need family love and peace to find acceptance with gods decisions to seek the path we would like to live. We seek to find simpler way of life for myself and my children. Please email me if you can help. I am trying to get away from the drugs, sex and rock and roll lifestyle of today’s youth. Seeking family to stay with for a time to learn the language and the church.
Thank you in advance and may god bless you,
Danielle Renee Ballard Anderson and my Sons
Christian Andrew-Shane Ballard
Zane Daniel Anderson
And Kane Alexander Anderson
i would like to become amish but don’t know how
I’m a 13 year old female, and I’ve alwayz dreamed of becomin amish, but i have no clue where to go or how i do it, i need help..
Vee Bish’d? I’m the guy that Paul Miller was talking about (if it’s Paul R. Miller). There are so many Paul Millers in Holmes County, it’s hard to say. The person you described matches my descripton too. I have a lot to say about the whole conversion from English to Amish if anyone wants to hear. I won’t talk too much about my own experience because I don’t want to bore anyone. One thing I can say is that a person really has to be led by the Spirit to do something like this. It’s a lot of excitement at first but if you think that it’s all fun and games, think again! I strongly incourage the conversion. God calls some to be Amish and others to do something else. I was almost Amish but my own lusts and pride got the best of me. God has been kind enough to show me that I’m not where He wants me in life. The decision is that I’m going to give in another try, God willing. The old saying, If I knew then what I know now…” applies here. To the people thinking about taking on the Amish way of life, be patient and prayerful. Remember to thank God for everything and find the beauty in simplicity. We are really called to be seperate from the world. If the Father has really put it on your heart to make the change in your life don’t ignore Him! I did and it has gotten me nothing but a lot of disappointment and regret. If you “fall off the wagon” try not to beat yourself up too hard. If you get a little resistence from the Amish community remember that we’re all only human. Prejudices about the “English” are just the result of many years of persecution. Try not to take anything too personally and win them over by showing that you’re in it for the long haul! As long as you put Christ first you’re sure to finish in the lead!
Anyone considering joining such a group should consider that being legalistic misses the whole point of Christianity. Christians are supposed to live as free men and women, and the traditions of men, taught as religion, are in fact an abomination, as stated by Paul. The man-made rules are really the Amish and Mennonites’ biggest downfall. They reduce religion to sheer pettiness. Christianity is really a state of mind. No outward sign of faith or display of faith is valid in Christianity. The Bible teaches that followers of Jesus will not be known by how they look but by how they live their lives. They will even “socialize” with sinners in order to be a good example to them, and to help them, not separate themselves to the point that they are “hiding their light under a bushel”. In fact Jesus’ own words state that he came to save sinners, not the righteous, implying that if you are living in a righteous manner you are doing what you were meant to do, thereby “pleasing God”. Another big danger is in literalizing the Bible. There are far too many contradictions and vagueness for this to be possible, and cross-reference applications could not be made (e.g., bringing Lazarus back to life could be analogous to the power of the Christian faith to bring back someone to “life” no matter how “dead in sin” he or she was. Finally, religion nearly always treats women as being inferior to men. They are the ones who give birth to us all. Any religious point of view that deems women as inferior should be avoided. As philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson stated, “All orthodoxy is error”.
I was born and raised Amish in Ohio.My family are members of the old order amish.I would love to write a book about my experiences growing up amish and why i would and would not live like that again.If someone could direct me on how to get started please contact me.
Google – Self Publishing.
There are so many small presses now with varying costs. It is your best bet.
Hi! Does anyone have any more information for people seriously considering joining an Amish group (such as contacts, etc.) or at least visiting with them? Thanks so much! (Oh and Martha, you should definetely write a book about your experiences. It would be really interesting!)
Hello, my name is Evan, a single, never married Jewish Christian who seeks an Amish wife. Am 52, professionally employed in the medical profession, love farming, barn raising, and the Amish way of life. My email:evanbgessman@gmail.com:508-376-1048/any and all info would be helpful…
a “Jewish Christian”? What is that? There is no such thing. So if you marry an Amish woman you would then be Jewish-Amish? LOL. If you are a Christian you are a Christian. Jesus said there are no Jews or Gentiles, Black or White all are the same who follow him. And the same applies with the Amish. I doubt the Amish allow hyphenated self segregated members. In their community, as it should be, you are either Amish or you are not. How ridiculous to even approach the subject in this manner.
bit harsh
Thats a harsh comment buddy. The guy hasnt attacked you so why the comment.
What? Jewish Christian? That doesn’t make sense? Jew’s don’t believe in Christ!
how very untrue to say that jews dont believe in jesus…messianic jews believe very much in jesus. whom is yeshua to them. Jesus was a jew and messianic jews are the closest it comes to the beginnings of the early church…the apostles were jews…and the gentiles are what we call christians..you have it backwards. with out the jew there would be no christianity and no I am not jewish. Before one opens his mouth he must first make sure his facts are straight. No offense meant but your comment was biased and untrue.
Actually you have that backwards, without the goyim or westerners there would be no Christianity. Jews only wanted to save their own, that’s why they gave Paul such a hard time because he insisted that everyone should be saved and enter Heaven. Who printed the Bible?? Who created the school system that taught Christianity to the world, who fought and died in wars for Jesus?? Who gave up their belongings for thousands of years to help those around the world discover Jesus and find a better life? It’s western Christians around the world supporting those in need and in deed. Thank you.
And there goes another single Jewish man. How did the Catholics miss you ?
Hi, I’ve been looking into joining the Amish lately and I’m looking for a female partner who wants to do the same. I’m 26 y.o., single, white, my email: i_want_to_be_amish@yahoo.com
I’ve always been so inspired by the Amish. I grew
up in norhthern Calif.(no amish there) and also
lived in a small town of 700 people in Minn.
Then we moved to Northern Az. I’m always reading
about the Amish would love someday to live
among them. I’m 43, female and single (still
have 2 highschoolers but when their grown
and gone I’d to live among the Amish. If anyone
has any great ideas I’d love hear them!!
The Connection is a great Amish magazine also.
Please keep in touch!! Heather sunbabies2002@yahoo.com
I personally know many from the English who became Amish. Recently I met one who works at Behalt and I must say that from our brief conversation he is different from the norm.
When I say the norm I mean that most end up leaving, the few that do remain many times are scrutinized by other members, I know of those who are now 2nd generation and married with their own children – but yet have never been trusted or excepted even thou they themselves were born Amish. I know of one case were the community asked the Amish wife to separate from her now Amish [former English] husband, based on allegations that just simply are not true.
Although my experience is that most have ongoing acceptance issues not from the English but from within the Plain communities, I must admit that their are those who seem to be quite happy and adjust well – only time will tell the story with their children and grandchildren.
The man that I recently met even shared with me his personal relationship “faith” in my Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ. This is something that over 90% of Old Order Amish would never do. This man was not prideful, just thankful.
For those who are truly considering joining the Amish, before you get too far, I would advise you to do some research and find out why so many Amish are leaving or should I say being pushed out due to the sharing of their new-birth experience in Christ Jesus. What you might just surprise you.
[A honest and clear-cut film about this very issue is a documentary by “BBC News” that was filmed last year in Lancaster Cnty, PA. by Andrew & Marisa from Wales, the name of the documentary if you can find it is “Trouble in Amish Paradise”]
Best of wishes
Andrew
Your description regarding acceptance of outsiders among the Amish reminds me of Judaism which also scrutinizes and treats converts as outcasts no matter how sincere the intentions. If you mother wasn’t Jewish you are always considered a goy no matter what. Sad because some of the best religious followers are converts especially considering that those who started these religious path were all converts as well. Only God knows your true intentions and sanctions your actions. No man can tell someone he is not Amish when he is Amish in heart.
i have spent the last 3 months living amoung the amish in Lewistown Montana and feel a sincere need to become as they are. i will be leaving in two weeks and i really dread going back home to kentucky. i’ve never before felt such a calling. i am german by birth so was just getting the hang of Pennylvania dutch and now will not have anyone to excersize my skills with. i have to keep hopes alive that the Lord will see me through this and perhaps if its His will i will get my chance. we shall see…
peace
Jessica Gauker
Just an observation for a few people who put their personal info up here. True faithful Amish are not going to be sitting in front of their flat panel LCD screen on the Internet looking at blogs for a lover. But someone looking for a naive victim will be there. For example, “Oh my true love, we’ve known each other so long (24 hrs) and I trust you… you trust me too don’t you (oh sure). To get you into my Amish community (in Nigeria) please wire $2,000 for supplies so the neighboring Amish family can prepare their farm for your arrival (there is no Amish neighbor).” Get the picture? If you want to marry someone Amish, you’d best abandon the “high-tech” strategy, frequent an Amish community, and start meeting Amish folks. You probably won’t even be chatting on the phone much.
And I don’t even want to think about the other possibility (that you’re here looking for some naive Amish backslider to exploit).
Having said all that (s0rry, but I’m a cop) I sincerely admire the Amish. I’m deeply impressed by their adherence to a set of good/decent values and their commitment to non-violence. There’s a community nearby, and even though I never quite feel adopted, I always feel completely at peace there.
Like other commenters, I also came from a background of legalism. Having now enjoyed the freedom of Christianity, I can still look at the Amish life from the standpoint that it could be lived by choice… that the disciplined life can be a choice… an expression of freedom in Christ. Certainly to live the Amish life out of duty, hoping to gain God’s love through self-righteousness, would be futile and imprison me. But I think I’m at a place in my Christian walk were I could “choose” to live a lifestyle of “limited choices”. I’m just not sure I’m ready to give up my flat panel LCD yet. 🙂
Shalom
so very right
I was thinking the exact thing….#1 you write to find an Amish girl, yet your on the computer ….u must not be ‘up’ on their way of life! These people must not be very smart….liked your post! You made me laugh!
Shalom? I’m curious why anyone here would end a post with a Jewish salutation. A better salutation would be something like Macht’s gut. Please show some respect, this is an Amish forum, not a Jewish one.
Jesus Says Say "Shalom" when visiting someone.
Regardless Jew or gentile, slave or free,
apparently anyway, as written in New Testament.
“When you visit someone , say “Shalom to you and your household today”. IF they receive you, “Shalom” will remain. If they reject you, “Shalom” will leave .
Richard, thank you for looking out for our Amish friends and neighbors brother!
Andy
Want to become Amish but scared
Hi, I really feel that I want to become Amish, but I am scared. I am 32 years old although I normally get asked if I am 21. lol. But I really feel like this is my calling. I respect everything about the Amish. I was wondering though, how do you know which Amish community you want to join… Do you just join the community that you live near? I live in Northeast N.J. near PA. I also would love to have a family some day but am affraid since I am older than the normal amish girls are who get married, that I may not have that chance myself to marry since all the amish men my age are probably already married and have families. Well, I guess if God wants me to have a family then he’ll give me one. But I do wonder about this, I have to admit.
I hope someone out there will respond to me. I know this is a very big step in my life and wanted some feedback.
Thank you so much,
Kristy
If you were told that you could join the Amish but could never marry within the community, would you be so keen ? Any day TLC will greenlight the “Amish Dating Game” for people like you. ( I sincerely hope not.)
Please email me Kristy wardekai000@yahoo.com I plan to join the Amish this summer & have attended Amish church for 5 years. I think I can help you with your questions.
Kate
So much respect
The little I have seen and read regarding the Amish, has left me with a tremendous amount of respect for the community. I live in England and saw a documentary about the Amish a few years ago. I was really humbled and frankly embarrassed at the same time.
I am a Muslim and I felt as though the Amish were more ‘Muslim’ than 99% of Muslims I know or have encountered. Their constant God consciousness, their compassion towards their community and others, their humility, their dress and manners just to name a few are all key fundamental tenants in Islam, that are meant to be compulsory upon us. God consciousness is known as ‘Taqwa’ in Arabic, and manners as ‘Adhab’. It is compulsory for us to give a share of our savings to charity and a to treat others as well as if not better than we would treat ourselves, to never lie or be dishonest even if this is against ourselves i.e. even if doing so will result in a negative outcome for one’s self. Men aren’t meant to wear gold or silk or be flashy etc.
I wish there was a Muslim community is the world today who still held the belief in social justice, kindness and God consciousness as highly as we are meant to.
Anyway I digress a little, I suppose. It was inspiring. I often thought that perhaps today in the world we live, one led by war mongers, neo colonialist who invade others’ lands for oil and wealth, little disregard for human life if it isn’t in the first world; and a world in which wealth, status and accumulation are the goals, it is too difficult to live as we are meant to. But I think the Amish show us that it’s not the case. I for one hope I will continue to find my space in this world to live my life as closely to the principles my faith holds to be so paramount too.
Your post intrigued me in the beginning but then you seemed to devolve into indirectly attacking first world countries as being heartless and war mongering. First world countries vary in their political beliefs, social agendas and war history in the same way that second and third world countries do all of which have their own histories of aggression and war mongering. Let’s not delude ourselves about those histories.
American/Europeans are the most generous people on Earth. Christians as a whole donate and do more for people than any other religious or social group in the world. While you may think that first world countries take the most, they actually give the most. This is a fact. The various missions, monasteries, donations, charitable acts and organizations to help the needy permeate every country in the world and in fact carry many third world countries which are unable to fend for themselves.
And please don’t stereotype Westerners or Christians as we vary in thought, deed and mind as much as any other group. I am heartened that there is a strong underground movement going on in America to get back to true Christianity which encompasses charity, good will to others and nonaggression, those very ideals of the founders of our country. Unfortunately these voices are often drowned out by impostors.
As far as religions go, I ask you to consider whose actions were most exemplary. Jesus was by far the most wise, considerate, forgiving and exceptional in character of any of the prophets. His unwavering faith, willingness to sacrifice himself, the life he lived are all testaments to his unparalleled value as both a divine human being and as a man. He simply has no peers. He lived what he preached and maintained the highest ethics consistent with his teachings and beliefs. That alone should convince anyone that Jesus was and is the Son of God and our Savior. And he alone secured our fate and gave us hope of an afterlife in which we can be redeemed for our acts on Earth.
I hope you find what you are looking for. God bless you and I hope your religious journey will ultimately lead you to Jesus.
Jesus Says Say "Shalom" when visiting someone.
Yet most of the world rejects Jesus entirely. Not the false religious ‘Jesus’, but the one true Messiah Jesus.
His Instructions are still true today also – “turn to the Creator, because His Kingdom Is At Hand”. At least hopefully for some few they can turn to Him and not remain in the lost degenerate evil wicked society/kosmos/world with those who refuse to stop serving demons.
Jesus did not and does not say that the countries of the world are ‘good’ at all. Rather, particularly NT Galatians – “society is pernicious” / death-dealing seeking to drag everyone everywhere down to the pit. God Rescues Those He Chooses To, Faithfully and True to His Entire Message, in Harmony Perfectly with all of His Word, His Purpose, in Christ Jesus Messiah Savior Rescuer Healer.
I want to become Amish.
I am a male, 46 years old, from Massachusetts. I am greatle inspired by the Amish and the Amish way of life. I want to become Amish when the time is right in my life. Personally, I already ascribe and practice much of the Amish way of thinking. I will join one day soon. Mendonca1@comcast.net
realizing a dream
I am a 76 yr. old widow, who has held the desire to be Amish since I was a small child and knew such a lifestyle existed. I want more than anything else in the rest of my life, to live it out sincerely in the Amish lifestyle. Could this be possible? I have considerable income and assets which I would gladly offer to any cause the Amish could use it for. I want nothing in return. Except to devote the rest of my life and assets to an Amish community, adding and devoting my life to others. I am not interested in any kind of relationship, and would prefer to live alone. I am in excellent health, and could work in the medical field, retail store, teaching , cooking – anything to be of value. I am not applying for a job, or seeking a mate – just very sincerely wishing to fulfill a life long dream of living the life I have always felt that I was meant to live. someone please help. FLC
F.L.Cummings,,,,,
If you are SURE that you want to become Amish,,,,,go and visit the Amish in Smyrna Mills,Maine,,but go with open eyes,,,it is located on US 2..
Some time ago a divorcee,,,older woman came to the shop where I was working,,when I was there,,and to make a long story short,,,,, she is now living there,,doing all they ask of her,,and really loves it there,,,,
She is legally blind and has her guide dog with her there,,,,,
For more info,,,,contact me at. followjesusonly@gmail.com
A Five Point Calvinist becoming Amish
Last weekend a 5 point Calvinist who has joined or is joining the Amish was at my house,here in Ohio,,and we had an an interesting conversation,,,
He quit college to join Amish
In all my travels,have never before met such a determined unique person,,,trying to live in the Amish world,,,
followjesusonly@gmail.com
Healing our society vs. "joining" the Amish
I keep being drawn back to this thread by the many comments that continue to appear. I wonder sometimes if the answer is not for outside seekers to “join” an Amish community, but rather, that as a society in general, we might begin adopting Amish values into daily life. I can see how requests to accept converts can be jarring for faith communities who traditionally have not, and do not, “recruit”.
As a Christian of the Roman Catholic faith, I have a great personal respect for the Anabaptist way. In it I see a much greater emphasis on communal humility than – and I am sad to say it – in my own church. What does all the ornate pageantry do for our spiritual health as Christians anyway? I’m grateful for beautiful art and music, but what really should count is where we are on our spiritual journey – as individuals, but also as a community at large. This focus on the community is so strong among the Anabaptists, that I can’t help but respect how they strive to live with the faith as their guidebook.
This is not to say that Anabaptist communities are utopian, as others have rightly and wisely pointed out above. But it should give us all pause – all of us who sincerely believe that North American society is broken on many levels, and that as people of goodwill and generosity, and magnanimous spirits, we would do well to study the Amish way, see how well it does indeed work on many fronts, and use those values to create a more caring, resilient and functional society.
What are the values we should adopt?
I guess I should say what I think some of those values are that I mentioned above:
* A respect for the land and for agriculture as a way of life. Not thinking of food and farming as simply globally transferable “agribusiness”, but noting the importance of humanity’s connection to the land.
* A respect for families as the cornerstone of society’s future.
* A new respect for a person’s word being his or her bond. The culture of marketing, doublespeak and legalese (and attendant litigiousness) has poisoned our society on many levels! It would be good if, to a greater extent, words meant what they said. Deceptive marketing needs to be shunned and weeded out of our thinking.
* Learning to live in the moment and being there for loved ones. Too much multitasking means that we may be present in body, but be in a million other places in mind, scattered simultaneously. How can this be healthy for us, spiritually, and psychologically?
* Having a healthy relationship with technology: using it with discernment, rather than letting it mould us.
* Learning to contemplate the possible ramifications of our actions on our loved ones and our communities.
* Looking out for one another (i.e. being people of good will, not busybodies – big difference!)
Just some thoughts. I’ll add more if any come to mind.
beautifully said. Couldn’t agree more
How about an old order Mennonite church instead?
I have also felt the call to the Amish way of life for many years but I have a large English family and I would worry that even though I feel this is my calling, it may not be for my children. I share the anabaptist beliefs and respect the plain living humility. I have decided that allowing my children to live in their community but going to a plain Mennonite church would be best for everyone involved. I found a wonderful Mennonite church that were very open and excepting of me and found that peace and refuge I was looking for.
Blessings,
Heidi
Heidi,
It’s a very good point about Mennonites, since some
Still don’t understand enough about Amish. The history
Facts are all Amish are true Mennonites by old
Standards of Amish. The Mennonites are not true
Converted Amish. The same can be said about the
Language differences; for example 5:00pm is in Amish
Funf Uhr in Mennonite it is Eine Seibsen sie Uhr! You
See old tradition is considered outdated or less
Liberal in short
16 year old with the intention of becoming Amish.
Greetings!
Well at first I had some doubts after reading these articles and some of the comments, but now I feel a renowned belief and sense of encouragement of myself becoming Amish. I would love to be able to talk with a few of the people here about this. Particularly about the family aspect of all the conversion process, as just recently I have told my family of my intentions and received a somewhat mixed response. One of their biggest fears would be that I would cease to communicate with them and would never be able to see them or the rest of my family again. While I know I would be giving up much, and yes I would not have the ability to go see them without a driver; I still believe it to be the case that God has led me to where I am today, and will continue to lead me on my endeavors.
-Wish me luck!-
Teenagers.....
do not know what they want. They change their minds at the drop of a hat. I can say this because I used to be one.
When I was thirteen I wanted nothing more than to be a jockey and ride Thoroughbred racehorses. I lived, breathed, and spoke horses twenty-four hours a day. I was first put on a pony at sixteen months,took lessons for years, had my own grooming and exercising business at twelve, attended and graduated from a racing course at thirteen and was certain that I was on my way. Then I had a growth spurt and went from 5’3″-5’7″ in one year and wound up 5’9″. In the meantime I rode my first racehorse and had the life scared out of me. The schooling horses had done nothing to prepare me for what it was really like and my diploma did not open a single door to getting a job on the racetrack.
Eventually, I wound up working as a groom and pony girl at the track but I found that the world of Thoroughbred racing did not bear much resemblance to how it is portrayed in books, films, or television. I loved the horses but I had to admit that my teenage fantasy was just that and I wished that someone had talked me out of it before I had wasted so much time.
I saw plenty of other horse crazy teenagers who did not last for than a few days as hotwalkers because the hours were too long, the work was too hard, and the pay was too low. They had no idea what they were getting into either.
How does this compare to wanting to be Amish ? Think about it.
Interesting example Tracy. I think wanting to deepen one’s spiritual life is a good thing. But it may be worth slowing down and thinking a little more about the best way to do that.
That doesn’t mean a given path is going to be a less-than-ideal choice for everyone. But it may be so for most people. And that’s okay. Thanks for sharing.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Has anyone looked up the definition of SEPARATIST lately ?
I'm Asian and..,
I just want to know if Amish community requires you to be Caucasian to join them? By the way, I’m Asian and by interested on their simple lifestyle….
To be Asian Amish.
If you are Asian and want to be Amish, then it is certainly possible. Amish don’t turn people away unless after enough time has gone by, they don’t feel as if they can accept that person. Not to far from me I know of a Honduran woman who got married to an Amish man and now she is a member of the Amish church. In Ohio, I know of a Chinese man who became Amish. I know of an Amish couple not far from me who realized they were not able to have kids so they adopted an infant south east Asian boy.
Goodbye !
I am off to start my new life as an Orthodox Jew ! I am not Jewish, I do not speak Hebrew or even Yiddish,keeping kosher is a mystery to me, I do not look good in black, I abhor conservative clothing, I do not cook, I dislike children, I expect my husband to take orders from me, I have lots of piercings and tattoos and I just got out of rehab for the third time and my favorite holidays are Christmas and Easter which I have no intention on giving up. I think I am making a great decision. I have wanted to be Jewish like for forever, well at least since I watched “Yentl” on Netflix the other night and I thought Mandy Patinkin was really hot and I love the way people just burst into song.I’m sure that I’ll fit in really well ! Wish me luck. Adios !
“Why do they go through with it? ‘A woman’, joked one Amishman I know. ‘That’s usually what’s involved.’”
What about older women – particularly women of near or passed reproductive age? I’m referring to mid to late 30’s to even early 40’s [or older even!].
Would that basically be a no go?
I can see [and understand] how a community like the Amish – which is based on lots of physical work – which requires men, along with the breeding aspect which requires young[er] women – might not be very enthused about bringing in older women.
Thanks
Friendship
Hello
sorry my english is not perfect,i’m french.
I would like to write to Amish woman for friendship.
God bless you!
Laurie
I want to be closer to God.
I live in north central Indiana. Some years ago I tried to convert to the Amish faith. I did first go to an Amish bishop and explained my reasons, had prayer with him, and asked for his advice. I began going to an Amish church near by and eventually wearing Amish clothing for church and wearing everyday denim clothing for work. I worked for an Amish construction business. I was trying hard to learn there language. I received very little help and was never taken in by any Amish family. There were certain one’s who passed around lies about me. I tried to have a meeting with the leaders but they refused. I tried to convince them that the only reason I had was that I came from a very broken home and all my life all I ever wanted was a way to live out my life in a peaceful quiet Christian environment where I could be closer to God. Most of them had high paying jobs in the local trailer factories and they gave me the impression that I was not good enough unless I did the same. Close to the end of my efforts I was told by several Amish people that I picked the wrong bishop and that is what led to my down fall. I now think that if I tried it again I would choose an area where Amish don’t pride themselves in there high earnings. I would want it to be a location where they are the same denomination as the one’s around here. Can anyone here give me advice.
It is not close to you, but I have heard that Smyrna Mills, Maine welcomes outsiders and may even preach in english to help you understand. There are also the ‘Michigan churches’, near Sears-Evart, MI. Omer Miller is the bishop.
Having tried to become Amish myself, I can say that Old Orders do not mentor. The concept is foreign to them. It is all you towing the line. New Order is far more likely to help. Sears-Evart is a form of New Order as are the rest of the MI churches.
Also, search elsewhere on this site for Mark Curtis and his address, his dad said he would gladly help other outsiders with their walk in plainness.
I like to add that if you are looking for a more conservative experience, I would recommend Hillsboro, WI. They have some people that have joined from the outside and are far more humble then where you were while still being friendly with the Nor. Indiana communities.
Thank you to all.
I want to thank each one of you for the advice you have given to me, I might check out some of your ideas. For me, it is also about there communal way of life that intrigues me. I like how they take care of each other in times of need. I see all of there ways of doing things as very Christian even though it is in a very literal sense, but that is how I like it. It does say in the new testament that we are not to live worldly. To live a very pious life in an atmosphere that is quiet, peaceful, dress and live very modestly is the best way to feel closest to our Lord and Savior. I am glad all Amish women wear coverings at all times because First Corinthians 11 says Christian women are to do this. I am glad they wear there black bonnets very snug on Sunday because it is a holy day and it should be treated that way. And to do as little work on Sunday as possible is the way God intended it to be. God made the earth in 6 days and rested on the 7th. Work should not even be talked about on Sunday. Each and every day of the year should begin with prayer and end with prayer. I don’t like how so many so called Christians try to take the bible scriptures out of context in order to make it fit there own lifestyle. Instead of questioning what the bible says, why not just do as it says. You don’t have to be Amish to be a Christian, but to be a true Christian, do as what God commands.
More info from Lance.
Lance, what more can you tell me about these ones in Hillsboro WI.
I have personally met a person joined the Amish who now lives there, but it has been some time since we last talked. All the rest are just what people have told me. I do not know the current number of people there from the outside, but it is more than one household.
The community is in fellowship with northern Indiana, but they are also quite different from them. I don’t think your previous difficult experience with joining the Amish will be a big issue there.
The best thing I can recommend is to get a Raber’s Almanac, pick one of the Bishops listed for Hillsboro and start writing, if you are truly interested in what they might offer to you. I know that they have some ways of helping each other work at home in agriculture.
If somebody wants to join a church that is like the Amish, but not necessarily an Amish church in the strict sense, but just an Old Order group, their some are other options.
– Old Order Mennonites, that in a way are more Amish than the more liberal affiliations of the Amish. The Noah Hoover Mennonites, especially their settlement at Delano, Kentucky, is an option. The pe´reach English for outsiders without a tendency to shift to English as a whole. They are more intentional community minded than just traditional. Stephen Scott says about them: “Many people from various backgrounds have been attracted to the Noah Hoover group. The ultra-conservative stance on technology combined with firm Biblicism, intense spirituality, and high morals standards have had a wide appeal”.
– Old Order Mennonites, that speak English only, like the Virginia Old Order Mennonite Conference and the groups that separated from them.
– Old Order Schwarzenau Brethren, that is Old German Baptist Brethren and groups that split from them. They are more welcoming to outsiders than average Old Oder Amish or Old Order Mennonites. They all speak English only and lost quite a bit of their original German flavor. They also have Pietist roots and are therefore closer to Evangelical theology and emotion than the Amish and the Old Order Mennonites. There a now five different groups of them from an Internet using group to horse and buggy groups. Seekers from outside are not unusual among them.
– Old Order River Brethren, in many aspects like the Old Order Schwarzenau Brethren, but more influenced by the Second Great Awakening. They also speak English only and a re open for outsiders. There are three subgroups of them, the smallest one is a horse and buggy group.
The Wikipedia articles “Seeker (Anabaptism)” and “Old Order Movement” give an overview of the different groups.
Work working
I know of Amish in my area that own businesses where they have electricity and there churches only allow it if it is for there work. Will this be allowed in other sects of Amish in this country. I don’t know farming or construction but I do know culinary. Besides, due to a handicap I have, farming and construction would not work anyways. What I have in mind is a bakery.
Looking for an Amish Gal in northern Indiana.
The best way to be accepted by the Amish is to become a part of an Amish family because now I would be one of there own. There is an Amish gal somewhere in my area that was once interested in me but at the time I was to unsure to act on it. Last I knew she is still single and I have been trying hard to find her. For a long time she worked at The Cheese House between Middlebury and Shipshewanna and has worked as a cashier at both The Haite Benefit Auction and The Yoder Consignment Auction. She was kind of tall, frequently wore light colors, lite blue seemed to be her favorite and she had dark hair. The last I saw her was at Aldi’s in Goshen and she seemed to want to talk to me but she was to surrounded by other friends to act on it. I would appreciate it if anyone can help me find her or direct her to me. I don’t remember her name.
I want to convert
Minority wanting to join amish or mennonite
I’m an African-American female in my late 30s now. I have been following and wanting to connect to the Amish way of life for the past ten years. I’ve been following the Amish way of life near about most of my life, and have never fitted in with others during school, college, or even most adult life. I rarely use my phone or TV. I believe in the Bible literally. I’m still ridiculed by others because of wearing dresses/skirts or dressing modestly, not a team player for foolishness/drama at the workplace, or morals and beliefs. I don’t like driving. I do use the internet for work. I’m not really interested in marrying, but just living a peaceful and quiet life for the Lord’s ministry. I have been to Haiti several times to do missionary work. I’m would like to join to have a better Christ centered life, and a community of like-minded people who are supportive and understand. Local churches don’t offer what I seek. I’m in NC, but willing to travel/move/ or work in any state/country. I’ve worked for the school system. I don’t know how to start well in this. I would be more interested in finding an New Order Amish/Mennonite group that has accepted & approved minorities to join before. I’m writing this post to seek tips because I’ve never seen any serious adult black Amish/Mennonites before. I’ve also read that the community has to pick you. Any advice or leads?
i feel the same. Pls contact me if you have or have found it. I’d greatly appreciate it.
Would like to join the 1 year trial
Hello,
I have had the minimalist mindset for almost a decade. I have spent last 3 years in the woods in a wattle and daub structure I built. Age 33 with no tattoos, was raised Catholic but have not attended a church since father passing. No alcohol but at the moment use tobacco and caffeine. Have basic knowledge of farming. Never married, no kids. Currently in Washington but I have plans on traveling east come spring 2021.
I am unsure on how to contact a community directly so I do not know if this website is how it is done, but I hope someone out there is in touch with an outreach member. I have included my email and hope to hear back soon.
Sincerely,
Oliver
same here with no tattoos, raised Catholic, and others, although I’m 49. PLs contact me if you find or have found a community. I’d greatly appreciate it. Thanks