Marcus A. Yoder on Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves: The Origins of the Anabaptist Faith (Book Giveaway)
Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves: The Origins of the Anabaptist Faith is the new book by Marcus A. Yoder. Marcus serves as Executive Director of the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center and the Ohio Amish Library.
Marcus and I touched base last December when I dropped by the Center (this is where I took the photos of Amish women’s head coverings and Amish church clothing – it’s a great place to visit to learn more on Amish history and culture).
Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves examines history from the time of Jesus Christ through the beginnings of the Anabaptist movement. I asked Marcus some questions about his book and Christian and Anabaptist history. I hope you enjoy this Q-and-A and Marcus’ insights. And thanks to Marcus for taking the time to share with us.
Win a copy of Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves
To enter to win, just leave a comment on this post.
I’ll draw a winner at random next week, and post it here (by the way, if you missed the winner of our last book giveaway, I’ve updated that post with the winner at bottom).
Marcus A. Yoder on Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves
Amish America: Who should read Cathedrals, Castles and Caves? What does it cover?
Marcus A. Yoder: Cathedrals, Castles and Caves is written for a general audience. I wrote it for people who enjoy history but are not necessarily historians. It is meant for the common reader to enjoy. At the same time, since it is specially focused, it does appeal to study groups, classes and small groups that are interested in the world that led to the development of the Anabaptists.
It covers a wide scope of history from the time of Christ through the early Anabaptist beginnings. The focus is to set the context of the beginning part of the movement into the world in which it developed. Like all movements, these people did not wake up one morning and decide to begin a movement. It comes out of the world in which it lived. One of the most-commented ideas from the readers so far, has been that they did not understand the deep piety of the late medieval world, which is instrumental to understand if one wishes to understand the Anabaptist beginnings.
Amish America: What is one surprising or unexpected thing most people don’t know about Anabaptist history?
Marcus A. Yoder: As I have heard back from my readers, I have discovered that many did not know, or understand, the way that the excesses of the movement shaped the movement. I am especially thinking of the debacle at Munster and the impact that it had on the rest of Europe in relation to how they thought about Anabaptists. And also, how it changed the movement itself. More than anything in the first 10-20 years this element shaped what the movement would become.
It becomes apparent that many modern-day Anabaptists have never heard, or perhaps do not wish to hear, this piece of history. One of the early readers sent me a note suggesting that in future printings we remove this section so that our history is more palatable! I suggested in return, that history was never meant to be palatable, rather it is meant to reveal. And Munster does reveal something about our movement.
As a son of the movement—I am an Anabaptist—I often feel like we work hard to create an image that history is built around the heroic and good, and there is much of that; however, there is also the other side of it. If we wish to write history in the model of the Bible, we must cover the bad with the good!
And what is one surprising or unexpected thing most people don’t know about the history of Christianity in general?
I am surprised how few people understand the late medieval era and the events that led up the Reformation. There is a deep piety that is reflected in how people lived and the questions they had, that would eventually lead to many changes. We tend to view these periods as “dark ages” or less enlightened periods of time. Humans the world over, and throughout all of time, have the same questions about relationships with God or their deity. Those questions do not change, and since religion was so deeply integrated into common life, it shaped the era.
Modern audiences tend to think that true human history began with the Enlightenment. Even the term “Enlightenment” begs us to think in this way. That is simply not true. The Reformation and then the Enlightenment are built on the back of the history prior to that. Unlike a book, history is much harder to capture in chapters, or eras. Historians do this to create ways that help us understand and think about history, but they are artificial impositions on the past.
What aspects of the early church do we see reflected in the practice of Amish and other Anabaptist groups today?
There are several key ideas that the Anabaptist world, including the Amish, have embraced from the early church. The first of these is the idea of church unbound to any political entity. The early church thrived in an era where they could have embraced a political system, but did not. This allowed their message to be world-impacting rather than bound to a political and geographical entity.
The second, but related idea, that they embraced, is nonresistance. Without a doubt the early church believed that the use of the sword and coercion was outside the kingdom of Jesus. This has become one of the central ideals of the Anabaptist world. We believe that testimony, not persuasion, is what will ultimately change our broken world.
Who are the most significant figures of early Christianity which the average reader might not be aware of (and why)?
My immediate answer is not a person, but the nature of the movement. This was a multicultural, multinational church that crossed all social, political and geographical boundaries in their ideal of reaching the world for the Kingdom of Jesus.
If I had to choose a person it would be Constantine, the Roman Emperor, who legalized Christianity. It is hard to imagine the change he wrought with his edict. In looking back we often view events and people like this through modern eyes, which makes them difficult to measure.
I think this era is often minimized because there are not strong key figures, rather a series of leaders and events that shaped the church. Another reason is that many of the texts written about this era are difficult to read. Scholarly texts are important, but often limit common readers from the information. We need books that make it possible for people like myself to read.
What were Flugschriften and why were they important?
Flugschriften are a result of the invention of the moveable type printing press in the 1430s. They are short, easy to produce, pamphlet-like printings that conveyed ideas or bits of news. Most were what we would term as propaganda today.
The literal translation of flugschriften is “flying words.” In the period between 1520 and 1530 when the Reformation was in full force in northern Europe about 10,000 unique flugschriften were produced. Historians estimate that by 1530, about 100 years after the invention of the moveable type press, there were about six million of these in circulation in Europe! Most in this period were in the common language of the people and designed to be read aloud and spread their ideas throughout the masses. They created a world where new ideas began to shape the European world.
The Anabaptist movement capitalized on the printing press. They produced their own works, often short and polemical.
Who were the most significant figures in the Anabaptist movement, and why?
There are several figures that are instrumental in the early part of the movement. In Zurich it was Felix Manz, Conrad Grebel, George Blaurock and Michael Sattler. We know a fair bit about these people. In the north it was the furrier, Mechoir Hoffman and bit later Menno Simons. These are the “famous people” of the movement. However, we miss something very important if we only focus on these people. The movement is built, as most such movements are, on the common people who embraced the ideas that these people taught.
Because of the unique idea of the movement, it could go along without these strong figures after they died. In fact, the authorities often focused their efforts on imprisoning the key leaders and it is estimated that the average lifespan of an Anabaptist leader after being recognized as a leader was about two years! So the idea that the movement flourished reveals that it was not the movement of a few key people, rather, it was a movement built on the common people.
What was life like for the first generations of Anabaptist people?
Life in Europe in this era was difficult to say the least. The plague swept through northern Europe in periodic waves from 1348 to the 1800s, killing vast parts of the population. In fact, the life expectancy of this time period for both men and women is between 30-34 years of age. This is due not only to a high rate of infant deaths and the ravages of disease, but also the nearly constant warfare raging in this time. There are hardly any families that did not know the constant fear that this would produce.
Another factor is the strong social order of the day. One remained within the order one was born into. If born a peasant, you had no choice to move beyond that. This social structure governed what one ate, how one dressed, and whom you could interact with. Peasants were merely property for the nobility who often forced them to fight their wars, provide their food, and serve them hand and foot.
Nine of ten Europeans lived in small villages or hamlets that had very little privacy and sanitation. These were often the ancestral homes of these families for generations, and were where people expected to live, work and die. This is a small, localized world in which Anabaptism spread.
What was the Schleitheim Confession of Faith, and why was it significant?
The Schleitheim Confession of Faith was the first formal confession of faith and belief written by the fledgling Anabaptist groups. The movement began in 1525, and the confession was written in 1527. This is important since it gives perspective about what these people believed and why they were so harshly persecuted.
The Schleitheim is not comprehensive in that it does not cover a wide scope of theology. Rather it focuses on seven ideas, or articles that are unique to this group of people. These seven are the key binding factors of the group. They are what makes them unique. I discuss each of the seven in the book. So read the book for more!
Michael Sattler was the scribe and most likely the leader of the group of nearly sixty people who gathered to discuss what is was that identified them. What makes this confession different is that it is the work of the group, rather than an individual. This typifies the Anabaptist ideal of community and the formulation of standards.
Amish people seem to have a strong interest in history. You can see this in the interest in books of descendants, and the prevalence of historical tomes like Martyrs’ Mirror. Why is it important for Anabaptist people to know their history?
Like all people and societies, and especially a subculture within a broader culture, the Amish are always at risk of amalgamation; or on the other hand, an insular isolationism. In both extremes they will lose their difference quickly. Knowing history is a powerful tool in preventing a group from falling into either ditch.
One of the major Anabaptist historians of the 20th Century, Harold Bender, said that the study of Anabaptist History was not merely for the joy of learning or for advancing disciplinary discussions; rather, such a study served the larger purpose of shaping church life in the present. It is imperative for any group that its history is an integral and shaping part of its present world.
What will be covered in the follow-up book (or books)?
I intend to continue to write about the history of these people. In addition, I am working on a narrative style history of immigration and early Amish in America. Working with JPV Press has allowed me the space and insight to continue to develop the story. I am especially appreciative of Sue Wengerd for her immense patience and wisdom in guiding that process.
You can get a copy of Cathedrals, Castles and Caves: The Origins of the Anabaptist Faith from JPV Press.
Searching
Because I feel so lost and searching I would love a chance to read this book.
Would LOVE to READ
I would love to read this and be able to Share with my family the history.
Would LOVE to READ
Interesting
Late Medieval
Iwoud like to learn more about the Late Medieval roots.
Would love to read
Sounds Interesting
The transformation of Christianity over time should be studied more. We really don’t understand how far (backward and forward) we’ve come. Thanks for the opportunity to get a free book.
Welcome book
The Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves: The Origins of the Anabaptist Faith is a welcome book that addresses a history most of us do not know. I have read an overall history of Anabaptists. I believe this book will add much to that in terms of earlier history that contributed to the formation of the Anabaptists. I also appreciate that Marcus A. Yoder is bringing us a transparent history that doesn’t dodge the wrong, bad or failures. The Bible doesn’t dodge these issues, so kudos to Mr. Yoder.
Beneficial history
My grandparents were members of an Old Order sect. I appreciate the work that must have gone into this book. It sounds beneficial, not to mention interesting, especially for someone like myself. Thank you, Mr. Yoder.
Searching
The many different “religions” in this world amaze me, but they also confuse me. I am hoping God is guiding me to learn even more with the information in this book.
Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves: The Origins of The Anabaptist Faith
I have been doing research about my family and on my mother’s side I may have found a connection to the Amish society.
Because of this I have been curious about the Amish and any possible connection.
Questions
I have always been interested in The Amish, their Culture, and their History. The article leads me to more questions and the interest to learn more as I am interested in History too. Thank you for this article and I hope y’all talk again!
book.
Would love the book
Eric, Thank you for taking time to interview the author and for the posting. Sounds like thus book holds a wealth of information.
My pleasure, Tim. I’ll also mention that in addition to the written content, the book also has some nice charts, maps, and illustrations, which unlike many paperbacks, are printed in color, which is a nice touch. Thanks for reading Tim!
Eric,
Thanks for this post. As always I enjoy all of your posts and thank you for such a unique forum. Would love to receive a free copy.
On another note. Have you or any of your readers read “What awaits the Anabaptists in the last days?” I am reading it now for 2nd time in a year. Very convicting book with powerful story of what the now deceased writer’s mother went through back in the 1930’s.
Brother Boris wrote the book in the 90’s and distributed it free of charge for many years. My husband, a pastor was once given a case of 200 of these books to hand out for free. We wrote Boris Soroskovsky in Canada to see if we could get more copies to give away. Our letter was returned two months later. Someone who knew him said he thought he might’ve passed away as he was probably 90 years old.
We thought with so many Amish, Anabaptist
and Mennonites who have probably read his book, just maybe someone here knew of a family member or contact that might’ve taken on his life work ministry to distribute these books.
Blessings,
C Heather
Book
I would love to have this book. My landlord is Amish and he is interesting to talk to.
I look forward to adding this book to my collection. My husband and I love studying this era of history. Anabaptist history is newer for us, since moving to Orleans County in New York, with three Amish Church districts and at least one Old Order Mennonite church district. Many of the books we have are very academic. It will be refreshing to read this perspective! Thank you!
Looking forward to reading your book
This sounds like a really wonderful book, I’m looking forward to reading it.
I would love to read I like anything to do with Amish
Hi I would love to read this book it sounds very interesting I love reading anything to do with Amish and I love reading reading this Coloum about the Amish and I would love to be come Amish and I am trying to read everything I can about them. Thank you very much for your time .
Sounds great
I would love to read
Sounds interesting
I’m particularly interested in this book because of the perspective of the author, that history is more than dates and places, but is made by people living in their present day, acting and reacting to the unique conditions in which they live. I’m fascinated by the faith of the Amish and Mennonites and whether I win a free book or not, look forward to reading this history of their origins. Thank you for this interview and review of the book.
Not a historian, but a Christian and love to read history.
After reading this Q & A, I would love to read this book and learn more about this history of the development of humanity.
Fascinating
This subject is so fascinating. I love History.
Book Giveaway
I am very intrigued by the Amish culture and the different groups/sects.
I love to read about history and especially about the Amish.
Thank you for an opportunity to win this book.
Blessings.
What a great resource
I have a long family history of anabaptist going back several hundred years
Sounds like a great book to add
Appreciated your explanations in the Q & A.
Look forward to reading the book.
I appreciate this interview.
As a member of the Society of Friends we share a parallel tract through history
and also had our Valient Sixty as our friends the Anabaptist.
Well done.
What a catchy title–Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves! I’m fascinated with the Anabaptist faith and have attended a Road Scholar program comparing the Mennonite and Amish faiths. I would love to read Marcus Yoder’s book!
I have read many stories and am interested in the history and beginnings of the faith. I would very much like to learn more about it.
Very interesting!
This sounds like a very interesting book! I enjoyed reading this post 🙂
Pictures too!
Oh, nice to see the comment that there are maps, illustrations, etc. too!
Marcus Yoder's Book
I have visited many places where the Amish live and am not only amazed at ow they have maintained their lifestyle for so many years. This is truly a testament to their strong faith. I think they have the right balance in their lives: Faith, family, friends. They work hard and love the land and are a kind and reverent people who respect the land and what it represents and gives. I am always interested in history, and would enjoy learning more about the faith of the Amish People. Thanks, Mr. Yoder, for your interesting highlights and overview of their remarkable journey.
Marcus Yoder's book giveway
I love reading about the Anabapist. Yes, this is a book i’m interested in this book
This book appears to be interesting from several different angles. One is how the strength of the group and not just the leaders helped shape and drive the Anabaptist movement forward. Another is the use of the technology of the day, the moveable type printing press. The printing press helped change society the same way the internet and social media are today. I am also encouraged by the way Marcus Yoder is willing to write about the movement in a realistic way, showing the good and not so good events. Revealing true, unpolished fact is the best way to learn about history.
Hello from Perth Western Australia
Sounds a very informative and interesting book.
Would love to add this one to my library of books on the Amish and their history.
Kind regards Brigitte
Sounds like a great book to read to learn more about the amish history. Would love to read this.
Getting the book :D hutterite and "Russian Mennonite"
Hi, I’m planning to buy the book if I’m not lucky enough to win it. I’ll look for it on abebooks or straight from the publisher if necessary. I’ve been looking for a history of anabaptism written for the layperson. If I were still in school I’d look for a college course about it, with a textbook. Maybe this book can help in that same kind of way. We found out through genetic testing of a Hutterite background in one line of my family, with a lot of Czech, Slovak, Hungarian, and Romanian (with a touch of Roma), all stops on the Hutterite Highway that unfortunately led these pacifists straight into the heart of hundreds of years of Habsburg wars. The Y-DNA says the anabaptist man we descend from is of a line today associated with Amish. Hutterites went through numerous bottlenecks with every move, until today only I think 13 family surnames are left, many hutterite families and individuals left hutterite life with each move or crisis in the different countries. We also are related by marriage to a family of “Russian Mennonite” heritage, i.e. the Mennonites who arrived first at the place Catherine the Great designated for them in Russia, which eventually the Hutterites arrived to join them and be their neighbors. Our families have mainstreamed but we want to make sure we understand and acknowledge the anabaptist heritage for kids in the family going forward.
Also PA German in our background
Forgot to mention we also have PA Deutch on another line of the family.
Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves: The Origins of the Anabaptist Faith
Hello,
I enjoyed reading the synopsis about the book!
I have been working on my genealogy for many
years and have Mennonite and Amish ancestors,
as well as I was raised by a grandmother born in
1903 raised in the Brethren Church. She married
my grandfather with the Mennonite and Amish
background.
I have always loved history and culture and read
all I can on the subjects.
Reading this book in its entirety would definitely
be a joy!
Blessings, Sheila
History
I have never fully understood the history of the Anabaptist movement, and this sounds as though it is a well researched and very readable tome on that topic – I would love to have it on my shelf to read and re-read at will
Thank you for bringing it to our notice.
Blessings
Maxine
Book
We would love to win the book-both from/are Anabaptist background and love history
Book sounds interesting and informative.
Cathedrals, castles and Caves
Sounds like a very interesting book.
Book
As a Baptist, I know that our church’s roots are Anabaptist so having and learning from this book would be great.
Book
Would really appreciate a chance to read about this. We have an expanding – newer community near us. Would like to understand more about their origins.
Interview
Thank you for posting such an informative interview with the author of this book. I am very interested in learning about the times when anabaptism was just beginning.
Being so
Being Old Order, Plain, and a Non-resistant Catholic, I would
be interested in how Marcus deals with early church history, and how there always was (and still is) a Catholic remnant holding to the above,while also faithfully following the example of the early Church (even before Constantine)with the writings of those early church fathers of the first three centuries in still believing in the efficacy of both adult and infant baptism,far,far before the time of Luther and Menno Simons.
Recommending this Book
This book is very worthwhile to read.. I recommend it to whoever has the opportunity to read it, to do so! i live in the heart of Amish Country and feel it is very important to have GOOD Anabaptist history books.
Ruby
i just finished a church study of the reformation. We briefly touched on the Anabaptist movement so I would like to learn more with this book.
Nice to know the history.
It’s nice to be able to read the history surrounding this faith not just the preconceived notions that most of us have.
Sounds Like an interesting read
This sounds like an interesting book to read. I would be interested in learning more about the Anabaptist history. Thanks, Marcus
Cathedrals, Castles, and Caves
Read the interesting interview and would like to read this book also.
Book Giveaway
As a practicing Mennonite, I have ordered a copy from the Bookstore. My son and daughter continue to practice in our faith. I will pass a copy on to my son and a copy to my daughter so she can share it with her friends in Texas.
Book giveaway
I look forward to acquiring tis book to add to my knowledge of my ancestry