The Amish and Mennonites are also known as the “Plain People.” Currently there are 25 separate religious groups of Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Each of these groups has a slightly different interpretation of the Bible. Some of the groups are more traditional and are called “Old Order.” These traditional groups refuse modern conveniences such as electricity, radio, television and telephones. They keep their lives simple by filtering out the outside world. They prefer a rural environment to isolate themselves from the rest of the world.
Pennsylvania Dutch Country farms with horse power and yet, these farms lead the country in productivity. The Amish do use modern farm equipment, except that they only use horses and mules for power rather than tractors and other diesel or gas powered motorized equipment. It is a common sight to see the Amish in their horses and buggies on roads made for cars.
The Amish take the Bible seriously; they believe it should be taken literally. The Bible says for believers to separate themselves from the things of the world. The farming environment is the best way to maintain a livelihood that allows the Amish to separate themselves from the modern world.
The traditional groups wear plain clothing, hence the name “Plain People.” It is believed that the simple, peaceful lifestyle is attracting outsiders to join the Amish. Since 1960, their population has almost tripled. Many people see the Amish way of life as a clue for returning to family values. The Amish’s devotion to family and community, and their strong work ethic, are examples that our general population can learn from.
The Amish way of life excels in community spirit. The children attend school in a one room schoolhouse until the eighth grade. Worship services are held every other week in different homes. The people get together for barn raisings and other community activities. They reach out to help others in need.
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