Not in the sense of specific sins as one would consider confession in some churches. Amish church memebers adhere to a set of rules (normally not written down, but known by the memebers) called the Ordnung. Should a member be inviolation of these rules he may be visited by his deacon. The deacon will address the violation and encourage the memeber to correct his offending behavior. If the memeber continues to live in violation, he will eventually be brought before the church and may be silenced or even excommuncated for his behavior. If he chooses to repent, a public confession will typically be made infront of the congregation (where the bishop is present). If the offense was serious enough, he may be asked to kneel before the congregation during his confession. The bishop does not act as a moderator between God and man as might be present in the "office of the keys" for a Lutheran or similar systems of confession in the Catholic church.
yes, in kent there are 4-5 Amish families. one county has 3-4 Amish families and 3 counties have one Amish family
The leader of a congregation is the bishop, who is chosen by lot. Bishops don't rule by fiat. The bishop prays and seeks out the advice of members of his congregation, and it's largely a matter of decision by consensus.
No! If an Amish couple would get a television they would definitely be shunned. Amish youth that have not joined the church would be allowed to get one though.
I have read something like 85% choose to join church and stay "Amish". I have lived in two Amish communities and I'd say that figure sounds correct. Some families have high retention rates, other families seem to go English.
The Durst family from Grantsville, MD, is part of the Amish community, which has a significant presence in the area. Grantsville is located in a region known for its Amish population, characterized by traditional lifestyles and farming practices. The Durst family, like many Amish families, likely follows the customs and values of the Amish faith, emphasizing community, humility, and simple living.
Robert Bishop has written: 'Gallery of American Weathervanes' 'The Philosophy of the Social Sciences' 'Gallery of Amish Quilts'
The bishop has final say, but the ordnung is developed through consensus.
Yes, there is an Amish community in and around Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Kutztown is located in Berks County, which is home to a significant population of Amish and Mennonite families. The region is known for its agricultural practices, traditional lifestyles, and cultural events that reflect Amish heritage. Visitors to Kutztown can experience aspects of Amish culture, particularly at local markets and festivals.
Amish families typically have larger households, with an average of about 6 to 8 children. This is influenced by their cultural values, which emphasize large families and traditional roles. The high birth rate is also a reflection of their religious beliefs and lifestyle, which prioritize community and family.
Saloma Miller Furlong has written: 'Why I left the Amish' -- subject(s): Social life and customs, Amish, Families, Family, Parent and child, Childhood and youth, Biography
The Amish have no problem with electricity, but they worry about what electricity can bring to their homes, such as radio, television, and other things that may connect them with the people they consider "outsiders." They want to be as little connected with "outsiders" as possible. However, some Amish bishops allow a few families to have electric lighting.
The average age of the Amish community is typically younger than the general population, with many members being in their 30s or 40s. This is due to their high birth rates and emphasis on large families.