The Amish and Mennonites: What Are the Differences?

As you travel through Lancaster County, you’ll see horse-drawn buggies sharing the road with modern cars. The people driving the buggies belong to either Amish or Mennonite communities. 

While both groups are known for their traditional values, there are differences between them. Let’s take a look at what sets them apart.

Shared History in the Anabaptist Movement

Both the Amish and Mennonites come from the Anabaptist movement during the 16th-century Protestant Reformation. The Mennonite church was established first and founded by Menno Simons. The Amish later split from the Mennonites when Jacob Ammann felt the Mennonite church was becoming too “worldly.”

Both groups found religious freedom in Pennsylvania in the early 18th century. Today, they continue to honor their traditional values centered around faith, family, and community.

Religious Beliefs & Gatherings

Though they share similar core beliefs like adult baptism and pacifism, Amish and Mennonites differ in how they practice their faith.

Amish church services take place in members’ homes. They are conducted in Pennsylvania Dutch or High German and can last for several hours. Mennonites typically worship in churches, with many congregations holding services in English and including more contemporary religious elements.

Evangelism

Amish communities focus less on evangelism and concentrate on preserving their humble way of life. Mennonite groups, especially progressive ones, are more active in evangelism and missionary work. It’s common for them to engage with the greater society through charitable efforts and community outreach.

Lifestyle & Culture

The biggest differences between the Amish and Mennonite communities are in their daily lifestyles.

Clothing

The Amish wear distinctive, plain attire that reflects their commitment to humility. Men wear broad-brimmed hats, solid-colored shirts, and pants with suspenders. Women wear modest dresses with aprons and prayer caps.

Mennonite clothing varies by the groups’ level of conservatism. The most conservative dress similarly to the Amish, while modern Mennonites wear modest clothing with smaller prayer caps for the women. The most progressive Mennonites dress like the general population. 

Transportation

The Amish reject automobiles and use horse-drawn buggies for local travel. Although it’s not uncommon to see Amish getting rides to work in “Amish taxi” vehicles that are owned and driven by their non-Amish friends or neighbors.  

Transportation varies for Mennonites. Conservative groups still use horse and buggy, while moderate Mennonites may drive plain, dark-colored cars. Progressive Mennonites will use regular vehicles. 

Electricity & Technology

The Amish generally avoid the use of electricity, though some groups allow limited technology like cell phones or email for business purposes.

Mennonite technology use depends on their group. Conservative Mennonites limit technology but typically allow home electricity but no TV. Moderate Mennonites enjoy a few select conveniences like phones and computers, while progressive Mennonites use technology without restrictions.

A Variety of Tradition

The Amish and Mennonites aren’t monolithic groups. Within each, there’s a range from highly conservative to more progressive congregations, and each follows their own set of rules. 

Common subgroups in the Amish community include Old Order Amish, New Order Amish, and Beachy Amish. Mennonites range from Old Order Mennonites to fully modern, progressive Mennonites.

Experience Rich Traditions at The Amish Village

The Amish Village offers an authentic glimpse into the daily lives, history, and beliefs of Lancaster County’s Amish community. Plan a visit to learn about the unique way of life they’ve maintained here for nearly 300 years.