All Mennonite congregation have autonomy. This derives from the
strict separation of church and state. This separation is strongly
connected with the roots of Mennonite convictions.
However, it also has contributed to many conflicts and tensions
between Mennonites and their political and social environment.
Autonomy doesn't imply the sealing of from reality in the world, yet
it protects against the depending on a religious dogma or the
economical influence of any state in general.
Mennonite congregations try hard to remain and keep their
independence by carrying all costs for pastoral care, congregational
efforts, etc. This means, members of Mennonite congregations in
Germany don't have to deal with state religious taxes, but voluntary
pay contributions to the corresponding congregation.
Having autonomy also doesn't mean, Mennonites live on an untouched
isle in the world of today.
The Weierhof Mennonite Congregation was, is and hopefully will
always remain a Point of Meeting and a Harbour for many people
throughout the world.
If you would like to find out more about Mennonites, please contact
a local congregation or obtain the booklet "Typisch Mennonitisch”,
ed. Paul Warkentin and Dieter Goetz Lichdi or the booklet
"Mennoniten. Ansichten einer Freikirche", at
