https://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Sgedwards&feedformat=atomAnabaptistwiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T19:01:29ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.35.2https://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18031Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-20T16:21:20Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
"In view of the resolution dealing with the conduct and attitude of churches in the convention, passed on October 13, 1927. BE IT RESOLVED that, in the opinion of this convention, the conduct and attitude of the Jarvis Street Baptist Church, Toronto, are not in harmony and cooperation with the work and objects of this Convention, and that the said church shall cease to be entitled to send any delegates to the said convention." <ref>The Canadian Baptist; Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec, Toronto, October 20, 1927, p. 5.</ref><br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18030Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-20T16:20:17Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
"In view of the resolution dealing with the conduct and attitude of churches in the convention, passed on October 13, 1927. BE IT RESOLVED that, in the opinion of this convention, the conduct and attitude of the Jarvis Street Baptist Church, Toronto, are not in harmony and cooperation with the work and objects of this Convention, and that the said church shall cease to be entitled to send any delegated to the said convention." <ref>The Canadian Baptist; Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec, Toronto, October 20, 1927, p. 5.</ref><br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18029Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-20T16:19:45Z<p>Sgedwards: added section</p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
"In view of the resolution dealing with the conduct and attitude of churches in the convention, passed on October 13, 1927. BE IT RESOLVED that, in the opinion of this convention, the conduct and attitude of the Jarvis Street Baptist Church, Toronto, are not in harmony and cooperation with the work and objects of this Convention, and that the said church shall cease to be entitled to send any delegated to the said convention." <ref>The Canadian Baptist; Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec, Toronto, October 20, 1927), p. 5.</ref><br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18028Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-20T16:19:10Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
"In view of the resolution dealing with the conduct and attitude of churches in the convention, passed on October 13, 1927. BE IT RESOLVED that, in the opinion of this convention, the conduct and attitude of the Jarvis Street Baptist Church, Toronto, are not in harmony and cooperation with the work and objects of this Convention, and that the said church shall cease to be entitled to send any delegated to the said convention." <ref>The Canadian Baptist; Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec, Toronto, October 20, 1927), p. 5.</ref><br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18027Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-20T16:18:35Z<p>Sgedwards: article addition</p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
"In view of the resolution dealing with the conduct and attitude of churches in the convention, passed on October 13, 1927. BE IT RESOLVED that, in the opinion of this convention, the conduct and attitude of the Jarvis Street Baptist Church, Toronto, are not in harmony and cooperation with the work and objects of this Convention, and that the said church shall cease to be entitled to send any delegated to the said convention." <ref>The Canadian Baptist; Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec, Toronto, October 20, 1927), p. 5.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18026Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-17T19:17:57Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18025Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-17T19:17:36Z<p>Sgedwards: addition to artiicle</p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
'''RESOLUTION III OF THE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ONTARIO AND QUEBEC'''<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Groups_in_Ontario&diff=18024Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario2018-01-17T19:14:24Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Independent Old Order Mennonite Church */</p>
<hr />
<div>The following is a brief introduction and timeline of '''Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario''', Canada.<br />
<br />
===Old Order Mennonite Church===<br />
<br />
Established in '''1889''', the '''[[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
The [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]], the oldest and largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Canada, is today a [[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups|moderately traditional group]]. Like most [[Old Order Mennonites]], they utilize horse and buggy transportation, and wear plain clothes. They do use tractors on their farms, as well as electricity and phones in their homes. Some use of computerized technology is tolerated but not condoned, in modern tractors for example. However, cell phones and laptops are not permitted. The Old Order Mennonite Church uses private church run health insurance, and has its own church schools to grade 8. Over the years they have expanded into several other communites in Ontario, and are in fellowship with Old Order Mennonite groups in several states in the United States.<br />
<br />
===Independent Old Order Mennonite Church===<br />
<br />
The '''[[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]''' (formerly known as the David Martin Mennonite Church), was established in '''1917''', as a division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. At the time, Minister [[David B. Martin: Pioneer of Mennonite Orthodoxy|David Martin]] and his son, Deacon David W. Martin of the Peel congregation (in Peel Township) largely objected to what they considered laxity and lack of discipline among the Old Order Mennonites, and left with a group of other conservatives to form what they considered as a continuation of the true church. The name [[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]] is of recent usage, but is a more modern reflection of their identity, as their Bishop David Martin died in 1959.<br />
<br />
Still nicknamed "Daves", the Independent Old Order Mennonites are an interesting mix of old and new. Although their farms are quite plain, using gas powered generators instead of public hydro, their level of business activity has seen the increased usage of computerized technologies over the years. In addition, while they use horse and buggy transportation, it is not uncommon to see them talking on cell phones. They are a very private group personally and in their church life, and do not discuss religion outside of their group. Unlike other [[Old Order Mennonites]], they utilize government programs and send their children to public schools. Smaller than their parent group, they nevertheless have expanded into other rural communites in southwestern Ontario, although the majority still live in or near the Waterloo Region.<br />
<br />
===Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference===<br />
<br />
Established in '''1939''' with earlier roots, the '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' was a division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the more [[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups|progressive Old Order Mennonites]] in the Markham area near Toronto began using automobiles for transportation. When other church members in Waterloo followed their lead, the local church leaders there objected. After driving to Markham for communion for some years, the church divided over the issue and the new [[Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference]] was formed.<br />
<br />
Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are of the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise (they do monitor it), they still worship (although in English) and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other [[Old Order Mennonites|Old Order groups]], and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. The Markhams have their own private schools and share several with their parent group, with which relations are generally very good, although they do not share communion. Although having left Markham because of urban expansion in the Toronto area, they have expanded into other communities in southwestern Ontario, and they are in fellowship with progressive Old Orders in the United States.<br />
<br />
===Orthodox Mennonite Church, Wellesley Township===<br />
<br />
The '''Orthodox Mennonite Church of Wellesley Township''', or [[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]] were established legally in '''1962''', as an earlier division from the David Martin Mennonite Church (now [[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]). After the excommunication of minister Elam S. Martin in the late 1950s, he and several others from his previous church formed their own body. He became their Acting Bishop, and their group was initially known as the "Elam Martin Mennonite Church". After they built their first meetinghouse in Wellesley Township near the city of Waterloo in 1962, they registered their present legal name.<br />
<br />
Since their inception, the Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites have shunned the technologies of their parent group, and are the most traditional and plain of the Old Order groups. They avoid using electricity, owning tractors or using telephones, and they strictly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]], including the usage of the ban. After serious divisions in 1974 and 1986-87, they today (2016) are the smallest of the Old Order Mennonite groups.<br />
<br />
===Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County===<br />
<br />
The '''Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County''', or "Gorries", as they are nicknamed, originated as a division from the [[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]] in '''1974'''. After several changes, including men beginning to wear beards, they divided from their church to form their own group. In 1979, this new group moved to the Gorrie-Wroxeter area of Huron County, and became known as the [[Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County]].<br />
<br />
In practice, the Gorries are almost identical to their parent group in Wellesley Township. However, their different interpretation of the ban, and the enforced wearing of the beard, keeps the two groups of Orthodox Old Orders separate. The Gorries have grown over the years to a much larger church than the Wellesley Orthodox, specifically in that they have taken in several of the more traditional members of the Old Order Mennonite Church. Because of this, they have expanded into other rural Ontario communities. In addition, they have come into full fellowship with small Old Order groups in the United States. The Gorries have a close relationship also with the Kinloss Old Order Mennonites, a small but growing conservative sub-division within the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Traditional Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Canada]] [[Category:Old Order Mennonites]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Groups_in_Ontario&diff=18023Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario2018-01-17T19:12:25Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Old Order Mennonite Church */</p>
<hr />
<div>The following is a brief introduction and timeline of '''Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario''', Canada.<br />
<br />
===Old Order Mennonite Church===<br />
<br />
Established in '''1889''', the '''[[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
The [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]], the oldest and largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Canada, is today a [[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups|moderately traditional group]]. Like most [[Old Order Mennonites]], they utilize horse and buggy transportation, and wear plain clothes. They do use tractors on their farms, as well as electricity and phones in their homes. Some use of computerized technology is tolerated but not condoned, in modern tractors for example. However, cell phones and laptops are not permitted. The Old Order Mennonite Church uses private church run health insurance, and has its own church schools to grade 8. Over the years they have expanded into several other communites in Ontario, and are in fellowship with Old Order Mennonite groups in several states in the United States.<br />
<br />
===Independent Old Order Mennonite Church===<br />
<br />
The '''Independent Old Order Mennonite Church''' (formerly known as the David Martin Mennonite Church), was established in '''1917''', as a division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. At the time, Minister [[David B. Martin: Pioneer of Mennonite Orthodoxy|David Martin]] and his son, Deacon David W. Martin of the Peel congregation (in Peel Township) largely objected to what they considered laxity and lack of discipline among the Old Order Mennonites, and left with a group of other conservatives to form what they considered as a continuation of the true church. The name [[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]] is of recent usage, but is a more modern reflection of their identity, as their Bishop David Martin died in 1959.<br />
<br />
Still nicknamed "Daves", the Independent Old Order Mennonites are an interesting mix of old and new. Although their farms are quite plain, using gas powered generators instead of public hydro, their level of business activity has seen the increased usage of computerized technologies over the years. In addition, while they use horse and buggy transportation, it is not uncommon to see them talking on cell phones. They are a very private group personally and in their church life, and do not discuss religion outside of their group. Unlike other [[Old Order Mennonites]], they utilize government programs and send their children to public schools. Smaller than their parent group, they nevertheless have expanded into other rural communites in southwestern Ontario, although the majority still live in or near the Waterloo Region.<br />
<br />
===Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference===<br />
<br />
Established in '''1939''' with earlier roots, the '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' was a division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the more [[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups|progressive Old Order Mennonites]] in the Markham area near Toronto began using automobiles for transportation. When other church members in Waterloo followed their lead, the local church leaders there objected. After driving to Markham for communion for some years, the church divided over the issue and the new [[Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference]] was formed.<br />
<br />
Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are of the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise (they do monitor it), they still worship (although in English) and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other [[Old Order Mennonites|Old Order groups]], and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. The Markhams have their own private schools and share several with their parent group, with which relations are generally very good, although they do not share communion. Although having left Markham because of urban expansion in the Toronto area, they have expanded into other communities in southwestern Ontario, and they are in fellowship with progressive Old Orders in the United States.<br />
<br />
===Orthodox Mennonite Church, Wellesley Township===<br />
<br />
The '''Orthodox Mennonite Church of Wellesley Township''', or [[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]] were established legally in '''1962''', as an earlier division from the David Martin Mennonite Church (now [[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]). After the excommunication of minister Elam S. Martin in the late 1950s, he and several others from his previous church formed their own body. He became their Acting Bishop, and their group was initially known as the "Elam Martin Mennonite Church". After they built their first meetinghouse in Wellesley Township near the city of Waterloo in 1962, they registered their present legal name.<br />
<br />
Since their inception, the Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites have shunned the technologies of their parent group, and are the most traditional and plain of the Old Order groups. They avoid using electricity, owning tractors or using telephones, and they strictly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]], including the usage of the ban. After serious divisions in 1974 and 1986-87, they today (2016) are the smallest of the Old Order Mennonite groups.<br />
<br />
===Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County===<br />
<br />
The '''Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County''', or "Gorries", as they are nicknamed, originated as a division from the [[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]] in '''1974'''. After several changes, including men beginning to wear beards, they divided from their church to form their own group. In 1979, this new group moved to the Gorrie-Wroxeter area of Huron County, and became known as the [[Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County]].<br />
<br />
In practice, the Gorries are almost identical to their parent group in Wellesley Township. However, their different interpretation of the ban, and the enforced wearing of the beard, keeps the two groups of Orthodox Old Orders separate. The Gorries have grown over the years to a much larger church than the Wellesley Orthodox, specifically in that they have taken in several of the more traditional members of the Old Order Mennonite Church. Because of this, they have expanded into other rural Ontario communities. In addition, they have come into full fellowship with small Old Order groups in the United States. The Gorries have a close relationship also with the Kinloss Old Order Mennonites, a small but growing conservative sub-division within the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Traditional Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Canada]] [[Category:Old Order Mennonites]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=S._S._G._Edwards&diff=18022S. S. G. Edwards2018-01-17T19:10:15Z<p>Sgedwards: link addition</p>
<hr />
<div>'''S. Scott Galley Edwards''', B.A. (History), M.T.S., (1965-) of Ontario, Canada, is an historical writer and researcher. He is a great-grandson of Amos S. Eby (1862-1930), whose ancestry is recorded in the biographical [[History of the Eby Family]].<br />
<br />
<br />
'''His articles for this encyclopedia include:'''<br />
<br />
'''Historical:'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens]]'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Traditional Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]]<br />
:[[Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference]]<br />
<br />
'''Biographical''':<br />
<br />
:-'''[[David B. Martin: Pioneer of Mennonite Orthodoxy]]'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Elam S. Martin: Father of the Orthodox Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:-'''[[History of the Eby Family]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18021Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T19:06:16Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times. Wisler was excommunicated for his stand, and the Wisler Old Order movement was born. With close ties across the border, Ontario Mennonites were bound to be influenced.<br />
<br />
In Waterloo County, Ontario, it was Bishop Abraham Martin of Woolwich who led the traditionalists into a schism from the Mennonite Conference of Ontario. Martin reacted to the many changes in his Conference in that time period. Largely influenced by Methodist revivalism, Mennonites were being heavily influenced to make changes in the ways they worshiped, made converts, and even educated their children, especially in urban areas. Indeed, it is no accident that the Old Order Mennonites we know today are entirely rural, mainly living on farms, with clothing styles from days gone by, and driving horse and buggy. This was and is intentional on their part.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18020Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T19:05:28Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times. Wisler was excommunicated for his stand, and the Wisler Old Order movement was born. With close ties across the border, Ontario Mennonites were bound to be influenced.<br />
<br />
In Waterloo County, Ontario, it was Bishop Abraham Martin of Woolwich who led the traditionalists into a schism from the Mennonite Conference of Ontario. Martin reacted to the many changes in his Conference in that time period. Largely influenced by Methodist revivalism, Mennonites were being heavily influenced to make changes in the ways they worshiped, made converts, and even educated their children, especially in urban areas. Indeed, it is no accident that the Old Order Mennonites we know today are entirely rural, mainly living on farms, clothing styles from days gone by, and driving horse and buggy. This was and is intentional on their part.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18019Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T19:03:05Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times. Wisler was excommunicated for his stand, and the Wisler Old Order movement was born. With close ties across the border, Ontario Mennonites were bound to be influenced.<br />
<br />
In Waterloo County, Ontario, it was Bishop Abraham Martin of Woolwich who led the traditionalists into a schism from the Mennonite Conference of Ontario. Martin reacted to the many changes in his Conference in that time period. Largely influenced by Methodist revivalism, Mennonites were being heavily influenced to make changes in the ways they worshiped, made converts, and even educated their children, especially in urban areas.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18018Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T19:01:54Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times. Wisler was excommunicated for his stand, and the Wisler Old Order movement was born. With close ties across the border, Ontario Mennonites were bound to be influenced.<br />
<br />
In Waterloo County, Ontario, it was Bishop Abraham Martin of Woolwich who led the traditionalists into a schism from the Mennonite Conference of Ontario. Martin reacted to the many changes in his Conference in that time period. Largely influenced by Methodist revivalism, Mennonites were being heavily influenced to make changes in the ways they worshiped, made converts, and even educated their children.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18017Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:56:48Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times. Wisler was excommunicated for his stand, and the Wisler Old Order movement was born. With close ties across the border, Ontario Mennonites were bound to be influenced.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18016Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:55:50Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times. Wisler was excommunicated for his stand, and the Wisler Old Order movement was born. with close ties across the border, Ontario Mennonites were bound to be influenced.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18015Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:53:42Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their roots in an earlier division among the Mennonites in Indiana in the early 1870s. At that time, Bishop Jacob Wisler took a stand for traditional Anabaptist beliefs and practices during changing times.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18014Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:50:32Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18013Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:50:10Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church''' in Ontario was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario''' has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence. The Old Order Mennonites have their<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18012Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:48:37Z<p>Sgedwards: Article addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church''' in Ontario was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
Largest of the Old Order Mennonite groups in Ontario, the Old Order Mennonite Church has weathered technological change, divisions, and challenges from within and without over the almost 130 years of its existence.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Old_Order_Mennonite_Church_in_Ontario&diff=18011Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario2018-01-17T18:42:24Z<p>Sgedwards: /* See Also */ addition</p>
<hr />
<div>Established in 1889, the '''Old Order Mennonite Church''' in Ontario was a division from the (Old) Mennonite Church (now [[Mennonite Church Canada]]). Throughout the mid-1800s, several of the more traditional Mennonites in Waterloo County (in southwestern Ontario) felt increasingly uncomfortable with changes in the church, including revival meetings, the addition of Sunday Schools, and prayer and other services in English.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18010Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-13T19:25:11Z<p>Sgedwards: addition</p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
'''Friday, October 14, 1927'''<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ontario_Mennonite_Schisms_Through_a_Baptist_Lens&diff=18009Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens2018-01-13T19:24:19Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''The following is an edited version of a 2003 magazine article by [[S. S. G. Edwards]]":<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[S. S. G. Edwards]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=User_talk:Sgedwards&diff=18008User talk:Sgedwards2018-01-13T19:21:45Z<p>Sgedwards: addition</p>
<hr />
<div>If you wish to contact me regarding any of my contributions, you may do so at: scottgedwards@mail.com. You may find a full list of my articles at: [[S. S. G. Edwards]].</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18007Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:18:35Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Summary */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called "Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People" (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but does not use the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Church), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18006Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:16:43Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called "Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People" (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but does not use the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Church), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18005Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:16:09Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called "Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People" (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but does not use the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18004Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:14:29Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called "Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People" (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18003Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:10:14Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18002Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:08:50Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario [[Old Order Mennonite Church]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18001Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:08:26Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the [[Ontario Old Order Mennonite Church]].<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=18000Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:07:00Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011. It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17999Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:06:27Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world".<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 20 It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17998Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:04:43Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; pp. 33-34</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17997Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:03:05Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation".<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 30.</ref> Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17996Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:01:25Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end."<ref>Martin, Donald. Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People; Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario, 2007; p. 33.</ref> In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17995Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T19:00:03Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 106.</ref><br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17994Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:58:56Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17993Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:57:29Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,".<ref>Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites, Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference, 1999, p. 51.</ref> Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17992Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:56:04Z<p>Sgedwards: /* Doctrine and Practice */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith",<ref>Markham Waterloo Mennonite Conference Report and General Recommendations, January 2010, edited 2011</ref> in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17991Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:52:10Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<ref> Landis, Ira D. and Richard D. Thiessen. (October 2010). Weaverland Mennonite Conference. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018</ref><br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=S._S._G._Edwards&diff=17990S. S. G. Edwards2018-01-13T18:47:52Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''S. Scott Galley Edwards''', B.A. (History), M.T.S., (1965-) of Ontario, Canada, is an historical writer and researcher. He is a great-grandson of Amos S. Eby (1862-1930), whose ancestry is recorded in the biographical [[History of the Eby Family]].<br />
<br />
<br />
'''His articles for this encyclopedia include:'''<br />
<br />
'''Historical:'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens]]'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Traditional Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]]<br />
:[[Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference]]<br />
<br />
'''Biographical''':<br />
<br />
:-'''[[David B. Martin: Pioneer of Mennonite Orthodoxy]]'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Elam S. Martin: Father of the Orthodox Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:-'''[[History of the Eby Family]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=S._S._G._Edwards&diff=17989S. S. G. Edwards2018-01-13T18:47:16Z<p>Sgedwards: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''S. Scott Galley Edwards''', B.A. (History), M.T.S., (1965-) of Ontario, Canada, is an historical writer and researcher. He is a great-grandson of Amos S. Eby (1862-1930), whose ancestry is recorded in the biographical [[History of the Eby Family]].<br />
<br />
<br />
'''His articles for this encyclopedia include:'''<br />
<br />
'''Historical:'''<br />
<br />
:-'''[[Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Traditional Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]]<br />
:[[Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference]]<br />
<br />
'''Biographical''':<br />
<br />
:'''[[David B. Martin: Pioneer of Mennonite Orthodoxy]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Elam S. Martin: Father of the Orthodox Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[History of the Eby Family]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=S._S._G._Edwards&diff=17988S. S. G. Edwards2018-01-13T18:46:36Z<p>Sgedwards: article addition</p>
<hr />
<div>'''S. Scott Galley Edwards''', B.A. (History), M.T.S., (1965-) of Ontario, Canada, is an historical writer and researcher. He is a great-grandson of Amos S. Eby (1862-1930), whose ancestry is recorded in the biographical [[History of the Eby Family]].<br />
<br />
<br />
'''His articles for this encyclopedia include:'''<br />
<br />
'''Historical:'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Ontario Mennonite Schisms Through a Baptist Lens]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Traditional Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Wellesley Orthodox Mennonites]]<br />
:[[Orthodox Mennonite Church, Huron County]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Moderate Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Independent Old Order Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]:'''<br />
:[[Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference]]<br />
<br />
'''Biographical''':<br />
<br />
:'''[[David B. Martin: Pioneer of Mennonite Orthodoxy]]'''<br />
<br />
:'''[[Elam S. Martin: Father of the Orthodox Mennonite Church]]<br />
<br />
:'''[[History of the Eby Family]]</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17987Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:42:23Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society".<ref> Record of Ordinations leading to and including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference 1891-2010.</ref>A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17986Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:39:55Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 January 2018, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society". A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17985Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:38:19Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc.<ref>Wenger, John C. (1956). Old Order Mennonites. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 13 December 2011, from http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/O544.html</ref> According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society". A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17984Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:34:30Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; pp.231-241.</ref><br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc. According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society". A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17983Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:32:39Z<p>Sgedwards: Added References section</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc. According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society". A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]<br />
<br />
===References===</div>Sgedwardshttps://anabaptistwiki.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Markham-Waterloo_Mennonite_Conference&diff=17982Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference2018-01-13T18:31:04Z<p>Sgedwards: /* History */ added reference</p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference''' is a Canadian Old Order Mennonite group established in 1939, although the church has its roots in an earlier division from the [[Old Order Mennonite Church in Ontario]]. The primary reason for the division at the time included usage of telephones and automobiles. Markhams, as they are nicknamed, are the most progressive of Old Older groups. Although they utilize considerable technology on their farms and otherwise, they still worship and design their meetinghouses in the same way as other Old Order groups, and they similarly adhere to the [[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]. The Markhams are known also as "Black Car Mennonites", have electricity and modern appliances in their homes, and use computers and cellphones, although internet usage is monitored. Mennonite plain clothes are still worn in church services, but it is less common for men to wear traditional clothing in public. Women wear the white cap head covering and dresses. Children attend private church run schools, administered usually with the Old Order Mennonite Church.<br />
<br />
===History===<br />
<br />
In the early 20th century, some of the Old Order Mennonites in Ontario and Pennsylvania began to use automobiles instead of horses and buggies, which resulted in a great deal of tension within the Old Order congregations. Because of this, "The Old Orders of Waterloo had ceased to affiliate with Markham in 1930 because of the automobile issue."<ref>Martin, Donald. Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, Brotherhood; Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario, 2003; p.236</ref><br />
<br />
From 1931 the MWMC had been known as the Markham Mennonite Conference. When a significant group of Old Order Mennonites from the Waterloo County area of Ontario joined with the Markham church in the 1930s, the new MWMC church was formed in 1939.<br />
<br />
The Old Order Mennonite Conference of Ontario had its roots in a division within the Mennonite Conference of Ontario in 1889 over such issues as the use of Protestant Sunday School methods, evangelistic meetings, church order, etc. According to the MWMC, "In 1889, the Mennonite Conference of Ontario divided on issues of assimilation to the larger Protestant society". A similar division occurred in 1893 in the Lancaster Mennonite Conference in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which resulted in the formation of the Weaverland Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
In 2003, MWMC layman Donald Martin (ordained Deacon in 2004) published a book entitled "Old Order Mennonites of Ontario: Gelassenheit, Discipleship, and Brotherhood" (Pandora Press, Kitchener, Ontario). His book is a detailed study of the history of most of the Old Order groups in Ontario, including the MWMC, the Old Order Mennonite Conference, the David Martin Mennonites, and the Orthodox Mennonites. This book also contains a primer on basic Old Order Mennonite beliefs. A more detailed study of Old Order Mennonite beliefs was published by the same author in 2007 called Distinctive Teachings of the Old Order People (Vineyard Publications, Wallenstein, Ontario). It explains Old Order Mennonite beliefs on issues such as 'Salvation', 'Discipleship', 'The Church', and 'Separation from the World'.<br />
<br />
===Doctrine and Practice===<br />
<br />
The MWMC "Statement of Faith" in brief indicates that "The Word of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the basis for the faith and practice of the Church. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ; the Apostolic Confession of Faith and the Dordrecht Eighteen Articles of Faith are taught and supported." Of the three historic creeds then, the MWMC supports the Apostles' Creed, but rejects the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. The full text of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith of 1632 is reprinted in the church's booklet "Origin and Doctrine of the Mennonites" (shared by the Old Order Mennonite Conference), published in 1999. Within this booklet, the text of one of the writings of Menno Simons clarifies the MWMC belief rejecting the orthodox view of the Trinity as three "Persons": "And thus we believe and confess ... that these three names, operations and powers, namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one incomprehensible, indescribable, almighty, holy, only, eternal and sovereign God,". Simons continues, "And although they are three, yet in godliness, will, power and operation they are one, and can no more be separated from each other than the sun, brightness, and warmth;". This view is re-affirmed in the first article of the Dordrecht Confession of Faith, "Of God and the Creation of All Things", where it states, "Therefore we ... believe ... according to Holy Scripture, in one eternal, Almighty, and incomprehensible God - Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,".<br />
<br />
The MWMC regards salvation as "a life process that (calls) for perseverance to the end." In his second book, Deacon Donald Martin states clearly that, for Anabaptists, "obedience and discipleship (are) also part of one's salvation". Martin reminds the reader that, "The Sixth Article (of the Dordrecht Confession) states that we become justified children of God ... after we have repented and amended our lives."<br />
<br />
The MWMC Conference Report and General Recommendations briefly spells out the agreed upon expectations for membership in the church. Articles include the "Holy Life", "Courtship and Marriage", "Nonresistance", "Separation from the State", "Types and Places of Employment", "Uniformity Within the Church" and "Nonconformity to the world". It is also expected that members primarily drive black vehicles. Members cautiously use technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet, but do not own televisions or radios.<br />
<br />
The MWMC has its own parochial school system, which began in 1973. It shares some of its schools with the Ontario Old Order Mennonite Conference.<br />
<br />
===Summary===<br />
<br />
Today (2018), one may question the validity of including the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference in the category of "Old Order Mennonites". Indeed, many of their present members, especially among the younger generations, do not identify with their conference roots. That said, although very progressive, certainly regarding technology, in comparison with their Buggy driving cousins, they do maintain certain Old Order distinctives. For example, their meetinghouses and services are largely identical with Old Order Mennonites, although their services are in English. The use a similar hymn book, sung without notes in unison, although in English. Further, they continue to use the 1632 Confession of all Old Order groups. While these practices and beliefs remain, the rightful place of the Markham-Waterloo Mennonite Conference is within Old Order circles.<br />
<br />
===See Also===<br />
<br />
:[[Progressive Old Order Mennonite Groups]]<br />
:[[Old Order Mennonite Groups in Ontario]]<br />
:[[Dordrecht Confession of Faith (Mennonite, 1632)]]</div>Sgedwards