Why a Ministry to the Amish?
Many have asked that question and, at times, well-meaning people have become angry that a ministry such as Mission to Amish People would even exist. In the eyes of many, the Amish seem peaceful and separated from a world of murder and divorce, and to a large extent this is true. Crime within Amish communities is often minimal, and their lifestyle appears calm, hardworking, and rooted in family and tradition.
But from a spiritual standpoint, many Amish struggle with understanding the new birth described in John chapter 3. Instead of resting in salvation through Christ alone, a significant number rely heavily on rules, traditions, and church expectations to determine their standing before God.
What We See and What We Don’t See
Amish communities often appear peaceful, hardworking, and beautifully separated from the chaos of the world. Yet beneath the surface, there are spiritual struggles and deep relational tensions that many never see.
From the outside, the Amish way of life looks quiet and strong—yet the cross still calls each heart to new birth in Christ.
What We See on the Outside
Amish people seem peaceful and separated from a world of murder and divorce; to a large extent this is true. Crime within Amish culture is often minimal.
From a physical standpoint, the Amish culture looks strong and appealing. Outsiders admire them for their hard work, craftsmanship, and family and community values. They are also known for their innocence, honesty, separation from the world, and desire to live plain and simple lives.
What We Often Miss on the Inside
From a spiritual standpoint, a smaller percentage of the population understands the new birth as described in John chapter 3. Most Amish people focus on outward appearance, traditions, and church rules for salvation.
Their belief in Jesus Christ is often head knowledge and part of a long list of “do’s and don’ts.” The mindset is often: “If I want to be right with God, I have to do what I can, and God will fill in the rest.”
Salvation is by grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone.
When People Leave the Culture
As the population multiplies, more and more young adults and families are leaving the culture. When that happens, they enter a challenging season of finding new identity and purpose in life.
Tension often runs high between family members and church leaders. Many who leave are excommunicated and shunned by their own families. The emotional and spiritual weight of this separation can be overwhelming.
For these reasons, Mission to Amish People (MAP) seeks to evangelize and disciple Amish and former Amish people—walking with them as they discover new life and hope in Christ.
A Scenario That Is Not Uncommon
Dear MAP Ministry, our church sits in the midst of an Amish community. Through God-orchestrated events we became personally involved with several Amish families.
Several months ago, one who had left Amish now attends church with us and has become very dear to us. He is struggling, his parents are struggling, we are struggling.
Having recently found your organization, we feel it is a much-needed answer to prayer. We are planning a trip to your facility, and our young ex-Amish friend will be coming too. We would like an opportunity to meet you, talk with you, tour your facilities and attend Sunday church service. We are traveling 8 hours.
— A church family seeking help for their ex-Amish friend