Prepared by: Henry Paik, Huy Nguyen, Mathew Mellert, Scott Parker, and Thomas Washburn

-History-Demographics-Members and Community

-Religious and Spiritual Beliefs-Social beliefs and cultural patterns- Current Concerns, Issues and Challenges

Agenda

History• Founded by Jakop Ammann in 1693• Started in Switzerland and Germany• In early 1800’s started coming to America• Settled in Berks County Pennsylvania

History Continued ● Advancements in technology in 1860’s● 1940’s population of 13,000● 1990’s population of 128,145● 2013 population of 281,675● Spreads to 27 states and Ontario Canada

Amish Demographics

Members of Amish Community

Men: Married men and single menWomen: Universal throughout the communityChildren: Reciprocated or very similar

Religious or Spirituals Belief- Bible Study- Living free of sins- Greatly value humility, family, and their community- Singing

Epistemological and Ontological Beliefs

● Protestant denomination○ Similar to Christianity

○ God○ The Bible

○ Humility is the main determinant to most questions

Epistemological and Ontological Beliefs Cont.Nearly all actions and practices are defended

by Bible scriptureEpistemological view: Religious Faith

Ethical TeachingsHochmut• Pride• Arrogance • HaughtinessDemut humility• Calmness• Composure

Amish Core ValuesLarge Families

Simplicity

The Amish do speak English, but choose to speak a German dialect or Pennsylvania Dutch amongst themselves.

Social beliefs• Amish population • Ordnung• Community• Political beliefs• Rumspringa• Shunning

Cultural patterns• Language• Education• Appearance• Modern conveniences• Government programs• Marriage • Funerals

Other Rituals, Ceremonies, Practices Funerals – simple

Baptisms (17-20 years old)

Beards signify married men

No instruments during service

Do not try to convert

Current Concerns, Issues, and Challenges

- Modern Appliances and Technology- Cars and Tractor- Education

Current Concerns, Issues, and Challenges- Outside Culture

- Marriage

- Amish Mafia