LLISP26M9 - Mennonites in the Valley

Course Description

Mennonites are a nearly 500-year-old Christian group with origins in 16th-century Europe, and were among the earliest white European settlers in the Shenandoah Valley. Historically, they were an agrarian society with deeply religious communal commitments and non-violent practices. Today, their descendants consist of several distinct Mennonite groups in and around Harrisonburg, ranging from the most conservative buggy-driving “Old Orders” to progressive Mennonites that operate a local liberal arts university and are involved in all sectors of public life. This course focuses on personal interaction with Mennonites from across this spectrum and includes local trips to visit Mennonite institutions, churches, schools, and businesses. A sumptuous lunch in an Old Order Mennonite home, plus bus transportation to various Old Order sites for one session, will cost each participant an additional $35, above regular course tuition.