The article “What is the Essence of Anabaptism?” gathers perspectives from various contributors on what Anabaptism means to them, often in a few key words or short phrases, with some elaboration. Here are the main ideas and key quotes:
Key Themes and Quotes
Personal Faith and Christocentrism
Sylvie Kremer: “Personal faith. Christocentrism. Discipleship. Community and simplicity.”
Service and Community
Catherine Gitzel: “Serving Jesus through serving others.”
Rachel Wallace: “Holistic, Jesus-centered discipleship, rooted in community.”
Peace and Nonviolence
Joshua Penfold: “Peace extremists in Jesus’ name.”
Michael Pahl: “Nonviolence even in the face of violence, voluntary service to others both within and beyond our faith community.”
Living Tradition and Diversity
David Cramer: Anabaptism is “a 500-year-old tradition that is still living and breathing today.”
Following Jesus Together
Rebecca Roman: “Following Jesus together. The ‘together’ piece is critical… Is there a way to truly follow Jesus apart from doing it in community?”
Global Peacebuilding and Justice
Krystan Pawlikowski: “A worldwide network of peacebuilders committed by love to listen and work for justice.”
Community and Equality
Jordan Pilgrim: “Everyone is welcome, and every voice matters. There is no hierarchy within the Anabaptist tradition.”
Sacrificial Living and Yielding
Isaac Kuhl-Schlegel: “Volunteering to yield. ‘Yield,’ because the thing we volunteer to do is often to hold back and let the same self that speaks its ‘yes’ now listen and follow.”
Peace in All Dimensions
Reverend Dann Pantoja: “Peace with the Creator. Peace with our being. Peace with others. Peace with creation.”
Historical Roots and Radical Reformation
Ken Reddig: Anabaptism began in the Reformation when people sought “a personal conscious decision” in faith, leading to their persecution and stance against violence.
Summary of Key Ideas
- Christocentrism and Discipleship:
- Central to Anabaptism is a focus on following Jesus’ teachings and living a life modeled after him.
- Community and Service:
- Emphasis on communal living and serving others as expressions of faith.
- Peace and Nonviolence:
- Strong commitment to peace, nonviolence, and reconciliation.
- Living Tradition:
- Anabaptism is seen as a dynamic and evolving tradition that adapts while remaining connected to its roots.
- Inclusivity and Equality:
- Importance of welcoming everyone and valuing every voice within the community.
- Historical Significance:
- Recognition of Anabaptism’s radical beginnings during the Reformation and its enduring principles.
These perspectives collectively highlight Anabaptism as a faith tradition deeply rooted in personal commitment to Jesus, communal living, and a steadfast dedication to peace and justice.
Question:
Which of these quotes would you relate to and which ones would you struggle. comment below.