Orthodox Quakerism vs Mennonite?

[kijani]

Hello, everyone.

So, I've mentioned in a previous thread that my family has been split between Catholicism and Southern Baptism. I don't really agree with either, and for a while, I turned away from God entirely, but quite a few things have led me to looking at going back to church and reclaiming my faith. I wasn't really sure where to start as far as where to go, though, so I made myself a list, and then took the silly little quiz that was posted in one of the other forums. Seems silly, but it gave me a jumping off point as far as what to look into.

My top two "matches" on the quiz were Mennonite and Orthodox Quakerism. That has given me a point to start at, and I'm looking for some reading and other resources.

I'm lucky enough that I live in a large city. I checked, and there is both a Quaker meeting house and a Mennonite one as well. My plan right now is to talk to the church leaders and possibly look at starting to attend and see which one, if either, is the better "fit" for me, but I'm posting here because there seems to be a lot of wonderful people here, and I'd love to hear about some of the differences from an other viewpoint. If anyone would like to weigh in about their experiences, I'd love to hear your stories.

 

[Zip66]

Jesus >Christ began His church... however any specific denomination determines their own beliefs and or practices, to some degree, we should trust everyone may (should) be in the body of Christ. With this in mind (wisdom) your seeking God anywhere, with whoever may inspire you, or denomination is understood as part of the overall church (hopefully) serving God.


Blessings to you friend

Zip

 

[kijani]

Thank you, Zip.

 

[raschau]

Orthodox Quakerism is largely represented by the Evangelical Friends Church International. Take a look at their Faith and Practice documents, which contain a surprising amount of doctrinal information, and see if they're a fit.

 

[CelticRose]

Many people find traditional Quaker practice difficult as it is not like anyone else's church service. If you are practiced in silence & waiting on the Lord you may find it works for you.

 

[kijani]

thank you everyone for the information. I think it would be worth maybe talking to some of the church leaders around here and seeing what is said. I'm not in Indianapolis anymore, but that's a long and depressing story I'll have to get to soon.

 

[Unix]

Great that You're serious, kijani!

 

[kijani]

Thanks. Unfortunately where I'm at right now there are a little fewer options. With what's going on I'd kind of like to disappear for a while but I don't think that would help.

Thanks to everyone who has helped so far. If anyone else would like to share their insight, I'd love to hear your stories.

 

[Michael Snow]

The Evangelical Friends mentioned have an order of service much like most protestant churches, having a pastor and sermons. The ones who sit in silence are usually the more liberal Quakers. Indiana has a mix and also a recent division amongst themselves. You might look at Quaker Life magazine online (see facebook) which is published in Richmond, IN.

 

[kijani]

Thank you Michael. That is actually very helpful. I've been away for a while dealing with a few unfortunate things which have led me to want to return to the church even more. I am going to start researching different options in my area and see if I can find a good fit for myself. I'm sorry it took me so long to return to this topic.