What It’s Really Like to Be a Modern Mennonite in Today’s World

Let’s be real — when you hear “Mennonite,” what pops into your head?
Maybe you picture someone in plain clothes, living off the grid, driving a horse and buggy like the Amish. Or maybe you’re thinking, “Wait… I think my coworker said she’s Mennonite — but she wears jeans and drives a Subaru?”

Exactly. That’s the thing. The Modern Mennonites aren’t always what people expect. And that’s why this topic is super interesting — because unlike a lot of faith-based groups, Mennonites have found a way to live in the modern world without completely blending into it.

They’ve built a lifestyle that balances faith, simplicity, and community values with tech, education, and even social media.

Yeah, seriously — Mennonites on Instagram. Let’s talk about it.

The Confusion: Are They Old-School or Modern?

Here’s where it gets messy. The term “Mennonite” covers a wide range of people. You’ve got the super traditional Old Order Mennonites who still use horse and buggy and live simply — kinda like the Amish.
Then you’ve got the Modern Mennonites — who go to college, work tech jobs, and livestream church services.

So yeah, it’s not one-size-fits-all. And that’s where people start getting confused.
How can someone live in today’s world, surrounded by screens and noise and fast everything… and still hold onto old-school values?

That’s what makes the Modern Mennonite lifestyle worth exploring.

Questions Everyone Asks (Let’s Clear Them Up)

Do all Mennonites avoid technology?
Not even close. Some do — especially the more conservative groups — but many modern Mennonites use phones, computers, social media, and even create digital content. They just try to use it intentionally.

Do Mennonites live separately from the rest of society?
Not really. Most modern Mennonites live right in regular neighborhoods, work in cities, and interact with the wider world every day. They’re in the world, but they try not to let the world shape their core values.

Do they still go to church in homes like the Amish?
Nah. Most modern Mennonites attend regular church buildings — sometimes even with bands, projectors, and sermons you can stream online.

Are modern Mennonites allowed to date, dance, or watch movies?
Yep! Most of them do all that. There’s no strict ban, but there’s a focus on keeping things respectful and grounded. So like, watching movies? Cool. Watching trashy reality shows 24/7? Not really the vibe.

Do they all dress the same?
Not at all. Some wear plain clothes. Others look just like anyone else — jeans, T-shirts, hoodies. The main idea isn’t to “look Mennonite,” it’s to live with purpose.

So… How Do They Balance Faith and the Fast-Paced World?

Let’s break it down. Modern Mennonites basically live by one big principle:

“Use the tools of today without losing the values of yesterday.”

So what does that mean, practically?

• They use smartphones, but they don’t let them replace real conversation.

• They work modern jobs, but still prioritize family dinners, church, and community volunteering.

• They travel, learn, build businesses, but always keep humility, service, and faith at the center.

Basically, they’ve found a way to take the good from the modern world and leave the rest behind. Kinda like spiritual minimalism.

It’s Not Easy — But It’s Intentional

Let’s not sugarcoat it — living like a modern Mennonite takes effort. It’s not about just going with the flow.

They make conscious choices, like:

• Turning off notifications during dinner

• Spending Sundays in worship, not on TikTok

• Focusing on relationships instead of just achievements

• Teaching their kids values, not just trends

And no, they don’t always get it right. They’re human, too. But the difference is — they’re trying. And that effort? It matters.

Why It Actually Works

Here’s the cool part: Modern Mennonites aren’t stuck in the past. They’re just not sold on the idea that “progress” means more noise, more speed, more stuff.

They believe in:

• Community over competition

• Faith over fame

• Purpose over popularity

In a world that’s constantly yelling, Mennonites are kinda whispering — and people are starting to listen.

In fact, a lot of folks outside the Mennonite faith are adopting some of the same ideas:
Digital detox. Minimalist living. Slow mornings. Mindful parenting.
Sound familiar?

Yeah — the Modern Mennonite lifestyle might be more relevant now than ever.

Real Talk: What Can You Take From This?

Okay, let’s be honest. You probably aren’t gonna sell your car, delete your Instagram, and wear homemade clothes tomorrow. That’s not the point.

But ask yourself:

• What’s one tech habit I could cut back on?

• Could I spend more time with family instead of just scrolling?

• Am I living based on my values — or just reacting to the noise around me?

You don’t have to be Mennonite to start asking these questions. And honestly, asking them is the first step toward living more intentionally.

Let’s Chat: What Would You Change?

Alright — your turn.
If you could borrow one thing from the modern Mennonite lifestyle and apply it to your own life, what would it be?

More family time? Less screen time? Bigger focus on faith?
Drop a comment, send a message, start a convo. You might inspire someone else to slow down, too.

And if you’re a Mennonite yourself — hey, let us know what it’s really like! The more we learn from each other, the better.

References (Because I’m Not Just Making This Up)

• Kraybill, Donald B. – Concise Encyclopedia of Amish, Brethren, Hutterites, and Mennonites

• Mennonite Church USA – https://www.mennoniteusa.org

• Anabaptist World News – https://anabaptistworld.org

• “Modern Mennonites and the Digital World” – Christianity Today

• Amish America Blog – Insights from real Mennonite communities
  https://amishamerica.com