Lessons from those who left: Ex-Anabaptists find belonging in a non-Anabaptist church

Phil Kleinsasser, an ex-Hutterite now serving as an assistant pastor at Springs Church in Winnipeg, urged congregants to “sow” their money in the offering plate to “reap” abundance in all areas of life. His message, delivered in a setting far removed from the austere Hutterite colonies, reflects the evolving spiritual landscape of some Anabaptist communities.

Springs Church, one of Canada’s most successful and success-oriented mega churches, contrasts sharply with traditional Anabaptist values. The church features multiple lounges, some of which proudly serve Starbucks, according to its website. This environment, marked by a rock star pastor and a focus on modern urban life, has attracted a significant number of ex-Anabaptists, including those who once adhered to more austere traditions.

Kate Bowler, a professor at Duke Divinity School and author of *Blessed: A History of the American Prosperity Gospel*, presented at the “Ex-Mennonite/Near Mennonite” Conference in Winnipeg. She highlighted how some individuals find in places like Springs an antidote to legalism, permission to embrace urban culture, and acceptance of diverse expressions of faith, including physical healing and the wearing of nose rings. The church’s motto, “Love, accept, forgive,” underscores its inclusive ethos.

The stories of those who leave Anabaptist communities, whether by choice or due to exclusion, raise profound questions about community building. How can groups maintain a sense of identity and belonging without alienating those who differ? The challenge lies in creating spaces where people can belong without compromising core values.

Mennonite leaders and scholars grapple with the implications of such departures. They reflect on the need for communities that are both distinct and welcoming, avoiding the pitfalls of exclusion while remaining true to their convictions. This tension is central to the ongoing conversation about the role of Anabaptist churches in a diverse and changing world.

The question of how to build community without causing harm is a fundamental one. It calls for a posture of humility, openness, and a commitment to the well-being of all people. As the stories of those who leave remind us, the path forward must be one of compassion and careful discernment.

Source: Read the original report