Witness: Amish Community Training Children - Anabaptist (Proverbs 22:6)

Imagine a quiet, sun-drenched community in Pennsylvania, where the rhythm of life moves gently to the sounds of horse-drawn buggies and laughter of children playing in the fields. In this close-knit Amish village, everyone knows each other's names, and every child is a cherished treasure, woven into the fabric of communal life.

In the film Witness, we meet young Samuel, whose curious eyes reflect the values of his community. Under the watchful gaze of his grandfather, a wise man with a gentle smile, Samuel learns not just through words but through the lived experiences around him. They sit together on the porch, the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the air, as grandfather shares stories of their ancestors—tales of courage, simplicity, and the importance of peace. Each story is a thread, knitting Samuel into the rich tapestry of his heritage.

The Anabaptist tradition teaches us that parenting is not a solitary endeavor but a communal responsibility. As they work together in the fields, the villagers model shalom—a wholeness that encompasses harmony and mutual aid. Samuel sees this in the way neighbors lend a hand during harvest or share a meal with those in need. He absorbs these values like sunlight, nurturing his spirit and guiding his steps.

Proverbs 22:6 tells us, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." In this village, Samuel is not merely a product of his parents but of his entire community—a living testament to the truth that belonging is essential for growth. As we gather today, let us remember that we are all part of this divine formation, called to raise our children in the warmth of community, ensuring they carry forth the legacy of love and faith we share.