Becoming Cultured

Last weekend, August 5-6, Scott and I went on a weekend trip of culture and learning. I picked Scott up early from work and we headed out for out journey. (Not as early as hoped however because the darn dog somehow got the cookies I baked from the middle of the table and ate through the plastic bag. With the Barrett's also out of town I had to make extra arrangements for the dog that is now going to be sick. ugh!) But on with the point:

First step:

Berlin, Ohio: Amish Country.

This picture is taken in front of the Mennonite and Amish Heritage center. Berlin is a little under 2 hours from Columbus. We spent time wandering the shops, tasting cheeses and fudge an old cheese factory, and at the heritage center. The heritage center came last in our exploration of Amish country and up until we went to the center I was some what disappointed. Amish Country was not exactly what I imagined. There were a lot more people that were in more "regular" dress than the typical long dress and full bonnet generally associated with the Amish.

At the heritage center we watched a video about the religion/culture. Here's what was reaffirmed or I learned:

• Amish broke off from the Mennonite and abide by a stricter law.
• The religion came from Switzerland and Germany
• The people are reluctant to use modern technology. While some are very strict, many people will justify the use of a particular tractor. Mennonites generally use more modern technology then the Amish
• Mennonites may drive automobiles while again, some Amish stick to the horse and buggy.
• Most withdraw from any unnecessary taxes, like social security because they never claim for social security.
• The Berlin area is one of the most populated areas of Mennonites and Amish. (I think at least 80% of the people) 

After the video at the heritage center I was no longer disappointed in what I had saw in the streets and stores because I understood that the diversity of the culture I saw was true. Each congregation and individual has a different lifestyle depending on their opinion.

I gained a better understanding of the Article of Faith 8 that says we believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. We also believe the Bible to be the word of God as long as it is translated correctly. Many faiths have different versions of the Bible and/or interpret it differently than creating churches different then what God's true church is.

 Step 2: Akron, Ohio…Sports history culture. This one is up to Scott to blog about. Hopefully you’ll get his pictures and story soon!

The next few steps were learning more about the heritage of my own religion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, learning about an off break of the church the Community of Christ and where they are now, and going to one of the great lakes, Lake Erie. Even more trips to come!