Chapter 2 & 3: Amish, Mennonite, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Christian Scientists

Mennonite

a denomination of evangelical Protestant Christians that settled in the U.S. in 1683.

Mennonite Name Origin and Founder

Menno Simons

Mennonite Notification of Clergy

Not required

Mennonite Removal

No specific requirements or restrictions

Mennonite Preparation

Embalming and cremation permitted. Be mindful of timing in the case of cremations.

Mennonite Dressing & Casketing

Family’s choice, typically based on dignity and simplicity

Mennonite Pre-Service

Visitation will follow traditional Non-Liturgical practices. Flowers are encouraged.

Mennonite Service Location

Church or Funeral Home

Mennonite Committal Service

Scripture, prayer, committal final blessing. Hymn may be a part.

Amish

a denomination of evangelical Protestant Christians that settled in the U.S. in 1737.

Amish Name Origin and Founder

Jacob Amman

Amish Notification of Clergy

Not required but guided by local customs

Amish Clergy

Bishops or Elders, ministers who are pastors, or evangelist and deacons who take charge of congregations in the absence of the minister or Bishop. 

Amish Removal

No requirements or restrictions. Specific circumstances (length of illness, under the care of a physician or autopsy) may be a factor.

Amish Preparation

No restrictions

Amish Dressing & and Casketing

Amish Pre-Service

Visitation for friends and neighbors may be held one or two days prior to service. Visitation & funeral may take place at the home, especially for groups who worship in homes rather than a church. Old Order Amish will use horse and carriage in the procession.

Amish Service Location

Church or the deceased’s residence, possibly the funeral home

Amish Committal Service

Following the procession, either by hearse or horse drawn the coffin may be placed in a traditional outer enclosure for burial or in some instances a rough wooden box. After the committal service the family and friends return to the church or residence for a meal.

Amish Typical Location of Death

Likely to occur in a hospital or the deceased’s residence. Will not occur in nursing homes.