Amish Traditions
Beyond the Amish traditional religious practices the Amish also have a variety of social traditions. One well known tradition is the coming of age event call Rumspringa. During Rumspringa Amish adolescents are given more freedom as they transition into adulthood. At this time Amish youth are no longer under the authority of their parents and not yet baptist which would otherwise hold them to the standards of church, because of this these teenagers are expected to hold self accountability, something not always followed
What happens during Rumspringa? Rumspringa is comparable to the idea of a youth group where groups meet up on the weekend. The desired intention is to find spouse but Rumspringa is also a cultural tradition where the youth a given a chance to choose their own path: to either leave the Amish or stay. Rumspringa ultimately ends with marriage. After couples are baptized they are a part of the community and in this must live the exemplary life, and are no longer given the forgiveness under Rumspringa. "Rumspringa." Amish Studies. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2015. BaptismIn the Amish Community one huge symbolic decision is baptism (Baptism is a symbolic commitment to be a follower of Jesus). Since the Amish are part of the Anabaptist denomination, Amish members are baptized at a "conscious age."
At this time it symbolizes the youth's decision to join the Amish. The Baptism signify a commitment to the church. That they are accepting responsibility for their actions and the punishment that may come of if it. "When Do Amish Get Baptized?" Amish America When Do Amish Get Baptized Comments. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2015. |
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