Margaret's Print ShopA Novel of the Anabaptist Reformation by Elwood E. Yoder |
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"Elwood Yoder knows and loves the history of early Anabaptism. As the story of Margaret and Balthasar Beck unfolds, readers are drawn irresistibly into the turbulent events of the sixteenth century, when new faith is born and a new love blossoms. Neither can be quelled by danger, imprisonment, or potential martyrdom." - Harry Loewen, author and former chair of Mennonite studies, University of Winnipeg
A third generation printer, Margaret runs a small, but respected print shop in Strasbourg, Germany. As new Christian ideas and beliefs spring from the Lutherans and Anabaptists, she willingly prints literature for them and sees herself being pulled closer and closer to the Anabaptist faith.
When Balthasar Beck, a fellow printer, comes to town in the spring of 1525, Margaret and Beck quickly become friends. Together, they learn about and discuss the new religious ideas, and in the process, they discover their love for one another.
Outside the city walls, Maragaret and Balthasar meet Conrad Grebel, the fiery red-bearded Swiss Anabaptist who invites them to accept believers baptism. They also meet George Blaurock, Hans Hunt, and many other influential Anabaptists.
In December of 1525, the Strasbourg City Council discovers the pamphlets Maragaret has printed for Conrad Grebel. On a cold and snowy night, at a huge blaze on Clement Ziegler's farm, the authorities burn her pamphlets. In spite of this, Maraget remains determined to continue to print materials that will build up the struggling Anabaptists.
"Yoder quickly grabs your attention in this book full of love, denial, faithfulness, and with twists and suprises around every turn." - Jesse Morris, Author
About the Author
Elwood E. Yoder teaches history and Bible courses at Eastern Mennonite High School in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
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