Preface to Through Fire and Water: An Overview of Mennonite History

Through Fire and Water is an introduction to the Mennonite faith story. It was written with several audiences in mind: those wanting to learn about Anabaptists and Mennonites, churches seeking to teach youth and adults about Mennonite origins and beliefs, and students in Mennonite colleges and high schools in Canada and the United States.

The writers of Through Fire and Water want to tell the Mennonite story sympathetically, yet also critically. This story includes both the good and the bad, stories that may inspire you and stories that may disappoint you.

To be fair, we must say that the writers—Stephen F. Nolt and Harry Loewen—identify with this story and with the faith tradition that has guided Anabaptist Christians through time. The writers do not think that the Anabaptist witness has been flawless, but they do hope that this book will lead readers to appreciate the Anabaptist witness and to strengthen their own faith and commitment.

To encourage discussion, Through Fire and Water includes essays on five topics important to Anabaptists through the centuries: the church, following Jesus in daily life, nonviolence and peacemaking, the relationship between church and state, and outreach.

Mennonite Education Agency prays that this book will deepen the faith of all who read it, and that it will renew their appreciation for the Anabaptist-Mennonite story.

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Read the Introduction
Endorsements
Read the Epilogue
Table of Contents