Enjoying the sun

Today is a perfect day in Michigan. This morning we took a 1-mile trail through the woods to a secluded beach on the Lake Michigan shoreline. When we got to the beach, we saw this group of Amish Mennonites enjoying the sun.

There are several Mennonite conferences in Michigan and Indiana. They are a simple, kind, loving people. Some distinctive beliefs include:
· Baptism only upon confession of Jesus Christ by a person who has reached an age of accountability.
· Nonresistance: returning good for evil and not resisting a persecutor. This includes non-involvement in combat, though alternative service is acceptable.
· Emphasis on the essential role of church community.
· Practical everyday separation from mainstream society, especially in areas of social and recreational activities, personal adornment, amusement, speech, gender roles, and schooling.
· A covering for women