Who We Are

Welcome Statement

We are united in our desire to follow Jesus and to grow in our relationship with each other and God. We welcome ALL persons to worship, study and fellowship with us as we continually seek to be faithful disciples of Jesus. 

PMF values the diversity that exists within its participants. Our congregation wants to be welcoming, kind, respectful and gracious. Newcomers are welcome to become active participants of PMF and to use their gifts in leadership or teaching roles.

Congregational Core Values

The core values of PMF point to our distinctiveness as Anabaptist and serve as a guide in decision making.

• Jesus Centered / Growing in Experience of God’s Love

• Global Awareness

• A Worshiping Community;  Sharing Concerns, Resources & Faith

• Embracing Children and Youth

• Peace, Justice, & Biblical Nonviolence in Action

• Community Embracing Diversity

• Servant Leadership

• Valuing the Written & Living Word

• Care for Creation

• Loving God and Loving Neighbor

We Are Anabaptist Mennonites

Although we have Christian ties, we are neither Catholic or Protestant.  We are Anabaptist. No, not anti-baptist. Anabaptism refers to being re-baptized.  

Anabaptism began in the 16th century in Europe.  Our faith ancestors broke away from the state’s religious practice of baptizing infants.  Through scripture they came to believe that one should make a decision to follow Christ and voluntarily be baptized.  They were persecuted and even killed for their beliefs and actions.   Today, parents often choose to dedicate their infant to God.  The Congregation promises to help support and teach the child Jesus’ ways with the hope that the child in time will choose baptism.

Another foundational belief carried from 16th century Anabaptists centers on clear separation between church and state.  They introduced the idea that church membership should be a voluntary decision based on personal conscience rather than mandated by a government. The early Anabaptists declared that the state had no authority to dictate theology or enforce church affiliation.  That was a very unpopular stance 500 years ago.  With the rise of Christian Nationalism, perhaps Mennonite beliefs about separation of church and state will be challenged in a new way. 

Vision Healing & Hope Statement

Vision: Healing and Hope (we embrace this vision of the Mennonite Church USA)

God calls us
To be followers of Jesus Christ
And by the power
Of the Holy Spirit
To grow as communities
Of grace, joy, and peace
So that God’s healing hope
Flow through us to the world

Congregational Covenant

We celebrate this community of Paoli Mennonite Fellowship where we have chosen to belong.

We know that we are created in the image of God, blessed and forgiven by the grace of God, and continually transformed by the power of God.

We delight in being part of the rich diversity of the body of Christ, united by God’s invitation to embody Love in our world.

As a community, we aspire to:

• Follow God’s way of loving service as modeled by Jesus’ life and teachings;

• Honor the dignity of all and extend welcome, mercy, and grace to each other and to all who cross our paths;

• Share our gifts and care for one another in love so God’s healing and hope can flow through us to the world;

• Continue to grow through scripture and worship; seeking and sharing wisdom, truth, courage, and hope as the Holy Spirit guides us.

Leadership

PMF Leadership Team: Shanna Johnson, Crystal Shellenberger, and Stori Sullivan

Elder Team: Louise O’Connell (chair), Doris Weaver, and Darren Bender-Beauregard

FAQ’s

What makes Mennonites unique?

We have a lot in common with our fellow Christians, but we do have some unique qualities.  We have a non-hierarchical leadership, service based upon giftedness not gender or other identity markers.  We read the whole Bible through the lense of Jesus. We discern with each other as a community about what the Bible means and how we should apply it to our life.  Mennonites keep it simple. We have fewer official positions. We are bound together by community and shared values.

How formal is PMF?  What should I wear?

PMF is very informal.  You will find a wide array of clothing worn at PMF.  Some of us are in dresses or dress pants. Some of us are in jeans and t-shirts.  Please, come as you are.

Do women wear head coverings at PMF?

Historically, Mennonite women wore head coverings in public. Some Mennonites might continue this tradition, but it is not widely practiced in Mennonite Church USA or at PMF.

Can people become Mennonite or do you have to be born a Mennonite?

We welcome all who wish to be a part of PMF.   Our congregation is made up of people from Mennonite backgrounds and also many who grew up in many other denominations, or for whom this is their first formal church experience.

How can I become a part of Paoli Mennonite Fellowship?

It’s simple.  Show up for worship.  We welcome you with open arms.  

You can get to know us better at potlucks, Sunday School, small groups, and many more activities.  

There are many opportunities for you to get involved on Sunday and throughout the week.

Yearly orientation classes are offered to help new participants learn more about PMF and the Mennonite faith.

Are Mennonites pacifists?

Yes. We believe that nonviolence is an important part of Jesus’ teachings.  This belief does not include us ignoring conflicts or injustices . We believe in fighting injustices with good.  The Bible refers to this peace as “shalom.” We strive for shalom, not by arming ourselves with weapons, but arming ourselves with love and mercy.

What is the difference between Mennonites and Amish?

Mennonites and Amish both came from the same Annabaptist traditions.  The Amish broke away due to their stricter beliefs. Mennonites engage in the wider community, where Amish tend to separate themselves from society.  Amish also more careful of their use of technology, remove themselves from politics, and dress simply.  

More information can be found at the Third Way.