The split between the two groups started with a gentleman named Jacob Amann who believed that sinning resulting in excommunication should result in a more serious punishment (now known as “shunning”) than what the Mennonite community currently followed. Amann’s beliefs attracted a large group of followers who came to be known as the Amish.
Today, the greatest differences between the Amish and Mennonites stem mainly from practices rather than beliefs. Amish groups tend to shy away from technology and involvement with the greater world, by dressing “plain” and using scooters and buggies for transportation. The Mennonites have embraced some of the world’s technologies. Unlike the Amish, Mennonites can use motorized vehicles as well as electricity and telephones in their homes.
Use of Cars, Electricity, and Modern Technology
When it comes to the use of cars, electricity, and modern technology, there is a stark contrast between the Amish and Mennonite communities.
Mennonites have embraced many aspects of contemporary life, including the use of motorized vehicles, electricity in their homes, and cell phones.
In contrast, the Amish generally avoid such technologies, preferring to live a more traditional, plain lifestyle. However, the acceptance of technology varies among Amish communities, with some being more restrictive than others. The Amish will use taxi drivers (local English) to aid them places and will use computer and cell phones for their businesses.
Clothing
While most Mennonites dress in contemporary clothing styles, the Amish maintain a plain and simple dress code that has remained largely unchanged. Amish men typically wear plain suits with broad-brimmed hats, while women wear long dresses and bonnets.
Education
Amish children only go to school until the age of 15, but then go to school one day a week after that. Many of the Mennonite children continue their education until the 12th grade.
Language
Amish and Conservative Mennonite communities live in the same areas and speak PA Dutch, although the Amish speak it more frequently at home than the Mennonites, especially with their children. The children do learn to speak English while in school.
Missionary Work & Proselytizing
Many Mennonites stress the importance of missionary work, helping to spread their faith to over fifty countries around the world, while the Amish tend to focus their efforts closer to home, sharing information about ministries, services, testimonies, and opportunities to Amish and non-Amish (English) communities alike.
Religious Gatherings
Mennonites typically hold worship in traditional church buildings. In contrast, the Amish practice their religious gatherings in a more decentralized manner, rotating religious gatherings among different households within their settlements.
Mind you, there is much more to the history and beliefs of the Mennonite and Amish than a couple of sentences and there are also exceptions to every rule.
So, if you are in Lancaster and are curious to learn more about these two great cultures, stop by the Mennonite Life Visitors Center and take a tour of their life-sized Tabernacle Reproduction or enjoy one of their many informative movies and documentaries.
Learn about Amish culture and schedule a buggy ride or tour of an Amish farm while you're visiting.
Get ready! Find all the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat, an events calendar, and exclusive coupons! Order the FREE 2025 Lancaster County Visitors Guide today!
What Does it Mean to be Amish?
It’s more than just slow-paced and hardworking.
How To Drive Safely Around Horse and Buggies
Enjoy our country roads while sharing the road responsibility.
Planning Your Trip to Amish Country, PA
Check out some of the awesome places to stay and eat, things to do, and more to start planning your trip to Lancaster County, PA!
Roadside Stand Round-Up in Lancaster, PA
Lancaster County is known for its locally owned roadside stands. Stop by to pick up the freshest, seasonal produce.
Amish Religious Traditions
The Amish community is deeply rooted in religion; it guides the traditions, lifestyle and beliefs of the Pennsylvania Amish.
Amish History & Beliefs
Arriving in Lancaster County in the 1720s, the oldest and largest Amish community in the country is the Amish of Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
2215 Millstream Road Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 393-9745
2215 Millstream Road Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 299-0954
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more
Things to Do this Easter in Lancaster, PA
From egg hunts to bunny trains, Easter 2025 in Lancaster County, PA will be hoppin'.
Things to Do Spring 2026 in Lancaster, PA
Check out our list of 30 activities to create your Spring 2026 itinerary.
Plant & Garden Centers in Lancaster, PA
Check out the list we dug up below to see where you can pick up some plants of your own.
