Believer's baptism, Lord's Supper twice yearly, and foot washing practiced
The Amish practice adult believer's baptism (typically by pouring water on the head, following the Dordrecht Confession's allowance of any mode) as the rite of entry into the community. Baptism is administered to young adults (usually between 16 and 22) after a period of instruction and represents their voluntary commitment to the faith and the community's Ordnung. Rebaptism of those baptized as infants in other traditions is practiced if they join the Amish.
Communion is observed twice yearly (typically spring and fall), preceded by a period of preparation and self-examination. Foot washing is observed at each communion service, following John 13. These practices are deeply communal: they express the unity of the congregation, the equality of all members before God, and the community's commitment to the way of humble service.
Key Distinctions
- Term used:
- ordinances
- Sacrament count:
- two (Baptism and Lord's Supper)
- Baptism mode:
- pouring (affusion) of water on head
- Baptism recipients:
- believers only; adult baptism upon joining the church
- Eucharist presence:
- symbolic memorial; twice-yearly celebration
Scripture References
Sources
- Dordrecht Confession of Faith (1632), Articles 7–8
- John A. Hostetler, Amish Society (4th ed., 1993)