Why are Mennonites frequently involved in service?
Service is an important part of the lives of Mennonites. They believe that Jesus Christ calls us to serve others in love as he did. Jesus gave the example for this service. Also, Mennonites believe that following Jesus means living a life that is devoted to serving others.
While faith alone (God’s grace) is enough to bring us into right relationship with God, the Bible goes on to say, “What good is it if you have faith but no deeds? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed, but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith, by itself, if not accompanied by action, is dead”(James 2:14-17). One could say that having recienced God’s wonderful grace and forgiveness, Christians can’t help serving others.
Mennonite Central Commitee and Mennonite Disaster Service are probably the most widely known among Mennonite service organizations. However, other organizations and inividual efforts to serve within home communities are common among people of the Mennonite faith.
Mennonite Mission Network offers service opportunities for youth and young adults. One such opportunity is through Mennonite Voluntary Service. More information about service opportunities through Mennonite Mission Network is available by sending an e-mail asking for information to service@mennonitemission.net.
