From Amish to English Christian Minister
A while back, I began following Eli Yoder’s YouTube channel. Much of his content is a testimony of his experiences and reasons for leaving the Amish community. He does a sterling job at keeping his videos lighthearted while maintaining a serious side.
Yoder refers to the Amish as a cult. Although his vids most often include comical anecdotes from his childhood, growing up Amish, some are very clear about the darker aspects of his former community.
Since leaving the Amish, Eli has dedicated himself to Biblical studies and follows the teachings of Jesus Christ. He uses his knowledge when counseling others who want to leave, or have left, the Amish, who are struggling with the Amish culture and beliefs, in ways they understand to contradict the Gospel.
Although he is no longer an accepted part of the Amish community, he expresses gratitude for still being permitted to visit his Amish mother, in her home, as long as he abides by her rules. He mustn’t park his “worldly” vehicle on her property, and wear Amish-style clothing when he visits.
I’ve learned much about the Amish since viewing his videos, including being introduced to a not-for-profit organization established to provide protection and support for Amish victims of abuse. It’s called the Amish Rescue Mission, and the reason it exists is heartbreaking.
Help for Amish victims
The Amish Rescue Mission provides help for a sizeable array of crimes committed against victims that include...
- Bestiality
- Grooming
- Human trafficking
- Incest
- Intimidation
- Kidnapping
- Rape
- Victim blaming
- Mental, physical, spiritual and verbal abuse
What help is currently available to Amish victims includes...
- A listening ear (Hotline 888-621-1985)
- Education
- Finding a counselor
- Healing
- Hope
- Resources
- Safe houses
- Sponsorships
Their site info ensures victims they assist may remain Amish or Plain. When their life becomes safe and stable, they will be returned to their home, if desired.
Below is a short vid featuring Rachel Hershbeger-Hawley, co-founder of The Amish Rescue Mission, why it was founded and their goals.
Vigilance in being aware and pro-active
Despicable acts are a global threat and certainly not a threat limited to individuals within the Amish. However, for those raised within Gospel-associated communities to step forward, alert, acknowledge, renounce and provide help for victims within these communities, I have to applaud them for not being a part of the coverups that so often happen to prevent backlash and the fallout that often comes along when these types of malicious acts become public knowledge.
I also appreciate their focus being specifically on Amish victims. Having this common ground gives them insight into the inner workings of the community, including how the victims view and process the abuse they’ve suffered.
⁸Open your mouth for the mute, in the cause of all who are left desolate.
⁹Open your mouth, judge righteously, and serve justice to the poor and needy.”
Proverbs 31:8-9
(World Messianic Bible Translation)
The wrap!
Thank you again for visiting today. I hope I've stirred your heart to lift the Amish Rescue Mission, both the staff and those they serve, in prayer.
Although our economy may be in dire straights, God isn't even a little bit limited on funds and His ability to help meet the needs of this wonderful organization and those they strive to help.
Although our economy may be in dire straights, God isn't even a little bit limited on funds and His ability to help meet the needs of this wonderful organization and those they strive to help.
Also, thank you for your interest and support of the independent business community, and especially the bloggers and bloggers! It's much appreciated!
'Til next time,
'Til next time,
Shalom
