Join us for a captivating presentation exploring the rich and complex history of the Mennonite people—from their radical beginnings during the 16th-century Anabaptist movement in Europe to their migrations across continents, including the journeys to Canada and Mexico.

This talk will guide attendees through centuries of faith, migration, and cultural identity, offering insights into how various Mennonite and Amish groups emerged, each with distinct beliefs, customs, and approaches to community life. Whether you’re curious about the theological roots of Anabaptism, the historical pressures that led to Mennonite migrations, or the differences between Old Colony, Conservative, and Progressive Mennonite communities (and how the Amish fit into this tapestry), there will be something here for everyone.

The presentation is grounded in historical research and delivered with respect for the simple and deeply intentional lives these communities choose to live. It’s both informative and personal, especially as it touches on themes from the recently published book, Not My Kind of Mennonite—a reflective and honest account of life in the Old Colony Mennonite tradition.

Maria Moore is a Canadian writer, advocate, and former registered nurse whose work explores themes of resilience, identity, generational trauma, and the search for personal empowerment. Raised in an Old Colony Mennonite community in Mexico, she later immigrated to Canada and spent over forty years working in healthcare, including mental health support. Her debut memoir, Not My Kind of Mennonite (FriesenPress, 2023), traces her family’s journey across borders and generations, shedding light on the silent struggles faced by many women and men in closed communities. Now living in southwestern Ontario with her husband and their dog, Maria continues to give back through volunteer work, board service, and public speaking that champions the voices of those too often overlooked.