Mid-sixteenth century; confession 1577 · tradition
Waterlander Mennonites
A Dutch Mennonite stream associated with Waterland, with a confession of faith in 1577 and a distinctive approach to church discipline.
The Waterlanders developed within the Dutch Anabaptist movement in the middle of the sixteenth century. Their name refers to Waterland, north of Amsterdam. Differences over the severity of the ban and shunning distinguished them from other Dutch Mennonite groups.
Their 1577 confession sought agreement within the community and understanding with other Mennonites. It addresses faith and practical Christian living. The photographed timeline places Waterlanders beside Flemish and Frisian streams; these names describe changing historical fellowships, whose later relationships included attempts at reunion.
Sources for this history: [1] [2] [3]
