Mennonite Church USA

Southside Fellowship is a member of Central District Conference of Mennonite Church USA. 

Central District Conference is an affiliation of 45 congregations from Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Georgia and Virginia. The mission of Central District Conference is to know Christ's abundant love in who we are and how we live, and to answer God's persistent call to share that love with one another and the world by:

• Promoting a Christ-like community of hospitality where grace-filled relationships flourish, and patience and generosity are practiced,
• Calling and nurturing wise, dynamic and compassionate Anabaptist leadership,
• And supporting missional partnerships that make God's reighn visible and fostering ministries of evangelism, healing and hope.

Mennonite Church USA is one of nearly 20 formally organized groups of Mennonites in North America that vary in lifestyle and religious practice but all stem from the Anabaptist movement. Though their streams of faith may differ, Mennonite groups hold common beliefs: Jesus Christ is central to worship and to everyday living. Behavior is to follow Christ's example. The Bible is considered the inspired word of God. Membership continues to be voluntary, with adult baptism upon declaration of faith.

Mennonites are known for their peace stand, taken because they believe Jesus Christ taught the way of peace. Many members choose not to participate in military service. Some take their belief further by objecting to government military expenditure; a few choose not to pay the percentage of their annual income tax that would go for military purposes.

Mennonites are also known for their strong commitment to community; interest in social issues; voluntary service to those who have experienced hardship and loss in floods, tornadoes and other disasters; and mission outreach.

You can find out more about about Mennonite Church USA at their website. You can also learn more about Mennonite history and beliefs at Thirdway Cafe.