The Amish ReligionHistory of ReligionDeveloped from the Radical Reformation in the 1300s, a group was formed called the Anabaptists. These Anabaptists were a mixed group between Mennonites, Hutterites and Amish. The Amish people emerged from a split within the Swiss Mennonites in 1693 when a man named Jacob Amman and his followers left their church to found their own. Jacob Amman was born in Switzerland as an Anabaptist in 1644 and is considered the founder of the Amish religion. Most Amish communities originate from countries such as Switzerland, Alsace, Russia, the Netherlands and Germany. Although in today's world there are no more Amish living in Europe. Indeed, in the 1700s, they were persecuted because of their religious beliefs. They primarily moved around North America and settled in Pennsylvania as well as many other states. Some of these states are Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Minnesota. Around 1850, there was a separation between the Old Order Amish and the New Order Amish. The New Order Amish accepted new technologies and social changes, but also retained many of the old Amish traditions and practices. There are now approximately 200,000 Old Order Amish living here in the United States, as well as some in Canada. Sacred Stories and Sacred Scriptures The Amish people, considered conservative Protestants, believe in readings from the Bible. Most Amish also have the Martyr's Mirror, which is the book of Amish history and tells the story of the Amish, Mennonites, and Anabaptists who died for their faith. There is also a newspaper used by many Amish and Mennonite communities called The Budget which is always in the middle of paper...so prepare your meals, celebrate the holidays and even plant gardens around your house. Religion and Catholicism The Amish religion and Catholicism are actually quite similar. They both use the Bible; both celebrate holidays linked to Jesus such as Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, Pentecost and Ascension Day. The Amish have districts that resemble different dioceses to Catholics; they celebrate communion but only twice a year and also perform baptisms. One difference is their beliefs about war. The Amish believe in peace and pacifism, while Christians will go to war and believe in the doctrine of just war. Christians are also joining the world through technological advancements, while the Amish want to stay away from outside influences. Overall, there are many similarities that most people are not aware of between the ideas of the Amish religion and those of Catholicism..