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2010-05-04 issue:

Scandinavian Mennonites gather for first time

Forty people from new Scandinavian Mennonite Network meet in person.

by Melanie Hess of Mennonite Mission Network

Print Article

As Anabaptists in a country without a historic Anabaptist presence, how do you find a community that is essential to practicing your faith?

In December 2009, a group of about 40 people gathered in Stockholm, Sweden, to work at answering that question and to participate in the first physical gathering of the Scandinavian Anabaptist Network.

This newest network is one of several that have sprouted across the globe as Anabaptist Christians seek support and fellowship with others who share their convictions.

"Anabaptist networks are appearing in other parts of the world and have potential to be significant grass-roots kingdom movements," writes Tim Foley, Mennonite Mission Network’s Director for Europe. "These networks are an effective way (with a minimum of overhead) to resource Christians who have discovered Anabaptism to be crucial for their understanding of discipleship and mission."

Tom and Disa Rutschman, Mennonite Mission Network partners in Jokkmokk, Sweden, participated in the Scandinavian network meeting, which included authors, peace activists, theology students and seminary professors. Margot and Stephen Longley, who are partners with Mission Network in Finland, also attended.


The fledgling Scandinavian network invited Stuart Murray to speak at their first official gathering. Murray is active in the Anabaptist Network in the United Kingdom, a partner organization with Mennonite Mission Network.

His presentations focused on the nature of post-Christendom, mission in post-Christendom and the core convictions of the U.K. Anabaptist network.

Arne Rasmusson, Swedish Anabaptist theologian, attended the meetings and reflected on Murray's words. "Something like the diaspora ecclesiology of [John Howard] Yoder, though it may take different forms, seems necessary for a church that wants a measure of freedom from its bondage to Christendom," he says.

Murray also led seminars with local church planters, reports Jonas Melin, the current network organizer. "Stuart Murray taught on church planting in practice," writes Melin in his blog. "He went through 12 different models and looked at the strengths and weaknesses of different models, giving concrete examples and practical tips. Many testified that they recognized themselves, had ‘aha experiences’ and helped each other move forward."

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