Mennonites in Belize

     This weekend is set to be a momentous occasion for the Mennonite colony of Spanish Lookout as it celebrates its 65th anniversary. Kleine Gemeinde, EMMC, charismatic, prosperity gospels, one and all will lay aside their religious differences in a splendid example that demonstrates the peaceful and harmonious lifestyle in this beautiful community with rolling hills, sprawling cattle ranches, glass shops, metalworks and shopping centers. Due to its status as a commercial center and economic powerhouse, the Prime Minister himself will be present. Not only the Prime Minister was invited, the non-Mennonite employees of the community as well as all residents of certain surrounding villages which are within the area  but not directly under the administration of Spanish Lookout are invited to join the celebration on Saturday. See the agenda below.      The last time I posted an article about the Spanish Lookout anniversary was back in 2018 when they were c...

      Knowing very little about the Kleine Gemeinde religion and being a naive teenager, I confidently strode in, located one of the middle benches, nodded at an older gentleman, and joined in the English song being sung at that moment. Wasn't 20 seconds until I felt more than saw dozens of eyes boring into my back. Turning my head slightly I noticed the stares. There were no welcoming smiles. After the singing service was over I politely greeted both co-workers and friends but to my great surprise they seemed hesitant to speak. In fact they even acted slightly embarassed to be seen with me. Was it the color of my skin? Was it my culture? For sure it wasn't my clothing since I was wearing typical conservative clothing. Plaid button-down, khaki pants and black leather shoes. I didn't know what to make of it. Confused and frustrated, I walked outside, inhaled the cold fresh air, and decided I would never again attend a Kleine Gemeinde church service unless it was a special ...