The Lancaster, Pennsylvania newspaper has an interesting article in today's paper about the increasing "plain presence" within the ranks of local volunteer firefighting squads and EMS/EMT crews. The Amish and Mennonites in Lancaster County have a long history of involvement in these crucial front-line emergency positions. I always marvel at people in these positions - Amish or non - because the focus and clear-thinking needed in such jobs has to be overwhelmingly intense. We are so lucky and blessed that there are people who are able to fill these positions! In my experience, Plain participation in emergency response varies greatly from place to place (like so many other attributes about the Amish). Some shy away from it because of the spotlight that sometimes accompany it, others just believe what happens to people is God's will and that being involved may thwart that (not defending the logic, just explaining). In Lancaster County, Amish involvement in emergency response is strong. Click here to read more.
Amy Pleas
Interesting.
Joyce
When we had our chimney fire(s) the volunteer fire department in our township was entirely German Baptists.
Bernadette
Very interesting. I work at a vocational school in the Public Safety department where the Fire and EMT programs are taught.
Zelka Cani
I found the article fascinating, thank you for sharing. I find it interesting that Old Order Amish would even think of going to train as firefighters or ambulance officers, I think it is great that they have the desire to serve the community in this way. I would assume that these Old Order Amish perhaps have not even been baptised as yet which gives them the freedom to participate in such events? Once baptised and married would they have to give up their roles as firefighters, ambulance officers etc...?
Becky Martin
This is so interesting. I would have never guessed that any Amish person would be an EMT. I really appreciate all of the interesting info you provide, Kevin.