The Beginnings of a Movement

A few years ago, a small group of college students who decided to start a Bible study. It was in the middle of a tumultuous time. Together with their teacher, they started reading over the words of Scripture. They were particularly captivated by the Gospels – by the words of Jesus, not only because his words seemed relevant for today, but also because his words seemed so different than their own church experience.

It was a time of civil unrest, leading to wars and political strife. Importantly, new technology was now ubiquitous that allowed information to be disseminated rapidly.  With this new spread of ideas, old institutions that once seemed safe places of refuge now seemed shaky and troubled. Wide-eyed with possibility, this bible study quickly attracted others.

What these earnest, idealistic students really wanted was a church where they could be authentic, whether they could live an active faith, and where they could hear messages in plain language that they could apply to their lives. They started having conversations with their pastor, and he acquiesced at first. But as the list of demands kept growing, at some point he and other leaders put their foot down. Instead of compromising or listening, leaders became resistant, even hostile.

These students weren’t from 2025. Nor were these students during the 1960s and 70s, although they might have fit right in. No, these students lived in Zurcich Switzerland in 1525. Gutenberg’s printing press allowed the quick exchange of ideas and information, similar today’s social media. Peasant Wars in the 1510s led to frustrations between a growing middle class and the wealthy elite.  And amid this tension, on the evening of January 21, 1525, the bible study decided to rebaptize each other as a symbol of a commitment to live a transformed life.

As we enter this new year, we are reminded that the Anabaptist story is not just about the past—it’s about the future. I too think that as was the case 500 years ago, the church is in need of reforming. Change is needed because we must continue the work of Christ in our communities and beyond. We are called to embody the hope of the gospel in a world that desperately needs it. Whether through acts of service, peacemaking efforts, or simply living as a faithful presence in our neighborhoods, we are called to carry forward the light that began burning in Zurich 500 years ago.

This anniversary is not merely a celebration but an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be Anabaptist today. How can we continue to prioritize community over individualism, peacemaking over division, and discipleship over complacency? As we honor our past, let us also look to the future. May this new year renew our commitment to the call of Christ and inspire us to live out our Anabaptist tradition in fresh and faithful ways.