A unique traveling exhibit exploring the rich and often misunderstood history of the Anabaptist movement is currently set up in Altona, offering visitors a deep and interactive dive into the origins of groups like the Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites.
Through artifacts, recreated historical displays, and powerful storytelling, 500 Years of Discipleship: From the Anabaptist to Us traces the journey of early Anabaptist believers from their radical beginnings in 16th-century Europe to their global presence today.
Jonathan Krause and Andreas Harder, members of the Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren Church in Altona, are part of the local organizing team bringing the exhibit to town. The display was originally designed in Germany as a commemoration of the 500-year anniversary of the Anabaptist movement—marking the first adult baptism of faith in 1525.
“Our churches here are connected to the German churches that developed this exhibit,” explains Krause. “We were given permission to recreate it for our region, and now eight churches from Southern Manitoba have come together to make it accessible here.”
The result is a detailed and immersive showcase featuring panels in both English and German, original 3D-printed replicas of historical artifacts, and stories of faith, courage, and persecution.
“The first baptism of faith, rejecting infant baptism, was a bold stand that cost many their lives,” says Harder. “But these early believers felt strongly about returning to a life modeled after Jesus’ teachings. That conviction spread through Europe, despite much persecution.”
The exhibit is arranged in a series of themed rooms that walk visitors through different eras of Christian history—from the early days of the Reformation and Renaissance, through the martyrdom of early Anabaptists, and into the modern era. It explores how Anabaptist communities were often forced to scatter and regroup due to persecution, yet maintained a focus on peace, scripture, and community living.
One display highlights a decision made by Anabaptist leader Conrad Grebel, who refused to baptize his infant daughter in 1525.
“This was a key turning point,” says Krause. “They believed that baptism should be a conscious decision made by an adult, not a tradition imposed on babies.”
Another section features a traditional farmhouse scene, representing the clandestine Bible study gatherings that were crucial in preserving Anabaptist teachings. Visitors can also learn how the Bible was once so rare that towns might only have a single hidden copy, read in secret by candlelight.
A portion of the exhibit is devoted to the suffering and martyrdom faced by early Anabaptists.
“We take our freedom of faith for granted,” says Krause. “But these people risked—and often gave up—everything to follow what they believed was God’s truth.”
“This exhibit isn’t just for Mennonites,” notes Harder. “It’s for anyone curious about why there are so many churches in Southern Manitoba or interested in learning more about religious history. It’s for people who appreciate the sacrifices others made for faith and truth.”
The exhibit will be available to tour in English at EEMBC in Altona (39 6th St. NE) until April 21.
It then moves to the EMBC in Reinfeld, where the German version will be displayed from April 26 to May 7 followed by the English version from May 8-11. It will also be available at GMBC in Schanzenfeld later this spring.
Admission is free, and tours run Sunday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with alternative hours available upon request.
To book a tour or learn more, visit onfireforchrist.ca, call 204-325-7277, or email altona@onfireforchrist.ca.
