Among the Amish, Rumspringa simply refers to adolescence. During the period known as Rumspringa, beginning at about age 16, Amish youth are no longer under the total control of their parents on weekends and, because they are not baptized, they are not yet under the authority of the church. During this time, many Amish youth adhere to traditional Amish behavior. Others experiment with “worldly” activities like buying a car, going to movies, or wearing non-Amish clothes. Contrary in the media. Rumspringa-age youth typically live at home until after joining the church and then getting married and moving into their own homes.
During Rumspringa, Amish youth enter a time of greater social activity. Traditional youth activities include volleyball, swimming, ice skating, picnics, hiking, and large outdoor “supper” parties. The most typical gatherings are “singings.” Groups meet in a home and sing German hymns and English gospel songs for several hours and then enjoy a time of conversation and food.
One of the purposes of Rumspringa is to find a mate. Amish begin dating during this period, and most eventually find a “special friend”. Amish youth dating activities vary by community.
Amish youth may be discreet about their dating. Dating typically begins when a young man offers a young lady a ride home after the Sunday night singing.
During this time, couples may exchange letters and spend weekends together with the
intent of marriage. However, before any plans can be made, the parents must give their blessing. The young man eventually approaches the deacon to state his intent to marry the woman he has chosen.
Rumspringa ends with baptism into the church.
Additional Source: AmishAmerica.com
FAQs
Among the Amish, Rumspringa simply refers to adolescence. During the period known as Rumspringa, beginning at about age 16, Amish youth are no longer under the total control of their parents on weekends and, because they are not baptized, they are not yet under the authority of the church.
What is the traditional Amish youth period of Rumspringa? ›
Rumspringa is an exploration period when the Amish youth find themselves and determine how they fit within their surrounding community. As with teenagers in every culture, they reach a point when they leave the routine of their parents and begin their own.
What happens during Rumspringa? ›
During Rumspringa, Amish teenagers have the chance to experience various aspects of the non-Amish world that were previously off-limits to them. This includes using modern technology, such as smartphones, computers, and the internet, as well as enjoying other conveniences like driving cars and watching movies.
How many Amish kids go back after Rumspringa? ›
Amish Rumspringa statistics show that most Amish teens don't go far from their family homes and that 85%-90% return.
What happens in Rumspringa stays in Rumspringa? ›
rumspringa, a rite of passage and period of growth in adolescence for some Amish youths, during which time they face fewer restrictions on their behaviour and are not subject to the Ordnung (German: “order”), the specific system of unwritten community norms that governs their sect.
Can Amish drink during Rumspringa? ›
Rumspringa Traditions
Alcohol consumption isn't prohibited in all Amish communities, and neither is it encouraged. It doesn't play a big role in Amish youth culture, either. However, it often becomes more of a feature during Rumspringa.
Where do Amish kids go for Rumspringa? ›
Rumspringa-age youth typically live at home until after joining the church and then getting married and moving into their own homes.
Do Amish use condoms? ›
All types of birth control, and also all forms of natural family planning such as calendar-based methods, are forbidden in Old-Order Amish communities.
What age do Amish get pregnant? ›
It unfolds as a canvas spread across the landscape of cultural, theological, and sociological dimensions, all interlaced into a beautiful depiction of Amish life. Let us summarize: Amish women typically start pregnancies in their early adulthood, generally around 22 years of age.
What happens if you don't return after Rumspringa? ›
If they choose to return to the Amish, they settle down and become baptized members of the Amish Church. If they choose to not return to their community, the story goes, they will be shunned.
Amish parents love their children just as any other parents.
Can Amish go back if they leave? ›
Wayward members can always return and be reinstated if they confess. People who leave the Amish but were never baptized are not excommunicated or shunned, because they never made baptismal vows. See Church Discipline for more information.
Can the Amish take their kids out of school? ›
They are exempt from state compulsory attendance beyond the eighth grade based on religious principles. Schooling concentrates on the basic reading, writing and math skills, along with vocational training and socialization in Amish history and values. Many Amish communities provide parochial schools for their children.
Are there black Amish? ›
Although Black Amish communities incorporate aspects of African-American traditions into their way of life, their culture remains firmly rooted in Amish values and customs. The blending of traditions enriches the overall Amish experience, showcasing the diversity within the Amish community.
At what age do Amish get married? ›
Dating among the Amish typically begins around age 16 with most Amish couples marrying between the ages of 20 and 22. To find a prospective date, the young adults socialize at functions such as frolics, church, or home visits. One of the most popular activities is the Sunday night singing.
What are the Amish rules for dating? ›
Amish courtship is somewhat similar to English courtship. Young couples may head out into town for dinner or simply hang out. Pre-marital relations are not permitted in Amish courtship. Either party can break off their courtship at any time.
How long does Rumspringa last for Amish? ›
For Amish youth, the Rumspringa normally begins at age 16 and ends when a youth chooses either to be baptized in the Amish church or to leave the community. For Wenger Mennonites, Rumspringa occurs mostly between ages of 17 and 21.
Can Amish return after leaving? ›
Wayward members can always return and be reinstated if they confess. People who leave the Amish but were never baptized are not excommunicated or shunned, because they never made baptismal vows. See Church Discipline for more information.
