LINDEN, AB
Thousands of Canadian Mennonites are really looking forward to ridding themselves of one of the foundational doctrines of their faith by voting in the upcoming federal election.
“I guess it’s that time again,” said Mr. Fehr of Linden, Alberta. “I really don’t feel right about it, but I guess it’s better than dancing.”
Centuries ago, Mennonites taught that non-participation in elections went along with nonresistant pacifism, but for most Mennonites, that’s been tossed by the wayside together with the prohibition against wearing socks with sandals.
“Hey, who says Mennonites never change?” said Mr. Fehr. “I mean, not only am I thinking of voting this year, but I’m thinking of voting for the NDP. Oba nay.”
Some Mennonites, however, are planning on maintaining this non-voting tradition.
“You know what I’m going to be doing on April 28?” said Mr. Klassen. “Drinking a cold one and watching the hockey game at the Smitty’s lounge.”
Several church elders were immediately called to Mr. Klassen’s house as his plan for April 28 seemed in equal violation of core Mennonite values as all those heathens going to the voting booth.
(photo credit: OSCE Parliamentary Assembly/CC)
