Does the Bruderhof proselytize? - Ask Laura

[@jannierikam.-h.9514]

Dear Laura, I’m not Christian, I’m just...me...trying to do my best in the world and be kind to others. But I totally enjoy your videoes😃, simply because you’re you and the way you are. Open, funny, smiling and laughing. I think no matter what religion - you come a long way with that. That’s my religion😉. Thanks for the videos, all the best to you😃💐

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thanks so much!! All the very best to you.

[@chriswolf3026]

My family and I live in a communal house, with another family we are close with. It's perfect because when they are at work, I watch the children. There's so many times where we are able to help each other out and keep each other company.

[@simondavey7787]

Thank you Laura. How do non-essential expenses get dealt with in the Bruderhof? In this video you make reference to sharing a glass of wine, so, if you fancied a glass of wine, how do you get it? Thank you for your genuinely informative and frank videos. You have literally been an inspiration to me.

[@stevehowes9598]

Thank you Laura for your videos. They have been a source of hope and encouragement for me for over a year. I’m looking forward to visiting ASAP

[@barbforbis1260]

You have answered the questions so beautifully. Thank you for sharing.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

So glad!

[@wayneveck6743]

I stayed in Darvel a couple of years ago and we always got up about 6 am and I was not finished visiting my Christian family until 10pm I was knackered when I left I sleeps for days afterwards I was ment to re visit a few times since !.....

[@joetrester3139]

Laura, living in community is a difficult task. I admire your desire to work things out. I know how hard that can be. Thank you for being authentic about the joys and pitfalls of community!

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thank you so much!

[@suzannepeck5610]

You have such a dear, sunny personality. Who wouldn’t be richer and happier to share common space with you and your darling boys!

[@hyunjungcho8040]

Greetings! I'm Priscilla from the small circle in Korea. I have been enjoying very much your channel. Thanks for your efforts! Happy new year!

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Hi Priscilla! So great to hear from you. You all are often in our thoughts. Please pass on greetings to everyone there.

[@Missfrankiecat]

Your joy and warmth are a great witness for Christian discipleship.

[@UniversalistSon9]

Bruderhof kinda reminds me of the Baha’i Faith. I used to live across from Portland, Vancouver Washington I miss it so much

[@patti4785]

Your the brightest little person I've listened to for a long time x

[@lindamcauley4728]

You and your faith is beautiful. I sincerely wish I could join.

[@indigosky9578]

Q: When you mention sharing a kitchen, do you have to work out what times each separate family get to cook, or do you cook together and take it in turns to clean up afterwards? Also, how does sharing bathrooms work..is that scheduled for each family too..for example bathing your toddler, or having a shower.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

We just sort of figure it all out and try not to annoy each other

[@cindylyssikatos3182]

A pleasure as always. Thanks for sharing. Happy 2021

[@Psyduck0307]

This was so interesting to watch, and I enjoy your videos immensely. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@jamesbland7259]

Me too.

[@tessataft6483]

I'd love to know the group norms on alcohol and how folks aquire it.

[@r.n.4765]

Hi Laura! I really enjoy your videos, especially ones that cover the topic of communal living. I have never lived in a community like yours, but I have lived in communal settings more than once in my life. And the one thing that helped me the most, was coming to terms that me being upset with the mess somebody else made has little to do with them, and is not really helpful to anyone. There are bigger issues out there than dishes, or whatever. I can just do the dishes, or remove them from the sink if they are in my way, without making a big deal out of it. This has made my last and the least voluntary (emergency) houseshare experience the best one yet. I didn't make a big deal out of little issues, and in turn, people were more willing to forgive my infractions, we tackled bigger issues as a team and everyone got to keep their dignity and sanity. Not sharing this as advise (I am sure you don't need it), more like a nod to what you already said yourself. Thank you for sharing your life with us, it is very interesting and inspirational.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thank you!

[@augustalavenderblue7353]

Does Bruderhof have any naming traditions? Do people tend to be more Biblical or old-school or are there babies with trendy names like 'Oaklynn' and 'Maddox'? :)

[@natl2042]

Do you go on vacation (how long)? Does it feel weird? Do you miss your community?

[@joannhernandez9884]

I really like the book. What a wonderful idea and so special! Laura, you do a great job when you answer questions. You make it very clear when you check the meaning of certain words so people do not misunderstand. I like that. Off the subject, I tried your parsnip leek soup and it was excellent!!!! 😊🥰

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

That is so great! Thanks!

[@carolynturnerclark9287]

Question about pets, is there a limit, a type that are/are not allowed, who pays for the pets care, food, litter? Do members have an allowance?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

I don't think there are any limits/restrictions except for the fact that since we live in apartment buildings you have to get along with the neighbors

[@carolynturnerclark9287]

@@LaurafromtheBruderhof, animals that the neighbors get along would be vital. Who pays for the animals food, medical bills?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

The community

[@smallbeginning2]

@@LaurafromtheBruderhof and I guess you'd have to find one for free? Because if one person gets a thousand dollar chihuahua them everyone gets a chihuahua?

[@spuriouseffect]

What happens when some people don't agree on faith. Anything from drinking wine to the types of technology used. Who makes the final decision on the rules? A governing panel? A vote by the people? How does that work? And how are major disputes handled? Like infidelity, or any other kind of bad behavior. Do you have to forgive those people, or are they kicked out, or are they moved to a different community? Thanks.

[@sarahmurphy5779]

Hi Laura! I love your channel. Not sure how I found it but I am so glad I did! I really enjoy your joyful and informative videos! Keep up the great work. Also, all because of you I discovered the plough magazine and am really enjoying the high quality reading! Can I ask, What do people who have professional backgrounds such as those who trained as doctors and nurses do if they join the bruderhoff later in life? Could they potentially work outside the bruderhoff or can they only work within the community? Secondly, could you consider doing a Q&A or discussion (maybe even virtual, given the times we live in!) with Bishop Robert Barron? It would be amazing to see the two of you discuss matters of faith and life together!!

[@CutieCar111]

I love the coffee table you have. I bet there is a great story behind it. I always look forward to watching your new videos. Thank you Laura 😊

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thank you so much! Yes Chris made the coffee table with the speaker when we were first married.

[@anncordis]

When lived in more tight knit Christian communities, game nights were a big deal and primary social activity. Are you guys big on game nights? What games do you like and do you play Dutch Blitz?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Never heard of Dutch Blitz. Sounds interesting. We play a lot of card games like 500 and currently we're really enjoying a sweet little fishing game that Branson go for Christmas. Very on-brand for our family.

[@anahills3836]

Dutch Blitz is a very fun card game! Try it!

[@anncordis]

@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thanks for the reply Laura. I really enjoy your videos. The reason I mention Dutch Blitz was because it has it origins in the German immigrant community and is popular in Amish/Mennonite communities. It made it's way into the Seventh'-Day Adventist communities, where I was raised, and I've found many friends from more conservative denominations who grew up with it. You should try it!

[@natl2042]

Did all of your siblings decide to live in Bruderhof communities as adults or did any of them leave to live independently?

[@hundo9314]

Glad to see you. Hope the New year has been good.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Same to you!

[@Panicked228]

How does the Bruderhof approach members wanting to go into the armed services? Are they encouraged/discouraged? Are members conscientious objectors?

[@natl2042]

How did you and your husband meet? How do kids in bruderhof communities usually meet their partners?

[@dariusrad8058]

You are good people, I wish your community merry Xmas and happy new year

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Same to you!

[@dariusrad8058]

@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thanks

[@natl2042]

How do you file taxes in the community? Do you file jointly?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thanks for asking these questions! Will try and answer in a video soon.

[@sue1263]

The community members are not paid, they own nothing no income no expenses so they would not be required to file taxes.

[@snowwhite2709]

What common area(s) in your home are shared, only kitchen, or other areas too?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

We share a kitchen as well as a coat room area (places to put jackets, footwear, outdoor equipment etc.) with 2 other families. Thanks for asking!

[@thomasdiviney9185]

I love listening to your vlog and find your thoughts very soothing, comfortable and enjoyable. For me, you are an uplifting spirit and help me fill my days with enduring thoughts. Thank you for your help, as you are a part of my need for keeping life simple. I do have some questions to ask but am unsure as to the best method to contact you. Could you please let me know. Thanks.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

If you email [e-mail] they could put you in touch with me.

[@wayneveck6743]

You can buy a Bruderhof book on Amazon

[@groundcrw847]

You really have all the answers don’t you? Yayyyyy Laura!!!

[@lorencaldwell868]

I absolutely love your videos! I am incredibly interested in language and accents. Your accent is unique and I would have never guessed you live in New York. Is it common that other people in the Bruderhof sound like you do?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Not sure where the accent comes from. Thanks for watching!

[@scintillationist]

Hi Laura! Happy New Year! I have two questions that I hope you might answer: - Are young people in the Bruderhof encouraged to/discouraged from pursuing post-secondary education outside the community? Are there Bruderhofs that run their own equivalents of colleges or universities? - There seems to be a sexual division of labour at the Bruderhof, eg. women doing the cooking and men engaging in tasks like carpentry. If a man wished to help out with cooking, or a woman wanted to work in the workshop, would they be discouraged from doing so? Take good care :)

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thanks for the questions Jen! I'll try and get to them in a future video. Happy New Year!

[@lisahagenhomeschoolingmom]

It really sounds wonderful

[@patfros5902]

Great questions and great answers Laura!

[@georgiaamanatides4207]

Laura is proselytizing in these videos although very subtlety. The Bruderhof do make good neighbors.

[@zappawench6048]

I find it really hard to imagine you having a bad day, Laura! Maybe you just don't laugh all day and people around wonder what's up with you?

[@LetsWatchTheSunset]

Since you've had a few neigbours, do you move apartments a lot?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

We've moved a couple times since were got married.

[@rosiesteve8835]

I'd love to know what are your views on alcohol as i know some Christians don't take it at all but I hear you mention wine there

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

I think it's fine in moderation

[@EmmieTuesday]

a beautiful book! is it available to purchase?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Unfortunately not it was just a small print run.

[@fayolaschonrock6713]

Could a german family join a Bruderhof community in the United States? I ask because the school system here in Germany doesn't allow this wonderful education, that I would love my (future) kids to get. Also my parents were wandering since the Bruderhof seems to be quite open to international exchange.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Yes absolutely. We actually have a community in Germany.

[@fayolaschonrock6713]

@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thank you for your answer. I hope you and your family have a nice day.

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

The Bruderhof high school where Chris teaches has a number of German exchange students. Have a beautiful day!

[@urbanfarmer29]

You mentioned in an older video that Carol King is your grandfather. Is John King your uncle? His wife Esther is my cousin😊

[@pizzanicretime]

Can you talk about aesthetics? I’ve noticed a lot of the interiors are beige. Do people in the community brighten their homes in any particular ways to show their personality? I don’t have much but I particularly like bright sunny mismatched colours

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

You know that's a good question because I like bright colors too and wish the houses had a bit more variation. I think the beige color was selected because it's neutral and goes with whatever and also to simplify things for the maintenance crew so they don't have to store hundreds of colors.

[@emzadia]

I notice everyone seems to wear a band on their right ring finger. What is the meaning of it?

[@simes653]

Susan, I think it's the Bruderhof community membership ring.

[@Mjl449]

I just want to say, you are so awesome! I think you’d be a really fun friend!

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Oh thank you!

[@lifeinnature1916]

I love your videos Laura❤️

[@salamanderxeyes]

What about music? Are you allowed to listen to "mundane music"?

[@billdale2828]

HI Laura, so ah er where is your little co host today? Stole the show from you last time, so the non compete clause kicked in? : ) Nice presentation as usual and thanks from Warwick NY

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thanks 😊

[@salliecinnamon]

I’m guilty of being clean, but not tidy in a kitchen. My shared space housemates would totally kick me out!😂

[@paulinatorell5273]

Hi Laura, Are you allowed to receive gifts? I sure would like to send your boys something. And both of you as well. God Bless 😇

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

You are so kind! Thank you!!

[@paulinatorell5273]

But can you? 🤣

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

@@paulinatorell5273 Yes! www.bruderhof.com/en/where-we-are/united-states/the-mount-community

[@diddl03]

💛

[@PlanetImo]

Really fascinating stuff. Thank you for sharing! Argh. Dirty frying pans!!

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Thanks for watching

[@yadell8018]

Can people of different races join your community. Same thing with gays are they allowed in your community ?

[@cherylsalinas1548]

I have to commend you for living in this manner. I could not do it as I am too much of an individual as far as colors, having things that I enjoy having around me etc. that’s not to say I’m not a Christian because I am and not to say I’m selfish because I run a ministry where we are always giving to people. I guess I see the community as people having to give up too much of their individualism and I don’t agree with that. It reminds me too much of a communistic society. I’m not in any way putting you down because I love your videos and learning about your life and you as a person. I just couldn’t do it. I respect you sincerely though. And believe you are a very sincere dedicated Christian. Blessings.

[@jfjdjdji723]

I think this way of living ~is~ their individuality. It's how they've chosen to set themselves apart. A reminder of who they are and what they believe. I've recently been faced with deciding how I will; look, dress, behave, etc. the way that I truly feel and want to portray to others. It's actually very freeing to just be me and no one else. Our belief in Jesus as our King is what's most beautifully important! 🤴🏾

[@johnvonlove2734]

Here is a good example of calling upon the Lord Jesus stating what you believe( Rom.10:14 ) : Lord Jesus Christ, I repent; I admit I'm a sinner and I am truly sorry. I do not trust in my own works to go to heaven because I realize, being a sinner, I cannot offer the perfect blood sacrifice that you require to pay for sin. Instead, I now fully trust, believing in my heart, that your finished work on the cross, your perfect blood sacrifice, when you bled, suffered and died, in my place, paid for my sins in full, past, present and future. And I believe that you rose from the dead and that you are God Almighty, God the Son, alive for evermore !!! And so I fully trust that you will forgive me now by cleansing me from all sin in your precious blood, which purifies my soul. Thank you Lord Jesus for loving me so much, for forgiving me, saving me from hell and giving me everlasting life and sealing me with the Holy Spirit dwelling within me forever !!! Ephes.1:13, 4:30, Heb.10,12-14,38,39

[@swampophelia2098]

People wanting to know what happens to the kids who don’t stay read afterhof on fb, it certainly makes the Misty eyed wake up

[@rev.carlosparada4353]

Live in community is not the heaven, but a way to heaven. I thing so. 🙄

[@sue1263]

Can you wear contact lenses if you don’t like glasses?

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

For sure

[@kutter4316]

What do kids learn about sexuality and their bodies? Can girls use Tampons or mentrual cups? What ist dating as a teen like? Hope these are not insulting to you and wish you all the best!

[@lauraharris3577]

It doesn't seem like Chris would have to remind you to keep a sense of humor!

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

🤣

[@ullishw8098]

If you would have decided for a life outside the bruderhof you could have become a model :)

[@michaelgibbs3147]

You just can’t keep the same neighbors Laura, what is your bad habit? 😂

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Not telling

[@CheryPet93]

Would the Bruderhof support a woman and let her be part of the community if she either once had an abortion or is choosing to have one? (I totally understand the belif of a fetus being alreaddy a human being created by god and therefor deserves to live- I feel that way too - but: the expecting woman is a human being too and is surely not doing this thoughtless. I think there are many „good“ reasons for chosing this option, if the child for example would anyway just have a painful live of just a few days, if the pregnancy happend trough a rape or if simply the woman is not mentally capable to overcome a preagnancy without great harm (e.g. having suicidal thoughts, that could mean in the worst case having not just a dead fetus but also another dead person). I do not say that one can anyway choose to keep that baby, which I would love to hear, but I strongly think that this should be a personal decicion.)

[@LaurafromtheBruderhof]

Anyone is welcome to be part of the community. This is a very difficult topic and doesn't lend itself to easy answers. You may like to read about the experiences of one of the couples in our community who had a baby they knew months in advance would not survive: www.bruderhof.com/en/voices-blog/life-in-community/a-lifetime-in-one-day

[@jfjdjdji723]

I'm so sorry if this happened to you or anyone you know. Losing a baby in any way is so saddening. Lord, please give them strength.

[@groundcrw847]

Anyone that can’t see through all this sarcasm is just blind to reality. Trust me, this is the opposite of what God has in mind for this world.