Mennonites have a strong sense of community. In the past, Mennonite “community” probably had more of an ethnic or family feel (German, Dutch, Russian). Today, Mennonites in North America and around the world come from many different racial/ethnic groups, so the idea of community tends to be shaped around local congregations and contexts. Mennonite congregations strive to make all feel welcome and a part of the group. A church community often offers love and support in tangible ways, especially during times of crisis, through mutual aid and by providing food, transportation, babysitting and other types of assistance. On a broader scale, Mennonites often feel called to serve God by volunteering and supporting ministries that help others at home and abroad.

Food plays an important part in Mennonite celebrations. In the past, Mennonite cooking had a decidedly German or Russian flavor, with many North American Mennonites being of German, Swiss or Dutch descent. Today, the Mennonite church continues to grow and includes people of many racial/ethnic backgrounds. A Mennonite potluck may now include food from many cultures and countries. Mennonite women used to wear coverings or prayer veils on their heads all the time and dressed plainly, wearing conservative clothing and no make-up or jewelry. Men also dressed plainly, and ministers often wore a plain coat and collarless shirt. Today only the most conservative Mennonites do this; most Mennonites look like anyone else you meet on the street. Traditionally, the Mennonite church is best known for its four-part a cappella singing.

As with traditional foods, however, music has become more varied and reflects the growing diversity among Mennonites. Mennonites participate in the same leisure time activities as other North Americans. Some Mennonites may choose not to attend movies or have television in their homes, and some may abstain from smoking, drinking, dancing and gambling. Mennonite/Anabaptist doctrine holds allegiance to God above nationalism. This position influences Mennonite engagement with governmental and politics. Traditionally, Mennonites did not vote or participate in political processes. This changed throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, which saw greater involvement among Mennonites. Today, voting is widely accepted among contemporary Mennonites. Many view it as a matter of deep personal discernment, and many consider the way that national policies impact people who are the most vulnerable.