Classic Anabaptist Story
The Schleitheim 500 Commemoration Edition
The Limmat River flowing through Old Town in Zürich, Switzerland with the twin towers of the Grossmünster
Overview
Commemorating the Schleitheim Confession and Tracing the Anabaptist Story Across Europe
In 1527, a small gathering of Anabaptist leaders met in the Swiss village of Schleitheim to articulate a confession of faith that would shape the identity of Anabaptist communities for centuries to come. Nearly five hundred years later, visitors from around the world will return to Schleitheim to commemorate this pivotal moment in Anabaptist history.
This special edition of the Classic Anabaptist Story tour begins with participation in the Schleitheim 500 commemorative events, not simply as observers, but as guests welcomed into the life of the community. Over the course of the weekend, travelers join local residents and international visitors for shared meals, including a traditional open-air Swiss barbecue, as well as an evening of music, storytelling, and cultural celebration. Designed as a gathering of people rather than a formal program, the experience offers a rare opportunity to connect across cultures, sit at the same table, and experience the spirit of Schleitheim in a meaningful way.
Following the commemoration, the journey continues across Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, tracing the story of Anabaptist beginnings, persecution, migration, and renewal, from Zurich and the Emmental Valley to the Alsace region and the Dutch homeland of Menno Simons.
For some travelers, this journey may hold an even more personal meaning. Many Mennonite and Anabaptist family names found in North America today trace their roots to the villages of northern Switzerland, including the region surrounding Schleitheim. Visiting these landscapes offers a unique opportunity to connect with the places where an enduring faith story first took shape.
Tour Expert: John Sharp
Countries Visited: Switzerland, France, Germany, Netherlands
Dates: July 3 - 16, 2027
Duration: 13 Nights, 14 Days
Activity Level: Moderately Active
Trip Highlights
Commemorate Schleitheim 500 - Participate in the 500th anniversary gathering in Schleitheim, Switzerland
Explore Zürich’s Origins - Walk the sites of the first Anabaptist baptisms in the birthplace of the Anabaptist movement
Discover Historic Regions - Visit key heritage locations in the Emmental, Alsace, and Kraichgau regions
Reflect in Sacred Spaces - Gather at early Anabaptist sites including the cave near Bäretswil
Follow the Menno Simons Story - Trace the movement’s renewal in the Netherlands with visits to Witmarsum and Pingjum
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