Mennonite Medicine

Explore how Mennonites practiced medical care from 1800 in Imperial Russia to 1950 in Manitoba. In rural colonies in Imperial Russia, they relied on community healers such as midwives and trajcht’moakas (bonesetters), drawing on treatments such as bloodletting and herbal remedies. Illness was understood as both a physical and spiritual trial, guided by prayer and gelassenheit—yieldedness to God’s will.

This exhibit examines responses to early epidemics, medical inspections during immigration, and the emergence of Mennonite practitioners and hospitals in Imperial Russia and Manitoba. It also highlights the experiences of those living with life-altering conditions, revealing a tradition of care rooted in faith, resilience, and mutual support.