Hutterite in United States

Introduction / History

The Hutterites are a communal Anabaptist group with roots in the Radical Reformation of the 16th century in Europe. Their history is marked by migration due to religious persecution, first moving through Moravia, Slovakia, and Germany, then to North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

In the United States, they primarily settled in the northern Great Plains, including states like South Dakota, Montana, and Minnesota. Hutterites speak a dialect of German known as Hutterite German (or "Hutterisch"), which is used in daily life, alongside English for interaction with outsiders.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Hutterite life is communal and highly structured, with families living together in colonies that operate almost as self-sufficient villages. They share property, work collectively in agriculture and manufacturing, and make decisions through community councils. Education is provided within the colony, and technology is selectively adopted to support communal living. Social life revolves around family, church, and colony activities, with a strong emphasis on cooperation, humility, and mutual support. Their lives are largely insulated from mainstream culture, preserving a lifestyle that emphasizes simplicity and obedience to communal rules.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Hutterites are Anabaptist Christians who place central importance on the teachings of Jesus, adult baptism, and the authority of the Bible. They believe in living a life of discipleship through community, nonviolence, and service. Worship is communal, and they practice mutual aid, sharing resources and responsibilities as an expression of their faith. The Hutterite faith emphasizes separation from the world while fostering strong internal accountability and spiritual growth within the colony.

What Are Their Needs?

Practically, Hutterite colonies benefit from resources that support education, agriculture, and sustainable living while respecting their communal lifestyle. Opportunities for dialogue and ministry that honor their culture without imposing outside norms are highly needed.

Prayer Points

Pray for Hutterite communities to continue growing in their understanding and love for Christ within their communal lifestyle.
Pray for spiritual protection, unity, and wisdom as they navigate the pressures of living in isolation from mainstream culture.
Pray for the younger generation in Hutterite colonies to embrace faith in Christ and develop leadership for future generations.
Pray that the Hutterite people would wholeheartedly embrace the Great Commission and impact the world around them for God's glory.
Pray for the faithful translation of the complete Bible in the Hutterisch language.
Pray for the development and distribution of more discipleship and outreach materials in the Hutterisch language, as well.

Text Source:   Joshua Project