A small
Christian denomination founded by Menno Simons, a former
priest, in
Holland in the 1550s. They were
persecuted in various countries, but found a safe place in Germantown, near
Philadelphia, on land provided by
William Penn. They do not believe in
baptising infants,
original sin, taking public oaths, fighting in
wars, or taking part in secret groups. They celebrate The Lord's Supper as they call it twice a year. They also practice
foot-washing. They are particulary noted for their charitable work and especially for a worldwide relief organization. Members of the denomination are called
Mennonites.