The Mennonites religious movement was first started during the "protestant reformation" in the "1520's" and was led by "Menno Simons" (Encarta). Originating in Switzerland it was not very long before they were "prosecuted" because they "refused to sanction war or to enroll in the military", because of their peaceful beliefs (Encarta). They fled to numerous parts of the world such as "the Rhinelands and the Netherlands, others to America (Pennsylvania), and still others to Eastern Europe." (Encarta)

As a Mennonite the main character of "Sailing to Danzig" explores his past through books and memories to cement his beliefs. Genealogical history accentuated by religious persecution an isolationist living can help explain one's religious and family values.

The Mennonites throughout their existence have had a tumultuous history. Because of their strong beliefs on various topics and their sect like behavior of seclusion

Religious prosecution and flight have influenced the ways of living of the Mennonites. Their past is very important to them religiously. Genealogy and history are thus very important to trace their roots but it also has a symbolic meaning. It is a method of comfort; it is a way to know that one will not be forgotten. But as Adam Wiebe ironically discovers a name or a few words does not make a man's life eternal.

In the Mennonite society the routes and places that their members have colonized seems to be important to both their genealogical and religious backgrounds. They seem to reinforce the faith in their religion by knowing that many people have died for their beliefs. This is shown by the "Martyrs Mirror" which is one of the "Mennonite's history books." (Martyrs Mirror) "The book contains over 1100 pages of accounts of early Christians and Anabaptist," which describe tales of persecution, killings and torture of the earlier Mennonites and Amish. (MM)

the Mennonites as well as other religious groups such as the Hutterites and the Amish have had to flee to other countries to seek refuge and peace.

Some common words found in the essay are:
Sailing Danzig, Canada Russia, Adam Wiebe, Von Harlingen, Radaune River, Russia Communists, Rudy Wiebe, Originating Switzerland, , Hutterites Amish, sailing danzig, main character, adam wiebe, story sailing danzig, story sailing, main character sailing, mennonites religious, lost forever, short story, one's religious, martyrs mirror, short story sailing, character sailing danzig, character sailing,
Approximate Word count = 964
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)