As long as there's no entrenched paedophilia that's being covered up, no incest, there's no rich God-like people getting rich at the top and if you're not hurting anyone then you deserve to live in peace and practice religion however you like. Everything and anyone should be criticised and questioned. If there's anything you're hiding then things aren't right and need light shon upon them in every nook and cranny.
By critisicing and questioning everything you are making your heart so skeptical of the world. If you aren't open to the good and constantly draw bad conclusions before seeing for yourself then how can anything be good to you?
@@loulou1356 Hey Lou, you sound like a religious zealot. What did I say ? What did I say ?? I said if they are free of that shit then they are free to carry on. If there's pedo's, incest and money makers (just like in EVERY OTHER RELIGION) then it should be questioned, criticised and critiqued.
Lou Masterman curiosity is natural, questioning everything means you’re analytically thinking. If you don’t question and blindly follow for the sake of “positivity” it’s not helping you grow and possibly turning a blind eye to the many that could be suffering. Considering how many communes and communities similar to this have been found to be abusive, manipulative or straight up a cult, you can’t help yourself in wondering what is going on in this community. I’m sure the original poster didn’t mean ill will, just cautious and probably hopeful that this group isn’t like the others.
I grew up in a similar environment in Germany but my upbringing was overshadowed by physical and sexual abuse. I made the decision to give my live to Jesus when I was 23. he is my saviour and sustainer and he is the healer. I wish I could have had the opportunity to grew up like you but I am broken. Jesus saved me but I feel unable to attend any gatherings from the bruderhof.. pray for me
Has too be the best Christian group i have seen yet ...would love to go and see and meet all you guys ...love your videos Laura ..feel blessed just watching ..take care and best wishes from N.Ireland
This is a very telling statement... "It was a puzzle to me why everyone didn't share money and take care of each other." Your story highlights not just the social benefits of being raised in a proper communal environment...but also prompts the inevitable question as to WHY the rest of the world continues to operate minus community. I knew long ago, before I ran across the Bruderhof, that anyone raised in a proper communal environment would eventually zero in on the stark contrasts between 'community starved' American society versus the 'community rich' Bruderhof. So thanks Laura!...you've substantiated yet another one of my suppositions about intended community... People raised properly from childhood (with a wealth of COMMUNITY) have a uniquely better perspective from which to analyze our socially impoverished (CORPORATE-RUN) society. TRUISM #746: 'The lair of the wicked is anonymity, but the refuge of the righteous is COMMUNITY.' Adults raised properly in the Bruderhof Communities must marvel at those on the outside with no conception of what they're missing. I'm just one of the few exceptions that proves the rule. I get it. It wasn't easy...but I eventually figured it out. Most folks raised in such environs never understand what's missing unless they visit a Bruderhof community firsthand. Thanks for yet more validation Laura.
@@danacaro-herman3530 Did she ever say she was considering changing her beliefs? No, she just said that she doesn’t believe. Therefore you don’t need to tell her that she should “start believing soon”. There’s nothing wrong with not believing.
if it makes your younger self feel better, I wore skirts to school almost all the time growing up and i wasnt from a community that required it. I just love it, its beautiful!
Wow Laura, i love the scenes of The Mount. I spent 4 years there in the Redemptorists in the 1980s. A wonderful place, im so glad the Bruderhoff are there now. During those years I visited Rifton several times. Good memories
I went to New Paltz High School high school also. Later I went to New Paltz College for speech therapy and had a young woman from Bruderhof in my class. She appeared to have what I thought was a German accent.
Woodcrest was my first Brudery experience! We came for huge family seminar, over the first weekend in May 2006. We expected to meet many "outside" families and learn your ways for child rearing. However, my family was the only family that came to attend the seminar!!!!!! It was a great weekend!!! The community had a beautiful May Day celebration. There were also sweet, teeny kittens in the barn! Woodcrest is lovely!
A few years ago, I went to SUNY New Paltz and a few of the Woodcrest Bruderhofs were a part of a Christian club that I was in. They invited us to see the community and it was an interesting experience! We had fun cooking with the ladies in the kitchen!
Your story is a beautiful testimony of God's work in you. Thank you for sharing so openly. You are being used by our Heavenly Father to spread His Word through loving your neighbors who are nothing like you. You have a gift of hospitality that comes through clearly even on youtube. Keep shining Jesus!!
I am 26 and I was born in Wales and moved to England when I was 19, although I always dreamt of running away to America as a child. I've always wondered why we don't all share and I love that school and home life has fluidity and consistency in your community. You are such a positive person and your community sounds wholesome and lovely.
@@dude988 I've really become interested since I posted this comment a month ago and you are right there happens to be one very close to me, I intend to spend some time volunteering there when it is considered safe for them to have visitors again!
@@cjlooklin1914 you don't have to join, you could visit and just volunteer, from what i have read it's usually hands on work like helping to build new things etc but I know that isn't for everyone.
Wow Laura, I just found out about Bruderhof Community and I am very impressed. I am Christian and agree with everything you have said. I am in Florida and I am considering visiting the community. God bless you and your family
You are so fortunate to have had such a wonderful childhood and I love that you realize it and are now paying back through your good works and by sharing your life through these videos. If the world could be like your community it would be a wonderful thing.
This is in no way a criticism, a sincere question, do you pay it forward to those who are less fortunate than yourself? Or like so many religions, only to people who share your faith, or as a means to bring them to your faith? Also, I wonder would you accept an older person who no longer has much to offer, but shares your beliefs.
What a delight and privilege it is for you to share these videos and your life with us! So far from my world and life, but it’s so beautiful and pure and you are indeed a blessing! You relight the faith in humanity, your using this platform beautifully ❤️ God bless you and your community xx
While my upbringing wasn't religious, I appreciate the community aspect so much as someone who grew up in a small, closely knit community. It really does take a village to raise a family.
Laura - I try to watch you videos every week. Your honesty, forthrightness, transparency, and authenticity are so a 'breath for fresh air'! Thank you for helping me to better understand the challenges and successes of growing up in a Bruderhof Community! Keep up the great videos!
Hi Laura - thank you for sharing your experiences, I am genuinely happy for you, seems like you truly love your environment, there is no doubt there is a strong link between a happy childhood and contentment later on in life, I have watched with curiosity many Bruderhof videos to try and gain an understanding of community life (I have never lived on the Bruderhof), my family is strongly associated to your Bruderhof (Great Grandad was Eberhard Arnold ) I grew up many stories from my dad about the adventures he had as a young child in Paraguay, the early days - I will have to visit later on this year 😊
I love the way you live ❤ It is a blessing when you have someone to live for.. As the british girl (from documentary about Bruderhof) said.. In city You are alone in a huge crowd..
I think you are doing a great service to Jesus by making these videos. These videos expose your community to countless people who would never have heard about your community.
I feel if you were in my class you would be the kind of person I would choose to be friends with. A good person no drama, the kind of people I look for .
I was just wondering where you were born and my jaw dropped when you said CT! I live here now and I had no idea there is a Bruderhof community in the state. SO COOL!
My mom went to law school while I was growing up. Single parent home. I have sat in a few classes when I had no babysitter. I got an honorary law degree the year I finished 8th grade. So I got the honorary law degree before starting high school, lol.
During our solitary thanksgiving dinner in COVID social isolation in our Goshen home, it was memories of the Thanksgiving that my husband and I shared with Laura, Doreen, Seth and T.J. to which our conversation turned. I bumped into T.J. Last November at the Society of Biblical Literature meetings. I am so very happy to stumble upon Laura in UA-cam.
Hi Jo-Ann, so good to hear from you! Yes, I remember that lovely Thanksgiving dinner at your house. I have so many good memories of that time! Hope you staying well and healthy, Laura
I love learning about this. I do wish my kids didn't have to feel so much pressure all the time... Especially on image. The world is amazing.. So many people can do what they wish to do. I do hope more people choose to be kind to others. Thank for sharing. X from new Zealand
Best video yet Laura really enjoyed listening to your honesty and real life experiences and how you dealt with them and made it thru to other side 😎👍😎👍😎
Wow 7 siblings! Are all the Bruderhof families large? I am glad you got to go to the ordinary secondary school, so were able to meet people outside the community too.
Great respect to you and your community Laura, I am off a different faith but my beliefs and raising of children concur a lot with your principles. So true your statement about not feeling guilty for your upbringing. No one should ever have to apologize for who they are!
Oh my goodness, I had to take a second look. In your brief showing of the Birthday Picture, the man sitting next to you by your left arm is a spitting image of my ex son-in-law, like they could be twins. He was raised Amish, never "joined Church", which is how he met my daughter. In the video I just watched b4 this one, you said Amish are like "our spiritual second cousins", the picture seems to show that.
It must also feel peaceful for the parents to never worry about debt. This is a major source of anxiety and contention in so many homes. Bless you ,sweetie.
I’m not religious, but I still enjoy your videos 😁 I’m also the third child out of eight children, I have two older sisters, one younger sister and four younger brothers.
Hi from a new subscriber, I found your channel today and have been binge watching, I absolutely love everything you say and the way you present yourself and your community.. thank you for sharing.. I have many questions that ill ask in time. Thanks again, from Australia. 💝🙏
You have a fascinating accent. Looking through these videos i’ve been wondering if you were irish or super canadian; you pronounce a lot of vowels in an irish way. Like the i in life and the o in over. Also, your Rs are very forward in your mouth and it sounds very nice.
I noticed the same thing. Suppose it’s to do with being in a very enclosed community her whole life. I expect many of her ancestors were from those countries.
My sister and her family are moving to a Bruderhof community for a year, and possibly becoming members after that so I'm doing a little research. I have to admit I was trying to find something wrong with the Bruderhof but I failed. It seems like a simple life free from distraction.
I have yet another question! From the outside, you guys all appear to be perfect humans. Now of course that isn’t true, but it still looks that way to us! ;) I have always been naturally spirited, outspoken and feisty. My mouth has always gotten me into trouble and it’s something I dislike about myself and wish to gain control over. However, I have a true love for the Lord and a good, caring heart. How does your community handle outspoken members? Would there be help and council available to someone like me who truly desires to be kind and calm but struggles with patience? Thanks again for your videos!
Personally i find your way if lifestyle very biblical. I would want to live in such a God fearing community with the love of brotherhood in Christ!! 👍👍
Dear Laura: You are lucky and fortunate to have a beautiful childhood free of any distruction. I knew I never belong where I am when I watched a move called "The Beach" I knew I wanted to be in a community that has same mission and live with like minded people. I never felt connected to people or the world in a deeper level even with my famlies. I hope some day I will find my tribe and live in fulfilling way. Bruderhof way of living is awesome. To extreme for me coz I am free Spirited person. I definitely will be happy if I can raise my chilld way. Please upload more videos how you spent you childhood.
Would you consider adopting or fostering a child that wasn’t raised in a bruderhof environment? You seem to have a beautiful giving heart that would benefit a child that comes from a less fortunate environment? Ps greetings from Switzerland ( we have a “bruderverein” just down the road from me. Many of the women work off site as it is not so much a “Hof” but a community within a community. So I recognize one woman working as a clerk in the local grocery store, and another young lady I think is working in social services. It is easy to recognize the women, and girls as they have their hair tied back and wear long denim skirts most of the year( also very practical since it gets so cold here in fall, winter and spring. The Swiss have always offered social work in place of military, as an option for men.this also includes the fire department. ( my town the fire services are voluntary. )
Hi Laura, you're a very sweet wholesome grounded young woman and I commend you and your parents and environment for that!! And of course Jesus the most!!! Love Dana🙏🙏🙏
I was a pastor and converted to Judaism. I feel very close when you say thriving put in practice the teachings of Jesus (the guy I call Rav Yeschua ben Yossef ve Miryam). I think there is no way to believe wrong if you consciously do right. G'd bless you Laura, you and your beloved ones. And thank you for your open deep thoughts, the love you spread and the laughters you can't stop.
I think children growing up in Bruderhof communities are incredibly privileged, especially given the social problems in wider society. That said, I'm sure there are community issues within intentional communities. Have you spent time living off the community? When you were at external high school, how did you process the materialism and one-upmanship of everyday adolescent life?
Thank you for this great insight into your childhood. It answered a lot of questions I had. After watching your first few vlogs it made me wonder how a bruderhof nation would work.
Hi Laura, I very enjoyed hearing about your childhood. It is really beautiful to have such a lovely upbringing. I wonder though if it didn't make you more vulnerable when going to school outside the community? How do you prepare for that? Thanks again! Pat Fros
@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thanks Laura, I agree with you that High School has tough moments but what I was wondering if your upbringing in a 'protected' environment like the community prepares you enough (as far as possible) for going to High School out of the community. I ask this because the times that I visit the community it seems all so 'safe' compared to the outside world with all the violence etc. But may be I am totally wrong?
While I don't believe in Communism, I am always interested in groups that practice such an idea voluntarily. I spent an evening with a communal group with a shorter history and found that they didn't truly share equally, there being some that held title while others didn't. I am curious how property ownership is managed and the exact legal framework that is used in these types of communities. How are they incorporated and what type of legal and tax implications are involved? Are there contracts or other legal documents that have to be signed between the colony and individuals that join, to prevent legal disputes?
Thanks! While not technical, it does offer a bit more clarity. I have a ton more questions, but will check out the site to see if I can find the answers before asking ones that have been answered there already.
@@foresthobo1166 Anarchism hasn't ever lasted long without being replaced by some form of dictator or warlord. I think the only way to have a functional anarchist system, would be to have a strong system of laws that everyone agreed on and enforced. Even then, there is usually some form of leadership, at least at the family or tribal level.
I‘ve discovered your videos just recently and, although we live a crazy normal Waldorf family life on a different continent, I am very intrigued about the way you live and speak about your life. Skirt or no skirt, there‘s something really special in your face which my heart just goes out to. Sending you lots of love all the way from Germany!
Hey Laura, interesting videos! You talked about going to a school not connected to the Bruderhof and one connected to the Bruderhof. How different are the curriculums, science in particular, of the schools? What are your views on teaching the Theory of Evolution to students of the Bruderhof community? I myself made the experience, that active Christian classmates of mine did not visit said lessons because it was against their beliefs. How does the Bruderhof cope with that, given that your beliefs are presumably creationist too?
Im from Hungary... We got in hungary similar religion like ladies dressing similar and have lots of children, no tv..... My daddy's sister got 12 children.... They not really going to high school..
I envy you in many, many ways. The simplicity of your lifestyle, the purity and the innocense of it. I am glad it is not paired with naivete and ignorance of the world. In my country your brand of Anababtist Christianity, the Bretheren Congregation did many good things centuries ago, such as promoting literacy and preaching equality between the social classes. But they also did harmful things, such as trying to root out Pre-Christian oral folklore, something my nation is known for keeping against all odds and is justifiably proud of. I don't want to say anything critical or derogatory about the Bible or the people who find solace in it and choose to live by its commandments, as long as they don't force their beliefs on others. That being said, I wish all the best to you and your family, my Sister In Christ.
Thank you Laura for making this channel and allowing us into your life. I subscribed immediately!! I found your channel after watching the BBC documentary about the Bruderhof and found the community to be amazing. I liked everyone in that video and appreciated their experiences. I wonder if the community opens its doors to outsiders to experience their way of life. I was touched by what some of the members said about finding peace in the community and their faith, and agreed with a lot of their insights about the world today. It's just amazing to me that this way of life is actually possible. You are not apart from the world, you are isolated from it, you are aware of it and chosen carefully how to find your place in it. I also appreciate your words at the end of the video where you discussed how instead of feeling guilt over a privileged childhood, you choose to pay it forward with your life. Beautiful, and it resonates with me as someone who has felt such unnecessary guilt that was not productive and did not benefit me or those around me. Thank you again!
I never heard of your community before I stumbled in a video a few days ago. I have basically renounced any organized religion ( I try to do what Jesus would do, that is my only “ religion”) because the people I see claiming to be Christians seem to be clueless about Jesus, which seems weird to me . I am glad the community decided to permit your vlog, it is truly inspiring and uplifting to know that there are people who really are Christians in the most profound sense of the word. It makes me feel hopeful . Blessings and warm wishes to you and your family and community ❣️
I know this is an older video but I just discovered your videos after recently moving to the mid Hudson valley and having to pass by the mount community plenty! I was wondering if those friends you made at new paltz HS were allowed to hang out at your house after school? Could you have them sleep over? Just curious! Love your gentleness it’s very welcoming
You should not feel guilty about having a good childhood a child does not get to choose who their parents are or where you would be raised there is nothing to be guilty about.
I'm kind of surprised how positive the comment section is. Most online Christians have strong feelings against communism. As a socialist I would say that bruderhof community is more extreme than what I would envision for an entire country but they are a wonderful and encouraging example of the benefits of commune living.
Hi Laura! Does anyone in the Bruderhof have careers outsiders of the community? E.g doctors or lawyers. How much can you pursue your own talents in the community?
Hi! We have people with professional degrees but they work within the community. And none of us have careers in the traditional sense. Our career, if you will, is living together and caring for one another.
@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thank you for explaining :) I've always been curious about the pros and cons of community life in that way. Thank you for your videos, they're fantastic.
For the critics ...replace the Christianity with a humanitarian ethos and you have just about the perfect commune. Western culture emphasises self over Society...these guys do the opposite.
I have watched several of your videos now. You are a delightful person.
Thank you so much 😊
As long as there's no entrenched paedophilia that's being covered up, no incest, there's no rich God-like people getting rich at the top and if you're not hurting anyone then you deserve to live in peace and practice religion however you like.
Everything and anyone should be criticised and questioned. If there's anything you're hiding then things aren't right and need light shon upon them in every nook and cranny.
By critisicing and questioning everything you are making your heart so skeptical of the world. If you aren't open to the good and constantly draw bad conclusions before seeing for yourself then how can anything be good to you?
@@loulou1356 Hey Lou, you sound like a religious zealot.
What did I say ? What did I say ??
I said if they are free of that shit then they are free to carry on.
If there's pedo's, incest and money makers (just like in EVERY OTHER RELIGION) then it should be questioned, criticised and critiqued.
@@loulou1356 He's alluding to the Duggars, I think
@@ShainaCilimberg he shouldn't make comparisons, that's not fair these people are different people.
Lou Masterman curiosity is natural, questioning everything means you’re analytically thinking. If you don’t question and blindly follow for the sake of “positivity” it’s not helping you grow and possibly turning a blind eye to the many that could be suffering. Considering how many communes and communities similar to this have been found to be abusive, manipulative or straight up a cult, you can’t help yourself in wondering what is going on in this community. I’m sure the original poster didn’t mean ill will, just cautious and probably hopeful that this group isn’t like the others.
Call me old fashioned and out of touch but I'm seeing a lot of positives here. Well done Laura.
I grew up in a similar environment in Germany but my upbringing was overshadowed by physical and sexual abuse. I made the decision to give my live to Jesus when I was 23. he is my saviour and sustainer and he is the healer. I wish I could have had the opportunity to grew up like you but I am broken. Jesus saved me but I feel unable to attend any gatherings from the bruderhof.. pray for me
I will pray for you
Praying for you!
Has too be the best Christian group i have seen yet ...would love to go and see and meet all you guys ...love your videos Laura ..feel blessed just watching ..take care and best wishes from N.Ireland
This is a very telling statement...
"It was a puzzle to me why everyone didn't share money and take care of each other."
Your story highlights not just the social benefits of being raised in a proper communal environment...but also prompts the inevitable question as to WHY the rest of the world continues to operate minus community.
I knew long ago, before I ran across the Bruderhof, that anyone raised in a proper communal environment would eventually zero in on the stark contrasts between 'community starved' American society versus the 'community rich' Bruderhof.
So thanks Laura!...you've substantiated yet another one of my suppositions about intended community...
People raised properly from childhood (with a wealth of COMMUNITY) have a uniquely better perspective from which to analyze our socially impoverished (CORPORATE-RUN) society.
TRUISM #746: 'The lair of the wicked is anonymity, but the refuge of the righteous is COMMUNITY.'
Adults raised properly in the Bruderhof Communities must marvel at those on the outside with no conception of what they're missing. I'm just one of the few exceptions that proves the rule.
I get it.
It wasn't easy...but I eventually figured it out. Most folks raised in such environs never understand what's missing unless they visit a Bruderhof community firsthand.
Thanks for yet more validation Laura.
I love watching (mentally) stable human beings. Gives me hope
:)
It's good to know that parents tell their children what is going on in the world at large.
Even though am not a believer, I love listening to you talk about your life growing up. Love and blessings from Ireland! 🇮🇪🇮🇪💕💕
@Ann Carroll. Well Ann it's never too late to start believing, and if I were you I'd start soon!!🙏
@@danacaro-herman3530 I am quite happy with my beliefs. I am happy for you and your beliefs. Blessings to all.
You've just thrown out 1,600 years of Irish culture, heritage and tradition.
Awesome Anne ❤❤😊 Love to you!
@@danacaro-herman3530 Did she ever say she was considering changing her beliefs? No, she just said that she doesn’t believe. Therefore you don’t need to tell her that she should “start believing soon”. There’s nothing wrong with not believing.
if it makes your younger self feel better, I wore skirts to school almost all the time growing up and i wasnt from a community that required it. I just love it, its beautiful!
Wow Laura, i love the scenes of The Mount. I spent 4 years there in the Redemptorists in the 1980s. A wonderful place, im so glad the Bruderhoff are there now. During those years I visited Rifton several times. Good memories
I went to New Paltz High School high school also. Later I went to New Paltz College for speech therapy and had a young woman from Bruderhof in my class. She appeared to have what I thought was a German accent.
Woodcrest was my first Brudery experience! We came for huge family seminar, over the first weekend in May 2006. We expected to meet many "outside" families and learn your ways for child rearing. However, my family was the only family that came to attend the seminar!!!!!! It was a great weekend!!! The community had a beautiful May Day celebration. There were also sweet, teeny kittens in the barn! Woodcrest is lovely!
A few years ago, I went to SUNY New Paltz and a few of the Woodcrest Bruderhofs were a part of a Christian club that I was in. They invited us to see the community and it was an interesting experience! We had fun cooking with the ladies in the kitchen!
Your story is a beautiful testimony of God's work in you. Thank you for sharing so openly. You are being used by our Heavenly Father to spread His Word through loving your neighbors who are nothing like you. You have a gift of hospitality that comes through clearly even on youtube. Keep shining Jesus!!
Very good childhood and current life of yours dear sister in Christ.
God bless you and your family.
I am 26 and I was born in Wales and moved to England when I was 19, although I always dreamt of running away to America as a child. I've always wondered why we don't all share and I love that school and home life has fluidity and consistency in your community. You are such a positive person and your community sounds wholesome and lovely.
There's at least one Bruderhof in the U.K., no need to fly to America ;)
@@dude988 I've really become interested since I posted this comment a month ago and you are right there happens to be one very close to me, I intend to spend some time volunteering there when it is considered safe for them to have visitors again!
@@loulou1356 That's great! I think I'm to addicted to technology to join a community like this but they seem lovely
@@cjlooklin1914 you don't have to join, you could visit and just volunteer, from what i have read it's usually hands on work like helping to build new things etc but I know that isn't for everyone.
Wow Laura, I just found out about Bruderhof Community and I am very impressed. I am Christian and agree with everything you have said. I am in Florida and I am considering visiting the community. God bless you and your family
You are so fortunate to have had such a wonderful childhood and I love that you realize it and are now paying back through your good works and by sharing your life through these videos. If the world could be like your community it would be a wonderful thing.
This is in no way a criticism, a sincere question, do you pay it forward to those who are less fortunate than yourself? Or like so many religions, only to people who share your faith, or as a means to bring them to your faith? Also, I wonder would you accept an older person who no longer has much to offer, but shares your beliefs.
Thank you for sharing about your culture! You seem like such a kind soul, I love your channel!
Thank you so much!
You're so refreshing to listen to as a young adult in these times! I love listening to your story and look forward to more videos!
What a delight and privilege it is for you to share these videos and your life with us! So far from my world and life, but it’s so beautiful and pure and you are indeed a blessing! You relight the faith in humanity, your using this platform beautifully ❤️ God bless you and your community xx
While my upbringing wasn't religious, I appreciate the community aspect so much as someone who grew up in a small, closely knit community. It really does take a village to raise a family.
Thanks for sharing Laura! :)
You seem so pure and genuine, quite rare these days! I wish you well, keep shining that beautiful light!
Beautiful.
Laura - I try to watch you videos every week. Your honesty, forthrightness, transparency, and authenticity are so a 'breath for fresh air'! Thank you for helping me to better understand the challenges and successes of growing up in a Bruderhof Community! Keep up the great videos!
This is so beautiful and so inspiring as I raise my 4 teen daughters.
Thanks Lisa!
Thank you for taking the time to share all this information! I've never heard about Bruderhof before stumbling on your channel.
Hi Laura - thank you for sharing your experiences, I am genuinely happy for you, seems like you truly love your environment, there is no doubt there is a strong link between a happy childhood and contentment later on in life, I have watched with curiosity many Bruderhof videos to try and gain an understanding of community life (I have never lived on the Bruderhof), my family is strongly associated to your Bruderhof (Great Grandad was Eberhard Arnold ) I grew up many stories from my dad about the adventures he had as a young child in Paraguay, the early days - I will have to visit later on this year 😊
Hi Matt! That's really interesting. I hope you visit. Do you live in the US?
Laura! It is so great to see you doing these videos
Thank you so much!!
I love the way you live ❤ It is a blessing when you have someone to live for.. As the british girl (from documentary about Bruderhof) said.. In city You are alone in a huge crowd..
I think you are doing a great service to Jesus by making these videos. These videos expose your community to countless people who would never have heard about your community.
Very uplifting
Such a wonderful video
I feel if you were in my class you would be the kind of person I would choose to be friends with. A good person no drama, the kind of people I look for .
I was just wondering where you were born and my jaw dropped when you said CT! I live here now and I had no idea there is a Bruderhof community in the state. SO COOL!
My mom went to law school while I was growing up. Single parent home. I have sat in a few classes when I had no babysitter. I got an honorary law degree the year I finished 8th grade. So I got the honorary law degree before starting high school, lol.
During our solitary thanksgiving dinner in COVID social isolation in our Goshen home, it was memories of the Thanksgiving that my husband and I shared with Laura, Doreen, Seth and T.J. to which our conversation turned. I bumped into T.J. Last November at the Society of Biblical Literature meetings. I am so very happy to stumble upon Laura in UA-cam.
Hi Jo-Ann, so good to hear from you! Yes, I remember that lovely Thanksgiving dinner at your house. I have so many good memories of that time! Hope you staying well and healthy, Laura
i’m also the third oldest and have 7 siblings !!! so cool, love your videos
Awesome! :)
I love learning about this. I do wish my kids didn't have to feel so much pressure all the time... Especially on image. The world is amazing.. So many people can do what they wish to do. I do hope more people choose to be kind to others. Thank for sharing. X from new Zealand
Best video yet Laura really enjoyed listening to your honesty and real life experiences and how you dealt with them and made it thru to other side 😎👍😎👍😎
Wow 7 siblings! Are all the Bruderhof families large? I am glad you got to go to the ordinary secondary school, so were able to meet people outside the community too.
Great respect to you and your community Laura, I am off a different faith but my beliefs and raising of children concur a lot with your principles. So true your statement about not feeling guilty for your upbringing. No one should ever have to apologize for who they are!
Oh my goodness, I had to take a second look. In your brief showing of the Birthday Picture, the man sitting next to you by your left arm is a spitting image of my ex son-in-law, like they could be twins. He was raised Amish, never "joined Church", which is how he met my daughter. In the video I just watched b4 this one, you said Amish are like "our spiritual second cousins", the picture seems to show that.
WISH THE WHOLE OF THE UK WOULD LIVE THE BETTER LIFE LIKE YOURS. 😊❤️
I live in St Pete and have friends at Bayboro House! Maybe you will visit someday!
awesome!
It must also feel peaceful for the parents to never worry about debt. This is a major source of anxiety and contention in so many homes. Bless you ,sweetie.
Thank you for sharing. Very nice to hear. I enjoy your posts :)
Have been watching hour channel. I love it.
Glad to hear it!
Great channel! I’m very interested and inspired.
Welcome aboard!
I’m not religious, but I still enjoy your videos 😁 I’m also the third child out of eight children, I have two older sisters, one younger sister and four younger brothers.
Hi from a new subscriber, I found your channel today and have been binge watching, I absolutely love everything you say and the way you present yourself and your community.. thank you for sharing.. I have many questions that ill ask in time. Thanks again, from Australia. 💝🙏
Thank you for subscribing! You are so kind.
You have a fascinating accent. Looking through these videos i’ve been wondering if you were irish or super canadian; you pronounce a lot of vowels in an irish way. Like the i in life and the o in over. Also, your Rs are very forward in your mouth and it sounds very nice.
I noticed the same thing. Suppose it’s to do with being in a very enclosed community her whole life. I expect many of her ancestors were from those countries.
I think it's the mid-Atlantic accent. It was more widespread in the 1950s than it is now. Older Hollywood films have some actors with it.
Interesting, I’m Irish and don’t hear any Irish intonations in her accent. Sounds more mid Atlantic to me as said above.
My sister and her family are moving to a Bruderhof community for a year, and possibly becoming members after that so I'm doing a little research. I have to admit I was trying to find something wrong with the Bruderhof but I failed. It seems like a simple life free from distraction.
Oh that's cool. Which community are they moving to?
@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Farmington PA. Not sure which one. They just spent the last few months there and they can hardly wait to go back.
I have yet another question! From the outside, you guys all appear to be perfect humans. Now of course that isn’t true, but it still looks that way to us! ;) I have always been naturally spirited, outspoken and feisty. My mouth has always gotten me into trouble and it’s something I dislike about myself and wish to gain control over. However, I have a true love for the Lord and a good, caring heart. How does your community handle outspoken members? Would there be help and council available to someone like me who truly desires to be kind and calm but struggles with patience? Thanks again for your videos!
I’m very glad your parents chose to followed Jesus always very important for families
They don't follow Jesus...they are just religious.
Personally i find your way if lifestyle very biblical. I would want to live in such a God fearing community with the love of brotherhood in Christ!! 👍👍
You should visit us or at least do a virtual visit :) www.bruderhof.com/en/visit-us
I find you adorable. You seem to be an angel! Thanks for your presentation.
I just discover your channel and as a french christian, it gaves me a lot of hope ! Be blessed you and your family Laura !
Dear Laura: You are lucky and fortunate to have a beautiful childhood free of any distruction. I knew I never belong where I am when I watched a move called "The Beach" I knew I wanted to be in a community that has same mission and live with like minded people. I never felt connected to people or the world in a deeper level even with my famlies. I hope some day I will find my tribe and live in fulfilling way.
Bruderhof way of living is awesome. To extreme for me coz I am free Spirited person.
I definitely will be happy if I can raise my chilld way.
Please upload more videos how you spent you childhood.
Would you consider adopting or fostering a child that wasn’t raised in a bruderhof environment? You seem to have a beautiful giving heart that would benefit a child that comes from a less fortunate environment? Ps greetings from Switzerland ( we have a “bruderverein” just down the road from me. Many of the women work off site as it is not so much a “Hof” but a community within a community. So I recognize one woman working as a clerk in the local grocery store, and another young lady I think is working in social services. It is easy to recognize the women, and girls as they have their hair tied back and wear long denim skirts most of the year( also very practical since it gets so cold here in fall, winter and spring. The Swiss have always offered social work in place of military, as an option for men.this also includes the fire department. ( my town the fire services are voluntary. )
Hi Laura, you're a very sweet wholesome grounded young woman and I commend you and your parents and environment for that!! And of course Jesus the most!!! Love Dana🙏🙏🙏
Thank you!
I was a pastor and converted to Judaism. I feel very close when you say thriving put in practice the teachings of Jesus (the guy I call Rav Yeschua ben Yossef ve Miryam). I think there is no way to believe wrong if you consciously do right. G'd bless you Laura, you and your beloved ones. And thank you for your open deep thoughts, the love you spread and the laughters you can't stop.
I think children growing up in Bruderhof communities are incredibly privileged, especially given the social problems in wider society. That said, I'm sure there are community issues within intentional communities. Have you spent time living off the community? When you were at external high school, how did you process the materialism and one-upmanship of everyday adolescent life?
i love your videos so interesting
You are so kind
I’ve been binge watching your videos and you are great at telling your story :) I’ve been very interested in learning more! I have now subscribed!
Thank you for subbing!
Thank you for this great insight into your childhood. It answered a lot of questions I had. After watching your first few vlogs it made me wonder how a bruderhof nation would work.
Really enjoyed your video! You point everything back to Jesus! ❤️
To be honest, your videos really changed my opinions on Anabaptism. God bless you! Please pray for me!
Yes I will! Thanks Dan and all the best
So adorable!
Hi Laura, I very enjoyed hearing about your childhood. It is really beautiful to have such a lovely upbringing. I wonder though if it didn't make you more vulnerable when going to school outside the community? How do you prepare for that?
Thanks again! Pat Fros
@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thanks Laura, I agree with you that High School has tough moments but what I was wondering if your upbringing in a 'protected' environment like the community prepares you enough (as far as possible) for going to High School out of the community. I ask this because the times that I visit the community it seems all so 'safe' compared to the outside world with all the violence etc. But may be I am totally wrong?
@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thanks Laura!
While I don't believe in Communism, I am always interested in groups that practice such an idea voluntarily. I spent an evening with a communal group with a shorter history and found that they didn't truly share equally, there being some that held title while others didn't. I am curious how property ownership is managed and the exact legal framework that is used in these types of communities. How are they incorporated and what type of legal and tax implications are involved? Are there contracts or other legal documents that have to be signed between the colony and individuals that join, to prevent legal disputes?
This might help answer your question: www.bruderhof.com/en/our-faith/foundations/life-in-community/community-of-goods
Thanks! While not technical, it does offer a bit more clarity. I have a ton more questions, but will check out the site to see if I can find the answers before asking ones that have been answered there already.
@@foresthobo1166 Anarchism hasn't ever lasted long without being replaced by some form of dictator or warlord. I think the only way to have a functional anarchist system, would be to have a strong system of laws that everyone agreed on and enforced. Even then, there is usually some form of leadership, at least at the family or tribal level.
I love this!! ❤️
I‘ve discovered your videos just recently and, although we live a crazy normal Waldorf family life on a different continent, I am very intrigued about the way you live and speak about your life. Skirt or no skirt, there‘s something really special in your face which my heart just goes out to. Sending you lots of love all the way from Germany!
Thank you!
I thought you didn’t had internet in the community 🤔 love your videos ♥️
Thanks!
I love your accent. Where is it from... doesn't seem like a NY accent.
I'm loving watching your videos! I'm curious if you speak any languages other than English. I feel like I hear a slight (almost Irish) accent :)
Wish I did! Not sure where the accent comes from.
I literally go to New Paltz for my tattoos and I knew nothing of a Bruderhof community that close by
So cool! New Paltz is such a fun little town and the area is just gorgeous
I wish I had a childhood like that.
This is wild because I live in New Paltz for 4 years and never knew y'all had your community nearby!
Hey Laura, interesting videos! You talked about going to a school not connected to the Bruderhof and one connected to the Bruderhof. How different are the curriculums, science in particular, of the schools? What are your views on teaching the Theory of Evolution to students of the Bruderhof community? I myself made the experience, that active Christian classmates of mine did not visit said lessons because it was against their beliefs. How does the Bruderhof cope with that, given that your beliefs are presumably creationist too?
Awesome testamony. 🥰
Hi wonderful life it's like it was when I was young back in the fifty's life was so much better wonderful
Inspiring perspective. If you don’t mind I’d like to borrow it.
Im from Hungary... We got in hungary similar religion like ladies dressing similar and have lots of children, no tv..... My daddy's sister got 12 children.... They not really going to high school..
I envy you in many, many ways. The simplicity of your lifestyle, the purity and the innocense of it. I am glad it is not paired with naivete and ignorance of the world. In my country your brand of Anababtist Christianity, the Bretheren Congregation did many good things centuries ago, such as promoting literacy and preaching equality between the social classes. But they also did harmful things, such as trying to root out Pre-Christian oral folklore, something my nation is known for keeping against all odds and is justifiably proud of. I don't want to say anything critical or derogatory about the Bible or the people who find solace in it and choose to live by its commandments, as long as they don't force their beliefs on others. That being said, I wish all the best to you and your family, my Sister In Christ.
Love getting to know you more through your videos. Would you ever write letters? I’d love to be pen pals and talk community life with you!
Thank you Laura for making this channel and allowing us into your life. I subscribed immediately!! I found your channel after watching the BBC documentary about the Bruderhof and found the community to be amazing. I liked everyone in that video and appreciated their experiences. I wonder if the community opens its doors to outsiders to experience their way of life. I was touched by what some of the members said about finding peace in the community and their faith, and agreed with a lot of their insights about the world today. It's just amazing to me that this way of life is actually possible. You are not apart from the world, you are isolated from it, you are aware of it and chosen carefully how to find your place in it.
I also appreciate your words at the end of the video where you discussed how instead of feeling guilt over a privileged childhood, you choose to pay it forward with your life. Beautiful, and it resonates with me as someone who has felt such unnecessary guilt that was not productive and did not benefit me or those around me.
Thank you again!
You are a treasure.
She looks like Erin Gilfoy.
I never heard of your community before I stumbled in a video a few days ago. I have basically renounced any organized religion ( I try to do what Jesus would do, that is my only “ religion”) because the people I see claiming to be Christians seem to be clueless about Jesus, which seems weird to me .
I am glad the community decided to permit your vlog, it is truly inspiring and uplifting to know that there are people who really are Christians in the most profound sense of the word. It makes me feel hopeful . Blessings and warm wishes to you and your family and community ❣️
Thank you!
Do you do a specific bible study? Also will you do homeschooling?? Xx
No we don't homeschool. We have our own schools K-12.
I wish I'd grown up in the Bruderhof. My childhood was filled with fear and misery. Yours sounds idyllic.
This is how they get you into cults.
I know this is an older video but I just discovered your videos after recently moving to the mid Hudson valley and having to pass by the mount community plenty! I was wondering if those friends you made at new paltz HS were allowed to hang out at your house after school? Could you have them sleep over? Just curious! Love your gentleness it’s very welcoming
Yes they often came over and our families got to know each other and we're friends to this day. Welcome to the mid-Hudson Valley!
CT, what part ? Lived there 25 yrs.
I lived in Norfolk, CT--a super gorgeous part of the state if you ask me! Especially in the fall 🍂🍁
You should not feel guilty about having a good childhood a child does not get to choose who their parents are or where you would be raised there is nothing to be guilty about.
I'm kind of surprised how positive the comment section is. Most online Christians have strong feelings against communism. As a socialist I would say that bruderhof community is more extreme than what I would envision for an entire country but they are a wonderful and encouraging example of the benefits of commune living.
Hi Laura! Does anyone in the Bruderhof have careers outsiders of the community? E.g doctors or lawyers. How much can you pursue your own talents in the community?
Hi! We have people with professional degrees but they work within the community. And none of us have careers in the traditional sense. Our career, if you will, is living together and caring for one another.
@@LaurafromtheBruderhof Thank you for explaining :) I've always been curious about the pros and cons of community life in that way. Thank you for your videos, they're fantastic.
For the critics ...replace the Christianity with a humanitarian ethos and you have just about the perfect commune. Western culture emphasises self over Society...these guys do the opposite.