Religion in Genealogy Part 4: Jews

I have to say that I am rather enjoying writing the posts in this series. Not only have I been able to share with you information that I already knew, but I have also set out to research things that I don’t know. Religion plays a huge role in researching our ancestors, and I am happy to be learning more about the various religions while sharing it with you. So far this series has covered the Quakers & Shakers, Anabaptists, and Huguenots & Doukhobors. Today my focus is going to be on the Jews. Jews practice the religion of Judaism, … Continue reading

Religion in Genealogy Part 3: Huguenots and Doukhobors

Through history, many religious groups have dealt with persecution, sometimes being forced to flee their countries. Two of these groups where the Huguenots and Doukhobors. Huguenots Prior to starting my genealogy research, I never heard the word Huguenot, much less knew what it meant. However, while researching my great-grandmother’s family, I discovered that some of my ancestors fled from France during the mid-17th century to escape religious persecution (discrimination/mistreatment). They were Huguenots-members of the Protestant Reformed Church, inspired by the writings of John Calvin, a 16th-century pastor. Calvin’s writings reject religions, such as Roman Catholicism, and believe that God has … Continue reading

Religion in Genealogy Part 1: Quakers and Shakers

The role religion plays in genealogy is quite pronounced. In this blog I will be detailing two major groups: Quakers and Shakers. Quakers Quakers (also called Friends) are members of a Christiandenomination, called the Religious Society of Friends that was formed in England during the mid-17th century by George Fox. Fox believed that it was possible to have a close connection with Christ without formal preaching by clergy. Quaker beliefs are different between individuals based on each follower’s personal relationship with God. Traditionally, Quakers attend congregational gatherings, referred to as Monthly Meetings, where they sit in silence, waiting for the … Continue reading