The annual Amish Teachers’ Institute took place on March 15, 2024, at the Garber residence in Salem, Indiana, drawing approximately 600 attendees. This event brought together educators and parents from various Amish communities across the United States to share insights and resources for improving local parochial schools.
The Garber family invested significant time preparing their fabricating shop to host the gathering. Attendees included not only teachers but also parents and community members interested in educational topics. The event featured a range of workshops where participants could select from four topics in each session, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
A notable presentation focused on courtesy and manners, which resonated with many participants. As one attendee shared, raising respectful children is a shared goal within the Amish community, emphasizing the importance of guidance and intentionality in parenting.
Food preparation was a massive undertaking, with contributions from various communities. One church provided 12 large bowls of salad, which quickly disappeared, as attendance exceeded expectations. After lunch, a moment of recognition was held for the teachers present, with nearly a third of the participants identifying themselves as educators. The majority were single women, alongside some married men and single men, highlighting the community’s commitment to education.
Reflecting on the day, one participant expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with friends and gain new perspectives. Despite personal challenges, such as the recent passing of a loved one, the event offered moments of joy and community support. The emotional impact of the day was underscored by the beauty of a stunning sun dog witnessed on the way to the event, serving as a reminder of hope and divine presence.
Upon returning home, the participant found comfort in the familiar sights and smells of her home, including a note from her children and a clean kitchen filled with fresh baked goods. This warmth and peace contrasted with the bustling day, illustrating the balance between community engagement and family life.
The following morning was filled with laughter as the participant caught up with her children about their experiences, including a humorous incident involving using the washing machine to wash dishes. The children’s creativity brought a light-hearted element to their chores and demonstrated their ability to adapt and find solutions.
The piece concludes with a recipe for a delicious Caramel Apple Cobbler, highlighting the importance of home-cooked meals within the Amish culture. This dessert, which can be served with ice cream or a creamy topping, reflects the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of sharing meals together.
For those interested, the recipe includes:
– 2 medium apples (red delicious or gala)
– 1 cup white sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups flour
– 1 cup milk
– 2 rounded teaspoons baking powder
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
– Pinch of salt
For the syrup:
– 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
– 1 1/2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon maple flavor
The preparation involves peeling and shredding the apples, lining a baking pan with them, pouring the dough mixture on top, and finishing with the syrup before baking at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.
Gloria Yoder, an Amish mother of six from Flat Rock, Illinois, shared insights from the event and the importance of community support. She can be reached at The Amish Cook, Box 157, Middletown, Ohio 45042.
