Mennonites believe that authentic theology must be lived theology, that beliefs and ethics must go together. We believe that we must share God's love in word and deed, living out our faith by serving others and working toward peace.
Dirk Willems, an early Anabaptist, understood and acted upon this belief. When he was apprehended in Asperen, Holland, the thief-catcher pursuing him chased him across some ice. When the thief-catcher broke through the ice, Dirk returned to help him, thus saving his life. Despite this act of kindness, Dirk was still put to death for his beliefs. (Paraphrased from the story in the Martyrs Mirror.)
Because God loves us, we respond with faithful living. We strive to be faithful in fellowship, worship, service, and witness.