View source for Gerig, Sebastian (1839-1924)

Sebastian Gerig, bishop of the Sugar Creek Mennonite Church (MC), [[Wayland (Iowa, USA)|Wayland]], [[Iowa (USA)|Iowa]], from 1879 to 1924, was born in Pfastatt, [[Alsace (France)|Alsace]], the son of Jakob and Elisabeth (Zimmermann) Gerig. He united with the [[Amish Mennonites|Amish Mennonite]] Church in France at the age of 17, and in 1856 immigrated to America to escape compulsory military service. After spending a few weeks in [[Ontario (Canada)|Ontario]] he traveled to Iowa, living in Davis and [[Lee County (Iowa, USA)|Lee]] counties for six years and in [[Ohio (USA)|Ohio]] approximately two years. After his marriage to Magdalena, youngest daughter of [[Goldsmith, Joseph (1796-1876)|Bishop Joseph Goldsmith]] he established his home in [[Henry County (Iowa, USA)|Henry County]], [[Iowa (USA)|Iowa]], where he lived the rest of his life. To this union were born twelve children, all of whom became members of his church. Three of his grandsons were in the ministry of the [[Mennonite Church (MC)|Mennonite Church (MC)]]: Vernon Gerig, Wayland, Iowa; Willard Leichty, Wayland, Iowa; and Maynard Wyse, [[Archbold (Ohio, USA)|Archbold]], Ohio.

Gerig was ordained to the ministry in the Sugar Creek Amish Mennonite Church in 1869 and ten years later to the office of bishop, In 1916 he ordained his successor Simon Gingerich. Gerig was a leader in the [[Western District Amish Mennonite Conference|Western District Amish Mennonite Conference]], serving either as moderator or assistant moderator in 1897, 1900, 1904, 1905, 1906, 1908, and 1909. A man of sound judgment and keen insight, he led his congregation through the changes brought about by the introduction of Sunday schools, young people's meetings, evangelistic services, and the English language.
= Bibliography =
<em class="gameo_bibliography">Gospel Herald (17 April 1924): 63.                </em>
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