In this episode of "Our People: Holdeman Mennonite Stories," we sit down with Sandra Loewen, who hails from the Rosenort, Manitoba congregation of Church of God in Christ Mennonite. Sandra opens up about her unique life journey, beginning with her adoption into a Holdeman Mennonite family at just two weeks old. Raised within the church, Sandra’s early life was deeply rooted in the values and practices of the Holdeman community. She shares the love and nurturing she received from her adoptive parents, highlighting her father's caring nature and her mother's intelligence and strength. Sandra discusses the complex feelings she experienced growing up in the Holdeman church. Despite her deep connection to her family and faith, she sometimes struggled with the strictures of the religious environment. These moments of anger and confusion were tempered by her belief in divine providence—a protective, guiding force she felt directed her life. Sandra eloquently describes how this sense of spiritual guidance helped her reconcile her past struggles with her present understanding of purpose and destiny. Sandra also shares poignant stories from her time in the church, including being disallowed from speaking to girls for years after someone accused her of homosexuality. This accusation led to severe social ostracism, which deeply affected her mental and emotional well-being. Despite the harsh judgment and alienation, Sandra found strength within herself, drawing on her inner resilience to navigate these difficult times. Throughout the episode, Sandra reflects on her life beyond the Holdeman church. She and her husband, also raised in the Holdeman faith, built a life together, raising two daughters and enjoying the blessings of two grandchildren. Sandra’s narrative is a testament to the resilience and growth that comes from navigating the challenges of a high-control religious community while seeking personal identity and meaning. Join us as Sandra Loewen shares her heartfelt story of faith, family, and personal discovery. Her reflections provide a nuanced perspective on the intricate interplay between spirituality and identity, offering listeners valuable insights into life within and beyond the Holdeman Mennonite community. This episode is a compelling exploration of love, resilience, and the search for meaning in a complex world. Follow us on Facebook: https://rb.gy/cj55td Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1KwYkbtbIswUN3z6JSrqz5?si=0913b1c334724490 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OurPeoplePodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-people-holdeman-mennonite-stories/id1740613045