Forsaking the Ark: A Course-Based Inquiry into Making the Transition from Hutterite Life

This collaborative autoethnographic, course-based study explored the personal stories of three individuals who chose to leave Hutterite communities and their transition experiences as they adjusted to a new life, having forsaken the ark. The purpose of the study was to add to the literature on culturally competent child and youth care practice by sharing insights into the personal challenges experienced when faced with the realities of shifting from one culture to another. Four major themes emerged from the thematic analysis of these stories: (a) don’t rock the boat; feelings of not fitting in, (b) no unicorns on board; seeking the freedom to be me, (c) adrift in no man’s land; severed membership ties, and (d) few tools to build a new boat; lack of skills for the life chosen.