Since the time of the Reformation, the Ältesten of the Flemish Mennonite faith have stood valiantly as guardians on the battlements of Zion defending their flocks from the onslaughts of Satan. The courage and spiritual integrity of the Ältester was critical in a community continually facing persecution, flight and resettlement in search of religious freedom. The vital role of the Ältester holds prominent place in the cannon of Mennonite devotional literature.