As measles — a preventable disease the U.S. considered eliminated in 2000 — spreads through West Texas’ rural expanse, Klassen is sticking to an approach on vaccines that is a key tenet for Mennonites. Family leaders are the top decision-making authority — not outside recommendations, certainly not government mandates.

SEMINOLE — Measles had struck this West Texas town, sickening dozens of children, but at the Community Church of Seminole, more than 350 worshippers gathered for a Sunday service. Sitting elbow ...

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said last week he would send Texas 2,000 doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine through its immunization program. Kennedy founded the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense, but has said he would not prevent Americans from getting vaccinated.