The Quaker way has its roots in Christianity and finds inspiration in the Bible, the life and teachings of Jesus and in our own Spiritual experiences which we often share. Quakers also find meaning and value in the teachings of other faiths and acknowledge that ours is not the only way.
For Quakers, worship (sometimes called Meeting for Worship) is at the heart of what it means to be a Quaker. It is the source of inspiration and the root of action in the world. It is also a shared experience that is probably different from what is normally associated with the word ‘worship’. Quakers seek a communal gathered stillness where we can be open to inspiration from the Spirit that many call God.
Quakers have no ministers or creeds; instead, during our meetings Friends may feel moved to speak. This is something anyone can do, as all are considered equal. A paragraph from Advices & Queries or a passage from Quaker Faith & Practice is regularly read aloud during worship.
It is difficult to describe Quaker worship, but the best way to understand it is to experience it firsthand. Meetings can be held anywhere, at any time, although they are often on Sundays in Quaker Meeting Houses.
Our religious experience leads us to place a special value on truth, equality, simplicity and peace. These testimonies as they are known are lived rather than written. They lead Quakers to translate their faith into action by working locally and globally for social justice, to support peacemakers and care for the environment.
Three sayings of George Fox embody a Quaker understanding:
“There is that of God in everyone.”
“Christ has come to teach his people himself.”
“Let your lives speak.”
Other links of interest:
Please follow the links in the blue section below to find out more about Quakers.