Great post, thank you. A professor of mine in graduate school here in the U.S. told me that the story of America at its best (liberty, justice, tolerance) is the story of the extension of the ideals of the Society of Friends.
I recently found them as well. I've held these kinds of beliefs for years, and it's nice to finally give a name to it. Meetings have been incredibly spiritually fulfilling, and having a community like this is great. It's honestly more then I dared to hope for.
This is exactly what we all need to learn, how to have peace within and how to pass it to our children friends and others! I love this! can't wait to join a meeting! this is beautiful!
What first attracted me to Quakers was the freedom from dogma, a respect for individual spiritual journeys and a lack of speech when there was nothing say. Then I discovered the Testimonies: equality, truthfulness, peacemaking, simplicity, seeking the Light within. Here was the very heart of the Gospel that the Church had turned its back on for 2000 years, while it grew powerful and controlled others through its obsession with sin. Many Quakers do not own Christ yet through their lives he lives.
I agree and recall what our Anglican Cannon said around forty years ago. This Church is not a meeting place for perfect saints, but a congregation of sinners, seeking to be saved. `Buddhist monks have been known to fight for control of a temple.` People are still too attached to the material world of things, but our God is a patient and forgiving God. Blessings and peace to all beings. Respect to the Quakers who refused to fight in WW1 yet gave their lives as stretcher bearers on the front.
I watched all 10 videos and find them very interesting. Not long ago, I discovered Quakerism and I like very much the idea of inclusion. Thank you very much for sharing.
Hindus, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, Pagans, and even NonTheists all in worship together under one roof!?! Wow! Maybe there is hope for the future after all...Enjoyed your video. I'm not a Quaker but will one day check them out. You have so much of which to be proud.
@fenric71 I'm Roman Catholic and on behalf of the 1 billion of us out there I just want to apologise if my Church has ever made you feel anything other than loved. God bless you, I hope you find the light :)
What's interesting to me is the description of being moved by the Spirit to speak in the meeting and the description is exactly the same as the description I've given to people of speaking in Pentecostal/Charismatic meetings of worship when there is a "open mic". No designated speaker just worship and if you're moved to speak you walk to the front and let loose. I've literally quaked in my boots before as I was nudged to go to the mic having absolutely no idea what I was to say but knowing without a doubt that I was to go forward and open my mouth. It is a tremendous experience. Sadly these types of meetings are now very rare in the modern Charismatic churches and is one of the reasons I have moved toward being a Quaker. Thanks for sharing with us in this video.
What a beautiful faith, with a beautiful history. I would like to learn more about Quakerism in the context of the larger community. I especially love the history of not hat tipping. As egos of so many are overflowing to everyone's disadvantage, it seems that it would be helpful to recapture and support those who take the difficult stance of advancing the notion that we are indeed one under God.
Please attend a meeting and you will see how they take new members. At my meeting we did away with membership completely, thats not the norm but it works for us. I believe if you desire to be a Quaker you are one.
I like Quakers because they seem to have latched on to the concept that we are all in "God's image/likeness" - Genesis 1:26. This image mostly means to follow one's conscience, and is written in everyone's heart and mind - Romans 2:14,15. We cannot really trust 'revealed' religions based on ancient scriptures with all their contradictions and confusion, but we can follow this divine image, or inner spiritual light we all have. It's more than just obeying our conscience though. This inner spiritual light is the recognition of positive divine archetypes and instincts within us to secure lives of peace, love, happiness and non-suffering for ourselves and all of humanity. We walk in the path of God when we walk in the path of this divine instincts.
This is a really lovely film. Thank you for making it. On the internet I have mostly found items relating to Quakers are actually about Evangelical Quakers. This is the first I have found wholly relating to my experience of Quakerism. Thank you for the peace your video has given me. :)
Thanks for the link. Interesting - i missed the re-opening so it is good to see your record. Before the fire I recorded (audio only) a funeral meeting from the balcony.
I am an unprogrammed Quaker in Pennsylvania. I am more Buddhist in my personal beliefs than Christian, though I like the ancient Gnostic Christianity. Never had any conflict with being a non Christ centered Quaker. It's great! I have stood in meeting and given Buddhist "Dharma talks", and had people tell me how enriching it is.
Definitely so. Whatever your beliefs, or lack of beliefs, ethnicity, sexual orientation, marital/partnership status you would be welcome at a Quaker meeting - indeed they will not make it their business to criticize or judge you. Quakers believe that something of God may be found in anyone, and hence that all people should be treated equally.
I'm grateful to the person (or people) involved in posting these videos. At the heart of Quakerism seems to be the hearts of its adherents reaching toward the heart of God; to my way of thinking, there is no more authentic means of spiritual living.
American Quaker here and it's great to get this information out. You wouldn't believe how many people think we are the Amish or Shakers! Well, we are pacifists as are the Amish but theology differs. I'm a Christian Friend myself but not all are...check us out. peace
Some people do. Some will reflect on what has been said in Ministry. Some will hold people "in the light" (or pray for them, if you prefer). Some will read. Some will "wait on the divine". Some may go to sleep.
For a long time, I really didn't know what kind of Christian I considered myself to be until I read the writings of George Fox and John Woolman. Now, I consider myself of a primitive evangelical quaker.
Thank you for your comments. We made these videos as part of the National Quaker Week that we are holding in Britain 22-29 Sept. It is good to receive support from so far afield. Thanks.
Extremely Cool! I'm curious, had no concept. Thank you for sharing. Sorry to say tho, I'm petrified of wasps, hornets, bees, they have no reservation about stinging me so....LOL Thank you so much for sharing your videos & educating.
@Bronzewhaler82 Cos that is the whole point!!! Yes, it started out from christianity, but quakerism is moving with the times and that's what's so great about it.
You are right - I doubt whether many Quakers have studied the scholastic and medieval mystical theology behind the idea that we walk cheerfully over the world answering "that of God" in those we encounter. Nor would many know much about its development in Eastern Christianity. But we have found that with this idea in mind it's a bit more difficult to despise someone, to cultivate enemies or simply to think in terms of THEM and US. We can break free of the vicious circle of despair and hatred.
I think i want to be a quaker! i lov ethem, unlike other religous groups they don't go off on one if you say you believe in another faith. They also have contributed more to society like against slave trade, and racism and things than alot of other religions who just end up fighing eachother to see which is best. Yep i think this is the faith for me
@pjotrvl its my understanding that the main concept is that you are free to do whatever you want as long as you remain silent and let whatever you think is your concept of God to reach you. I believe they follow the rules of Christianity. So whatever your average christian might believe that's what quakers believe. As far as being veggies, I doubt it..
The full set of Watford Quaker videos are now available with English and German subtitles on a DVD price £6 (including VAT and UK postage) Contact info@justfilm.co.uk
I have a question. I went to a meeting house that was formerly a stop for the underground rail road in Philadelphia. It is called the Johnson House. I was recording with a digital recorder during a tour. What is the Quaker's belief on life after death? I captured spirit voices through out tour (what is called EVP)
Dear therealmanchannel (2 weeks ago), I am reminded of the story in the Bible, where the widow drops a single coin in the collection plate for the temple, and the rich man drops several coins making a lot of noise; whereas Jesus said that the widow gave more because the amount she gave was a greater percentage of her total wealth compared with the offerring of the rich man. . This talks about a qualitive difference compared with a quantitive difference. Cheers. from, del-boy.
The testimonies are a quaker imperative but some individual churches (across the denominations) pay equal heed to the underlying gospel values. Because the word 'sin' has been used to manipulate and control it is not a term I use although its true meaning, a turning away from God often through reliance on inflated ego or money, is a Quaker concern (see Advices & Queries 1, 9, 17). My reading of the Gospels shows me that Jesus focused more on healing than sin and I think Quakers do the same.
As a Quaker myself I thank you and would point out that we don't wish to be proud...but then again if I'm honest just saying that is an act of pride...hmmm...better stop thinking about that. Peace, check us out.
@RationalDischarge Oh not at all. If you share the same beliefs and have the connection with God, a distance can never separate you from being a Quaker. I live in a rural area and the nearest meeting is hours away. Think of meeting as a shared worship time, where you are surrounded by loved ones as you explore God. It is a time to share your thoughts, but not a 'qualification' event. Even praying in a quiet room every Sunday would be great. There are also many resources online! Good luck!
There is a Quaker meeting house at Euston, London, UK. How do the congregation sit in silence with that busy Mare-le-bonne Road out front? Cheers. from, del-boy.
@srekauq Hi sir, please note that the previous comment we do not know if he/she said was a lie or a fact. However I think quakers is a place for meditation, similar to buddhism and I have nothing wrong with that, I know many famous business people are run from quaker background and I think its this "networking" and thinking is what is the important factor. And this is the important key.
@24414330 I agree we need to move away from too closely identifying with any group as we then tend to demonise other groups that are not like us - and this can certainly included religions. But because some people think differently from the way you think does not make them deluded. I find sitting in silence with others, many of who not not share my ideas, gives me a sense of connectedness with them. Does that make me deluded?
@24414330 (part 3) Some will use the traditional language of "waiting on God" - others, like you, are non-theists but they still find deep meaning in the shared silence out of which often comes words to comfort and challenge.
I don't know much about Quakerism, but it seems like a good road to have your rig on. Maybe someone with more knowledge on the subject can answer this question. How open are quakers to other religions? They seem like a pretty openminded bunch. For example, how would a buddhist or a sun/nature worshipper do if active and living harmoniously in a quaker community? The whole silent hour is beautiful i think, and sounds to me like a kind of social or group meditation. Shanti
aussiewasteland, Of course the testimonies are not unique to Quakers! But they (and the Gospel) are taken more seriously here than in the mainstream church. Quaker history shows that a disproportionate number of them have been involved in living the Gospel (e.g fighting slavery, prison reform, caring for the poor and sick, finding creative ways to resolve conflict). Could this be because they "live in their hearts, not their heads" and are therefore more open to the spirit of God?
No. It is a question of personal conscience and each individual Quaker can make his/her own decision, although the peace testimony certainly supports anyone who takes a pacifist stand. Many Quakers have refused to join the military and others have joined but in a non combative role. It is up to the individual.
@lynda514 @lynda514 Hi, I don't think there is a "Quaker" view on this. My own opinion is that people can and do "live" after they have died - in the memories of those who loved them. That's good enough for me.
Not normally as part of worship (although I have heard someone sing their ministry once) but some Meetings may have a singing group and many would sing carols at Christmas time.
But I think that Quakers do face the dark side, which is why "the light" is so important to us. The light reveals the truth about ourselves and what you call our 'sin'. Is it subjective or objective truth? That depends on whether we are distorting the light. No doubt you think are. Maybe, but are you in a position to judge?
@24414330 Part 2. My observation is that everyone is "religious" to some degree, even those who reject the language and dogma of traditional religion. Anyone who has been moved by music, the majesty of nature, the 'spirit" of team sports, the deep sharing of mutually satisfying sex (to name just a few) has had a "religious" experience. As someone who has experienced Quaker worship, you will know that every person present finds in the silence their own meaning. (continued)
@jbearden Hi, I am really sorry to hear that. Quakers are just people so they can do hateful things as well as good things. Hopefully, if people try to live by Quaker principles their lives will reflect that. Obviously not in this case.
I think the Quaker beliefs are beautiful, and I've held them in solitude for about 10 years. But I'm from a part of the American Southeast where they're very sparse (far moreso than Baptists or Methodists, at least). Is anyone else in this position, and if so, how do you cope with it? Though I know this question sounds silly, do you ever feel like someone whose Quakerism isn't really validated or "real" because you don't have access to a meeting house, or at least a few like-minded souls?
Hang on, aussiewasteland, I can't keep up! I am curious as to why you think that Quakers' beliefs are not founded upon encounter with the Other but upon myriad idolatries of self. Surely the temptation for self deception exists for all believers, not just Quakers? In fact we are encouraged always to examine ourselves whenever we meet for worship. (Advices & Queries provides a robust defense against self worship).There is no group definition of truth. We wait on God and minister to each other.
@jbearden Heck, "Quaker minister" itself means so little. Quakers don't have the kind of clerical hierarchy like you'd find in most Christian denominations. You sure he wasn't some sort of Independent Baptist or Calvinist?
@24414330 Since the beginning of human history people have united behind a country, a flag, a tribe, a clan, a family, a religion and then acted in the name of that unifying body. Sometimes their actions have been worthy - more often they have been destructive. The error has been human not the error of the "cause" with which they identify. (Continued)
Teaching comes from listening to each other and reading what others have written. Our bible study group studies the Gospels so, yes, Jesus is there. Quaker thinking (there are no Quaker beliefs as such) is based on the life and teaching of Jesus but only some Quakers would call themselves Christian.
Yes, I'm afraid you are right - most British Quakers are middle class, but by no means all. Quakers in Tottenham (north London) were very involved with the family of the person the police shot, triggering the riots last summer. Many Quakers are prison visitors, active in prison reform and restorative justice. They don't dress up - accents and tattoos are certainly no problem. Try us!
@CamiloSanchez1979 As a quaker, I really don't think that 'what christians believe is what quakers believe', especially young quakers. Christians have very set beliefs.
@24414330 "Still waiting for you to come up with this one good act that only a believer could do." Why would I want to do that? Hopefully we are able to grow and move on all the time. What is it your children are afraid of? Interested that they keep blocking your 24414330 comments. What on earth have you been saying?
Do I dare ask how you are so sure about this? I'm new to quakerism, but my understanding is that the bible is considered the declaration of the source, but is not the source itself. The source is god, and the inner guidance that is received from god.
@fenric71 I would be amazed if any Quaker Meeting in Britain didn't welcome you, whatever your sexual orientation, mine certainly would. To be fair, I think most churches would, too. You must have been unlucky.
Great post, thank you. A professor of mine in graduate school here in the U.S. told me that the story of America at its best (liberty, justice, tolerance) is the story of the extension of the ideals of the Society of Friends.
I recently found them as well. I've held these kinds of beliefs for years, and it's nice to finally give a name to it. Meetings have been incredibly spiritually fulfilling, and having a community like this is great. It's honestly more then I dared to hope for.
This is exactly what we all need to learn, how to have peace within and how to pass it to our children friends and others! I love this! can't wait to join a meeting! this is beautiful!
Shirine Jaber I'm sure you would find a welcome, wherever you live.
I've been searching for a few days now but seems like there's no meeting house in Jerusalem- Israel :(! I would really, really join a meeting!
srekauq I think I'll enjoy watching your movies for now! keep posting please, I love to know more...
***** would absulotly love to meet them!
I love Quackers ...there is no hell and no sins..they are notions created to control the masses ...
What first attracted me to Quakers was the freedom from dogma, a respect for individual spiritual journeys and a lack of speech when there was nothing say. Then I discovered the Testimonies: equality, truthfulness, peacemaking, simplicity, seeking the Light within. Here was the very heart of the Gospel that the Church had turned its back on for 2000 years, while it grew powerful and controlled others through its obsession with sin. Many Quakers do not own Christ yet through their lives he lives.
I agree and recall what our Anglican Cannon said around forty years ago. This Church is not a meeting place for perfect saints, but a congregation of sinners, seeking to be saved. `Buddhist monks have been known to fight for control of a temple.` People are still too attached to the material world of things, but our God is a patient and forgiving God. Blessings and peace to all beings. Respect to the Quakers who refused to fight in WW1 yet gave their lives as stretcher bearers on the front.
I just melt into the love of Jesus..
I watched all 10 videos and find them very interesting. Not long ago, I discovered Quakerism and I like very much the idea of inclusion. Thank you very much for sharing.
Hindus, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, Pagans, and even NonTheists all in worship together under one roof!?! Wow! Maybe there is hope for the future after all...Enjoyed your video. I'm not a Quaker but will one day check them out. You have so much of which to be proud.
@fenric71 I'm Roman Catholic and on behalf of the 1 billion of us out there I just want to apologise if my Church has ever made you feel anything other than loved. God bless you, I hope you find the light :)
What's interesting to me is the description of being moved by the Spirit to speak in the meeting and the description is exactly the same as the description I've given to people of speaking in Pentecostal/Charismatic meetings of worship when there is a "open mic". No designated speaker just worship and if you're moved to speak you walk to the front and let loose. I've literally quaked in my boots before as I was nudged to go to the mic having absolutely no idea what I was to say but knowing without a doubt that I was to go forward and open my mouth. It is a tremendous experience. Sadly these types of meetings are now very rare in the modern Charismatic churches and is one of the reasons I have moved toward being a Quaker. Thanks for sharing with us in this video.
I found them 4 years ago and I'm still hooked!
I am a Humanist and I study Eastern philosophy, and I greatly respect Quakerism.
came on to this one from part2! like it very much
What a wonderful tradition. I descend from English Quakers.
What a beautiful faith, with a beautiful history. I would like to learn more about Quakerism in the context of the larger community. I especially love the history of not hat tipping. As egos of so many are overflowing to everyone's disadvantage, it seems that it would be helpful to recapture and support those who take the difficult stance of advancing the notion that we are indeed one under God.
Please attend a meeting and you will see how they take new members. At my meeting we did away with membership completely, thats not the norm but it works for us. I believe if you desire to be a Quaker you are one.
I like Quakers because they seem to have latched on to the concept that we are all in "God's image/likeness" - Genesis 1:26. This image mostly means to follow one's conscience, and is written in everyone's heart and mind - Romans 2:14,15. We cannot really trust 'revealed' religions based on ancient scriptures with all their contradictions and confusion, but we can follow this divine image, or inner spiritual light we all have. It's more than just obeying our conscience though. This inner spiritual light is the recognition of positive divine archetypes and instincts within us to secure lives of peace, love, happiness and non-suffering for ourselves and all of humanity. We walk in the path of God when we walk in the path of this divine instincts.
This is a really lovely film. Thank you for making it.
On the internet I have mostly found items relating to Quakers are actually about Evangelical Quakers. This is the first I have found wholly relating to my experience of Quakerism. Thank you for the peace your video has given me. :)
They seem like a really nice bunch of people. Respect.
Thanks for the link. Interesting - i missed the re-opening so it is good to see your record. Before the fire I recorded (audio only) a funeral meeting from the balcony.
I am an unprogrammed Quaker in Pennsylvania. I am more Buddhist in my personal beliefs than Christian, though I like the ancient Gnostic Christianity. Never had any conflict with being a non Christ centered Quaker. It's great! I have stood in meeting and given Buddhist "Dharma talks", and had people tell me how enriching it is.
***** That's why you likes war conflict in Israel and weapon? Dharma talks when you litteraly allow yourself to accept political language?
Enjoyed this.Thank you.
Thanks, it’s looking a bit old now. Covid changed everything.
great vid.. thanks.. I've been interested in finding out more for a while..
Definitely so. Whatever your beliefs, or lack of beliefs, ethnicity, sexual orientation, marital/partnership status you would be welcome at a Quaker meeting - indeed they will not make it their business to criticize or judge you. Quakers believe that something of God may be found in anyone, and hence that all people should be treated equally.
Really inspired me.
I'm grateful to the person (or people) involved in posting these videos. At the heart of Quakerism seems to be the hearts of its adherents reaching toward the heart of God; to my way of thinking, there is no more authentic means of spiritual living.
My grandmother in generations long ago in 1600s was a Quaker
the peace is lovely but i think I might miss the joy of singing in church
what a beautiful way of life
Hey thanks for your answer! That;s really interesting.
We'd love to welcome you!
American Quaker here and it's great to get this information out. You wouldn't believe how many people think we are the Amish or Shakers! Well, we are pacifists as are the Amish but theology differs. I'm a Christian Friend myself but not all are...check us out.
peace
Some people do. Some will reflect on what has been said in Ministry. Some will hold people "in the light" (or pray for them, if you prefer). Some will read. Some will "wait on the divine". Some may go to sleep.
very found of George Fox and i feel drawn to Quakerism , yet am a Catholic .
All ten! Glad you found them interesting.
For a long time, I really didn't know what kind of Christian I considered myself to be until I read the writings of George Fox and John Woolman. Now, I consider myself of a primitive evangelical quaker.
Oh my I would have asked but the conversation below answered me....completely
Thank you for your comments. We made these videos as part of the National Quaker Week that we are holding in Britain 22-29 Sept. It is good to receive support from so far afield. Thanks.
Extremely Cool! I'm curious, had no concept. Thank you for sharing. Sorry to say tho, I'm petrified of wasps, hornets, bees, they have no reservation about stinging me so....LOL Thank you so much for sharing your videos & educating.
@Bronzewhaler82 Cos that is the whole point!!! Yes, it started out from christianity, but quakerism is moving with the times and that's what's so great about it.
Agreed!
@NatureGnome Welcome!
Were you interested in one in particular?
You are right - I doubt whether many Quakers have studied the scholastic and medieval mystical theology behind the idea that we walk cheerfully over the world answering "that of God" in those we encounter. Nor would many know much about its development in Eastern Christianity. But we have found that with this idea in mind it's a bit more difficult to despise someone, to cultivate enemies or simply to think in terms of THEM and US. We can break free of the vicious circle of despair and hatred.
I think i want to be a quaker! i lov ethem, unlike other religous groups they don't go off on one if you say you believe in another faith. They also have contributed more to society like against slave trade, and racism and things than alot of other religions who just end up fighing eachother to see which is best. Yep i think this is the faith for me
I have always wanted to know what this group is about. I live a couple blocks from a meeting house and found it fascinating.
So they meditate?
Silent worship is probably the best part of it. :)
@pjotrvl its my understanding that the main concept is that you are free to do whatever you want as long as you remain silent and let whatever you think is your concept of God to reach you. I believe they follow the rules of Christianity. So whatever your average christian might believe that's what quakers believe. As far as being veggies, I doubt it..
Please don't fret about Buddhist statues - everything belongs and the truth shall set you free!
@whathuhwhere same here
Quaker's are cool they were one of the few religions that opposed slavery back in the day.
The full set of Watford Quaker videos are now available with English and German subtitles on a DVD price £6 (including VAT and UK postage) Contact info@justfilm.co.uk
I have a question. I went to a meeting house that was formerly a stop for the underground rail road in Philadelphia. It is called the Johnson House. I was recording with a digital recorder during a tour. What is the Quaker's belief on life after death? I captured spirit voices through out tour (what is called EVP)
Dear therealmanchannel (2 weeks ago),
I am reminded of the story in the Bible, where the widow drops a single coin in the collection plate for the temple, and the rich man drops several coins making a lot of noise; whereas Jesus said that the widow gave more because the amount she gave was a greater percentage of her total wealth compared with the offerring of the rich man.
.
This talks about a qualitive difference compared with a quantitive difference.
Cheers.
from,
del-boy.
The testimonies are a quaker imperative but some individual churches (across the denominations) pay equal heed to the underlying gospel values.
Because the word 'sin' has been used to manipulate and control it is not a term I use although its true meaning, a turning away from God often through reliance on inflated ego or money, is a Quaker concern (see Advices & Queries 1, 9, 17). My reading of the Gospels shows me that Jesus focused more on healing than sin and I think Quakers do the same.
As a Quaker myself I thank you and would point out that we don't wish to be proud...but then again if I'm honest just saying that is an act of pride...hmmm...better stop thinking about that.
Peace, check us out.
they may, if they choose. As with most everything else in Quakerism, it's "Up To The Individual"
Has the role of doctrine on "substitutionary atonement" changed in modern Quakerism to that from George Fox and if it has how?
Whoa! My Inner Light has an account on RUclips?!?!
@RationalDischarge Oh not at all. If you share the same beliefs and have the connection with God, a distance can never separate you from being a Quaker. I live in a rural area and the nearest meeting is hours away. Think of meeting as a shared worship time, where you are surrounded by loved ones as you explore God. It is a time to share your thoughts, but not a 'qualification' event. Even praying in a quiet room every Sunday would be great. There are also many resources online! Good luck!
yah im a little cofused too! i like the idea of sitting for an hour in contemplation or worship tho!
Pardon? In what sense?
There is a Quaker meeting house at Euston, London, UK.
How do the congregation sit in silence with that busy Mare-le-bonne Road out front?
Cheers.
from,
del-boy.
@srekauq Hi sir, please note that the previous comment we do not know if he/she said was a lie or a fact. However I think quakers is a place for meditation, similar to buddhism and I have nothing wrong with that, I know many famous business people are run from quaker background and I think its this "networking" and thinking is what is the important factor. And this is the important key.
They make the best oatmeal on the planet.
@24414330 I agree we need to move away from too closely identifying with any group as we then tend to demonise other groups that are not like us - and this can certainly included religions. But because some people think differently from the way you think does not make them deluded. I find sitting in silence with others, many of who not not share my ideas, gives me a sense of connectedness with them. Does that make me deluded?
@24414330 (part 3) Some will use the traditional language of "waiting on God" - others, like you, are non-theists but they still find deep meaning in the shared silence out of which often comes words to comfort and challenge.
I have not experienced any fierce resistance to intellectual effort among the Quakers I have met. Are things are so very different in Assieland?
I don't know much about Quakerism, but it seems like a good road to have your rig on.
Maybe someone with more knowledge on the subject can answer this question.
How open are quakers to other religions? They seem like a pretty openminded bunch. For example, how would a buddhist or a sun/nature worshipper do if active and living harmoniously in a quaker community? The whole silent hour is beautiful i think, and sounds to me like a kind of social or group meditation.
Shanti
Well, Since you put it that way, I suppose we could possibly be friends, maybe.
Ray
I think i've found my place :)
aussiewasteland,
Of course the testimonies are not unique to Quakers! But they (and the Gospel) are taken more seriously here than in the mainstream church. Quaker history shows that a disproportionate number of them have been involved in living the Gospel (e.g fighting slavery, prison reform, caring for the poor and sick, finding creative ways to resolve conflict). Could this be because they "live in their hearts, not their heads" and are therefore more open to the spirit of God?
what makes this brand of Quakers differ from Unitarians?
@fenric71 Good luck!
No. It is a question of personal conscience and each individual Quaker can make his/her own decision, although the peace testimony certainly supports anyone who takes a pacifist stand. Many Quakers have refused to join the military and others have joined but in a non combative role. It is up to the individual.
@struth001 Thank you for your kind comments.
I think we in Britain are in the minority - most Quakers worldwide are more Evangelical.
@lynda514 @lynda514 Hi, I don't think there is a "Quaker" view on this. My own opinion is that people can and do "live" after they have died - in the memories of those who loved them. That's good enough for me.
Do Quakers sing in their churches?
Not normally as part of worship (although I have heard someone sing their ministry once) but some Meetings may have a singing group and many would sing carols at Christmas time.
No :-)
But I think that Quakers do face the dark side, which is why "the light" is so important to us. The light reveals the truth about ourselves and what you call our 'sin'. Is it subjective or objective truth? That depends on whether we are distorting the light. No doubt you think are. Maybe, but are you in a position to judge?
@24414330 Part 2. My observation is that everyone is "religious" to some degree, even those who reject the language and dogma of traditional religion. Anyone who has been moved by music, the majesty of nature, the 'spirit" of team sports, the deep sharing of mutually satisfying sex (to name just a few) has had a "religious" experience.
As someone who has experienced Quaker worship, you will know that every person present finds in the silence their own meaning. (continued)
lol wtf?
where is frags?
@jbearden Hi, I am really sorry to hear that. Quakers are just people so they can do hateful things as well as good things. Hopefully, if people try to live by Quaker principles their lives will reflect that. Obviously not in this case.
I think the Quaker beliefs are beautiful, and I've held them in solitude for about 10 years. But I'm from a part of the American Southeast where they're very sparse (far moreso than Baptists or Methodists, at least). Is anyone else in this position, and if so, how do you cope with it? Though I know this question sounds silly, do you ever feel like someone whose Quakerism isn't really validated or "real" because you don't have access to a meeting house, or at least a few like-minded souls?
They are indeed. And even if all roads do not lead to God, it is true that God can be found on all roads. Clearly Buddah was touched by God.
Hang on, aussiewasteland, I can't keep up!
I am curious as to why you think that Quakers' beliefs are not founded upon encounter with the Other but upon myriad idolatries of self. Surely the temptation for self deception exists for all believers, not just Quakers? In fact we are encouraged always to examine ourselves whenever we meet for worship. (Advices & Queries provides a robust defense against self worship).There is no group definition of truth. We wait on God and minister to each other.
@jbearden Heck, "Quaker minister" itself means so little. Quakers don't have the kind of clerical hierarchy like you'd find in most Christian denominations. You sure he wasn't some sort of Independent Baptist or Calvinist?
@24414330 Since the beginning of human history people have united behind a country, a flag, a tribe, a clan, a family, a religion and then acted in the name of that unifying body. Sometimes their actions have been worthy - more often they have been destructive. The error has been human not the error of the "cause" with which they identify. (Continued)
Teaching comes from listening to each other and reading what others have written. Our bible study group studies the Gospels so, yes, Jesus is there. Quaker thinking (there are no Quaker beliefs as such) is based on the life and teaching of Jesus but only some Quakers would call themselves Christian.
@fenric71 :) x
Yes, I'm afraid you are right - most British Quakers are middle class, but by no means all. Quakers in Tottenham (north London) were very involved with the family of the person the police shot, triggering the riots last summer. Many Quakers are prison visitors, active in prison reform and restorative justice. They don't dress up - accents and tattoos are certainly no problem. Try us!
@CamiloSanchez1979 As a quaker, I really don't think that 'what christians believe is what quakers believe', especially young quakers. Christians have very set beliefs.
@Call1800POO That's the quaker headquarters! lol. It aint that noisy inside.
@fenric71 I am sorry you find it so.
I hope you do find an inclusive community where you feel welcome.
You
@24414330 "Still waiting for you to come up with this one good act that only a believer could do." Why would I want to do that?
Hopefully we are able to grow and move on all the time. What is it your children are afraid of?
Interested that they keep blocking your 24414330 comments. What on earth have you been saying?
Certainly. The tattoos would not be an issue. Give it a try!
that guy is cute ;)
Do I dare ask how you are so sure about this?
I'm new to quakerism, but my understanding is that the bible is considered the declaration of the source, but is not the source itself. The source is god, and the inner guidance that is received from god.
@fenric71 I would be amazed if any Quaker Meeting in Britain didn't welcome you, whatever your sexual orientation, mine certainly would.
To be fair, I think most churches would, too. You must have been unlucky.