Introduction

The history of religion has shown over and over again that creeds do not unite, they tend to divide. A group held together by a creed is more brittle and subject to breakage than a more yielding organic group held together by the spirit.

Howard Brinton, Friends for 300 years, p. 193

Since we hold the above to be true, we are concerned that our community be one in which each person is warmly accepted and made to feel wanted and needed, their ideas listened to with prayerful consideration, allowing the Holy Spirit to sift the chaff from the wheat. Division comes about when people assume authority which belongs to God alone. This discipline is presented as suggestions rather than commands. We seek to question or query rather than to give specific answers, thus placing upon the individual in the quiet of one's own soul before our God, the responsibility for the discipline of the spirit.

The first disciples believed it good and necessary to meet together for consolation and to strengthen one another. Such a meeting together brought them peace and good will and a deep sense of community which merged them into oneness with God and each other. Unity through the power of the Holy Spirit was the result of their meeting together. This unity brought a power into their lives that sent them into the world fearlessly proclaiming the Gospel and meeting the needs of their brothers and sisters.

Feeling a deep void in the churches of his day, George Fox earnestly sought to find what was wrong. The answer came when a voice seemed to speak to his inmost soul. "There is one, even Christ Jesus, that can speak to thy condition." And when he heard it he said, "My heart leaped for joy." He then knew that the way to communion with God could be found without aid of ritual or clergy and his distinctive message from then on to his generation was that Christ speaks directly to each human soul who earnestly seeks him. A glowing, vital, power-filled spiritual life is dependent upon direct communion with God and a very real possibility for anyone.

We are engaged, therefore, not only to meet together for the worship of God, but also for the exercise of Christian care one for another, to strive for a unity of faith and practice, answerable to the description Jesus gave his flock. "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, as I have loved you" John 13:34-35

The immediate presence of the Light within, and in that power to transform us into children of God, is the vital message of the Religious Society of Friends. It is a faith that does not stand on ritual or creed, but on the experience and practice of the Presence of God in the heart of each individual soul. Direct knowledge of God is sought both individually and corporately. It is universal in scope and speaks to the spiritual needs of every person. We feel that true baptism is the experience of being filled with Divine Love that both cleanses and heals.

John spoke of this in Mark 1:8, "I indeed have baptized you with water, but He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." It is the spiritual fact rather than the outward symbol, a changing and purifying from within, which is the true baptism.

We place special emphasis on the ever present Holy Spirit within the heart of each of us. We call this power the Light Within. We feel that everyone has a seed of this spirit within and has the choice whether we cultivate it so it will flourish. Love, which is the outworking of this Divine Spirit, is the most potent influence that can be applied to human affairs. This application of love to the whole of life is the core of Friends practice. As worshippers become conscious of the Inner Light submitting to this leading, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live in conformity to the will of God.

Growing directly out of the principle of the Inner Light is our ideal of worship. In our meetings the Holy Spirit speaks directly to the human heart and worship is a personal communion with God and a yielding of our wills to the Divine Will for which no ritual, form, service nor aid of clergy is necessary. Worshipful silence is adequate to realize this communion in a very real and vital way. A living silence may be so filled with God or the Divine Presence that all worshippers become conscious of it and are drawn together in unity by the power of God's Love. We then know and agree with George Fox where he states, "The least member in the church hath an office and is serviceable and every member hath need of one another."

A spiritual democracy becomes real as all unite before the True Head of the Church. Each person must humbly and prayerfully seek individual guidance and follow our own understanding of God's leading. We will be helped by studying the Holy Scriptures.

We believe in the Holy Scriptures: that the writers through the ages were men who believed in and sought after God and found Him according to their measure of light. We believe that they were inspired to record their experiences. These records show an ever broadening comprehension of the nature and will of God, through the law and the prophets, to His highest manifestation in the Holy Life and teaching of Jesus, who revealed most fully the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man. While we believe in the Holy Scriptures, we do not place them above the Spirit that inspired them and believe that the same Spirit within our own hearts must inspire our reading of them in order for us to realize their greatest lessons and meaning for us today. Today there are fresh revelations of Truth for men who humbly seek to follow the teachings of Jesus.

Taken from the Discipline of Monteverde Monthly Meeting of Friends, Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Worship and Ministry

We have a heartfelt concern that our meetings offer a form of worship which is pure, simple and spiritual. We meet together in silence and seek to free our minds and hearts for the purpose of spiritual worship. We then wait in humble submission and reverence for the spiritual ability to worship God in a manner acceptable to God. Worship is not an intermittent process, thus this period set aside for corporate worship with our friends should be looked upon only as a special time of sharing in worship with one another. We must remember a life of worship must underlie all our daily affairs.

In preparation for the experience of corporate worship, the individual may find themselves becoming quiet in expectation or may find it helpful to read scripture or other devotional material as a quieting discipline. First day School, a discussion group, or family meeting and/or reading can be beneficial in the preparation process.

Worship should not be the mere outward gathering of persons, but an inward gathering of hearts unto the Lord. Our worship is based on the eternal reality that God is Spirit and the experience of worship must be in Spirit and in Truth. The prayers of Jesus are not just words but holy and creative energies: they are power that enter into us, giving us the opportunity to change, to grow, and to be renewed in character and conduct. God comes to us asking us only to respond: when that response is made, worship is achieved. We have opened the door upon which God has been knocking. In the spirit of seeking, we come to know God and begin to understand the many ways in which God speaks to us.

As the meeting for worship becomes a vital experience for its members, it will quietly invade the homes of its members with a calm, creative spirit and will mold and unite them with the force of Divine love. This Divine love is the greatest force in the world and there is no substitute for the Christian home as the formative center for its growth and ripening.

It is historically significant that the use of a living silence is a sacred way of worship and a means of fusing the whole gathering into one undivided group. It makes possible a society held together by its common experience and group consciousness of God while at the same time allowing a maximum of freedom for the individual worshipper. It makes possible, too, the Friends experiment in spontaneous ministry.

Our meeting begins in silence at the appointed hour according to the injunction "Be still and know that I am God" Psalms 46:10. We allow ourselves to become quiet by putting aside words or thoughts of things other than God whom we seek to worship.

Not all Friends can become truly quiet at once or even in every meeting. It is not something that can be done at will. Indeed, "will" will often prove an obstacle.

However, after a time several worshippers do seem to share the Presence of a guiding Spirit. Spontaneous vocal ministry or prayer springing from the heart of one or more worshippers may or may not happen. Those who feel called by an inward urging of the Holy Spirit to speak are advised to do so in a simple, clear manner keeping as close to the point of original inspiration as is possible. As the meeting continues a time comes when the sense of communion begins to fade. Then a Friend appointed for this purpose quietly "breaks meeting" by shaking hands with the nearest neighbor and the worship period ends as quietly as it began.

The Society of Friends, from earliest days, has emphasized the importance of a living ministry to the community. It is freely given in service of God and calls for dedication of life and often for a sacrifice of other claims.

As the worshipers sit in silence we may feel some message arise out of the depth of our soul which we recognize by its nature to be intended for the gathering as a whole, not just for one's self. If we do not give the message, we feel a sense of omission, but if we utter it faithfully, we feel a sense of nearness and relief. The sensitive worshiper learns to recognize the call as clearly as we would the voice of a friend although we may be unable to describe its quality. Even though a message may seem intellectually fitting, it should not be given unless it is aglow with life.

No one is set apart in our meeting to supply the spoken word. The responsibility rests on every member to be ready and willing to take part under a due sense of Divine leadership. If all are faithful, vocal messages will come from many people. The whole meeting may be inspired by a simple heartfelt expression. The value of the spoken word depends as much on the listener as the speaker. If anything is felt to be spoken amiss, rather than giving way to displeasure at what seems unprofitable, the listeners should search our own hearts to see if we have done our share in creating the right spiritual atmosphere in which the harm fades and the good grows. Listeners may lose help which we might have received if we had been sympathetic and sensitive, remembering the message may be helpful to others.

Our meetings are open to all who care to share our manner of worship whether they be members or not. We extend a cordial invitation to this effect.

Meetings for Business

A meeting for business shall be held the first First Day (Sunday) in each month following the meeting for worship. Business meetings should be conducted with deliberation. Each member bears a responsibility to participate and bring forth any matters felt to be of real concern. Members should work together with a humble and loving spirit, each giving the other credit for purity of motive notwithstanding differences of opinion, and be ready to accept decisions of the meeting even though they may not be in accord with our individual judgment. Constant dwelling under the power and control of Christ produces understanding and mutual forbearance that prevents jealousies, misunderstandings, or any breach of love. A committee shall be appointed annually to nominate a clerk and members of standing committees. An important duty of the clerk is to gather the sense of the meeting and state in a minute what appears to be the judgment of the group. This minute shall be read, and after any necessary alterations are made, approved by the meeting in order to become valid. The clerk shall sign and forward any documents or correspondence as directed by the meeting. The meeting shall furnish a permanent record of its proceedings.

In the first month of each year the meeting shall appoint a committee to audit or examine our records.

The meeting shall appoint a treasurer every five years to keep account of all monies received or paid out on behalf of the meeting. A report shall be made to the meeting at least once a year following an audit by a committee appointed by the meeting.

A recorder shall be appointed to serve five years to keep permanent records of membership, births, marriages and deaths. A report shall be made at least once a year following examination of the records by an appointed committee. All Standing committee members should be nominated by a nominating committee appointed by the meeting. These standing committees shall report annually in writing to the meeting or as often as needed.

All committees should be concerned to carry out their duties promptly and with a sense of Divine guidance. A period of silence before and after the committee sessions is recommended.

Each member should feel a responsibility to speak to the business before the meeting in order that it may be completed with care and dispatch.

Membership

Membership in the Christian Church is a high and rich privilege entailing a corresponding responsibility. Ideally it is the outward sign of an inner union with Christ, the living head, and with the other members who make up the living body. There is no way for this true and inner union to be infallibly discerned by men. Outward membership can never be perfectly marked as there are doubtless members of the invisible church who do not belong to any recognized Christian body. We may compare the Society of Friends to a family in which all, even the youngest, can and may bear their rightful share in the family life and interests. We are aware that an ideal Christian society cannot be secured on the basis of Birthright Membership but neither may it be ensured by imposing outward tests of Creed or practice nor even by profession of conversion. However, there are certain fundamental principles of belief and conduct that provide a basis for an association through which living membership can find expression. In our Society unity is essential upon the spiritual and practical nature of Christianity: the claim of Christ to rule the whole of our life, both inward and outward, and the deep and penetrating reality of worship.

These are the ways of acquiring membership in our meeting.

Admission By Right of Birth: Children of parents who are members of the meeting are to be considered members by right of birth or adoption unless otherwise requested. If only one parent is a member the child shall be considered a member if the consent of both parents is given. The children should receive the special loving care and concern of the meeting in order that they may understand and experience for themselves the true meaning of the Religious Society of Friends.

Birthright members, upon reaching the age of eighteen, have the privilege of deciding whether they wish to retain their membership in the meeting. The meeting feels that each member at the age of majority should have the responsibility and freedom to make their own decision about being a member of Friends. Therefore at the age of eighteen each person is asked to state their decision in a letter to the meeting.

Admission on Personal Application or Application of a Parent or Guardian: When a person desires to be joined in membership with us, that person should apply in writing to the meeting. The applicant should be informed of the responsibilities of membership and of the work of Friends. Membership is a high and rich privilege not to be taken lightly. It should be made clear to the prospective member that a person can neither be given nor receive all that true membership offers without being a regular attender of meetings for worship and business and assumes a share of the responsibility for the meeting's activities.

A membership committee shall be appointed by the meeting to assist the applicant in any way possible. A minute shall be made by the meeting signifying the applicant's acceptance into membership and unless the person is present, the clerk shall inform the person of this action.

By Transfer: Upon presentation of a request for transfer and application for membership a committee shall be appointed to assist the applicant. A minute shall be made signifying the applicant's acceptance into membership.

Release from Membership: If any member makes a written request for release from membership or transfer to another meeting, the meeting shall minute the request. The clerk shall give the member requesting transfer a letter of transfer. A letter of release from membership shall be given to a member requesting release from membership with us.

Marriage

The union of partners is not to be entered into lightly. Counsel and guidance from God should first be earnestly sought. This union will be owned and blessed by God if the love that draws them together is sanctified by God. A common faith is helpful and a mutual desire to open heart and home to the spirit of God ensures a good foundation at the start. We regard marriage as a continuing sacrament not merely a civil contract. It is an ordinance of God for the help and blessing of both partners and for the right upbringing of the next generation. The prevalence of divorce and broken homes makes it imperative that great care be exercised and that the union be on the right foundation. If unhappiness should develop we believe patient and prayerful determination may overcome it.

A well founded marriage has to be worked at and is a source of strength, security and joy not only to the couple themselves, but to their family, community and nation, and to all whom their lives touch. True happiness comes about by the presence of devoted, unselfish love, not merely passing attraction, and it must include a real regard for the personality of each for the other.

The Friends marriage ceremony reflects our belief that a marriage contract is made by the couples themselves and completed and blessed by God. The simple ceremony where the couple says their vows within the framework of the Meeting for Worship without the help of a third person, is a natural expression of the way of life in which Friends believe. In the presence of God and supported by the prayers of their friends, they take each other as life partners, asking God's blessing on their union and dedicating their new life to God.

Marriage Procedure

In order to assist in every way it can to assure the stability and happiness of couples married under its care, the meeting outlines the following procedure preliminary to the wedding. The couple presents a letter signed by both to the meeting stating they intend marriage with each other. The letter is minuted by the Clerk and a Marriage Committee is appointed. They are to give any assistance or counsel the couple may need. It is recommended that a small collection of books and pamphlets on marriage be made available and kept up to date for this use. The Marriage Committee in conjunction with the Clerk also has the responsibility of informing itself as to the legal requirements for marriage and seeing to it that the couple is aware of them.

After the wedding, the Marriage Committee has the certificate recorded by the Meeting Recorder, sees that the legal report is sent to the County and reports to the meeting.

If either partner has children by a previous marriage, the Committee should see that their legal rights are secured.

The marriage takes place in meeting for worship, in which the partners take each other by the hand and each promises the other:

A certificate shall be prepared in general conformity with the tradition of Friends to be read aloud by a person previously selected and signed by the parties and all persons present as witnesses:

The original shall be given to the parties, with a copy furnished to the Meeting Recorder and any authority if any is required by law. The Marriage Committee shall insure these requirements and any legal notice or other documentation that may be required are met.

Funerals and Burial Grounds

Members of the House and Grounds Committee, or other members they might wish to designate, shall be in charge of offering assistance in regard to funeral arrangements. The Committee shall lay out the grounds, keep the plot up to date and see that the grounds are kept in order. Non-members wishing to use the grounds should get permission from this committee. The location of the graves may be marked by plain stones or cement flush with the ground.

Simplicity which is consistent with Christian living should be observed in connection with funerals. It should be a time when temporal things are secondary, when the reality of immortal life is deeply felt and when the presence of our Lord may bring comfort and consolation to the bereaved.

Advices and Queries

• Introduction
• Uses of Advices and Queries
• 1. Meeting for Worship
• 2. Outreach
• 3. Meeting for Business
• 4. Harmony Within the Meeting
• 5. Mutual Care
• 6. Education
• 7. Home and Family
• 8. Personal Responsibility
• 9. Civic Responsibility
• 10. Environmental Responsibility
• 11. Social and Economic Justice
• 12. Peace and Nonviolence

Introduction

These queries are intended to call to the attention of our members the need for individual examination to see how far their lives are consistent with our religious profession, and to encourage all concerned Friends to discharge their duty faithfully in administering counsel and admonition when necessary.

Quakerism is a living faith made real through the inward light of the living Christ. This faith holds that our individual lives and the corporate life of the meeting can be guided by continuing revelation through the Holy Spirit. When we behold the splendor of creation, we realize that knowledge of what is divine is beyond description. Traditionally, Friends have referred to the divine in such terms as God, the Inward Light, the Living Water, the Creator, the Christ Within, and the Spirit. Many believe that when we limit the divine to one gender we also limit ourselves and each other. Becoming aware of how we discern Spirit is important to our worship.

The Quaker faith is not written in the form of a creed, but is experienced in our lives as a vibrant, living truth. Advices and queries serve to engage our minds and hearts in a process which may provide openings to the leadings of the Spirit within us. These leadings may speak to our individual and corporate needs. The advices and queries reflect experiences from many lives as they contribute to the gathered wisdom of the group. They serve to guide us on our spiritual journeys by opening our hearts and minds to the possibility of new directions and insights.

Uses of Advices and Queries

We look for our own truths and the truths of our meeting when we discuss the advices; and answer the queries. It is suggested that one advice and one query be considered by the meeting each month.

1. Meeting for Worship

Advice

Meeting for Worship is the heart of the meeting. In the silence, we seek direct communion with God the Spirit, conscious of the seeking of others. From the depths of living silence may come an awareness of the presence of the Spirit. Sometimes the silence is unbroken. At other times a message may come to any one of us which seems intended not simply for the worshiper, but for the gathering as a whole. If the message is not expressed one may feel a sense of not having been faithful to a leading of the Spirit, but if it is spoken, a sense of peace may follow. We are most effective if we speak clearly, simply and from our own experience. Because we are unique individuals who come from varied backgrounds and life experiences, our messages reflect diversity. Part of our worship together is listening with an open spirit, holding the speaker in love, remembering that silence after the message is part of the message.

Our daily lives are linked with Meeting for Worship. In the search for truth, Friends are encouraged to spend time in individual study, meditation or prayer and to be open to other sources of inspiration around us. The life of the meeting may be strengthened by a deep level of sharing, discussion or worship at times other than regularly scheduled meetings.

Friends should make an effort to arrive at meeting for Worship prepared in mind and spirit to support one another in a worshipful atmosphere. As we give and receive, in speech or in silence, we are drawn together in the life of the Spirit.

Query

Are our Meetings for Worship held in a spirit of expectant waiting and communion with the Holy Spirit? How do we prepare our hearts and minds for worship?

How do we refer to that which is divine? How does ascribing gender to the Holy Spirit affect our worship?

How does the vocal ministry of the meeting contribute to its spiritual life? In what ways do we recognize and nurture vocal ministry and other spiritual gifts?

2. Outreach

Advice

Friends believe it is essential to express in words and deeds the faith that sustains us and the convictions that arise from that faith. It is important to speak with integrity and courage ourselves as well as to listen to others with open hearts and minds. We seek fellowship with all branches of Friends and with other seekers of Truth. We recognize the oneness of humanity in the Spirit and believe that in learning from one another we may come to respect differences. Truth is greater than any of us may know, individually or as a group.

As we work and share with others within our communities, we may find opportunities to invite them to attend our meetings for worship and other meeting activities. A genuine welcome to everyone is consistent with Friends' testimony of acknowledging the Divine Spirit in each person and of our belief in the dignity and worth of every human being.

Query

Do we encourage intervisitation among other Friends?

What are we doing to share our faith with others outside our Friends community? How do we speak truth as we know it and yet remain open to truth as understood by others?

In what ways do we cooperate with persons and groups with whom we share concerns? How do we reach out to those with whom we disagree?

How do we make the presence of our meeting known to the larger community? Do we invite others to share in our Meetings for Worship and other meeting activities? Do we welcome everyone and appreciate the gifts that differences such as race, creed, economic status, disability, age, gender or sexual orientation may bring to us?

3. Meeting for Business

Advice

In our Meeting for Business, Friends seek divine guidance in handling the affairs of the meeting. By opening the meeting with a period of worship, Friends can more easily wait patiently upon the will of the Divine Spirit while conducting business. This assists our Meetings for Business in finding the loving unity that might never be achieved through discussion alone. The right conduct of Meetings for Business, even in routine matters, is important to the life of the meeting.

Friends are encouraged to prepare for and attend Meetings for Business just as they would other Meetings for Worship. Participating in Meetings for Business and acceptance of responsibilities within the Meeting should not be taken lightly. When filling positions within our meetings, it is important to consider the suitability of individuals for specific tasks. Although the clerk is particularly charged with gathering the sense of the meeting, all Friends can assist the process by committing themselves to be faithful in opening their hearts and minds to wait upon the Divine Spirit.

Query

How can we hold our Meetings for Business in the spirit of love, understanding and patient search for unity without becoming frustrated by differences of opinion or the pressures of time?

How do we respond when no one else in the meeting seems to hold the views that we do on an issue? How do we respond to a dissenting minority?

How do we share responsibilities among Friends in our meeting? How do we serve our meeting?

4. Harmony Within the Meeting

"This is my commandment: Love one another as I have loved you." John 15:12

Advice

It is sometimes difficult to remember that love is a gift of the Divine Spirit and not simply a human emotion. As imperfect human beings, it is not always possible for us to feel loving toward one another, but by opening ourselves to the Light Within, we can receive and give love beyond our human abilities.

Relationships among meeting members take time to evolve. Sometimes misunderstandings develop. When differences arise, they should not be ignored for the sake of superficial unity. We believe disagreements which might divide or disrupt a meeting can be resolved through human effort and divine grace, and may result in a stronger and more creative meeting. True harmony depends upon each person's deep respect of and faithful attention to the Divine Spirit within us all. We endeavor to practice humility, attempting to understand the positions of others and being aware of the possibility that we may be mistaken.

It is the responsibility of the Ministry and Oversight Committee to be sensitive to needs which may arise. Others in the meeting may be equally concerned, and because of greater understanding in certain cases, be able to give counsel. In reconciliation of differences, a position not previously considered may prove mutually beneficial. At times it may be necessary to confront individuals whose behavior is disruptive. A clearness committee or professional help may be suggested in some situations. We must always remember the power of holding one another in the Light, and the healing that comes from forgiving ourselves as well as others.

Query

What can we do to deepen our relationships with one another? How does gender affect the way we relate to each other?

How does our meeting balance the needs for honesty and kindness? What topics do we avoid for the sake of "unity"?

When in conflict with others, do we cultivate a forgiving spirit? Do we look to that of God in ourselves and seek to address that of God in those with whom we disagree?

5. Mutual Care

Advice

Friends consider the meeting to be a family in which the welfare of each individual is of utmost concern. For some, the meeting may be the only family in the community. In mutual caring we seek greater wisdom than our own. We listen to the silence within ourselves and to one another with openness of heart. Sharing our pain as well as our joy can bring us closer together, making it easier to ask for help when we need it. Each of us is both giver and receiver, ready to help and to accept help.

Friends try to be aware of those who require special attention within the meeting community. We believe friendly interaction benefits both adults and children. It is the responsibility of adults to recognize and give voice to the needs of children in the meeting. Inactive and absent members require the care of the meeting; those who do not currently attend meeting may be contacted by mail or by personal visit. We need also to minister with sensitivity to those in transition and to support caregivers and those requiring care within the meeting community. It is important to be responsive to the needs and gifts of newcomers and seekers who may attend our meetings for a short time.

We endeavor to be conscious of how differing gender role expectations may affect the quality of our relationships and influence how we empower ourselves in the home, meeting, community, school, workplace and government. We envision a society that provides opportunities for all people to reach their potentials, to share similar expectations, reap comparable rewards and contribute equally to society.

Query

How do we respond to each other's personal needs and difficulties in sensitive and useful ways? Do we encourage both men and women to share in caregiving?

What are we doing to welcome and draw members and attenders of all ages into the fellowship of the meeting?

How do we help our children feel the loving care of the meeting? What do the children contribute to the meeting?

How do we keep in touch with inactive and distant members and attenders?

6. Education

Advice

Friends seek an education which integrates our intellectual, emotional and spiritual dimensions and enables us to face difficult moral issues with courage.

While the religious education of our children is primarily the concern of parents, everyone benefits when the entire meeting is concerned with nurturing them. If a spirit of common concern is present, children will gain a sense of belonging to the larger community, and, knowing they are loved and respected, will be able to face the mysteries of life with trust.

Friends promote learning throughout life and encourage freedom of thought and inquiry in all educational pursuits. Our complex and changing world demands that we learn to think and act creatively to meet its challenges.

Query

How can we most effectively foster a spirit of inquiry and a loving and understanding attitude toward life?

What effort are we making to become better acquainted with the Bible, the teachings of Jesus, our Judeo-Christian heritage, the history and principles of Friends, and the contributions of other religions and philosophies to our spiritual heritage?

In what ways can we encourage an educational process that is consistent with the values Friends cherish? How do gender-based expectations affect the goals we set and the way we learn?

Do we take an active and supportive interest in schools, libraries and other educational resources in our communities and elsewhere?

How do we prepare ourselves and our children to play active roles in a changing world?

7. Home and Family

Advice

We seek an atmosphere within our homes and within our families which nurtures the many physical, social, spiritual and emotional needs of each of us. This is true whether we live alone or with others.

A family, whatever its composition, is a unique and sometimes fragile bonding of people. At its best, it is concerned with the welfare of the whole and each of its constituents.

Children bring gifts to the families that nurture them. Our children's earliest encounters with the principles of Friends usually occur within our homes. Examples we set are often more effective than verbal guidance. The loving support of the meeting is needed as children learn to understand and practice Quaker principles in their lives.

While we try to make our homes centers of love, we sometimes feel anger and hostility. Part of the challenge of being human is to learn to constructively channel the energy of anger, relying on the Divine Spirit for love and guidance. Worship in the home can enable us to hold ourselves and one another in the Light. Respect for truth, as each discerns it, is essential to the happiness and spiritual growth of all persons within the home.

Clear communication, patience and a sense of humor are vital to family relationships.

We value setting aside time for rest, recreation and creative activities. Offering hospitality can foster mutual bonds of friendship and love and can enrich our own lives and the lives of others.

Query

How can we make our homes places of love and hospitality?

What different expectations do we hold for women and men, boys and girls? How can we bring more equality into our relationships?

How do we develop and maintain lines of communication?

In what ways do we share our deepest experiences, struggles, concerns and beliefs with our children and others, yet encourage them to develop their potential as the Spirit leads them?

What place do we make in our daily lives for meditation, spiritual renewal and reading of inspiring literature, such as the Bible?

How does our Meeting support families of all kinds?

8. Personal Responsibility

"Life is meant to be lived from a Center, a divine Center, a life of unhurried peace and power. It is serene. It takes not time, but it occupies all our time." Thomas Kelly

Advice

Historic testimonies of the Society of Friends against taking oaths, joining secret organizations, gambling and using addictive substances grew out of efforts of Friends to live with integrity and consistency. To swear an oath implied that one is obliged to be truthful only under oath. Joining secret organizations, gambling and using addictive and/or consciousness-altering substances were recognized as practices which diverted resources from useful purposes, distracted attention from the Inner Light, and placed obstacles in the way of Friends seeking to lead lives of integrity. We recognize the spirit of these testimonies and endeavor to apply the same principles in our lives today.

Honesty and simplicity are essential parts of personal responsibility. We manifest our commitment to Truth in all we do. We can have joy and beauty in our lives without allowing material things to dominate them. We need to free ourselves from distractions that interfere with our search for inner peace, and accept with thanksgiving all that promotes fullness and aids in service to the divine Center.

Query

How do we center our lives in the awareness of God the Spirit, so that all things may take their rightful places?

How do we structure our individual lives in order to keep them uncluttered with things and activities? How does Meeting help us examine our personal lives for simplicity?

Do we choose recreational activities which foster mental, physical and spiritual health?

How are our lives affected by tobacco, alcohol and drug use? What can we do to deal with problems resulting from their use? What can we do to recognize and deal with unhealthy ways we treat ourselves?

How do we ensure that we act with fairness and integrity?

Are we sensitive to our own use of language which may be offensive or oppressive to others?

9. Civic Responsibility

Advice

Because Friends believe there is that of God in all people, we strive for a world of freedom, justice and equality for everyone. Believing that progress toward these ideals is advanced by those who devote themselves to the shaping of a just society, we urge Friends to be active and conscientious citizens. This means staying informed on social issues, and on the opinions and activities of our elected representatives and of those seeking office. It is important that Friends speak truth to those in power. We recognize that, in our world, power in government and private sectors lies disproportionately with those of economic means. Speaking out on a personal level in our communities may be difficult, even dangerous, yet by doing so we may encourage others to work for justice.

Our first allegiance is to the Holy Spirit. In general, Friends support the laws of the State; but if those laws directly violate our religious convictions, we may be led to oppose them. When contemplating civil disobedience or unpopular personal testimony, we must carefully consider the spiritual basis for, and honestly face the consequences of our actions.

Query

What conflicts do we perceive between the laws of the State and our religious convictions? How do we resolve those conflicts in our lives? In what ways do we assume responsibility for the government of our community, state, nation and world?

How do we share our convictions with others? Do we express our opinions with courage, yet with love, mindful of the Divine Spirit within everyone?

How do we maintain our integrity when we find ourselves in a position of power? How do we respond when we feel powerless? Do we really respect and help those we seek to serve?

Are we careful to reach our decisions through prayer and strengthen our actions with worship? Are we open to divine leadings?

10. Environmental Responsibility

Advice

All of creation is divine and interdependent: air, water, soil, and all that lives and grows. Since human beings are part of this fragile and mysterious web, whenever we pollute or neglect the earth we pollute and neglect our own wellsprings. Developing a keen awareness of our role in the universe is essential if we are to live peacefully within creation.

The way we choose to live each day, as we manufacture, package, purchase and recycle goods, use resources, dispose of water, design homes, plan families and travel, affects the present and future of life on the planet. The thought and effort we give to replenishing what we receive from the earth, to keeping informed and promoting beneficial legislation on issues which affect the earth, to envisioning community with environmental conscience, are ways in which we contribute to the ongoing health of the planet we inhabit.

Preserving the quality of life on Earth calls forth all of our spiritual resources. Listening to and heeding the leadings of the Holy Spirit can help us develop qualities which enable us to become more sensitive to all life.

Query

What are we doing about our disproportionate use of the world's resources?

Do we see unreasonable exploitation in our relationship with the rest of creation?

How can we nurture reverence and respect for life? How can we become more fully aware of our interdependent relationship with the rest of creation?

To what extent are we aware of all life and the role we play? What can we do in our own lives and communities to address environmental concerns?

11. Social and Economic Justice

"For when I was hungry you gave me food, when thirsty you gave me drink, when I was a stranger you took me into your home, when naked you clothed me, when in prison you visited me." Matthew 25:35-36

Advice

We are part of an economic system characterized by inequality and exploitation. Such a society is defended and perpetuated by entrenched power.

Friends can help relieve social and economic oppression and injustice by first seeking spiritual guidance in our own lives. We envision a system of social and economic justice that ensures the right of every individual to be loved and cared for; to receive a sound education; to find useful employment; to receive appropriate health care; to secure adequate housing; to obtain redress through the legal system; and to live and die in dignity. Friends maintain historic concern for the fair and humane treatment of persons in penal and mental institutions.

Wide disparities in economic and social conditions exist among groups in our society and among nations of the world. While most of us are able to be responsible for our own economic circumstances, we must not overlook the effects of unequal opportunities among people. Friends' belief in the Divine within everyone leads us to support institutions which meet human needs and to seek to change institutions which fail to meet human needs.

We strengthen community when we work with others to help promote justice for all.

Query

How are we beneficiaries of inequity and exploitation? How are we victims of inequity and exploitation? In what ways can we address these problems?

What can we do to improve the conditions in our correctional institutions and to address the mental and social problems of those confined there?

How can we improve our understanding of those who are driven to violence by subjection to racial, economic or political injustice? In what ways do we oppose prejudice and injustice based on gender, sexual orientation, class, race, age, and physical, mental and emotional conditions? How would individuals benefit from a society that values everyone? How would society benefit?

12. Peace and Nonviolence

"[We] seek to live in the virtue of that life and power that takes away the occasion of all wars." George Fox

Advice

We seek peace within our own lives. Sometimes there are barriers to peace within families and meetings, and among individuals. Anger and frustration may result in hurtfulness which leaves physical, sexual or emotional wounds. Healing and forgiveness are possible when our hearts are opened to the transforming love that comes from the Spirit Within. The violence we oppose is not only war, but all unloving acts.

Friends seek peaceful resolution to conflicts among nations and peoples. Wars can easily erupt when nations depend upon armed forces as an option for defense and order. To oppose war is not enough if we fail to deal with the injustices and inequalities that often lead to violence. We need to address the causes of war, such as aggression, revenge, overpopulation, greed, and religious and ethnic differences.

Query

What are we doing to educate ourselves and others about the causes of conflict in our own lives, our families and our meetings? Do we provide refuge and assistance, including advocacy, for spouses, children, or elderly persons who are victims of violence or neglect?

Do we recognize that we can be perpetrators as well as victims of violence? How do we deal with this? How can we support one another so that healing may take place?

What are we doing to understand the causes of war and violence and to work toward peaceful settlement of differences locally, nationally, and internationally? How do we support institutions and organizations that promote peace?

Do we faithfully maintain our testimony against preparation for and participation in war?

These Advices and Queries are taken from the Faith & Practice of the Iowa Yearly Meeting (Conservative) 2010

Trustees

Trustees shall be appointed by the meeting to have charge of all legal business for the meeting and to hold title to all property belonging to the meeting.

Peace and Brotherhood

It is our conviction that if we put Christ's teachings into everyday practice, then and only then, can a society be built from which peace will evolve as naturally and as surely as does war from our present social order. Let us be continually conscious of this goal and strive for the highest fulfillment of it, keeping before ourselves the vision and faith of a "new humanity, which does not recognize frontiers and always stands for the all embracing world community."

We believe the spirit of Divine Love, as seen in the life, teachings, and cross of Christ teaches us that we too, must be peacemakers. Before we can proclaim it to the world, however, we must first have peace within ourselves. "That of God" within us, speaking to our true condition, is the true source of peace.

All men desire peace, but do not know how to attain it. They are bewildered and frightened, and in their confusion a double standard of morality develops in which, on the one hand men are trained to kill and on the other they are taught that murder is evil. Vast sums of money are going to instruments of death instead of life, while millions of people are near starvation or suffer from preventable diseases. All this is in the name of peace, freedom and security.

Our Christian faith says that war is wrong, and that double standards are wrong. Only the love of God is strong enough to overcome fear, suspicion and hatred. Friends should be able to bring to situations of political tension a spirit of self-sacrificing love. The Spirit of Christ is not changeable and our historic testimony is as true today as it ever was. It calls for action that is peacemaking and reconciling.

Taken from the report of ALL FRIENDS CONFERENCE, 1952.

The roots of war can be taken from all our lives as they were from those of Francis of Assisi and John Woolman. Day by day let us seek out and remove every seed of hatred and of greed, of resentment and grudging, in ourselves and so far as we can in the social structure about us. Christ's way of freedom replaces slavish obedience by fellowship. Instead of external compulsion, He gives an inward authority. Instead of self-seeking, we must practice self-giving, instead of domination, cooperation. Fear and suspicion must give place to trust and the spirit of understanding. Thus shall we live more and more in true harmony with all men and our lives be filled with joy which true fellowship never fails to bring.

Surely this is the way in which Christ calls us to overcome the barriers of race and class and thus make all humanity a society of friends.

Taken from the Discipline of Monteverde Monthly Meeting of Friends. Monteverde, Costa Rica.

"The Light is in all men, and the closer they come to it, the closer they come to one another."
Howard Brinton

Back to Top