“Stand still in that power which brings peace.”

–George Fox, 1652

In a world of constant chatter, Quakers start from stillness. We listen for the voice of Spirit in the spaces between words; we leave space when we gather rather than rushing to fill it. We tap into that stillness, not to soothe ourselves, but to seek direction and to find strength for the work that God has called us to do.

Read on to learn more about what Quakers believe and how Quakers worship, as well as answers to some frequently asked questions.

 

Quakers have no creed. We come from many different faiths, religious backgrounds, and life experiences. We may use different words to describe our relationship to God or Spirit, but in general we agree that:

  • there is that of God in everyone, which some have called the Light within
  • everyone can have a direct, personal experience of God/Spirit, individually and in shared worship
  • leadings and new revelations from God/Spirit are continuing
  • testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship have endured over time and can guide our lives

When we gather for worship at WFM, we join together in silent prayer or reflection as we wait in joyful expectation of God/Spirit's presence. At times, this silence is so rich that no words are needed.

At other times, someone may feel led by God/Spirit to share a message aloud. We allow for time between spoken messages to let the words sink in and then to recenter ourselves in stillness.

Not all spoken messages will resonate with everyone present. If a message does not speak to you, then peacefully let it go.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Quaker worship begins with “centering,” allowing distractions and the outside world to fade away so as to come into communion with each other and with God/Spirit. During this time, our silence and our openness to God/Spirit within us is itself a type of ministry that deepens the worship experience for the entire meeting.

    When a Quaker feels led to speak during worship, also known as sharing vocal ministry, a message arises from the inward movement of God/Spirit, not in the self. This message is meant for the community, not for just one person; it takes the form of a need to speak, rather than a choice to speak. Some Quakers say that they know a message is ready to share when they can’t hold it in any longer.

    While vocal ministry can take on any number of forms, generally it should not be a lecture; should not monopolize the time available for worship; and should never be a rebuttal to another Friend’s vocal ministry. For more individualized guidance, you are welcome to reach out to a member of WFM’s Spiritual Life Committee.

  • Don’t worry: everyone has this trouble in the beginning, and even the Friend who has attended meeting for many years will still have this difficulty from time to time. You are not alone!

    It can be helpful to start with a centering prayer or to use a meditation technique to bring the mind into greater stillness at the beginning of worship. Then, let that effort fade away into expectant, waiting stillness.

    You can practice coming into stillness during the week, between meetings for worship, even if it’s only for a few minutes. Finally, it can be helpful to arrive at meeting ten or fifteen minutes early to give yourself time to settle into stillness.

  • By attending meeting for worship and other events, and by getting to know others in the meeting, you will soon begin to identify not only opportunities to get involved, but specific gifts that you may bring to enrich the life of the meeting.

    Our monthly business meeting can be a good opportunity to learn about existing needs and opportunities. You can consider joining one of the meeting’s standing committees. And, in time, you may wish to go through the formal process of becoming a member.

    But none of these activities is required: you can and should find the forms of involvement that are right for you.

  • Yes, there are many Quaker organizations at the local, national, and international levels that are doing important work. For example, Woolman Hill is a Quaker retreat center in rural western Massachusetts that offers programs throughout the year. The Friends Committee on National Legislation seeks to advance Quaker values through advocacy in Washington.

    Publications like Friends Journal often profile the activities of such organizations, and can be a great place to learn more.