Quakerism arose out of the turmoil of 17th Century England, around the time of the Civil War. Early Quakers felt dissatisfied with the life of the established Church. They sought a meaningful relationship with God, based on experience of living in the Light. Their leader, George Fox, proclaimed that all could experience a direct relationship with God, without the need for priests, church hierarchy or outward rituals. Quakers also proclaimed that the inward Light was within all people whatever their race, religion, social status or gender.
Contemporary Quakerism in Britain has evolved considerably since the 17th Century. We see ourselves as being rooted in Christianity, but open to new Light. What matters most to Quakers is the experience of living in the Light, rather than the narrative in which we explain our experience. Quakerism is therefore theologically more diverse than most faith communities. Quakers do not have a creed. We believe we should seek unity in the Spirit, rather than in doctrine.
Many Quakers articulate their experience of the Light in traditional Christian terms. Others feel uncomfortable with Christian imagery. This may be because of previous negative experiences in mainstream Christian Churches or because they are rooted in non-Christian traditions. We try to find unity in our shared experience of the Light. We also try also to avoid conflict over the varied ways in which this experience is articulated.
Our meetings for worship are unprogrammed and based on silence. Anyone present can speak if they are moved by the Spirit to do so. Meetings usually last for about one hour. This could involve between two and four pieces of spoken ministry, although meetings can be wholly silent. Each piece of spoken ministry is normally separated by a lengthy period of silence. This allows us to be still in our own thoughts and preoccupations so that we can discern the leadings of the Light within. If we are faithful in doing this we will be led into unity, because the Light is one in all. Meeting for worship is therefore a corporate activity. It is not supposed to be thought of as an opportunity for private meditation in a friendly setting.
Quakerism is often associated with our Peace Testimony. We also have testimonies to Truth, Simplicity, Equality and Sustainability. It is through the testimonies that we give expression to our understanding of how the world should be, based on our shared experience of the Light.
We do not practise baptism. Nor do we take communion. The abandonment of outward rituals is a witness to the inwardness of religious experience. Quakers do not criticise the use of outward rituals within other faith communities. Some Quakers are also members of other Churches and continue to take communion. Joint membership is accepted.
The Quaker attitude to the Bible is that it is the Spirit that inspired it that is of ultimate importance, not the letter of the text itself. We try to live by the Spirit rather than the text. Quakers believe that scripture should be interpreted within the culture of the age in which it was written. Quakers also believe in continuing revelation. We do not therefore feel obliged to always accept the teaching and practices of previous generations. Our theology is liberal. It evolves. We hope that it is inclusive.
Bull St Elders. 2024.