Quakers find inspiration
in life of Jesus
by Rosie Findlater
When I was first invited to attend a Quaker meeting in Essex, I didn't
know what to expect. My mind was completely open to what would be a
new experience. I had an idea that it might be uncomfortable and austere,
with some puritanical faces.
But I was wrong. It was a lovely opportunity to try to understand
their beliefs.
Quakers, members of The Religious Society of Friends, are rooted in
Christianity and have always found inspiration in the life and teachings
of Jesus. They try to live their lives following his example and drawing
on a strong sense of community. Their book of faith is inspiring reading
and sets out their way of living a Christian life - very similar
to our way.
They are encouraged to try to witness and to enter imaginatively into
other communities of faith, creating together bonds of friendship. This,
I felt, was certainly achieved when I visited the meeting hall.
At the end of the hour my mind told me that I had indeed received
spiritual refreshment (similar to Communion). There is a feeling in
the room that is hard to put into words. But it speaks of power, strength,
peace and unity
The meeting room was bright and simple; large windows offered views
of trees and sky. The room was well proportioned, with a table in the
centre surrounded by three rows of chairs.
About 30 people attended. There was a leader who sat in the middle
of the front row. But the leader was not exactly leading, more guiding
and sometimes without speaking until reading notices at the end.
You listen in silence for an hour. You can read, knit, sew or simply
sit and be. Anyone is at liberty to stand up and relate something they
feel will interest the others in the room. From their guidebook, I know
they all try to have open minds and hearts to whatever anyone has to
say. From my experience of two meetings, anything that was said was
indeed interesting and relevant.
Most Quakers are pacifists and have been since 1682 when meetings
started. They have always been very concerned for people who are unjustly
treated or sent to prison for their faith.
After the service they have tea or coffee. When I attended, there
was a large Fairtrade stall and even some local eggs (very fresh indeed!).
The meeting participants were welcoming and friendly.
When I asked if they would mind if I wrote an article about them for
Barnes in Common, they asked if they could have a copy for their own
magazine!
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