QUERIES ON COMMUNITY
While the Quaker faith is founded on the principle that every person can have a direct relationship with God, an equally central tenet lies in the power of the “gathered community.”
When Friends gather in silence to worship, they are collectively seeking the will of God, rather than meditating individually. Shared worship signifies unity and trust. The Friends community also provides a place for individual members to look for wisdom and support.
In our immediate and extended families as well as the greater community in which we live and even in the world community, we hope to nurture relationships, believing that, in gathering together, people increase their strength, vision, wisdom, and creativity.
We accompany and support each other and communities in their efforts to seek justice and improve their own lives and circumstances. Where people are divided, we strive to build bridges, encourage trust, and create spaces for dialogue and cooperation.
1. How do I try to make my home a welcoming, respectful, and caring place? Do I carry those practices to work with me? To my Quaker Meeting? To clubs and activities I am involved in?
2. In what ways do I honor the diverse gifts, talents, and resources of the individuals and communities in my life? Family, school, clubs, teams…?
3. Do I ever try to I reach out and bring a diverse group of people together? How do I help ensure a safe space for diverse voices and opinions in groups I belong to?