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Short answer to: What is a Quaker meeting for worship like?


"We seek a gathered stillness in our meetings for worship so that all may feel the power of God's love drawing us together and leading us." from Advices & Queries 8


You will be greeted when you arrive at the Meeting. Come in quietly and sit where you like. The meeting room is furnished simply. Benches and chairs are set in a square or circle. In the centre is a table on which there are usually a vase of flowers, a Bible and a Quaker book of faith and practice. Quakers do not have priests or ministers or a service with hymns and a prepared address.


As everyone can have a direct relationship with God, then no priest is needed. The responsibility for the meeting belongs to all.


We sit in silence that deepens as it progresses. We seek to open ourselves to the spirit of God, and to 'know one another in that which is eternal'. If someone feels moved to say something which will deepen and enrich the worship they may stand and speak briefly. Anyone is free to speak, pray or read, provided it is in response to a leading of the spirit. The silence is broken for a moment but not interrupted.


At the end, usually after an hour, two Friends will shake hands, signifying the close of the meeting. Notices follow, visitors may be introduced, and tea and coffee is served for everyone.


from John Wragg


Section 9.02 in Quaker Faith & Practice explains:


In the world family of Friends there is a rich variety of experience, some of which is unfamiliar to Friends in Britain Yearly Meeting. Some Friends make frequent and joyful use of song and Bible study, and may be led by a pastor; for others silent waiting on God is the basis of worship, from which vocal ministry develops. Many Friends have a vivid experience of personal salvation through the teaching, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; many hesitate to express their deepest spiritual experiences in words. It is important that Friends in Britain Yearly Meeting be aware that we are part of the world Quaker community, that we have a responsibility to learn about Friends in other parts, and that this can be done in local meetings as well as among yearly meetings.



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