Issue #23, Summer-Fall 2013 – Quaker Theology

Editor’s Introduction #23

I As this issue took shape, much of the world was keeping vigil while Nelson Mandela, the liberator of South Africa, seemed to be finishing the course of his dramatic, 94-year life pilgrimage. As a statesman, Mandela’s greatest achievement was the ending of apartheid, a seismic change achieved with a minimum of violence.…
The Battle for Battle Creek: Sectarian Competition in the Yankee West

This article explores the history of liberal sectarianism in Battle Creek, Michigan, particularly focusing on the Hicksite Quakers and Progressive Friends in the 19th century. It highlights their influence on the city’s religious landscape, social reform movements, and the development of Seventh-Day Adventism and Battle Creek’s health and cereal industries. The article also discusses the…
“The Early Quakers and the Kingdom of God: Peace, Testimony and Revolution”*

The post reviews Gerard Guiton’s book on early Quakers, critiquing his theological approach that prioritizes a static interpretation of Quaker beliefs over historical context and action. The reviewer emphasizes the need to consider evolving historical circumstances and actions in understanding Quaker pacifism and theology rather than purely theological assertions detached from historical realities.
Excerpts from “The Dance Between Hope and Fear,” by John Calvi

This article presents excerpts from John Calvi’s book “The Dance Between Hope and Fear,” highlighting his lifelong journey as a Quaker healer and practical theologian. It explores his experiences in healing, spiritual encounters, coping with AIDS and torture survivors, and reflections on hope, fear, and divine love within a Quaker framework.
Progressive Friends: The Top Ten Reasons Why They’re The Most Interesting Quakers We Never Heard Of

This article highlights the 19th-century Progressive Friends, an overlooked Quaker movement that revolutionized Quaker ecclesiology, championed democracy, and influenced modern liberal Quakerism. It emphasizes their roles in social reform, feminist activism, spiritualism, and interfaith cooperation, while also acknowledging their challenges and historical neglect.
“Quaker Brotherhood: Interracial Activism and the American Friends Service Committee, 1917-1950″*

This article reviews Allan W. Austin’s book on the American Friends Service Committee’s interracial activism from 1917 to 1950, highlighting both the Committee’s efforts and struggles with race relations during that period. It discusses the historical context, challenges in funding and administration, and the broader implications for Quaker engagement and declining influence in social justice…
“Quakers & Homosexuality Press Statement,” from Friends Church Kenya

The article centers on the 2012 press statement by Friends Church Kenya (FCK) condemning homosexuality as sinful and contrary to Quaker and Biblical teachings. It presents extensive background on the legal and social context of anti-LGBT laws and attitudes in Kenya and much of Africa, including influences of U.S. conservative Christian groups. The article also…
About the Contributors

Doug Bennett is a convinced Friend, a member of Richmond, Indiana First Friends Meeting, part of the New Association of Friends taking shape in the Midwest. He now lives in Maine where he worships among Friends at Brunswick Friends Meeting. From 1997 to 2011 he was president and professor of politics at Earlham College. His…