Issue # 8 — Spring 2003
Examines the close relationship between Quaker history and theology and the ways Friends engage with religious, political, and philosophical difference. Interviews with Quaker scholars explore the tradition’s diversity, institutional development, and the editing of its historical record. Other contributions consider ecumenical foundations for peace theology, the compatibility of materialism with Quaker ethics and practice, and a Catholic spiritual journey through Quakerism. A profile of Milton Mayer emphasizes individual moral responsibility, resistance to state authority, and the danger of gradually accommodating injustice. Together, the issue presents Quaker theology as a historically grounded but continuing conversation about truth, conscience, community, and peace.
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Editor’s Introduction, #8
By Chuck Fager Much of Quaker theology is inextricably interwoven with our history. This is a truism fitting most if not all religions; yet it is especially true of the Religious Society of Friends, because of our relative paucity of formal theologizing. Hence it felt natural, at last autumn’s conference on the Legacy of George…
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About the Contributors, #8
Osborn Cresson, of Mount Holly Monthly Meeting, is a retired special education teacher who lived in Monteverde, Costa Rica, for many years. He has just published a book about his family’s experiences in Afghanistan (www.quaker.org/afghanistan). Chuck Fager is Editor of Quaker Theology. His latest book is A Quaker Declaration of War. Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC,…
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“A Catholic’s Journey through Quakerism* — A Review
This article reviews Irene Lape’s book, “Leadings: A Catholic’s Journey through Quakerism,” which explores her spiritual pilgrimage from Catholicism through Quakerism and back to a renewed appreciation of both traditions. It discusses her integration of Quaker spirituality, Scripture, and continuing revelation with Catholic sacramentality and tradition, highlighting her critique of contemporary Quakerism and her grounding…
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Peace Theology and Foundations for Ecumenical Dialogue
This article explores the complexities of peace theology within Christian traditions, focusing on the challenges and foundations necessary for ecumenical dialogue among historic peace churches and other Christian communities. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse theological legacies, embodying faith in lived experience, and fostering a spirit of covenantal fellowship to advance shared understandings of…
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A Quaker in a Material World: A Materialist Perspective
The article explores the compatibility of materialism, which views reality as solely physical and deterministic, with Quaker beliefs and practices. It argues that materialists can live meaningful, ethical lives aligned with Quaker values without traditional theistic beliefs, and advocates for greater inclusion and outreach to materialists within the Religious Society of Friends. The author emphasizes…
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About Contributors, #8
Osborn Cresson, of Mount Holly Monthly Meeting, is a retired special education teacher who lived in Monteverde, Costa Rica, for many years. He has just published a book about his family’s experiences in Afghanistan (www.quaker.org/afghanistan). Chuck Fager is Editor of Quaker Theology. His latest book is, A Quaker Declaration of War. Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC,…