Quaker Theology

Issue # 8 — Spring 2003

  • 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…

  • Quaker History & Theology: Three Interviews

    This post presents interviews with three scholars exploring various dimensions of Quaker history and theology. Thomas Hamm discusses contemporary American Quakerism’s diversity and challenges; Thomas Kennedy examines theological shifts and institutional changes within British Quakerism from 1860-1920; and Erin Bell investigates editorial changes in early Quaker writings and their implications for understanding Quaker history and…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • Milton Mayer, Quaker Hedgehog

    This article profiles Milton Mayer, a twentieth-century Quaker and writer known for his critique of state authority and individual corruption. Mayer’s major work, *They Thought They Were Free*, examines the gradual acquiescence of ordinary Germans to Nazism, highlighting the importance of early resistance to institutional power. His lifelong commitment to moral individualism and opposition to…

  • Review: “A Catholic’s Journey through Quakerism*

    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…

  • 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,…

  • 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,…