Issue #21, Autumn 2012
Examines the future of Quakerism through studies of institutional conflict, liberal religion, ecological radicalism, historical witness, and changing patterns of religious affiliation. Continued reporting on the proposed division of Indiana Yearly Meeting documents disputes over scriptural authority, LGBTQ inclusion, organizational control, finances, and the meaning of Quaker unity. An analysis of Rufus Jones and Thomas Kelly presents their mysticism and social activism as movements beyond conventional religious liberalism, while a review of contemporary American religion considers the wider forces affecting Quaker membership and growth. Other contributions critically assess violent ecological resistance and recover William Bartram’s moral vision as a Quaker botanist attentive to nature and Indigenous knowledge. Together, the issue asks how Friends can respond faithfully to institutional division, religious change, and environmental crisis.
-
Introduction to Issue #21
This is a packed issue, full of high-content, substantive thought and reporting. First, there are two updates by Associate Editor Stephen Angell on the continuing conflict in Indiana Yearly Meeting. They continue our detailed coverage of this significant episode, a record not available elsewhere. Yet a preoccupation with current foibles can easily become a kind…
-
“American Religion, Contemporary Trends”*
Reviewed by Chuck Fager Most Quaker groups I know of worry about growing. Whether they call it “outreach” or evangelism, whether they preach about it endlessly or only whisper furtively in the hallways, the desire, the need for more members and attenders hangs over Friends like an ever-present specter. This concern (obsession?) is as prevalent…
-
Beyond Liberalism: Rufus Jones and Thomas Kelly in the History of Liberal Religion
The article explores the lives and theology of Rufus Jones and Thomas Kelly, highlighting their unique blend of mysticism and social activism in the context of early 20th-century liberal Quakerism. It examines their theological contributions, personal struggles, and their impact on religious liberalism, emphasizing their radical departures from mainstream liberal thought and their deep devotional…
-
“Deep Green Resistance: Strategy to Save the Planet”*
This article is a detailed review of the book *Deep Green Resistance: Strategy to Save the Planet*, which advocates for radical ecological sabotage to dismantle industrial civilization. The reviewer critically examines the book’s militant strategy, ethical dilemmas, and the potential for genocide embedded in its plan, while contrasting it with Quaker peace testimony and historical…
-
A Letter from William Bartram, 1792
William Bartram to Benjamin Smith Barton Responding to a missing letter from Barton, inquiring about medicines and remedies among Indian groups in the Carolinas down to Florida that Bartram had visited during his botanical explorations. With the letter Barton sent a book on Indian lore. Spelling is as in the original. Kingsessring [Pennsylvania]December 29, 1792My…
-
The Proposed Split of Indiana Yearly Meeting: What Its Monthly Meetings Say
The article provides an in-depth report on the proposed split (reconfiguration) of Indiana Yearly Meeting (IYM), detailing the perspectives of various monthly meetings regarding the division into two groups with differing theological and organizational views, especially around issues of Scripture authority and LGBTQ inclusion. It highlights the tensions, theological disputes, financial concerns, procedural critiques, and…
-
About the Contributors
Guy Aiken is a PhD student in Religious Studies at the University of Virginia, specializing in American Religions. Though he is not affiliated with a Monthly Meeting, he helped coordinate the summer 2010 Young Adult Leadership Development (YALD) program at Pendle Hill. In fall 2010 the Canadian Quaker History Journal published his article on Thomas…