Quaker Theology

Worship

  • The Trouble With “Ministers”

    The article explores the historical and contemporary debates surrounding the revival of recorded ministry among liberal unprogrammed Friends. It highlights the problematic two-tier system that once existed, where ministers and elders held control and privilege, and warns against repeating this hierarchical structure. The author calls for a thoughtful, historically informed approach that upholds equality and…

  • Reflecting Theologically from the Gathered Meeting: The Nature and Origin of Quaker Theology

    This article explores the nature and origin of Quaker theology as an experiential, relational, and socially transformative practice rooted in inwardness and communal silence. It emphasizes that Quaker theology differs from systematic theology by focusing on life, spiritual experience, and social justice rather than rigid doctrines, highlighting the gathered meeting as a central context for…

  • The Retention of Young People by the Quakers and the Amish

    This article compares the retention of young people and preservation of cultural distinctiveness between Quakers and Amish communities. It explores the sociological, historical, and cultural factors influencing why the Amish have maintained higher retention rates and a strong cultural identity, while Quakers have experienced decline and cultural assimilation. The analysis highlights differences in community boundaries,…

  • Enacting Truth: The Dynamics of Quaker Practice

    Douglas Gwyn analyzes the dynamic structure of Quaker practice in seeking and enacting truth on four levels: individual practice, monthly meetings, yearly meetings, and informal networks of concern. He critiques the decline in answering yearly meeting queries, arguing that this short-circuits Quaker discernment and social witness, and illustrates his points with historical examples and the…

  • An Argument for Comprehensive Religious Education of FGC Young Friends

    This article advocates for a comprehensive and age-appropriate religious education program for Friends General Conference (FGC) Young Friends to deepen their understanding of Quaker theology and history. The author shares personal experiences of gaps in theological knowledge despite extensive Quaker involvement and argues that teaching Quaker faith, practice, and history is essential to prevent future…

  • The Spiritual Similarities of Quaker Silence and Pentecostal Glossolalia in Worship

    This article explores the spiritual similarities between Quaker silence and Pentecostal glossolalia as distinct means of worship both aiming for direct experience and guidance from the Spirit. It highlights four key shared aspects: direct divine experience, the sovereignty of the Spirit in worship, mutual edification of self and others, and the limitations and challenges of…

  • “Catechism and Confession of Faith,”* by Robert Barclay, A Review

    This post reviews the modern English edition of Robert Barclay’s 1673 work, “A Catechism and Confession of Faith,” highlighting its role in providing systematic scriptural guidance relevant to early Friends and contemporary seekers alike. It discusses the structure of the catechism, its scriptural bases, and editorial choices about biblical translations while emphasizing the book’s value…

  • Stillness: Surrounding, Sustaining, Strengthening

    The post reflects on the theme of stillness through three vivid images: a peaceful summer afternoon at a loved one’s deathbed, the deceptive silence in Mozart’s opera The Magic Flute, and the profound stillness of Jesus on the cross. It explores the spiritual dimensions and complexities of stillness in these contexts, emphasizing God’s sustaining presence…

  • A Reflection: This Is a Start

    This article reflects on the core beliefs of Quakers, emphasizing their openness to diverse theological perspectives and the centrality of seeking truth through personal and communal experience of God’s spirit. It highlights the Quaker commitment to inclusivity, the ongoing search for divine guidance, and the importance of love, compassion, and mutual respect in worship and…

  • The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) as a Religious Community

    The article explores the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) as a religious community characterized more as a religious order than a traditional church, emphasizing a distinctive way of life and prayer rather than doctrinal uniqueness. It discusses specific Quaker practices such as Advices and Queries, historical testimonies, and corporate discernment, and identifies key features of…