Quaker Theology

LGBTQ Issues

  • Moment of Truth: Wilmington Yearly Meeting Divides over a Familiar Set of Issues

    The article details the division within Wilmington Yearly Meeting (WYM) over same-gender marriage and biblical interpretation, leading to multiple monthly meetings disaffiliating from the yearly meeting to form independent or new affiliations. It traces the historical controversies, key meetings, and the theological and organizational disputes that culminated in the 2018 separation. The piece also reflects…

  • Attachments: NC Yearly Meeting Documents

    The article presents a series of attachments documenting the theological conflicts and resulting organizational challenges within the North Carolina Yearly Meeting (NCYM) of the Religious Society of Friends. It details proposals for separation due to irreconcilable theological differences, letters from quarters and meetings, dissenting opinions against splitting, and the eventual plan for reorganization into two…

  • Three Reflections on Same Sex Marriage

    The article presents three reflections supporting same-sex marriage from a Quaker perspective, emphasizing equality, love, and the importance of marriage as a societal and spiritual commitment. It critiques historical and ongoing injustices against marginalized groups, advocates for inclusivity within religious communities, and celebrates the normalcy and blessings of same-gender unions. The author also shares a…

  • Links to NCYM-FUM letters online

    This article provides direct links to various historical letters from the North Carolina Yearly Meeting of Friends United Meeting (NCYM-FUM). The letters include both protests and responses related to Quaker meetings and issues within the community.

  • Separation Accomplished: New Beginnings for a New Association of Friends and a “Reconfigured” Indiana Yearly Meeting

    This detailed article examines the 2013 separation and “reconfiguration” of Indiana Yearly Meeting (IYM), which resulted in the establishment of the New Association of Friends and a smaller, reconfigured IYM. The division was largely driven by disagreements over Biblical authority, homosexuality, and yearly meeting authority, with both groups expressing relief and a hope for future…

  • A Letter re: Kenya Quakers & Homosexuality

    This article discusses the complex and controversial issue of homosexuality within the Quaker community in Kenya, highlighting cultural, gender, and leadership dynamics that influence acceptance and policy. It emphasizes the tension between official church stances and grassroots opinions, noting opportunities for dialogue and the importance of supportive engagement rather than missionary approaches.

  • Northwest Yearly Meeting and “Shattering” Conflict: Chapter One

    This article details the escalating conflict within Northwest Yearly Meeting of Evangelical Friends over LGBTQ inclusion, focusing on the schism triggered by West Hills Friends Church’s public welcoming stance. It outlines the historical and theological background, the struggle for LGBTQ recognition at George Fox University, and the eventual ultimatum faced by West Hills Friends threatening…

  • 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.

  • “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…

  • “Three Hundred Fifty Years of the Society of Friends in North America: 1661-2011″*

    This post reviews Geoffrey Kaiser’s comprehensive chart depicting 350 years of Quaker history in North America, highlighting the complex schisms primarily between evangelical and liberal Friends. Kaiser, influenced by Robert Barclay’s theology, emphasizes the universality of the Inner Light and explores ongoing theological and social tensions within Quakerism, including acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. The chart…

  • Lopping Off a Limb?

    This article details the deep divisions within Indiana Yearly Meeting (IYM) over the acceptance and affirmation of LGBTQ+ persons, particularly focusing on West Richmond Monthly Meeting’s decision to adopt a welcoming and affirming stance. The conflict highlights broader issues including interpretation of scripture, yearly meeting authority, and the potential realignment or division of the yearly…

  • “Hostage In Iraq” & “118 Days: Christian Peacemaker Teams Held Hostage in Iraq”* Reviewed

    This review critically examines two books about the kidnapping of Christian Peacemaker Teams members in Iraq, focusing on the theological, strategic, and practical issues around martyrdom and peace activism. It highlights the recklessness of some peaceworkers, contrasts preparedness between hostages, and addresses the profound challenges faced by one gay captive and the LGBT community’s need…

  • Opening the Scriptures, Then and Now

    This article explores the historical and contemporary interpretations of the Bible within the Religious Society of Friends, highlighting tensions between mystical, inward readings and more literal, evangelical approaches. It traces key developments from George Fox’s seventeenth-century Spirit-led understandings through eighteenth- and nineteenth-century debates, including Joseph John Gurney’s evangelical influence, and reflects on current Quaker disputes…