Quaker Theology

Race

Examines race and racism in Quaker history, thought, and social witness, from slavery and abolition to struggles for racial equality and justice. Explores both Quaker contributions and failures, considering how faith, conscience, and nonviolent action shape efforts to confront prejudice and build equitable communities.

  • Lucretia Mott — A Sermon

    In this 1858 sermon, Lucretia Mott presents the divine light within every person as the foundation of religion, emphasizing justice, love, and moral action over creeds, ceremonies, and clerical authority. Advocates freedom of conscience, rational interpretation of Scripture, and women’s spiritual independence, while condemning biblical justifications for slavery and war. Calls for abolition, racial equality,…

  • “A History of Southland College: The Society of Friends and Black Education in Arkansas,”* A Review

    This review discusses Thomas C. Kennedy’s detailed historical account of Southland College, a Quaker institution dedicated to African-American education in Arkansas from 1864 to 1925. It explores the challenges of racial violence, financial struggles, evangelical Quaker efforts, and the eventual decline of the school amid shifts in Quaker racial attitudes and leadership conflicts. Kennedy’s work…

  • “Fit for Freedom, Not for Friendship, Quakers, African Americans, and the Myth of Racial Justice”* A Review

    This detailed review examines the book *Fit for Freedom, Not for Friendship*, highlighting the complex and often contradictory history of Quakers in relation to African Americans and racial justice. It acknowledges the Society of Friends’ notable yet imperfect record on abolition and civil rights, critiques common myths about Quaker racial progress, and calls for further…

  • “From Personality & Place”* An Excerpt

    The article explores the intertwined themes of personalism and place in Quaker history, particularly at Pendle Hill, emphasizing community, spirituality, and social justice. It highlights significant figures like Teresina Rowell and Wilmer and Mildred Young, who embodied Quaker ideals through intentional community living, racial justice, and nonviolence amid capitalist challenges. The piece also situates Pendle…

  • “Quaker Brotherhood: Interracial Activism and the American Friends Service Committee, 1917-1950″*

    This article reviews Allan W. Austin’s book on the American Friends Service Committee’s interracial activism from 1917 to 1950, highlighting both the Committee’s efforts and struggles with race relations during that period. It discusses the historical context, challenges in funding and administration, and the broader implications for Quaker engagement and declining influence in social justice…

  • Faith, Power, and Trump

    The article explores the responses of three major 20th-century religious thinkers—Reinhold Niebuhr, Martin Luther King Jr., and Malcolm X—to racism and social justice in America, especially during the Civil Rights Movement and the Age of Trump. It contrasts their theological perspectives on faith, power, sacrifice, and activism, critiquing white evangelical support for Trumpism and urging…

  • Howard Thurman and Quakers

    Examines the African American theologian Howard Thurman’s enduring relationship with Quakers, including his formative studies with Rufus Jones and friendships with Douglas Steere, Wilmer Cooper, and Louise Wilson. Explores their shared commitments to mystical experience, silent worship, nonviolence, and the connection between inward spirituality and social action. While maintaining a religious vision beyond denominational boundaries,…

  • Selected Correspondence-SAYMA

    This article presents a collection of correspondence and minutes from Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association (SAYMA) discussing intense disputes over racism, funding, and leadership within the yearly meeting, especially focusing on the Uplifting Racial Justice (URJ) committee. The communications reveal conflicts concerning financial accountability, accusations of racism, and differing approaches to anti-racism work, highlighting…

  • Tom Fox Speaks For Himself: Excerpts from His Blog/Journal

    Collects Tom Fox’s reflections on faith and nonviolent peacemaking with Christian Peacemaker Teams in Iraq and Palestine. Explores the struggle to resist violence without surrendering to anger or fear, drawing on Christian teachings and shared spiritual insights across religious traditions. Describes civilian suffering, racism, and colonial attitudes while examining his own prejudices, calling for courage,…