How Do I Become a Quaker? A Guide to Joining the Religious Society of Friends
Becoming a Quaker, or a member of the Religious Society of Friends, isn't a simple process of signing up or taking a test. It's a journey of spiritual exploration and commitment to the Quaker faith and its testimonies. There's no formal initiation ceremony; instead, it's about aligning your life with Quaker principles and becoming part of a community. This guide will explore the path to becoming a Quaker, answering common questions along the way.
What are the steps to becoming a Quaker?
There's no single prescribed path. The process is generally informal and varies between Quaker meetings (local congregations). However, the general approach involves:
-
Attending Meetings: The best way to start is by attending meetings for worship at a local Quaker meeting. This allows you to experience the Quaker way of worship firsthand and get to know the community. You can find a meeting near you through the Friends General Conference (FGC) or Friends United Meeting (FUM) websites.
-
Participation and Engagement: Engage with the meeting's activities beyond worship. Participate in discussions, attend social events, and join committees or workgroups. This demonstrates your interest and allows you to connect with members.
-
Seeking Membership: After a period of regular attendance and engagement, you may feel ready to express your desire to become a member. This is typically done through a conversation with the meeting's clerk (the meeting's administrative leader) or other members of the meeting's ministry and counsel (a group that guides the meeting's spiritual life).
-
Becoming a Member: The meeting will consider your application, often involving discussions within the community. The process emphasizes discernment—a thoughtful consideration of whether your values and practices align with the meeting's. If the meeting affirms your membership, you will be welcomed into the community.
What is the Quaker way of worship like?
Quaker worship is unprogrammed, meaning there is no set liturgy or planned sermon. Instead, the meeting sits in silence, allowing for a direct experience of the Divine. Members may feel led to share a message, testimony, or reflection, but silence is central to the practice. This silent worship allows for individual reflection and spiritual communion.
Do I need to believe in specific doctrines?
Quakerism doesn't adhere to a strict set of doctrines. Instead, it emphasizes direct experience of the Divine and the guidance of the Inner Light (the Divine spark within each person). The core beliefs are centered around the testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship of the earth. There is a diversity of belief within Quakerism; it's more about lived experience and practice than adhering to a rigid creed.
What are the testimonies of Quakerism?
The testimonies are principles that guide Quaker life and practice. They provide a framework for living a life consistent with Quaker values:
- Simplicity: Living modestly and intentionally, avoiding materialism and excess.
- Peace: Working for peace and justice in the world and rejecting violence.
- Integrity: Living honestly and ethically in all aspects of life.
- Community: Building strong relationships and supporting one another.
- Equality: Valuing diversity and seeking justice for all people.
- Stewardship: Respecting and caring for the earth and its resources.
Is there a specific age to become a Quaker?
There's no age restriction for becoming a Quaker. Individuals of all ages can find a home in Quaker communities. Young people may join as affiliated members and progress to full membership as they mature.
What if I have questions or concerns?
Don't hesitate to reach out to a local Quaker meeting. Members are generally welcoming and open to answering questions. Many meetings have websites with contact information or opportunities to connect with members.
Becoming a Quaker is a deeply personal and rewarding journey. It’s about finding community, deepening your spiritual practice, and living a life guided by peace and justice. By attending a meeting and engaging with the community, you can begin your exploration and discover if Quakerism is the right path for you.
