What happens in meeting for worship?
Quakers think that everyone can have a direct relationship or
"communion" with God.
We find that this communion can best be experienced if we meet in silence, with
nothing pre-planned.
You will be greeted when you arrive at the Meeting. Come in quietly and sit
where you like. The meeting room is furnished simply. Benches and chairs are
set in a square or circle. In the centre is a table on which there are usually
a vase of flowers, a Bible and a Quaker book of faith and practice.
Quakers do not have priests or ministers or a service with hymns and a prepared
address. As we believe that everyone can have a direct relationship with God,
then no priest is needed. The responsibility for the meeting belongs to all.
We sit in a silence that deepens as it progresses. We seek to open ourselves to
the Spirit, and to 'know one another in that which is eternal'. If someone
feels moved to say something which will deepen and enrich the worship they may
stand and speak briefly. Anyone is free to speak, pray or read, provided it is
in response to a leading of the Spirit. The silence is broken for a moment but
not interrupted.
The Meeting for Worship closes when two Friends shake hands. All present may
then shake hands to greet each other or hold hands in a circle to symbolise the
unity of the meeting. Notices follow, visitors may be introduced, and tea and
coffee is served for everyone.
If you would like more about meeting for worship,
click here.
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