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On Unprogrammed Quaker Worship The outward form of unprogrammed Quaker Worship is simple in both form and content. At an appointed time and place, Friends gather in silence. From time to time, a member of the group might rise and offer verbal ministry. This message may take the form of a prayer, a song, a simple spoken statement, or a reading from scripture or other sacred writing. At an agreed upon time, the worship is ended with the shaking of hands and greeting between Friends. |
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| The inward experience of Quaker Worship is somewhat more subtle. The central theological tenet for Friends is the presence of "that of God" (called by some the Light, Love, the Inner Christ, or Truth) in every human being. Friends believe that this Inner Guide is directly accessible to any individual without the intercession of scripture or professional clergy.
The spiritual discipline of approaching worship is often described as a process of "centering down," peeling away the distractions of the mind, and opening the heart to the leadings of the Spirit. At times during worship an individual may feel the presence of the Spirit so acutely that she or he feels "led" to verbal ministry. Some report the experience of being on their feet, offering a message, without the conscious assent of their own will. To some, the experience of unprogrammed worship may at first feel strange; but, over time, many may find the same fresh and transforming Grace in the silence as Friends have found for over 300 years. —Walter Sullivan, Quaker Center Co-Director 1993-2006 |
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