The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)

In the Religious Society of Friends, people from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs embark together on a spiritual journey. Although their individual beliefs may vary, Quakers share an understanding of a Divine presence in all people. This presence is the source from which we draw strength to witness to human dignity, and to work for peace and justice.

The Religious Society of Friends began in England in the 17th century. Early Friends sought to revive a form of primitive Christianity, without creed, outward sacraments, or paid clergy. In the course of Quaker history a variety of spiritual practices evolved as Friends followed the inward leadings of the Divine presence.

Today those spiritual practices include both programmed and unprogrammed Meetings for Worship. Programmed Meetings (often called Friends Churches) may include pastoral prayer, responsive readings, music, scripture, and prepared messages, while in unprogrammed Meetings for Worship worshippers gather together in silence to seek the Divine presence, speaking out of the silence when led to do so by the movement of the Spirit.

Quakers believe that all are called to minister to one another; that each person has direct access to the Divine—an inner light present within; and that individual must search and come to a personal understanding of their own spiritualities, which may or may not be Christ-centered. During the past three centuries, consistent testimonies have emerged which bear witness that the Spirit can be trusted to lead toward simplicity, equality, justice, nonviolence, peace, and stewardship.

— adapted from the pamphlet “North American FLGC [Friends for Lesbian and Gay Concerns]”

To learn more about Quakers in California and North America, you are invited to explore the following websites:

Quakerfinder: Find Friends meetings and churches near you.

Pacific Yearly Meeting: Regional association of unprogrammed meetings.

Santa Cruz Friends Meeting: The Friends meeting closest to Quaker Center.

Western Friend: Magazine published by Pacific, Intermountain, and Northern Pacific Yearly Meetings.

Sierra Friends Center: Non-profit organization devoted to diverse educational programs. Hosts the Woolman Semester.

Friends General Conference: An association of mostly unprogrammed regional groups in North America. FGC provides programs and services for Friends, meetings, and seekers.

Friends Committee on National Legislation: A Quaker lobby in the public interest. The California affiliate is Friends Committee on Legislation.

Friends for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, and Queer Concerns: A North American faith community affirming that of God in all people.

American Friends Service Committee: An international organization putting Quaker values into action around the world.