Public Quaker on 'Spiritual Formation'

Alice from Public Quaker asks what are the five things most important to Quaker spiritual formation. I'm totally uncomfortable prescribing five things that others must follow, but I have a list that I'd say are important in the Quaker ethos (as I understand it).

Alice suggests 'doing-things' that people should try which I find a little strange. It strikes me as being akin to saying that you should eat fish on Fridays, where I expect that things that would be important to Quaker spiritual development are more attitude-oriented than action oriented. Here are my suggestions:

We're Free to be Quakers, not Quakers, at meeting, away from meeting and to follow our consciences in the situations we find ourselves as we best can. And your conscience may

The structure and organisation of the worldwide network of Quaker meetings is Simple. And without formed ritual or funny handshakes, there's less to distract each person from seeking to listen, communicate and bear witness to the still small voice.

I'm glad the Advices & Queries are Not Prescriptive. How could they be, and yet leave us free to follow conscience?

Consequently, Quaker ethos is Enabling. The challenge remains to go forward and carry that ethos

It'd be worth nothing if it weren't Respectful. Were each of us simply free without prescription and enabled to do whatever we would like, we'd be forever fighting in some form or another. Respect ensures that people consider doing unto others as you would have them do for you.


The challenge to bear this ethos is one that I would highlight as important to spiritual formation. Although she doesn't say it, I doubt Alice overlooks these ideals.

Take care
love K3n.