Open discussions with
Quakers
Four local Quaker meetings – Middlesbrough, Great Ayton, Norton, and
Guisborough are to hold a series of open discussion meetings in October and
November, on four key themes of the Quaker way.
Simplicity, in the Quaker tradition, is about choosing a life-style that puts the
quality of relationships before the quantity of possessions: values before
valuables. Adjusting to a simpler life-style is something that is facing us all as we
seek to manage a sustainable life. It is cherishing what is essential, not glumly
doing without.
Equality, in the Quaker tradition, is about valuing the divine spark in every
person, accepting differences, and respecting everyone’s potential contribution
to community well-being. It is more than just an absence of discrimination.
Truth, in the Quaker tradition, goes together with love. It is about integrity,
speaking or acting openly and honestly, in ways which may sometimes be
uncomfortable or unpopular. This may cause anxiety, but it can also bring
freedom and joy, and enhance relationships. It is open to new insights from
whatever source they may come. It challenges prejudices.
Peace, in the Quaker tradition, is about positively seeking to listen and
understand other people even those we may not like, or who behave very
differently from us. It is seeking justice, and positive alternatives to conflict or
violence using constructive and imaginative approaches to difficult problems.
Our doors are open to welcome anyone who would like to come and listen and
share with us their views on these themes. On each evening, two Quakers will
briefly introduce the topic for the evening, and then invite those present to
reflect, and share their thoughts and suggestions for implementing this
approach to life. The reflection will include a period of shared silence, which is
very much part of the Quaker tradition.
Quakers do not seek to recruit – but to share experiences and insights. These
meetings are open to people of any faith, or no faith. We invite those who come
to do so in a spirit of respectfully listening to, and sharing with, others whose
experiences and opinions may be different from your own.
The evening meetings, all at 7.30.p.m. will be at local Quaker Meeting
Houses
Simplicity: Tuesday October 12 at Middlesbrough - 131 Cambridge
Road
Equality: Monday October 18 at Great Ayton on The High Green
Truth: Tuesday November 2 at Norton, on The Green
Peace: Wednesday November 10 at Great Ayton