Our Values & Beliefs

Values

Friends believe every individual has “inner light”, an innate sacredness, and source of individual inspiration and guidance. We believe inner light is not limited by gender, race, social status, or any other external factors. All persons are equal.

We believe in the equality of all persons.

Friends also believe that all people are capable of directly experiencing the divine nature of the universe—which is known by many names, God or the Holy Spirit or simply Spirit being among the most common.

When you need to hear from this inner light, you will. When the Spirit has a message for you to share, you should share it.

When Quakers come together to meet for silent worship, we participate in a shared space in which we try to help each other become better able to recognize such messages.
(Adapted from Quaker. org)

Testimonies

Quakers, or Friends, do not have a written creed. Instead, they espouse Testimonies which inform both Quaker beliefs and actions. Friends believe that living the Testimonies can lead to spiritual transformation. What follows is a brief introduction to the Testimonies along with implications for action.

Simplicity

Living a life of simplicity means avoiding what is extraneous and embracing what is essential to live a life directed by the Divine Spirit. It suggests speaking without exaggeration and surrounding oneself with what can be both serviceable and beautiful.

Peace

Quakers strive for a world inhabited with love. They believe that, though conflicts exist, addressing them through violence is contrary to the Spirit of God that resides in everyone. As a result, Quakers not only oppose war but work to establish a world where justice prevails and recognize that the Divine resides in all persons, indeed, in all creation.

Integrity

Integrity implies living in Truth. How we choose to use our time, spend our money, and relate to others, reflects what we believe.

Community

A community of Friends provides both a spiritual and practical safety net. The community is a space to test spiritual leadings as well as form a beloved, caring fellowship that concerns itself with the mutual care and practical support of those who participate in Quaker activities.

Equality

Because Quakers believe that there is that of the Divine in all persons, equality means treating all individuals with respect and love, showing courtesy to all, including those with whom we have disagreements. We welcome opportunities for inner transformation by recognizing differences between and among individuals.

Stewardship

Quakers have long believed that there is that of the Divine in all persons. The testimony of Stewardship has grown to embraces the belief that there is that of the Divine in all creation.