Everyone experiences meeting for worship in their own way, and it can feel different each time.
When you arrive, someone will welcome you at the door. If it is your first time at meeting they may give you some reading material and tell you where everything is in the building.
When you enter the meeting room you sit wherever you feel comfortable, and people enter quietly. The meeting begins as soon as the first person sits down and settles themselves.
After an hour the meeting ends when two people shake hands.
Afterwards, there will be announcements and a chance to chat over tea and coffee.
You’re very welcome to stay, but there’s no pressure—just do what feels right for you.
Coming to Quaker worship for the first time can feel awkward.
Most of us aren’t used to silence. There’s no right or wrong way to take part, but you might try:
People describe their experiences in meeting in different ways. They may use words like God, Light, or Spirit.
In a Quaker meeting, we open our hearts and minds. There are no set prayers, readings, or songs. This gives space to listen and respond to the Light.
In the silence, we may find new thoughts or guidance. Sometimes people feel moved to share something with the group—anyone can do this. This is called ministry.
We notice our own response to the ministry, and find its meaning for us, even if the words are unfamiliar.
These different expressions of faith help us understand that spirituality is not limited to one set of words or beliefs.
More about the Quaker Peace Testimony: Quaker Peace Testimony
More about Quakers or the Society of Friends: About Quakers