|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
|
|
|
|||||||||
|
|
||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
What does our kind of Quakerism, and our Meetings, have to offer to spiritual seekers? Is there a clear and deep center, a vital core of spiritual insight and practice we can describe and demonstrate to the spiritually hungry? Is this a religion worth sharing?
The strongest predictors of satisfaction with our Meetings are “a satisfying meeting for worship” and “a deep spiritual sense.” The most important reasons people cite for attending are meeting for worship and the openness of our beliefs.
Can we then describe what we seek and offer spiritually in a clear and simple way, and be consistent in offering it, so people will want to come and stay?
Are we creating Meeting communities that will really provide people a spiritual home?
Too many among us have too few (or no) friends in the Meetings we attend. We offer few (or no) small groups in which people can get better acquainted and make friends. Too many people feel like “outsiders” after years among us.
How can we then alter the social structure and dynamics of our Meetings so they become truly hospitable places where people can develop close and enduring relationships?
What approaches to outreach do we need to pursue if we want to be successful in bringing new people into our Meetings?
All the evidence points to the power of the personal. We must invite people ourselves. Having the public profile of Quakerism raised is important, but making personal connections is critical.
Do we encourage our members to invite their friends and acquaintances to get to know Friends?
Working Group Clerk: Bonalyn Mosteller · bonalymost@worldnet.att.net
Last modified: Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 08:19 AM