Hello, Friend,
I’m Benchamin, a simple Quaker meeting bench.
I’m not always sure which meeting house I’m in, but I am sure that where Friends gather, you help make everyone feel welcome.
I’ve been listening to Friends this year, and keep hearing stories that begin with:
“Because of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting…” and end with someone feeling welcomed, supported, or spiritually grounded.
Let me tell thee just a few:
- LGBTQIA+ Minute — PYM Friends recently approved an LGBTQIA+ minute of support that shows we believe everyone deserves to love and live as their true selves. Because of your giving, PYM staff and volunteers will share it far and wide so that everyone knows they are welcome next to me at Quaker meetings.
- Climate Change Thread Gathering— This October, over 100 Friends from 67 meetings and groups came together (in-person and virtually) to learn from each other and take collective action for our planet at our Climate Change Thread Gathering. Thanks to your giving, all were welcome to attend this free event.
- DHS Lawsuit — Support from Friends like you helped start a movement of 47 meetings worldwide that submitted minutes of solidarity with PYM and its lawsuit against the Department of Human Services, preserving religious freedom and ensuring that all feel safe and welcome among Friends.
These stories have something in common: You helped make them possible.
Please consider giving to PYM! You’ll be empowering our staff and volunteers to help more people find community, courage, and connection through our yearly meeting. Thank you!
Sharing a seat with thee,
Benchamin
