From its earliest days, the Religious Society of Friends has encouraged it members to meet with other Friends for worship, business, mutual awareness and support, and friendship. Meetings within Philadelphia Yearly Meeting have likewise felt strengthened by joining together in quarterly meetings. These bodies traditionally have met several times a year (or “quarterly”) as occasions for Friends to support one another through worship and fellowship, and to consider matters of regional or common concern. A quarterly meeting is composed of all the members of its constituent monthly meetings.