Last Friday, June 27, Friends gathered to learn how our yearly meeting stays connected to the wider Quaker world. PYM Friends who serve as representatives to affiliated organizations shared how the work is carried, what is changing, and where Friends are needed. The session provided examples of how Philadelphia Yearly Meeting is part of the work of these organizations, and how the work depends on us being present.
This gathering was one way to stay connected before Annual Sessions, which will take place July 23 to 27.
Follow this link to register for Annual Sessions.
American Friends Service Committee (AFSC): PYM representatives shared how the work of AFSC began with those wanting an alternative to war and how it has carried forward into relief, peacebuilding, and human rights work in many areas. Friends shared how the structure works, from the corporation to the board to the staff, and how Friends from PYM serve as part of that. The representatives mentioned that the work itself has shifted over time, but it now focuses on three areas: just peace, just economies, and just migration.
Friends Peace Teams: The representatives shared a video from Friends Peace Teams on what those Friends are currently working on and moving toward.
Quaker Earthcare Witness (QEW): PYM Friends shared how care for the earth is not separate from how we live our faith. The report reflected on the damage happening to the climate and how Friends are responding. They shared about the growing impact of global warming and how it is already showing up through extreme storms, drought, and wildfires, including in our region. Friends shared how the work focuses on building resilience, reducing harm, and staying connected. They also named how this work with QEW ties into the yearly meeting’s climate witness.
Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL): The representatives shared how the work with FCNL happens through relationships with lawmakers, through persistence, and by showing up with care over time. The conversation included reflections on staying rooted in Quaker values without being pulled into partisanship. Friends named how they are focused on lobbying for peace, compassionate immigration policies, protecting human needs, and environmental safeguards. There was also space to reflect on how young adults are becoming part of the work through events like Spring Lobby Weekend, where hundreds gather to learn and lobby together.
Friends World Committee for Consultation (FWCC): The PYM representative shared how connection across borders stays essential to our Quaker faith. They shared experiences from gatherings that brought together Friends from different countries and cultures. Friends mentioned how these gatherings create space for building understanding and staying interconnected, even when practices and experiences differ across the world.
Friends General Conference (FGC): The Friend representing FGC shared how FGC holds space for deepening spiritual life, building community, and nurturing leadership across generations. The representative spoke about how gatherings, programs, and worship help Friends stay connected and grow in faith.
If you are in need of more information on the affiliated organizations, please reach out to Tara Rubinstein at trubinstein@pym.org.
