Three Aspects of the Quaker Understanding of Life

“There are three aspects of the Quaker understanding of life in the early days of the Society. […] The first is that religion must be experimental and experiential. […] The second is the sense that true religion has implications for the whole of one’s life. […] The final starting point is the dedication to certain means as the most valuable and truest approaches to God. […] There is the basis for true unity, and that is the determination to testify honestly and fully to whatever is most deeply meaningful to each of us and to engage in dialogue with all others who are equally willing to be known by what matters most in life to them.”

— Paul Lacey, 1963
“Toward Unity Among Friends”

Today’s Invitation

How does the idea that religion must be experimental sit with you? Reflect on ways you could add freshness to your spiritual practice.

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Author

  • Paul Lacey

    Paul Lacey was a professor in the English Department at Earlham College from 1960-2003 and is Professor Emeritus of English. He has been involved with the American Friends Service Committee since 1954, having served on the Conscientious Objectors Services and Rights of Conscience Committee, the Standing Nominating Committee, the AFSC Nobel Peace Prize Nominating Committee and the AFSC National Board of Directors. He remains a very active Quaker, and served as Clerk of the Board of Directors and Clerk of the Corporation for the AFSC from 2001 to 2010.

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