The Vital Message of Quakerism
“Barrington Dunbar.” Henry, Bob. 2017, Graphite on paper.
“We attend meetings to escape the agonies of an unjust society and to find personal refuge among like-minded Friends. Because our hearts are not stirred or our minds made sensitive to the injustices of the communities in which we live, we accommodate ourselves to a whole system of personal and group relationships in our neighborhoods and places of business—a system that has served to reinforce the assumption of white superiority. This way of life denies that there is that of God in every man, the vital message of Quakerism that provides the basis for the “blessed community” in which everyone can achieve freedom from want and fear and can realize his full potential as a human being.”
— Barrington Dunbar, 1968
Quaker social justice activist
Today’s Invitation
Plan to attend or watch a city council, library, or school board meeting in your community. Be sensitive to injustices that may arise or be discussed, and who is being affected.
This Week’s Query
What does “speaking truth to power” mean to you?
What is your responsibility to speak truth to power as an individual? As part of a faith community?
Read the source of today’s quote
This week’s messages are guest edited by Bob Henry, artist, recorded Friend, and pastor of Indianapolis First Friends Quaker Meeting, Indianapolis, Indiana. Bob is married to Sue and has three grown children.
Each of the art pieces this week are originals that Bob has created for sermons or other publications.
