A roadmap to exploring the traditional Quaker faith
Navigating faith can be daunting, this roadmap has been created not to be an explicit guide where each and every step must be followed, but to provide a starting point to what can seem obscure.
There have been many outlines written regarding coming into the Quaker faith from the liberal unprogrammed side, but not many about exploring the traditional Quaker faith and where could be good places to start.
What is referred to as “Traditional” or “Primitive” Quaker faith, is officially labeled “Conservative” Those who come into unity with the traditional beliefs are often called “Conservative Friends” This does not mean that the individual is inherently politically conservative, it merely means that they wish to conserve the traditional Quaker beliefs.
To find a meeting to attend, Ohio Yearly Meeting Conservative maintains a list of meeting locations and online worship links here. → Ohio Yearly Worship List
The Quaker faith is rooted in experience with God. Merely reading about the faith may provide insight, but it will not provide the hands-on experience with the Lord Christ Jesus, for that, someone must bring themselves into silent waiting before the Lord and be receptive to His divine presence. Friends meet together once a week to mind the Lord’s presence in a communal assembly typically on every First Day (What is called Sunday) and/or a day in the week for midweek meeting.
Due to the nature of Quaker worship this can be done through an in-person visit or even online. We do not have any outward forms necessary to the worship service, which allows us to gather into worship at any point in time, anywhere. Even online.
Ohio Yearly Meeting has set out to record interviews with Conservative Friends in order to reach others who may be unfamiliar with the faith. The content is easy to review and a very worthwhile listen regarding religious experience.
Conversations with Conservative Friends: Susan Smith
Conversations with Conservative Friends: Jack Smith
For ease in navigating what exactly traditional Quakers have unity on, it may be helpful to read through a brief synopsis of the faith. → A Brief Synopsis of the Principles and Testimonies of the Religious Society of Friends
The given resources often provide enough knowledge that one may be able to begin seeking out knowledge on their own, but this website does maintain a list of resources regarding Traditional Quaker Faith, which can be found at → Quaker Resources