Friends Journal

Quakers often look for ways to teach young Friends and integrate them into the existing structure of a meeting. Sometimes, though, young Quakers following leadings to initiate ministries encounter resistance from adults who question whether they have enough commitment, knowledge, or life experience.

Wise at Every Age Explore how Quaker meetings can nurture children’s and youth’s spiritual gifts by supporting their leadings, fostering belonging, and encouraging meaningful ministry.

Reader comment from Steven Davison: Only in the past year have I felt an ongoing call to vocal ministry, and it’s been somewhat harrowing, even though I’ve been thinking, writing, and obsessing about this for decades. Am I really called? What will my meeting think about my speaking relatively frequently? Where’s the support? Where’s the oversight?

Speaking with Spiritual Authority Explore why gospel ministry is essential to Quaker worship, how Spirit-led vocal ministry shapes gathered meetings, and what it could mean for renewing Quaker spirit.