Many Quaker meetings are changing. A lot of our numbers are smaller. What are some of the ways we might adjust? What does it look like to have faith and cherish our communities while also recognizing that our energy levels are getting low?<\/p>\n
Since summer 2021, Emily Provance (New York Yearly Meeting) has been working with a group of Friends from multiple yearly meetings, countries, and theological branches of Quakerism.<\/p>\n
The group has been exploring transitions and endings for Quaker meetings. They\u2019ve produced a publication about the life cycle of meetings and this resource for Friends; meetings that are nearing the end of their life cycles.<\/p>\n
In April 2023, as part of this ongoing project, Friends everywhere are invited to participate in a series of Zoom-based consultations. These gatherings have three purposes: for each participant to learn, for each participant to share their own knowledge and insights, and for each participant to meet other Friends who are experiencing similar circumstances to their own.<\/p>\n
In each 90-minute consultation, you\u2019ll hear a brief presentation, then have a chance to ask questions and engage in an open conversation.<\/p>\n
Topics include the following:<\/p>\n
\u2022 the life cycle of meetings
\n\u2022 simplifying committee structures
\n\u2022 combining\/merging meetings
\n\u2022 sharing\/repurposing\/selling buildings
\n\u2022 restructuring local meetings
\n\u2022 and laying down meetings.<\/p>\n
There are also consultations specifically for yearly meeting staff members and clerks, quarterly\/regional meeting staff members and clerks, record keepers, and trustees.<\/p>\n