Celtic Christianity significantly influences my Quaker spirituality.

As such, it diverges slightly from other forms of Quakerism, experimenting in the following ways:

• Reintegrating tSimple Rituals- experimenting with practices such as lighting candles to welcome the sabbath and breaking bread and sharing wine with intention to infuse gatherings and holidays with additional meaning without cluttering the soul.

• Embracing a Spirituality of the Seasons - engaging a contemplative rhythm that follows the seasons and the traditional Christian calendar, marking significant Christian holy days in simple ways.

• Engaging Quakerism Theologically - recognizing the importance of theological reflection informed by the Light, and that seeks to integrate the wisdom of the past with the insights of the present.

Overall, it’s a path that seeks to honor Quaker history and practice and follow Jesus in a authentic and simple manner rising to the challenges of the modern world.

The Way of Oran Mor
An Irish Quaker Spirituality

The Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as Quakers, is a spiritual community rooted in silence, simplicity, and a profound commitment to social justice.

Founded in mid-17th-century England by George Fox amid religious upheaval, it emerged as a radical movement rejecting ecclesiastical hierarchy and abstract doctrine.

Quakers eschew creeds, clergy, and systematic theology, valuing direct, personal experience of the divine—often described as the "Inner Light"—over rigid beliefs or intermediaries.

This non-creedal, non-clerical approach fosters individual discernment and collective decision-making.

Historically, Friends have played a significant role in the abolition of slavery, women’s rights, religious tolerance, worker’s rights, poverty relief, and peace, reflecting their ethos of equality and compassion.

Their worship centers on silent, unprogrammed meetings where participants listen inwardly for guidance, embracing simplicity to focus on spiritual depth rather than outward ritual.

This blend of contemplative practice and active social engagement defines Quakerism’s unique witness in the world today.

Quaker spirituality offers a distinctive lens on core Christian tenets. While there is no official Quaker theology, the following are common Quaker views.

Quakers often embrace creation through evolution, seeing the unfolding of life as a divine process rather than a literal seven-day event.

God is the creative, life-giving ground and source of being, the Logos of Greek theology, not a divine, whimsical, wrathful Santa-Clause.

The Bible in Quaker thought is a collection of wisdom teachings and narratives written by humans. The texts are pivotal to Christianity and Western culture, but are not inerrant or divinely authored.

Jesus, in Quaker thought, is a divine wisdom teacher, revealing the power of transformative love through his life and words, not a transactional human sacrifice to appease divine wrath.

Quakers tend to downplay heaven and the afterlife, sidelining speculation in favor of this world’s urgent needs.

Influenced by early Christian communities, Quaker spirituality carries a counter-cultural edge.

It offers a Christianity that feels both ancient and urgently relevant.

Quaker spirituality is centered on simplicity and silence, creating space to hear the divine voice woven into the fabric of the world.

Silent, unprogrammed worship, is at the heart of this practice.

This silence is not empty but a sacred arena where the divine speaks through those inspired to speak, and by the still, small voice within.

The Quaker testimonies—simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship—emerge organically from this spiritual root.

Leadings often inspire Friends to act on these testimonies, unfolding opportunities or insights that align with sacred values.

This process of "way opening" reflects a trust in gradual, Spirit-led clarity over forced outcomes.

Quaker discernment is both personal and collective, a dynamic interplay of listening, reflection, and patience.

Simplicity - Quakers strive for a simple lifestyle, both in their personal lives and in their approach to society, avoiding excess and focusing on what truly matters. 

Peace - Quakers are known for their strong commitment to peace and non-violence, both personally and in their engagement with the world. 

Equality - Quakers believe in the inherent worth and equality of all people, regardless of background, and actively work for social justice and equality. 

Integrity - Quakers value honesty and integrity, striving to live in accordance with their values. 

Community - Quakers value the importance of community and working together for the common good. 

Plain Living - Quakers are known for their plain dress and simple lifestyle, which are outward expressions of their inner values.