Reclaiming the Power of Primitive Quakerism for the 21st Century

Robin, Martin and I are leading a weekend retreat at the Ben Lomond Quaker Retreat Center this coming February on convergent Friends, we’ve humbly titled, Reclaiming the Power of Primitive Quakerism for the 21st Century. I’m looking forward to taking an entire weekend to focus on building community, worshipping together, and listening (to others and the Holy Spirit), discerning and brainstorming “next steps” for convergent Friends. It’s going to be a lot of fun and I already know of some great people signed up for the weekend, so be sure to check out the details and signup if you’re interested. If you have other questions contact any of us or the Quaker center.

Who is this program for?

• Are you seeking a deeper understanding of our Quaker heritage and a more authentic life in the kingdom of God on Earth, radically inclusive of all who seek to live this life?
• Do you think that some Quaker anachronisms are silly but you’re willing to experiment to see which ones still hold Life and Power?
• Are you not sure what you believe about Jesus and Christ but are willing to wrestle with this question?
• Are you quite clear what you believe but you’re willing to listen to others who are still struggling?
• Are you willing to listen and speak across the artificial boundaries and at the same time to respect the real differences and diversity that exist between and within Quaker institutions?

What will this program include?

The weekend will include time to share some of our spiritual journeys in small groups and in writing. We will listen deeply and lovingly to one another, as we speak courageously and gently about our own experiences of the Truth. We will explore what we can learn from each other’s stories, what it means to worship in Spirit and in Truth in the postmodern age, and how to share a lived faith as we serve all creation. We will walk in the redwoods, sing and laugh, have extended waiting worship, and eat together. We will experiment with some traditional Quaker practices and develop some tools to take home, to help us be the change we wish to see in our meetings, churches and the world. Expect inclusive and Christian language.

To make this retreat accessible to families with young children we will be offering child care during the times that adult programming is in session, if we are notified by February 1.

Here’s a link to Robin’s post.

You can download the registration form here for more information.