Members and attenders in an unprogrammed Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) gather in silence during Meeting for Worship.
Friends believe that each individual can experience God without the need for an intermediary. Therefore, we gather together without formal creed or clergy. The Divine Spirit within each of us, known as the Inner Light, grows stronger during communal worship, making Meeting for Worship feel deeply spiritual.
Silence is not an end in itself; it is an opportunity to open our hearts and minds to God.
A worshipper may break the silence when they feel divinely inspired to share a deeply felt message. Messages may take the form of a quotation, a prayer, or a song. They may describe a practical experience or may contain an expression of mystical insight or faith. Friends listen to both the silence and the messages with a worshipful spirit.
Friends celebrate the presence of God in everyone. Our way of life, historically rooted in the teachings of Christ, emphasizes simplicity, humility, and acceptance of all people. We recognize no boundaries of occupation, race, sexual orientation, or creed.
Quakers attempt to live our lives in a manner that takes away the occasion for conflict and war. We work to live in a manner that is in harmony with the natural world. We act in faith that something can and should be done to reduce suffering in this world. Friends believe that our actions reflect our individual experiences of the Divine.
Lake Forest Friends Meeting is open to all. A variety of faith traditions and personal spiritual journeys inspire individuals in this Meeting.
We invite you to join us.