Last week, FUM Programme Officer Getry Agizah (standing, at right) visited schools in western Kenya to launch the Quaker peace curriculum in some schools and encourage existing peace clubs in others. “This exercise was well received by heads of schools, and most going through [the curriculum] felt it is indeed a needed item for schools and students,” Getry said. “Some schools are planning peace gardens where it will be a meditation site for both teachers, students, and workers who have difficult days. So far we have gone round to nine schools—seven secondary schools and two primary schools. Out of the seven secondary schools, four were Quaker schools.”
Read MoreDear Friends,Our time in Belize has come to an end. And all I can say is . . . thank you. As I leave Belize, the church is growing from week to week under the leadership of Oscar and Miriam Mmbali; the school has just graduated the biggest class in several years, as our dear principal Frank Tench bids us farewell; and the center is partnering with many other organizations with help from our own Athina Major! The Belize Friends community is transitioning in many ways and though transitions are never completely smooth, I am leaving so impressed by the vision and energy these leaders bring to our community. What more could I ask for?
Read MoreAbout a year ago my wife, daughter, and I visited the Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County just north of San Francisco. It’s a beautiful experience walking among the majestic Redwood trees. Even more powerful, though, is the invitation to silence and quiet. In order to provide a hospitable space for the wildlife, no dumpsters or garbage cans are found along the trails. Maintenance vehicles powered by electricity glide silently by and emergency vehicles do not idle their engines while resolving whatever problems brought them to the park. At one point along the trail, there is a sign posted along the trail as you enter the section called Cathedral Grove inviting visitors to be silent. It truly is a place of “...peaceful habitation”.
Read MoreThe word abide means ‘hanging in there’, ‘tarrying’, ‘dwelling’ or ‘continuing’. There are many benefits that we get in life as a result of abiding in Jesus. In this reflection I will share 3 benefits; Firstly, Fruitfulness: God’s desire is that our lives will be fruitful. Our fruitfulness depends on us remaining or continuing or dwelling in Christ Jesus. As a Christian I know and have experienced the fruitfulness of God in many areas of my life. When we are in Christ we are fruitful in relationships, business, ministry and even just in social life (V 5). abide in Him and in His word.
Read MoreThroughout our history, the people known as Friends (or Quakers) keep rediscovering an essential and enduring truth: There is one who speaks to our most basic needs and most significant hopes—Christ Jesus the Lord. Both individually and communally, we are learning to know and follow the Voice that guides us in the way we should go. Together, we seek to understand and obey that truth which sets us free. As a people, we share in the experience of that powerful life which makes all things new. Maybe you are searching for an authentic and transforming faith and community to call home—if so, come in and join us as we seek to know and follow Christ.
Friends United Meeting commits itself to energize and equip Friends through the power of the Holy Spirit to gather people into fellowships where Jesus Christ is known, loved, and obeyed as Teacher and Lord.