Historically and theologically, Friends had little use for the liturgical seasons (Advent, Lent, and Pentecost) or the liturgical holidays (Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Pentecost, All Saints Day). But as some of these seasons and holidays—Christmas, in particular—have become commercial and economic seasons in their own right, as well as family judgments, some Friends have turned to the devotional practices of the liturgical churches in order to stay focused on the spiritual heart of ideas that are being turned into material gain. For that reason, the FUM online bookstore brings in a few books every year aimed at personal and family devotions for the Advent season. A few of our selections this year:
Read MoreI have looked, listened, discerned, and cast my vote for who I would like to be the next president of the United States of America. I imagine most of you have done something similar. For me the decision was not difficult. The candidates present clear distinctions. I hope you have done the same. I hope you have voted with the fullness of your heart, soul, mind, and body. I also know we have not all come to the same conclusion. I know we have all been invited to the party. Sunday will come around and we will gather for worship in our places with folks who saw the choice differently and voted according to their conscience. It’s not a new reality. My mind has been made up for months. So, likely you were in worship this past Sunday with those same folks. This is the work of loving community.
Read MoreI sat in the parking lot of Aldi reciting my name, contact information, and household income to the woman on the phone. Two impatient, squirmy boys sat strapped in car seats in the back of my small sedan as I tried to keep my voice steady. “Umm…when is your next available appointment? April 26? Yes, that’s fine.”
Read MoreRecently I had the opportunity to participate in a leadership conference held in Kakamega, Kenya. Conference organizers invited Friends leaders from each FUM Yearly Meeting in Africa, along with representatives from other Friends organizations. The conference provided an opportunity for Friends to look at their past, celebrate their accomplishments, acknowledge their mistakes, and envision how God will guide them moving forward.
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.