What to Expect at a Friends (Quaker) Meeting for Worship

The Acadia Friends Meeting does not have a minister. Members, attenders and visitors gather, find a comfortable seat, and then sit together in silence. The Meeting is for reflection and for minding one’s Inner Light, the God within, and the Divine among us. Occasionally, Friends may feel led to share an insight or message with the Meeting. Messages do not trigger a conversation. Instead, Friends maintain silence while “holding in the Light” words that have been offered during Meeting. At the end of the hour, a Friend asks for any special concerns, joys and sorrows, or announcements to be shared. After those attending introduce themselves, the Meeting ends. A brief time of informal greetings and conversation typically ensues. After a break, those who wish may stay for a committee meeting. See “Calendar”.

Childcare for toddlers and infants is available before Meeting begins. Experienced care and appropriate resources are provided for infants and toddlers. Older children are invited to participate in our First Day Program, which is led by another adult and features activities, games, stories or songs reflecting the spirit of Quaker faith and practice.

Children are invited to stay with their family for the first 10 minutes of Meeting. After the 10 minutes, children leave to attend the First Day program.