Nov 8, 2025
1-4:30 pm eastern
Sometimes we witness seemingly small patterns of oppression in our community interactions, which provide opportunities to actively practice our peace testimony with each other. Approaching difficult communications with love can open doors to transformation.
In modern times, we understand abuse as not just physical violence, rather as a pattern of behavior that is used in an intimate relationship to gain or maintain power and control over another, including threats of actions and other patterns of coercive behavior.
Research has shown that Quakers are not immune to family violence, and in fact, our testimonies and practices of peacemaking at home and within our communities are much less well-developed than our testimonies against weapons and war.
George Fox said, “let your lives speak.” What do we want our lives to say?
Sept. 10, 2025
7:30-8:30 pm eastern
J.T. Dorr-Bremme
Holy listening, in the form of wide-open attention to a speaker and the Spirit that may be speaking through them, is a Quaker practice that is often mentioned but not often discussed. But listening is an essential tool for learning and discerning Truth. This is not just using our physical senses; it is attuning our bodies, minds, and souls to the wavelengths of Truth so as to better receive them.
How can we do this more consciously and easily? What are practices that will support our listening? Why is it important to do this? This Midweek hour will explore some simple ways to listen to ourselves, our environments, and our fellow seekers that can help to deepen connections, broaden spiritual awareness, and cultivate an attitude of placid curiosity that brings joy to speaker and listener alike.
Sept. 24, 2025
7:30-8:30 pm eastern
Leo Bray
Listening is not something we do only with our ears, nor with only our ears and brains. We speak of various parts and aspects of ourselves, yet each of us is one whole being unto ourselves. By intentionally situating ourselves in our physical space, and tuning in to our individual selves and our bodies, we can more fully ready ourselves to connect with others through holy listening, to receive what comes through them from Spirit.
Oct. 8, 2025
7:30-8:30 pm eastern
Sarah Allen
Listening to the earth, inspired by the parable of the sower: A common way to teach the gospel parables is to put yourself in the position of one of the characters. Looking at the parable of the sower from the perspective of the environment in which the seeds are sown, what does it mean to be a part of the earth? What if we could be like the microbe that transforms its surroundings into more fertile soil?
In this Session, Sarah will share a story from her experience of listening to the Gospels while carrying a tender Quaker ministry. In the Gospels, this parable is told three times, in Mathew, Mark, and Luke. With repetition of different versions of the story, she noticed different things over time, opening new paths for her ministry. Her story will be followed by worship, with time for questions and sharing from others.
