Worship

Meeting for Worship

All are welcome to attend Providence Friends Meeting every Sunday. In these meetings, Friends gather for a period of silent worship during which time those moved to speak on matters spiritual are free to do so. Meeting lasts about one hour. The end of a meeting occurs when the Clerk shakes hands with the nearest neighbor. First time attendees are asked to introduce themselves.

Meeting convenes each Sunday (“First Day” in the Quaker tradition) at 11 a.m. An experienced person provides care for children, who join the meeting for worship approximately 15 minutes before the "rise" or end. First Day School for children is held at 11:20 a.m. on Sunday. Quaker, Biblical, and secular themes are discussed for several age groups.

An unprogrammed Friends meeting is a form of worship intended to enrich each person who seeks, through the Divine Presence, to recognize, develop, and strengthen his or her faith. Experience has proven that an effective method for attaining this end is found in a meeting, held in expectant silence, in which each person seeks guidance of the Inner Light. Some meetings are wholly silent, although generally members or attendees speak after a period of quiet reflection. When an individual is moved to speak, the words should emerge as an integral part of his or her reverent waiting upon the Spirit.

As preparation for worship, Friends may study the Bible or other inspirational writings, either individually or in a group. Friends’ worship is rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition.

In the absence of clergy, the responsibility for spiritual life rests upon the members. The combined experience of the group often helps participants reach a greater depth of spiritual insight and gain courage to act upon beliefs in daily living.

The Religious Society of Friends has no formal creed. However, for more than 300 years, Friends have honored the central belief that there is in each person the spark of the Divine. Quakers have generally opposed war, believed in religious tolerance and human fellowship, and sought to conduct personal and business affairs with simplicity, sincerity, and equality.