Why Quaker Renewal?
Over recent years many Quakers have diagnosed a crisis in Britain Yearly Meeting. They have warned us of a continuing decline in membership, and of conflicts over religious belief and language. These concerns are important, but I believe that both are actually symptoms of a more fundamental crisis of spiritual vitality.
We have been here before. At the end of the nineteenth century the ‘Quaker Renaissance’ movement introduced the era of liberal Quakerism. This renewed form of the Quaker way unleashed a new wave of spiritual vigour and social engagement. It contributed to the heroic achievements of Friends during the twentieth century, from conscientious objection, to the Kindertransport, humanitarian relief and anti-war movements.
We need a new kind of ‘Quaker Renaissance’ today that takes seriously the potential of the Quaker way to connect us with the source of life and power that can renew our lives, build up loving communities and heal the wounds of the world.
Craig Barnett is a Quaker writer from Sheffield in the UK, and the author of The Guided Life (2019).
Reviews of The Guided Life:
“This is surely one of the best descriptions of the Quaker way of life we have. It explains so clearly the human experience on which it is based, the practical exercises we can undertake to follow it, and the outcome of following it in a wholesome, joyful life that is shared with other people.”
Rex Ambler, author of The Quaker Way: A Rediscovery
“This is a gem of a book. The guided life is central to the Quakers and to all of us who feel God gathering us in community. Mixing personal insights and examples from the Quaker tradition, this book offers a rich feast of spiritual insight.”
Ben Pink Dandelion, Honorary Professor of Quaker Studies, University of Birmingham
“At a time when religion is often the source of considerable division, Craig Barnett has written a beautiful book which describes with undogmatic assurance the gentle power of the Quaker Way and the strength of the Inward Guide. Those familiar with Quakerism, and those desiring to know more, will learn how this Way of worship can strengthen, heal and nurture both the individual and the community.”
Gerald Hewitson, author of Journey into Life: Inheriting the story of early Friends
