I have long lived by the aphorism of "Hope for the best, and prepare for the worst". A good dose of pessimism to start each day also helps me as pessimists are never disappointed!
However of late I've also been thinking in terms of "Hope for the best, and prepare for the best".
Given the internet's proclivity to make things "go viral", and what I discern around the world as communities full of "seekers".... what happens if something about Friends goes viral? What happens if suddenly who-knows-how-many Enquirers turn up on your Meeting House's door one Sunday?
Personally, I'm trusting Spirit will assist, and guide us through.
Thank you, Craig. Is it okay to reprint your blog in our Local Meeting newsletter? (Redland Meeting, Bristol). Really useful and encouraging analysis, we have lots of younger incomers too and need to think hard about our welcome.
A very good analysis. And I recognise it, especially the willingness or inertia of so many Friends to sit in solemn silence instead of daring to stand and speak.
It takes effort to be open and welcoming, but it's so exciting to have a Meeting Room that is full to bursting!
This is something my Meeting is dealing with. We have been having more conversations on how to make people feel welcome.
I have long lived by the aphorism of "Hope for the best, and prepare for the worst". A good dose of pessimism to start each day also helps me as pessimists are never disappointed!
However of late I've also been thinking in terms of "Hope for the best, and prepare for the best".
Given the internet's proclivity to make things "go viral", and what I discern around the world as communities full of "seekers".... what happens if something about Friends goes viral? What happens if suddenly who-knows-how-many Enquirers turn up on your Meeting House's door one Sunday?
Personally, I'm trusting Spirit will assist, and guide us through.
Thank you. So happy to have found a warm welcome and rich spirituality in Belgium.
Love this. Need to share it as widely as possible. In our own flourishing meeting! How can we do that?
Thanks Laura, you can just share this link by email (eg to events list) if you like: https://quakerrenewal.substack.com/p/choosing-to-thrive
Thank you, Craig. Is it okay to reprint your blog in our Local Meeting newsletter? (Redland Meeting, Bristol). Really useful and encouraging analysis, we have lots of younger incomers too and need to think hard about our welcome.
Hi Julia, yes of course, please do. It’s great to hear about your young newcomers at Redland as well.
A very good analysis. And I recognise it, especially the willingness or inertia of so many Friends to sit in solemn silence instead of daring to stand and speak.
Thank you for this great and very honest article!