Can the nontheist participate fully in the religiously rooted Quaker “sense of the meeting” process? This essay offers a practical guide for those engaged with Quaker-led institutions who are not Quaker themselves, and who may not hold any religious beliefs at all. Whether you are an atheist, agnostic, skeptic, or simply never gave it much thought, this essay describes how, by relying on a handful of noble yet entirely human qualities, the benefits of this time-tested decision-making model can be available to nonbelievers without hypocrisy or pretense. A brief list of recommended readings is included. Pendle Hill Pamphlet Website

How many times have I complained, "If they don't believe in God, why do they attend Meeting for Worship? What is it they are worshipping?" Smith's pamphlet has answered my question quite nicely. There is (of course there is) a place for everyone at the table: coming to decisions in the manner of Friends cannot be limited to those who have a faith in a Spirit. All of humanity is called to live up to or in to a quest for what is best and true.

This is a pamphlet for EVERYONE to read. ( )

Can the non-theist participate fully in the religiously rooted Quaker "sense of the meeting" process? This essay offers a practical guide for those engaged with Quaker-led institutions who are not Quaker themselves, and who may not hold any religious beliefs at all. Whether you are an atheist, agnostic, skeptic, or simply never gave it much thought, this essay describes how, by relying on a handful of noble yet entirely human qualities, the benefits of this time-tested decision making model can be available to nonbelievers without hypocrisy or pretense. A brief list of recommended readings is included.

Can the non-theist participate fully in the religiously rooted Quaker “sense of the meeting” process? This essay offers a practical guide for those engaged with Quaker-led institutions who are not Quaker themselves, and who may not hold any religious beliefs at all. ( )

Smith wrote this pamphlet specifically for non-Quakers serving on Boards and committees of Quaker organizations, who are also atheists, agnostics, and humanists, so that these nonbelievers can participate with integrity in the Quaker process of meeting for business. First, as a basis, he explains appreciatively the process of a Quaker meeting for business, its religious basis and assumptions, its procedures and expectations, and its joy and utility. Then he lays out how he himself, as a nontheist secular Quaker, understands the approaches, attitudes, and skills necessary for their honest and effective participation. Nonbelievers, he says, can rely on the best of the human spirit, rather than on a divine Spirit, to come up with these needed characteristics and commitments.
Smith also notes that skeptics and nonbelievers participate in Friends meetings, as he does, especially in the unprogrammed branch of the Society. So this pamphlet can be helpful to nontheist Quakers participating in their own meetings. The PHP editor acknowledges this in the Preface, and that modern Quaker faith and practice include nontheist Quakers.
Smith provides an insightful explanation of meeting for business, well informed by his own extensive experience. Friends will find his commentary on how to participate in it interesting and useful for self-examination. The style is conversational and easily readable. ( )