Rhiannon Grant

Structured around questions that non-Quakers often ask, this book explores Quaker practices, explaining them in the context of Quaker theology and present-day diversity. It describes how Quakers make decisions and why they have preferred this method and looks at the Quaker rejection of common Christian practices like baptism. Each short chapter answers, considers why that is so, describes some of the diversity within Quaker groups, and points to other resources which could be used to find out more.… (more)

The book begins with the foundations of Quaker theology, which is based on the Quaker method of unprogrammed, silent worship. This act of gathering as a community to wait and listen to God is at the heart of Quakerism and essential to understanding Quaker theology, which is embedded in the practice as well as explained by it. The author shows how Central Quaker theological claims, such as that everyone has that of God within them, that God offers support and guidance to all who choose to listen, and that Quakers as a community are led by God to treat everyone equally, resist war, and live simply, can be understood through a consideration of this distinctive worship practice. She also explores what it means to say that this form of theology is liberal - although many Quakers are politically liberal, they have also been called ‘conservative radicals’ (Kenneth Boulding), and the liberalism involved is not mainly political but an attitude towards diversity of thought, opinion, and especially religious belief. There is a prevailing attitude of continued searching, an acceptance that new evidence may appear, and a willingness to learn from others, including members of other faith communities.… (more)

Telling the truth about God without excluding anyone is a challenge to the Quaker community. Drawing on Quaker uses of religious language, the author aims to make accessible some key theological and philosophical insights. She explains that Quakers might sound vague but are actually making clear and creative theological claims. Religious language is related to, not separate from, our religious experience. How do Quakers tell the truth about God? This book explores this key theological process through fourteen short chapters.… (more)