Who’s ready for another reference to “The Wizard of Oz?”

At the dawn of the 20th century, two journeys began. In 1900, L. Frank Baum introduced the world to The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. That same year, Friends General Conference was born. Both have since spawned countless new versions, remixes, and re-visions. Quakerism, like Oz, shows us repeatedly that there are many paths to understanding universal truths, and many voices are needed on the journey.

FGC is now entering a new chapter of governance. The long-standing Central Committee may be giving way to a structure that feels more nimble, more inclusive, and more attuned to today’s needs: a Governing Board, a Representatives Council, and a revitalized committee system. This shift will allow FGC to make decisions with care, build stronger connections across meetings, and ensure that Friends of Color, LGBTQ+ Friends, and younger Friends are at the center of leadership. Learn more here.

If Spirit is nudging you to ease on down this road, consider volunteering for the Governing Board or the Representatives Council. Each body will play a vital role in guiding FGC’s work forward.

Like Dorothy gathering her companions, this journey needs many voices. Listening sessions are being scheduled for September 7 and September 11 so Friends can ask questions, share insights, and dream together about where the road may lead. Every Friend has a part to play.

To be fair, this will probably be my last Oz reference for the year. Into the Woods might be next—stay tuned.

In Friendship,

Rashid Darden