Many people today are looking for a spiritual path that feels real and meaningful. Sharing the Quaker way begins with understanding that visitors want to meet real Quakers and learn whether the Quaker way fits their lives.

Outreach works best when meetings focus on spiritual connection, welcome, and sharing their gifts—not on increasing numbers.

Why Outreach Matters

Seekers come to Quaker meetings because they want community and a deeper spiritual life. They want to know what Quakers value and how Friends live out those values. When outreach is done with care, it becomes a rewarding experience for everyone.

Effective outreach grows from a simple truth: the Quaker way has something important to offer the world, and we want to share that gift with others.

Preparing for outreach also brings energy and joy to the meeting. When everyone joins in the work of welcoming newcomers, it strengthens community bonds.

What Successful Outreach Looks Like

1. Share Your Meeting’s Story

Successful outreach explains what it means to be a Quaker today. Personal stories and spiritual journeys speak more powerfully than a list of facts. Visitors come with open hearts—speak to those hearts. If you hold a large, regular event, then share early publicity so that new people understand what it is and why they should attend.

2. Talk About Real-Life Issues

Outreach is not only about Quaker history. Meetings can offer programs on peace, justice, silent worship, contemplative prayer, environmental care, parenting, spiritual gifts, or community service. These topics show how the Quaker way connects to daily life.

3. Use Creative Publicity

Good outreach requires clear messages and thoughtful planning. Share information online, through flyers, and in your community. Make your meeting easy to find and understand.

4. Give Newcomers Space to Share

Welcome visitors by inviting conversation. Ask about their experiences and questions. Offering simple hospitality—like food and drinks—helps create relaxed opportunities for dialogue.

5. Show That Quakerism Is a Living Tradition

Let seekers see that the Quaker way is grounded, active, and spiritually rich. Outreach should reflect the depth of worship and the strength of community life.

Questions to Guide Your Outreach Planning

What Gift Do We Want to Share?

Think about what your meeting offers the local community. What story needs to be told?

How Can We Use What We Already Do?

Many existing activities can become outreach events. Examples include:

  • Meeting for worship
  • Barbecues and picnics
  • Arts festivals
  • Peace Day programs
  • Workshops and guest speakers
  • Children’s camps
  • Earth Day events
  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations
  • Concerts or public discussions

These events help introduce the Quaker way to new people.

How Will We Invite People?

Plan how you will get the word out. Use your website, social media, local calendars, and personal invitations. Make it clear that all are welcome.

What Kind of Event Will It Be?

Decide whether your outreach will be a one-time activity, a series, or an annual tradition. Consider whether it should be held in the meetinghouse or off-site in a public space.

Who Can We Partner With?

You might work with another Quaker meeting or a local group. Partnerships can help reach more people and build stronger community connections.

Building a Welcoming Meeting Culture

Quaker outreach and welcoming seekers is a mindset. Every meeting can nurture a culture of invitation, kindness, and openness. When Friends share their spiritual journeys and offer genuine hospitality, seekers feel the welcome of the Spirit among us.

See Also:

Based on learnings from QuakerQuest outreach in Great Britain, the U.S., and Canada. Revised by FGC Staff in 2025.
Last updated December 30, 2025.

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