Friends General Conference

Together we nurture the spiritual vitality of Friends

Program for April 22, 2018: Query: Harmony Within The Meeting

This is my commandment: Love oneanother as I have loved you.

John 15:1

ADVICE

It is sometimes difficult to remember that love is a gift of the Divine Spirit and not simply a human emotion. As imperfect human beings, it is not always possible for us to feel loving toward one another, but by opening ourselves to the Light Within, we can receive and give love beyond our human abilities.

Relationships among meeting members take time to evolve. Sometimes misunderstandings develop. When differences arise, they should not be ignored for the sake of superficial unity. We believe disagreementswhich might divide or disrupt a meeting can be resolved through human effort and divine grace, and may result in a stronger and more creative meeting. True harmony depends uponeach person’s deep respect ofand faithful attention to the Divine Spirit within us all. We endeavor topractice humility, attempting to understand positions of others and being aware of the possibility that we may be mistaken.

It is the responsibility of the ministry and counsel committee to be sensitive to needs which may arise.Others in the meeting may be equally concerned, and because of greater understanding in certain cases, be able to give counsel. In reconciliation of differences, a positionnot previously considered may prove mutually beneficial. At times it may be necessary to confront individuals whose behavior is disruptive. A clearness committee or professional help may be suggested in some situations. We must always remember the power of holding one another in the Light, and the healing that comes from forgiving ourselves as well as others.

QUERIES

  • What can we do to deepen our relationships with one another?

  • How does gender affect the way we relate to each other?

  • How does our meeting balance the needs for honesty and kindness?

  • What topics do we avoid for the sake of “unity”?

  • When in conflict with others, do we cultivate a forgiving spirit?

  • Do we look to that of God in ourselves and seek to address that of Godin those with whom we disagree?

Sunday, April 22, 2018 - 11:30am to 12:30pm
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