Portions of this page were prepared by a working group of FGC’s Transforming subcommittee, 2015.

Inclusion and diversity are about welcoming all people into your Quaker meeting. Quakers believe there is That of God in Everyone, no matter who they are. When we practice inclusion, we try to listen with respect and curiosity to everyone’s story.

Being inclusive means making space for people of different backgrounds, lived experiences, races, cultures, ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, and economic situations.

Why Welcoming People Matters

Quaker meetings are stronger when many voices are heard. When we assume everyone is like us, newcomers may feel left out. Welcoming all people helps our meetings grow spiritually and become more vibrant.

In outreach, this means reaching out with openness and kindness. Outreach is about inviting people to share in worship, community, and Quaker values.

How to Welcome Diverse Newcomers

Here are some easy ways your meeting can be more welcoming:

Share Helpful Information

  • Put printed materials near the entrance that explain what Quaker worship and community are like. This helps visitors feel comfortable.

Be Inclusive in Your Words

  • Use materials and signs that say your meeting is open to everyone, including people from different backgrounds.
  • If you’re comfortable, list your pronouns on your nametag.

Support Different Needs

  • Make sure people know about any help your meeting offers such as rides, childcare, or hearing support.

Build Relationships

  • Invite newcomers to meals and social activities. Getting to know each other helps create a welcoming space.
  • If someone is new, ask them what brought them to start attending, and see if your meeting can provide more of that.
  • Organize times for socializing as well as worship. Invite people personally to these events.

Think About Hidden Differences

  • Be aware that differences aren’t always visible. Things like income, mental health, job status, or education can make people feel different.
  • If you host a retreat for families, be sure it is affordable.

Ask Friendly Questions

  • Try simple, open questions like, “What do you like to do for fun?” This helps start good conversations.

Resources

Greeting Diverse Newcomers This downloadable and printable 11×17 inch poster suggests questions and conversation starters
that can build relationships across differences and contribute to a more welcoming atmosphere for all. Consider printing several copies for your meeting to hang in the meetinghouse, share in the newsletter, and launch a conversation about welcoming.

Transforming Quaker Welcoming [Spiritual Deepening Library topic]

QuakerSpeak: Quakers, Racism, and the Blessed Community. Vanessa Julye, co-author of Fit For Freedom, Not For Friendship: Quakers, African Americans, and the Myth of Racial Justice discusses overcoming racism in the Religious Society of Friends.


QuakerSpeak: Creating Visible Support for LGBTQ+ Folk. Kerry Wiessmann describes inviting her meeting into becoming a welcoming and affirming place for LGBTQ+ Friends.QuakerSpeak: The Importance of Breaking Stereotypes. Jolee Robinson of Adelphi Friends Meeting

Last updated December 17, 2025.

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