Queries

Quakers do not use creeds or fixed statements of belief. Instead, Friends focus on personal experience with the Divine. Rather than following a creed, Quakers trust in an ongoing relationship with God or the Inner Light. Queries are a way for Friends to find a pathway toward spiritual understanding.

What Are Queries?

Queries are questions that help Friends reflect on their lives and spiritual growth. They guide both personal reflection and group worship. They focus on how our choices, actions, and relationships reflect Love and Truth.

Instead of asking what to believe, queries ask how to live. They invite Friends to consider how closely their lives align with the leadings of the Spirit.

How Queries Support Spiritual Growth

Quakers often use queries as a regular spiritual practice. Returning to the same queries again and again can open new understanding. Over time, this practice may lead to changes of heart, deeper compassion, and a clearer call to action.

If a query can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no,” try going deeper. Ask yourself “why,” “how,” or “when.” These follow-up questions help deepen reflection and insight.

Using Queries in Daily Life

Below are queries you can try. Place them somewhere you will see them each day. Sit with a different one at least once a day for several days.

As you reflect, notice any inward changes. You may feel drawn toward greater kindness, forgiveness, or action in the world. Queries help Friends listen more closely to the Inner Light and live their faith with intention.

Are you open to the many ways Spirit may speak to you?

What does love require of you?

Do you maintain an appropriate balance among work, service, worship, family, and recreation? Are you ready to rest if God asks it of you?

Is every aspect of your life open to the transforming power of God? What stands in the way?

Queries # 4, 5, 15 & 16 from the text of “Chapter 11: General Advices and Queries,” by the New England Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice Revision Committee, approved at New England Yearly Meeting Sessions 2012.