Quakers Do What! Why? is an introduction to Quaker oddities. Based on a question and answer format, it is for anyone who has learned a fact about Quakers - perhaps only that Quakers exist - and wants to know more.
Quakers Do What! Why? is an introduction to Quaker oddities. Based on a question and answer format, it is for anyone who has learned a fact about Quakers - perhaps only that Quakers exist - and wants to know more.
Faith, Quaker, Spiritual growth
Structured around questions which non-Quakers often ask, this book explores Quaker practices, explaining them in the context of Quaker theology and present-day diversity. It describes how Quakers make decisions and why they have preferred this method, as well as looking at the Quaker rejection of common Christian practices like baptism. Each short chapter gives an answer, considers why that is so, describes some of the diversity within Quaker groups, and points to other resources which could be used to find out more.
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Helpful translations of peculiar Quaker terms and processes are also included in this book. “Threshing” is a term I had heard before, but I never really understood. Grant explains that a “threshing meeting” is used when a decision is complex and needs special attention, “views can be aired on a topic, but there is no attempt to reach a conclusion.” The intention is for a group, gathered in the Spirit, to seek the right way forward together. Grant is upbeat about the future of Quakers. She sees we hold many helpful life tools and are able to adapt and evolve. She acknowledges that much of the content of this book emerged from the questions that people asked her in response to a badge she often wears, “I’m a Quaker, ask me why.” I think that all of us who are ready should wear this badge! Quakers Do What! Why? is a book that encourages us to be seen in action – and open to talking about it. Western Friend ~ Western Friend, Review
This brief but informative book is an excellent introduction to modern Quaker beliefs and practices aimed at people who know very little about Quakerism other than the fact that they worship in silence. Grant does a good job explaining the jargon and procedures involved, as well as a step-by-step description of what to expect at a Quaker meeting for worship. ~ Progressive Voices , Review
Been enjoying Quakers Do What! Why? by Rhiannon @bookgeekrelg . Things I didn't know, as well as many things I did, but explained better than I could've. Good stuff ~ Paul Parker, Recording Clerk of Quakers in Britain, https://twitter.com/RCquaker/status/1296188777954779137
If you want Quakers 101, this is it. Rhiannon Grant covers all bases, writing in a friendly and accessible style. I thought I knew a lot about Quakers but obviously I didn’t! Most informative. ~ Maggy Whitehouse, independent priest and broadcaster
A very valuable overview: lucid, even-handed and stimulating. ~ Rupert Shortt, Religion editor at The Times Literary Supplement
This lively, honest and clear introduction to contemporary Quakerism offers their Christian and other fellow travellers a compelling insight into the life and witness of one of Britain’s most distinctive faith communities. I hope it will be widely read and that it will help foster understanding and dialogue between Quakers and others. ~ David Cornick, General Secretary of Churches Together in England 2008-18 and Fellow in Theology at Robinson College, Cambridge
