Eighth Day, First Month 2006
Dearest Friends,
YAFs gathered for the Midwinter Retreat this weekend at the historic
meeting house in New Bedford, MA. Many Friends were only able to come
for one or two of the four days, but everyone's presence contributed to
our sense of community and brought great love. Part of our program was
led by our guest speaker, Greg Williams, a member of this meeting. He
joined us Thursday and Friday and shared his wisdom and stories in
program and out. On Friday afternoon, he spoke about his experiences
following the spirit along a radical path that eventually led to
Friends. Although often frustrated, and even estranged, he has been a
mover in Quakerism, pushing for Friends to confront their own racism,
increase outreach efforts, and question their sense of entitlement to a
comfortable religious experience. This inspired us to spend time in
small groups brainstorming practical next steps, including the creation
of a Holy Obedience Committee to explore ways for us to support our
leadings and further discuss the richness of racial and cultural
diversity.
Friday evening, long-time Friend Anna B. Radocchia shared reflections
on her spiritual journey, which has brought her to serve in disaster
relief and reconstruction efforts in New Orleans, one of the many
places devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This work has helped her find a
new and direct understanding of Quaker teachings, and she feels a
powerful calling to return there. Friends listened in an uplifting
worship, voicing many messages of gratitude for the power of her
calling. We heard a prayer of hope that our community could nurture us
as a womb would and act as Midwife delivering us to our callings.
A panel of Friends on Saturday recounted their meaningful experiences
of the World Gathering of Young Friends in its planning stages and in
its realization in Lancaster, UK and in Kanamai, Mombasa, Kenya. One
main message was about how encountering open-minded, loving Friends of
diverse religious practices shows us how often New England Friends can
have tightly held fears of the religious practices of other Quakers.
Having attended the WGYF, we are reminded of the importance of sharing
our spiritual messages and journeys with Friends across the spectrum,
especially locally.
In our business meeting, we accomplished what we needed to. A Friend
lovingly reminded us that if we want our voices heard in the Yearly
Meeting we need to take responsibility and speak!
Throughout, we had many deeply moving conversations, animated games,
delicious meals, and brisk walks through the local neighborhood. We
briefly got to know the urban character and history of New Bedford. The
meeting house, built in 1822, and the landmarks of historical figures,
such as Frederick Douglass, touched us. We look forward to future stays
here.
Moving in the Light,
New England YAFs
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