Message from the Pastoral Care and Eldership Team (PaCET) for Sunday Meeting 9th November 2025

Dear Friends,

“When early Friends affirmed the priesthood of all believers it was seen as an abolition of the clergy; in fact it is an abolition of the laity. All members are part of the clergy and have the clergy’s responsibility for the maintenance of the meeting as a community……”

From Quaker Faith and Practice 11.01

For me, the knowledge that I can speak to the Divine, without a priest to interpret for me, is fundamental to my Quakerism.

Since we are therefore all priests, I find it wonderful that anyone can minister (verbally or silently)…..and so many do so.

The richness and variety of ministry is such a joy, and gives me much to consider and ponder….as well as knowing individual Friends more deeply.

Only yesterday, we heard ministry from several Friends on subjects such as inspiring Buddhist teachers, walking tours around Soho and the joys of having the children amongst us.

The other side of this is that the whole Quaker community needs to take on the practical and organisational tasks expected of a traditional priest. Although at times this can feel burdensome, it also strengthens us as a whole, and gives us opportunities for learning and for service.

Veryan Greenwood

Quakers value diversity. We share this Friend’s message in the hope it will speak to others.

Pastoral Care and Eldership Team: Patricia Cockrell, David Hitchin, Sharon Krummel, Tim Pitt-Payne, Theresa Samms, Emily Slater.