Message from the Pastoral Care and Eldership Team (PaCET) for Sunday Meeting 23rd August 2026

Dear Friends,

I am very glad that Quakers do not have a creed or set of rules to comply with. For me, I see it instead as us following our consciences, and having a wish to develop our own adherence to the Quaker testimonies of Truth, Equality, Peace, Simplicity and Sustainability.

This morning, during Meeting for Worship, there was a little rain  – nowhere near enough, but at least a tiny start. It led me to think of people in hot countries all over the world tending to their crops for many hours a day under the burning sun, with no respite from clouds or rain. When visiting the Gambia 20 years ago during Ramadan, I could see how very difficult it can be to follow a creed to the letter. From sunrise to sundown, nothing – including water – may pass the lips of a devout Muslim. I cannot imagine the suffering that entails, but it was endured by so many with grace and dignity.

How lucky are we to live in a temperate climate…..and to not to be expected to abide by strict religious rules.

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

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