Carlisle Quaker Meeting

Quakers are misunderstood. People imagine them as either quiet and passive or extreme and literally shaking at the word of God. Neither definition is true of the Quakers I know, as someone who attended Quaker elementary and high school and currently attends Meeting (which is what we Quakers call our place of worship). 

Many people are shocked to find out that I am a Quaker. I usually get the comment, “I didn’t know you were religious.” I’m not.

Yes, I attend Quaker Meeting and I agree with most Quaker philosophy, but I do not consider myself religious, yet more spiritual. I attend Meeting for the supportive community.

Since November 2024, there has been an uptick in new attendees. Unlike other religions, there is no enrolling or registering or even a required fee to be a member. To be included in the Meeting you simply come as you are, no matter your religion. That is what I find appealing.

Quaker Meeting is unconventional when compared to other religions. There is no priest or sermon. We sit in silence for an hour (if you want to talk about discipline and self control, try sitting with your thoughts for an hour), and if you feel moved to share, you stand up and talk to the rest of the attendees from person to person. There is no hierarchy in Quakerism. The message could be spiritual or it could be about how you got through a hard time in hopes of inspiring others. 

The Quakers I know are passionate about community service and social justice.Since November 2024, more attendees share about a hard time they’re going through, ask the Meeting for support or question how we can help the Carlisle community and The United States at large. 

This is a testament to the Quaker values-SPICES-which stands for simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship. I see all these values reflected in the Dickinson community too.

If you’re curious about Quakerism, come to the Friendship Dinner (open to all) Thursday, November 13 at 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Allison Hall on campus.