By Jane Nickodem
There is a centuries-old Quaker tradition of putting pen to paper in the form of journal-writing, treatises, letters, and the like. George Fox was one of many prolific Quaker writers who communicated to Friends near and far through the written word. These writings connect us to the past and it is exciting and enlightening when these writings provide a window into the zeal that early Quakers felt and expressed. Seventeenth century England was an exciting time and place and deserves our present-day attention!
The theme of the queries for recent Meetings for Worship is that of Light, and the spring-board for the March query is a quote from George Fox. The following is what these words mean to me personally. I encourage Friends to explore for themselves what this text may mean to them as individuals.
“Mind the Light, that all may be refreshed one in another and all in One.”
The first thing that comes to mind is the oft-repeated word “Light,” which has several nuanced meanings in the Quaker vocabulary. In this passage, “Light” implies to me a synonym for God or the Divine Mystery. “Minding the Light” may mean stopping and basking in the Light, centering down and connecting with “that of God” within.
On to the word, “refreshed.” This word implies to me a sense of renewal, restoration, and reinvigoration. It reminds me of the Buddhist term, “beginner’s mind,” or seeing with fresh eyes, making the world new again. The season of Spring also comes to mind—the excitement of new life and new possibilities. It brings to mind the Quaker view that revelation is continuous, on-going, fresh and new vis-à-vis not just individuals but communities as well. I think that it might not be a stretch to say that we are co-creators with the Divine Mystery.
An important part of this quote is Fox’s perspective that this “refreshing” be done in community and “all in One.” But, how is this to be accomplished? This is where attending Meeting for Worship plays a crucial role. Meeting for Worship is where we gather together in expectant waiting for “Oneing” with the Divine Mystery.
I would propose that vocal ministry is an essential element of Fox’s call to spiritual refreshment. I dare to go one step further to consider vocal ministry a vehicle for continuous revelation. To me, continuous revelation is the encountering of new insights and fresh ways of seeing and experiencing the life of the Spirit. Think of the many times that a Friend’s vocal ministry has touched us in unexpected ways. Consider the times that Friends have experienced a Meeting for Worship that felt “gathered.”
Beyond Meeting for Worship, there is a rich tapestry of groups and activities that add to a sense of community vitality. Following is an incomplete list.
- There are a number of Spiritual Nurture groups in MFM that have existed for many years. The formation of new spiritual nurture groups is always encouraged.
- Community pot-luck meals is another form of spiritual refreshment, and provide a wonderful way to share conversation and connection and strengthens our bonds of friendship and affection.
- MFM is graced with vibrant Adult and Children’s Religious Education programs. A sense of delight is experienced by those participating in this aspect of community here at Milwaukee Friends Meeting.
- Committee work is the life-sustaining structure of our Meeting. Our community is organized through the many active committees that keep our meeting humming along, day in and day out, come rain or shine. It is something that we count on and have confidence in. Recognizing that our work is holy, many committees begin their work with a period of silence.
Milwaukee Friends Meeting is strong and vibrant and offers many opportunities for spiritual refreshment as individuals, but more importantly, as a community.
The joy we feel when we come together is palpable and keeps us coming back for a sense of renewal and refreshment with each other and with the Divine.