Quaker values

Quaker values

Our Quaker faith is a way of life rather than a set of beliefs.

The Quaker way has its roots in Christianity and finds inspiration in the Bible and the life and teachings of Jesus. We also find meaning and value in the teachings of other faiths and acknowledge that ours is not the only way.

We place a special value on peace, equality, simplicity and truth. These testimonies, as they are known, are lived rather than written. They lead us to translate our faith into action by working locally and globally for social justice, to support peacemakers and care for the environment.

The testimonies do not exist in any rigid, written form; nor are they imposed in any way. They reflect the society we live in, and so have changed over time.

Peace

Perhaps Quakers are best known for our peace testimony. This arises from our conviction that love is at the heart of existence and all human beings are equal in the eyes of God, and that we must live in a way that reflects this. The peace testimony has led Quakers to refuse military service, and to become involved in a wide range of peace activities, from practical work in areas affected by violent conflict to the development of alternatives to violence at all levels from personal to international.

Equality and Justice

Quakers recognise the equal worth and unique nature of every person. This means working to change the systems that cause injustice and hinder true community. It also means working with people who are suffering from injustice, such as prisoners and asylum seekers.

Simplicity

Quakers are concerned about the excesses and unfairness of our consumer society, and the unsustainable use of natural resources. We try to live simply and to give space for the things that really matter: the people around us and the natural world

Truth and Integrity

Quakers try to live according to the deepest truth we know, which we believe comes from our inner conscience. This means speaking the truth to all, including people in positions of power. Integrity is the guiding principle we set for ourselves and expect in public life.