Navigating Change as Quaker Communities

The pandemic exacerbated the need of many Quaker communities to re-examine their resources and priorities and take steps to simplify their meetings. Many participated in the Simpler Meetings programme in 2023-2025 to aid in this effort. Most recently in January 2026, Friends from Britain and overseas met over 4 confidential sessions of Navigating Change Well as Quaker Communities to reflect together on their experiences of such changes – some of which still ongoing - in their meetings. We focused on such questions as 'What does navigating change 'well' mean, and how can we prepare for challenges?' and 'What are some of the tried and tested Quaker tools and practices that build resilient communities?'

You are invited to come along to this latest one-day space to share your stories regarding the often difficult but necessary changes in your Quaker communities, and to feel supported and encouraged to keep trying to do it well on behalf of Friends.

The virtual retreat will involve opportunities not only for deep reflections but also creativity, worship and learning. Upon booking, you will have a chance to express what you are looking or hoping for from such a day, so that the programme can be tailored as closely as possible to everyone's needs.

You can expect to return to your meetings feeling refreshed, upheld and better equipped to address differences and difficulties that are integral to change and growth, and to keep working towards unity, dialogue and collaboration among Friends.