Background
We believe action and witness that flows from the same source or works towards the same goal can take many forms. Some Quakers are called to arrestable protest, others are busy building alternatives or lobbying parliament. Some are holding the spiritual space every Sunday where we hear our quiet leadings and still more are the ones pouring the cups of tea and making the peanut butter sandwiches. All of this is action. We all play a part. The Faith in Action Team supports spirit-led action and supports action to be grounded in Quaker spirituality.
Accompaniment
Our Faith in Action Coordinators can be alongside you or your group as you plan, undertake and sustain your action. We can hold space for reflection, help you build effective strategies for action, help groups to find common ground and set goals and support with the spiritual grounding for Quaker witness.
We provide regular support by phone, online or in-person. We can deliver workshops, such as:
- understanding a diversity of tactics and devising a campaign strategy
- using social media to improve engagement and impact
- making sure your campaign/action/event is inclusive and spirit-led
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“We need both a deeper spirituality and a more outspoken witness... Out of the depths of authentic prayer comes a longing for peace and a passion for justice."
- Gordon Matthews, 1989, Quaker Faith and Practice, 23.10
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Events and networks
We hold Faith in Action Gatherings twice a year for Friends to share and learn skills, strengthen networks and plan local actions.
We hold monthly drop-in sessions for Friends thinking of taking action to connect with each other. Email faithinaction@quaker.org.uk for details of the next meeting or check the Events page.
We help Friends facilitate Quaker networks on various issues. For up-to-date information on current meetings, please contact faithinaction@quaker.org.uk.
Publicity and resources
- Our Faith in Action newsletter is a monthly update on national and local Quaker work for peace and social change.
- If your work aligns with one of our national campaigns, we can connect you with our campaigns coordinators for peace and climate justice.
- We can send posters, banners or resources to support you to hold vigils, actions or events. Please see our resources and toolkits for action.
- To raise awareness of your campaign, we can help you write a blog or news story.
Work we have done/success stories to inspire
'The support that you and everyone gave at Friends House played a huge part in making our action such a memorable and worthwhile event. Thank you.'
A Quaker-led climate choir action contacted the Faith in Action Team for support. They were due to be having a protest at the British Museum but needed a place to gather and rehearse. The Faith in Action Coordinator asked the Friends House staff if we had a room that could work. They generously organised a room and welcomed the climate choir on the day. After the event, the Faith in Action Coordinator shared the videos and photos of the event with the Quakers in Britain Media Officer to help increase press coverage of the action.