Fifty Friends gathered at Horfield Meeting House for a fun and thought provoking evening. The panellists – Paul Parker (Recording Clerk), Rosie Thayer (Peace Activist) and Sam and Isabel (Young Quakers) bravely answered questions considering the ‘pearls’ of their Quaker faith, whether Quakers should ‘be the voices of the oppressed’ (Q F&P 23.04) and lots more besides.

The Quaker Any Questions panel captured in a sketch on the night. Artist: Gaie

The panel reflected that young people are often absent from or separate to the Quaker community. Paul Parker challenged us to look at our Meetings and consider that if we don’t have people from every decade – from nought to nineties – in our community that we are not really inclusive and that we are doing something wrong. He challenged us to find ways to include young people. Suggesting giving them roles and using their skills to bring dynamism and positive change to how we organise and the work we do.

Thanks to everyone who made this event, especially Maisie (young Quaker) for her help with the food, Mark Smalley for creatively chairing and Judi Brill (Horfield Warden) for welcoming and hosting so caringly.

We’re looking forward to another opportunity to bring Young Friends to the heart of our regional community soon.

Please get in touch with kirstyp@quaker.org.uk with questions, feedback and ideas.