I recall the late opera singer, Beverly Sills, related that her mother was a Jewish Christian Scientist. And I believe there are Jewish Unitarians as well. Is it possible to be a Jewish Quaker, and what would that mean from a Friends’ perspective?
Yes it is possible to be a “Jewish Quaker”…while Friends have their roots deep in the experience of God as understood and interpreted through the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. That being said, Friends also believe that there is “that of God” in each of us and this Light Within is our sure Guide and Present Teacher. Quakerism values not only the corporate experience of worship and Presence, but the individual experience as well. If thru the teachings of Judaism God is experience as Reality…then how can any Meeting deny that?
Since Friends do not practice the celebration of “outward symbols” a Jewish Friend would not be required to undergo an “initiation ritual” into Quakerism…Friends do not recite creeds…but instead seek to understand the ramifications our faith has on how we live. The “Queries” have been one fo the Quaker methods of self examination…each Meeting for Worship for Business begins with a reflection on one or more of the Queries as we seek to understand and respond to the “Word of the Lord” and the Living Presence in our midst.
Some of the Queries are as follows…questions we ask corporately and individualy fo ourselves…the “Queries” have been called the “Quaker version of a creed”
". Do you work gladly with other religious groups in the pursuit of common goals? While remaining faithful to Quaker insights, try to enter imaginatively into the life and witness of other communities of faith, creating together the bonds of friendship. "
“Do I faithfully attend meeting with heart and mind prepared for worship, clear of any predetermination to speak or not to speak, and expecting that worship will be a source of strength and guidance?”
"Do I maintain as part of my personal and family life those daily practices that focus on continued spiritual growth, with disciplined worship, inward retirement, and communion with the divine spirit?
Do I frequently read the Bible and other religious literature, including the records of the lives and experiences of Friends? Do I take the time to explore these resources with others, and likewise encourage my children?
Do I share my own faith and spiritual journey, and encourage such sharing within my family?"
"Am I ready to offer assistance as part of my religious community serving its members? Am I equally willing to accept graciously the help of others?
“Do I recognize and face disagreements and other situations that put me in conflict with others? Do I manifest a spirit ready to give or receive forgiveness?”
“Do I treat adults and children alike with respect and without condescension? Is my manner with visitors and attenders to my Meeting one of welcome?”
“Is my home a place where all members of the family receive affection and understanding, and where visitors are welcome? Do I choose recreation and a manner of living that enriches the body, mind, and spirit; and shows a high regard for family, community, and creation?”
Friends have found that thru self examination individually and corporately, we are able to recognize “that of God” in one another and Listen to that Voice as He speaks in our midst.
