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RESOURCES FOR FURTHER LEARNING

Many paths and diverse backgrounds, one Light. Discover yours through seeking.

Our Quaker journey is one of continuous discovery and revelation. These carefully selected resources invite you to explore the richness of Quaker wisdom, from foundational texts that have guided Friends for centuries to contemporary voices speaking to today's spiritual seekers.

Whether you're new to Quakerism or deepening a lifelong practice, these companions on the path offer insights, questions, and gentle guidance for your journey of the Inward Light.

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QUICK LINKS

QUAKER RESOURCES FOR ADULTS

Three centuries of wisdom, waiting to speak to your condition.

As adults, we bring our lived experiences, questions, and diverse perspectives to our spiritual exploration. These resources offer rich depths to explore as you seek Truth alongside other Friends.

Quakers - A very short introduction

The Quakers: A Very Short Introduction by Pink Dandelion
This concise yet comprehensive overview places Quakerism in historical context while explaining core beliefs and practices—perfect for those new to Friends or wanting a refresher on our distinctive approach.

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Silence and Witness by Michael BirkelSilence and Witness: The Quaker Tradition by Michael Lawrence Birkel
A deeper exploration of Quaker spirituality that connects historical roots with contemporary practice, inviting readers into the rich tradition of listening for the Divine.

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Primitive Christianity Revived by William PennPrimitive Christianity Revived by William Penn (Translated by Paul Buckley)
This modern translation of Penn's classic work helps today's readers connect with early Quaker understandings of Christianity and spiritual practice.

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Faith and Practice - Book of DisciplineFaith & Practice 2020 – New York Yearly Meeting
The essential handbook for Quaker life and practice in our region, offering guidance on everything from personal spiritual disciplines to community decision-making.

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Living the Quaker Way - by Philip GulleyLiving the Quaker Way by Philip Gulley
A warm, accessible exploration of how Quaker testimonies manifest in daily life, with practical suggestions for simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality.

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Holy Science - The Gift of Quaker Spirituality by J. Brent HillHoly Silence: The Gift of Quaker Spirituality by J. Brent Bill
A beautiful meditation on the role of silence in Quaker worship and life, offering practices for deepening one's experience of the Divine.

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On Living with a Concern for Gospel Ministry by Brian DraytonOn Living with a Concern for Gospel Ministry by Brian Drayton
A profound exploration of how Friends discern and live out their callings, supporting those who feel led to particular service.

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QUAKER RESOURCES FOR KIDS AND YOUTH

Even the smallest lantern carries the same Light.

Young people often have a natural connection to spiritual truths that adults sometimes struggle to access. These resources honor children's inherent wisdom while introducing Quaker values through story, art, and mindful practices.

Old Turtle by Douglas WoodOld Turtle by Douglas Wood
A gentle fable about how different parts of creation understand the Divine differently, yet all are part of a greater whole. Perfect for conversations about how we can honor diverse spiritual experiences.

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Stone Soup by Jon J MuthStone Soup by Jon J Muth
A beautiful retelling of the classic tale set in China, illustrating how sharing and community transform scarcity into abundance—a living example of Quaker simplicity and community values.

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The Three Questions - Jon L MuthThe Three Questions by Jon J Muth
Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy, this thoughtful picture book explores the most important questions in life: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do? A wonderful introduction to Quaker discernment for young minds.

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Is Nothing Smoething? by Thich Nhat HanhIs Nothing Something? by Thich Nhat Hanh
Written by the renowned Buddhist teacher, this book answers children's questions about life, death, family, and emotions with the same mindful awareness that Quakers seek in our silent worship.

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Mindfulness Patterns coloring book by Vivi TintaMindfulness Patterns: Coloring Book by Vivi Tinta
A contemplative activity that helps young Friends practice centeredness and presence—skills that serve them well in meeting for worship and throughout life.

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Stress Relief coloring book by Coco WyoStress Relief: Coloring Book for Adults and Kids by Coco Wyo
Creating space for calm and reflection through art, this coloring book supports the Quaker practice of making room for the Spirit in our busy lives.

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Thy Friend, Obadiah by Brinton TurkleThe Obadiah Books (for children ages 4-6)

Follow Obadiah Starbuck, a spirited Quaker boy in colonial Nantucket, through charming adventures that beautifully illustrate Quaker values while providing children with an authentic glimpse into early American Quaker life.

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QUAKER RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES

Family is our first beloved community. 

Family life offers rich opportunities to practice Quaker values together. These resources support parents and children in creating homes where spiritual growth is nurtured through daily practices and meaningful conversations.

A Quaker Book of Wisdom by Robert Lawrence SmithA Quaker Book of Wisdom
by Robert Lawrence Smith

A warm, accessible introduction to living Quaker values in everyday life, ideal for newcomers seeking practical applications of Quaker principles.

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The childhood roots of adult happiness by Edward M. HallowellThe Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness
by Edward M. Hallowell, M.D.

Dr. Hallowell's five-step approach (Connection, Play, Practice, Mastery, and Recognition) shows how unconditional love, community service, and religious observance help children develop lifelong joy.

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children's spirituality by Rebecca NyeChildren's Spirituality
by Rebecca Nye

Explores childhood as a natural source of spirituality, showing how choices in homes and faith communities can nurture children's innate capacity for wonder through practical guidance that emphasizes listening more to support spiritual development.

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Mural of children listening togetherQuaker Religious Education Collaborative

A grassroots network of Friends from all branches of the international Quaker family that serves as a community of practice for sharing resources, skills, and insights to support lifelong Quaker faith formation through religious education.

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ARTICLES AND SHORTER READINGS

Short readings for long contemplation. 

These articles offer focused explorations of specific aspects of Quaker faith and practice, perfect for those seeking understanding on particular topics.

  • “The Quaker Way” – Quaker Life Outreach

    A concise introduction to Quaker beliefs and practices that addresses common questions newcomers often have.

  • “Silence and Speech” – Richard Allen (1992)

    A practical guide to participating in a Quaker meeting for worship, written as a letter to newcomers.
  • “No Creed Is Not the Same as No Theology” – Robert Griswold (2001)

    A thoughtful exploration of how unprogrammed Friends understand and articulate their faith beyond creeds.
  • “What Do Quakers Believe?” – Arthur Larrabee (2018)

    A clear articulation of nine core Quaker beliefs that form the foundation of our faith practice.

  • “Using Quaker Practice” – New York Yearly Meeting (2003)

    Practical guidance for bringing Quaker principles into relationships, society, and business meetings.

  • “Spiritual Responsibility in the Meeting for Business” – Patricia Loring (1998)

    An insightful examination of how Friends approach communal decision-making as a spiritual practice.

  • “Gospel Order” – Annis Bleeke (2002)

    An exploration of how Quakers understand and practice being in right relationship with one another and creation.

  • “Advices & Queries” from Britain Yearly Meeting

    Thought-provoking questions and gentle advice that invite reflection on living faithfully as a Friend.

DIGITAL RESOURCES FOR QUAKERS

The Light shines through screens and speakers, too.

In today's connected world, these online resources offer accessible introductions to Quaker thought and practice.

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QuakerSpeak Videos

Short, engaging interviews with diverse Friends speaking about aspects of Quaker faith and practice—perfect for visual learners or those with limited reading time.


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Friends Journal

Contemporary Quaker voices addressing current issues and timeless spiritual questions. Their website includes free articles and resources.
 
 
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Pendle Hill Pamphlets Online

Digital versions of some of Pendle Hill's thoughtful explorations of Quaker spirituality and social witness.

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Quaker Information Center

A comprehensive resource for information about Quakerism, including FAQs, history, and explanations of Quaker practices.


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Quaker Religious Education Collaborative

Resources for all ages seeking to deepen their understanding of Quaker faith.


The journey of seeking does not end with reading—it begins there. We invite you to bring your questions and insights to our community, where together we can discover "if we will but seek, that the power of the Living Spirit guides each of us and helps us to meet one another in harmony and love."

Our Information Corner at Matinecock Quaker Meeting House contains many of these resources and more, available to borrow on Sunday mornings. For additional information, please contact our meeting house at matinecockmonthlymeeting@gmail.com.