non-member attenders
The
Religious Society of Friends values the attendance and
participation of persons drawn to Friends whether or not they are
Members of the Society. At the same time, the Society encourages
concerned persons to consider membership as a way to increase
opportunities for developing their religious lives.
In general, non-members do not serve as officers, as members of
the Worship and Ministry, Oversight or Nominating Committees,
or as Clerks of most committees. Occasionally, Meetings find it wise
to make an exception. The Overseers should be aware of the
increasing interest or participation of an attender and discuss with
her or him the question of membership. Non-member attenders
may choose to be included as such in the Meeting’s list of names
and addresses.
While
members have accepted an obligation to attend and take part in Business
Meeting, attenders are also welcome to participate.
Their
contributions are valued and respected; however, responsibility for
decisions remains with the members of a Meeting. An
ability and willingness to take an appropriate share of responsibility
for matters under discussion, and for the life of the Meeting as
a whole, gives weight to one’s participation in Meeting for
Business.