Faith and Practice

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.