At Frederick Street, we carry on the Quaker religious tradition by seeking spiritual integrity and growth in a kindly, honest way. Quakers believe that each one of us can have a direct relationship with God without a priest or minister and without ritual.

We shy away from distraction and dogma as we learn from God and each other in meetings for worship based on silent listening. Out of this silence occasionally someone may speak briefly, or pray, or read from the Bible or another work.

We appreciate that inspiration comes from many sources and this leaves us open to the possibility of fresh understanding.

Quakerism is a way of life, and Quakers believe that there should be a unity of faith and action. We seek as best we can to live according to our beliefs every day:
solving conflicts without aggression,
with honesty and integrity,
demonstrating a practical concern for the needs of all people and our planet,
recognising that God is present in each human being.

Our Outlook on Life

Quakers are a little different from mainstream Christian churches. But we are not a novelty: we have been making our mark in the world since the mid 17th century, when Englishman George Fox and others lost respect for the complicated and bossy church systems. They found that if they listened, each person had the possibility of direct and relevant contact with God’s presence and guidance.

This led to meeting together in reverent quietness - which we still do - with any person present welcome to share spontaneously what inspiration he or she or they believe has been given to them. The silence is just as important as spoken ministry. This time we spend together, in worship or decision-making, does not develop into a debate.

Over the years, Quakers (also known as Friends) have developed a reputation for living by clear principles: honesty, tolerance, simplicity, appealing to the good in people, giving practical help with no strings attached. We are outward-looking and optimistic, concerned for the whole world, seeking alternatives to violence and believing people can change for the better.

Anyone visiting our Sunday morning worship - known simply as Meeting - will be unpressurised and very welcome.