Baltimore Yearly Meeting is the regional organizing unit for the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in the area of central Pennsylvania, Maryland, parts of West Virginia, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. It is through membership in a Yearly Meeting that individual Quakers become connected with the larger Quaker movement worldwide. "In fellowship, in deep listening, in waiting worship, in commitment to each other, it richly rewards those who embrace the challenge of being a Yearly Meeting Friend." (2011 draft Faith and Practice)
Charlottesville: In the Spirit of Love and Truth
Our hearts go out to the people of Charlottesville and the many victims of the violence that erupted in their community this past weekend. We unite with the Charlottesville Friends Meeting and community in the Spirit of Love and Truth, as together we face the evils of racism, hatred, and bigotry in our midst.
In the Spirit of Love and Truth, we recognize no distinction between people by race, gender, class, or belief. There is that of God in all people, and we, as Friends, are called to answer that of God in all people. Equity, diversity and inclusion of all people are the foundation of the Blessed Community we seek.
Yet in the Spirit of Love and Truth, we cannot deny the racism, hatred, and bigotry that are an integral part of our history, that violently and cruelly oppress people in our society today, and that continue to inspire violent, racist movements. It is all around us; it is part of who we are; and it has affected each of us differently and profoundly depending on our race, gender, class, and other unique life experiences.
We are the heirs of this legacy, but we need not pass it on to future generations. We have the opportunity now, in the Spirit of Love and Truth, to say “No More” to acts of racism, hatred, and bigotry, and “Yes!” to the healing, enduring power of Love.
Yet it is not as simple as just saying “no.” We are called to answer that of God in ourselves, in the oppressed, and in the oppressor. There are many deep wounds to heal, many profound inequities to be made right, many behaviors to change, and many deep fears to quell. These are the roots from which racism, violence, hatred, and bigotry spring. And, it is here that we must give our steadfast attention.
Let us gather in worship and unite in action. This is our legacy. This is our Truth. This is our Love. This is our moment.
Ned Stowe
General Secretary
Baltimore Yearly Meeting
8/15/17
-
Do you yearn for spiritual deepening? Are you longing for growth in a community of seekers who support one another on our individual journeys? Have you felt a nudge to greater intentionality in your spiritual practice? if so, the Spiritual Formation Program is for you.
Registration for the spring retreat is now open.
-
Information about services from the Yearly Meeting available for our local Meetings and worshiping communities is listed here.
-
September 29th through October 1, 2017
This summer marks the 60th year we have been holding camp at Catoctin!
JOIN US FOR THIS HISTORIC CELEBRATION
For a weekend of reminiscing, singing around the campfire, frazzlyram, short hikes on the mountain, great camp food, and catching up with old friends.Added Bonus
Enjoy the history and familiarity of camp, the physical heart of our beloved community for the last 60 years, while also experiencing
the brand new bathhouse, a key component in building a sustainable future for our camp, and the mountain we call home, for the next 50 years. For more information and to register, visit www.bym-rsf.org/events/ymevents/cqcalumni.html -
Click to see the latest information about Stewardship and Finance Committee's work to update the apportionment formula.
An Evening of Scottish Music
Come and enjoy an evening of Scottish music 7:30pm. Doors open at 7. Katrine Anderson will be singing songs from her native Scotland, many of which she learned growing up in a very musical family there. She will be joined by an outstanding group of Celtic musicians: Zan McCleod, playing guitar and bouzouki; Robert Spates playing fiddle; and Tina Chancey playing viol de gamba and fiddle. The cost is $15 for adults, $10 for students. The concert is sponsored by Annapolis Friends Meeting and the proceeds will benefit various endeavors. For more information, see annapolis.quaker.org.
