Religious Beliefs
Quakers do not require adherence to a creed or statement of belief. However, there is an
underlying theme in Quaker faith and practice: There is that of God in every person. The
Religious Society of Friends is rooted in Christianity, and many Quakers take inspiration from
the Bible. However, Friends also believe in the continuing revelations of the Spirit to seekers of
truth. In Napa Friends Meeting, we have had attenders who consider themselves Buddhist,
Episcopalian, Catholic, agnostic, and atheistic, but they have all found meaning and community in Quaker ways.
Quaker Worship
Unprogrammed Quakers meditate together in silence, expectantly awaiting divine inspiration.
Silent worship often lasts for an hour at Quaker Meetings, but the Napa Friends meditate
together for 45 minutes. Sometimes a person is led to offer a brief “spoken ministry.” These
words come from personal spiritual insight—they are not pre-planned. A period of silence
follows each vocal ministry, to allow for reflection with an open heart. Some Quaker Meetings
have frequent vocal ministry; the Napa Friends tend to more quiet group meditation.
There is an alternate branch of Quakerism which holds programmed Meetings. Their worship
includes singing and sermons, resembling more mainstream Protestant churches. The Napa
Friends Meeting is not affiliated with these programmed Friends Churches.
Quaker Action
Quakers have a long history of social action, based on their belief that every individual has
dignity, worth, equality, and the Light of God within. Quakers have long been leaders in
establishing and upholding the rights of women, fighting slavery, pursuing peace, and
establishing fair, honest business practices.
Current members and attenders contribute to the Napa Food Bank, local service organizations
(e.g., Napa Valley Can Do), gun violence prevention organizations (e.g., Moms Demand Action), the Napa Interfaith Council, the American Friends Service Committee, and more. Through our Business Meeting, we give financial support to local, international, and Quaker charities on a regular basis.