READERS of The Hunts Post (May 2) may be interested to know that Quakers (The Religious Society of Friends) are still thriving as a community in their midst. Inspired by George Fox, Friends began to organise themselves into a nonconformist group in 1652

READERS of The Hunts Post (May 2) may be interested to know that Quakers (The Religious Society of Friends) are still thriving as a community in their midst.

Inspired by George Fox, Friends began to organise themselves into a nonconformist group in 1652 at a great meeting on Firbank Fell in Cumbria. Now there are nearly 500 Quaker meetings in the UK, attended by around 25,000 people. Nearly half-a-million people worship in Quaker meetings worldwide.

You do not have to become a Quaker to attend Quaker meetings, which are open to all. The Quaker way has its roots in Christianity. However, Quakers also find meaning and value in the teachings of other faiths and acknowledge that ours is not the only path. It is a way of life rather than a set of beliefs.

We seek to experience God directly, within ourselves and in our relationships with others and the world around us. These direct encounters with the Divine are where Quakers find meaning and purpose. For further general information freephone 0808 109 1651, email outreach@quaker.org.uk, or visit www.quaker.org.uk. Local information: 01480 465003/456555/811179.

FRANCES CHURCHMAN, Clerk to Huntingdon Meeting, Society of Friends