Among Friends

Usually on Sundays I could be preaching somewhere, or most often attending my own church, and seldom have the opportunity to worship in other congregations.

Some time ago, my husband, Steve, and I visited in a place which had played an important role in the life of Steve’ family.

It was a Friends church. Steve’s great-great-grandparents were member there and are buried in the cemetery surrounding the church.

It was a different kind of a worship experience for us. At least twice during the morning service, the people were quiet, waiting for the working of the Spirit. The only sounds were birds outside the windows, the wind sighing, a discreet cough, a page turning, someone moving in the pew.

It was moving, inspiring and challenging. I’m not used to this. In our church, every moment is taken up with somebody doing something.

I thought about God, worship, and my fellow worshippers in a new light.

I feel this way sometimes when I am walking in the woods alone. There is no organ or choir director, or any aid to worship. It is the Spirit of God and mine meeting under the trees.

It was the same way in that old, old church in the country, surrounded by generations of sleepers waiting for the resurrection SHOUT, and the lively worshippers waiting for the same call.

Oh sweet, sweet life! I feel so blessed! I think I could be convinced to be a Quaker!

I Thessalonians 4:16-18

Judy Malone, text

Colleen Malone, photo