Introduction: What is the Religious Society of Friends?
Quakers: Religious Society of Friends in Ireland
The articles in this section are intended to provide a broad introduction to the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in Ireland (and elsewhere) in a brief and easily readable form.They have been adapted from a series of illustrated panels in colour compiled and produced by members of Monkstown Meeting and displayed in Meeting Houses and other places throughout Ireland during 2004. This was the 350th anniversary of the first recorded Meeting for Worship in Ireland in 1654. A number of events were held to commemorate the anniversary - see Events in 2004 in the Archive section.
'The Religious Society of Friends' is the official title. Members first began to be called 'Quakers' soon after the foundation of the Society; this is really a nickname, but is now more commonly used than the official title. The words 'Friend' and 'Quaker' are interchangeable.
Some Quaker Ideas and Principles
Friends have always believed in seeking guidance direct from God in corporate as well as private prayer and worship. Because fresh insights are always being revealed Friends have never had a written creed or a printed prayer book. The spiritual experience of Friends down through the years has been recorded in writing, and is an immensely valuable source of inspiration. Our important basic beliefs and principles have for many years been been outlined in "General Christian Counsel" and "The Queries for Serious Consideration". These are set out below. Although the wording is revised from time to time, it tends to remain in classic rather than contemporary style, emphasising that the basic beliefs do not change.
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