27 February 2009 £1.70 the DISCOVER THE CONTEMPORARYFriend QUAKER WAY the Friend INDEPENDENT QUAKER JOURNALISM SINCE 1843

CONTENTS VOL 167 NO 9 3-5 News 3 First Quaker canon installed 4 Campaigners call for change as women prisoner suicides rise 5 ‘Big countries, few Quakers’ and the tyranny of distance 6 A prisoner’s thoughts on prisons and after A prisoner writes… 7 Comment Alison Prout and Trevor Evans 8-9 Letters 10-11 Climate change: a call to action Joe Thwaites 12 Exploring our spiritual path Cover image: Polar bear Elizabeth Angas on the ice. WIll there still be ice if we don’t act soon? 13 A look at Barclay Fox through his journal Photo: Jupiter Images. Catherine Dinn See pages 7, 10-11. Images on this page: Top Mikheil 14 Hearts and minds opened… personal thoughts Elizbarashvili from the Georgia worship group on facilitation outside Westminster Friends Katie Venner Meeting House. Photo: Jez Smith. Bottom: Oxfam’s 15 On ministry Polar Bears protested in Keith Minton, Keith Reeves and Elaine Bruley support of humans who are also losing their habitat and 16 q-eye: a Quaker look at the world natural resources due to 17 Friends & Meetings Climate Change at the UN Climate Change Conference in December 2007 Photo: Ng Swan Ti/Oxfam.

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2 the Friend, 27 February 2009 News First Quaker canon installed A Quaker has been installed as an of welcome to all and we welcome ecumenical canon at Chelmsford people as they are’, he said. Cathedral in what is believed to be Ecumenical canons form part of a first appointment of its kind. the cathedral’s college of canons Jennifer Hodgkin, clerk of and are involved in governing the Maldon Local Meeting and a cathedral, but are not required to long-time ecumenical Quaker, is take any form of oath of allegiance. one of five ecumenical canons at Although the appointment may the cathedral. She was installed raise eyebrows in some quarters, together with three Anglican Paul Oestreicher, Quaker chaplain Jennifer Hodgkin with (left) John canons on Sunday 22 February. at the University of Sussex and Gladwin, bishop of Chelmsford and The appointment has met with a retired Anglican canon, felt (right) Peter Judd, dean of Chelmsford approval from both Quakers that it was uncontroversial. ‘The Cathedral. Photo: Jonathan Hodgkin. and Anglicans. Gillian Ashmore, cathedral is doing nothing more recording clerk of Britain Yearly than saying that a Quaker is very of Mankind’ by Quaker poet Meeting, said: ‘We are delighted welcome as a fellow Christian John Greenleaf Whittier. ‘The that a Quaker is being recognised among us’, he said. ‘She would bishop of Chelmsford said some in this way. Many Quakers are have to make no concessions to glowing things about the Society engaged in ecumenical work Anglicanism.’ Jennifer herself of Friends’, said Jennifer, who was and it is pleasing when someone called it ‘a wonderful opportunity herself asked to give a speech. of Jenny’s worth is being given for outreach’ and hoped that she ‘I just said that… we were all the opportunity to be of wider could ‘use the position in ways to strands in the rich tapestry of the service.’ Chris Newlands, chaplain further the interests and concerns Christian church. It was good that to the bishop of Chelmsford, of Friends’. we were able to work together and described Jennifer as a ‘tremendous The installation ceremony, it was a splendid occasion and a individual’ and said that the which took place in a packed tremendously public recognition of appointment was ‘very valuable’ cathedral attended by local the contribution of the Society of for the cathedral. ‘It really affirms Quakers, among others, included Friends in the world today.’ the fact that we seek to be a place the hymn ‘Dear Lord and Father Oliver Robertson Amnesty makes Middle East war crimes allegations Amnesty International has accused both the Israeli Israeli bombardments and other attacks were directed military and Hamas of committing war crimes during at civilians or civilian buildings in the Gaza Strip; their recent conflict and called for an arms embargo. others were disproportionate or indiscriminate’. The human rights organisation stated in its report The use of white phosphorus, often used because ‘Fuelling conflict: foreign arms supplies to Israel/Gaza’ of the heavy clouds of white smoke it produces, that it had found ‘indisputable evidence that Israeli is permitted in limited circumstances under forces used white phosphorus, which has a highly international humanitarian law. However, the incendiary effect, in densely populated residential substance, which upon contact with skin burns areas in Gaza, putting the Palestinian civilian through muscle and into bone, continuing to burn population at high risk’. It also said that ‘Hamas until deprived of oxygen, is prohibited in areas and other Palestinian armed groups continued to containing a ‘concentration of civilians’, unless a fire indiscriminate rockets into residential areas of military objective is ‘clearly separated’ from them. southern Israel, killing three civilians’. Protocol III to the Convention on Conventional An Israeli government spokesperson said that Israel Weapons, which covers incendiary weapons, further used only weapons permitted under international requires that ‘all feasible precautions are taken’ to limit law and that it did not intentionally target civilians. the effect of any allowed attack on civilians. However, Amnesty International argued: ‘Some of the For more on white phosphorous see q-eye on p16.

the Friend, 27 February 2009 3 News Campaigners call for change as women prisoner suicides rise A second woman prisoner has ombudsman will conduct an in radical, community-based committed suicide in England investigation.’ alternatives must be prioritised’. and Wales this year. Samantha However, Deborah Coles of Following the deaths of Dainty was found hanging in her Inquest, a charity working on six women in one year at cell on 30 January and efforts to contentious deaths and deaths in HMP Styal, the government revive her were unsuccessful. Her custody, said: ‘We have already this commissioned a major report death means that the downward year seen worryingly high numbers into women in prison, published trend shown last year, when only of deaths. In January 2009 there in 2007. Campaigners have been one woman prisoner committed were ten self inflicted deaths in subsequently disappointed at suicide, has been reversed. prisons, including two of women, the failure to implement many A prison service spokesperson the highest number in one month of the major recommendations, said: ‘Our thoughts are with the since July 2007.’ She called for ‘the particularly a move towards placing family and friends of [Samantha] abolition of prison as the normal women offenders in small units Dainty. As with all deaths in response for women who break the near their homes and families. custody, the prisons and probation law’ and argued that ‘investment Oliver Robertson Foundation issues child poverty alert A Quaker-founded charity has warned that the poverty, those who are impoverished would face more government is at risk of missing its own targets on severe hardship. ‘If these greater levels of hardship are reducing child poverty. allowed to take root’, it warned, ‘the knock-on costs of The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which child poverty experienced during the recession could investigates the root causes of social problems, made be serious and long-lasting’. the prediction in its report ‘Ending child poverty in A government spokesperson said: ‘Over the last a changing economy’. It stated that an extra £4.2bn a decade we have seen the biggest fall in child poverty year would need to be found in order to halve child of any European country, but there is still more to poverty by 2010 and that without more investment an do’. She continued: ‘It is important to remember that estimated 3.1 million children would be in poverty by tackling the underlying causes and consequences of 2020. child poverty requires a combination of financial The report predicted that while the recession would support, help for parents to find and enter work and not greatly affect the number of children living in improved public services’.

Georgian and British Friends strengthen links Mikheil Elizbarashvili, clerk of the capital city, Tbilisi, which has been we think about them and they get Georgia Quakers worship group, officially twinned with Bristol some spiritual benefit from us.’ concluded a visit to Britain Yearly since 1998. During his stay in Last month, British Quakers Meeting by joining Friends at Bristol Mikheil was interviewed Marjorie Farquharson and Michael Westminster’s open air Meeting by a Bristol radio station and he Eccles visited Georgia as part of the for Worship at Speakers Corner on discussed the relationship between European and Middle East Section Sunday. Quakers in the two cities. of Friends World Committee for The Meeting ended a busy week In Cambridge, Mikheil gave a Consultation’s Visiting Friends for Mikheil in which he visited presentation about the relief work scheme. They took part in an Friends in Bristol and Cambridge. and Friends used their time to aid distribution and spent time Last year, British Friends explore the ‘linkage’ relationship with Georgian Quakers. ‘They supported Georgian Quakers that the Meetings are developing. are developing into a grounded as they carried out relief work ‘We receive inspiration and worship group and I felt just as following the country’s conflict learn from Cambridge Friends’, at home in Meeting for Worship with Russia over South Ossetia. explained Mikheil. ‘In return we in Tbilisi as I do in my home Georgian Quakers meet in their tell them what we’re doing and Meeting’, said Michael.

4 the Friend, 27 February 2009 [email protected] ‘Big countries: few Quakers’ and the tyranny of distance Oliver Robertson analyses a report from Canadian Friends on how they and Australian Quakers can make best use of their resources

If you’re concerned about regionalised structure, with using email. Email can prompt the problems that Quakers in Regional Meetings (similar to people to respond too quickly, Britain face finding people to fill Area Meetings, though covering a without proper reflection.’ committee positions and travelling much larger area) ‘hosting’ Yearly Canadian Quakers are currently to Meetings, spare a thought for Meeting committees. In Australia, planning to draw up protocols for Friends in Canada and Australia. a Regional Meeting with members the use of email, the internet and In both these countries, millions who have particular skills will run teleconferencing in conducting of square kilometres large and a committee for a number of years, business. with around 1,000 Quakers each, which draws local Friends into A major positive outcome of Friends have been considering the central structure and reduces reducing the number of meetings how to best organise themselves both the need for travel and the Friends need to travel to is the to minimise travel distance, costs expectations about what Quakers environmental benefit. Friends in and environmental footprints. As centrally can provide. Friends both Canada and Australia have part of this, and mirroring the outside that region can still be become increasingly concerned new emphasis in Britain Yearly involved informally or as regional about the ecological impact of Meeting’s framework for action on links. travelling long distances to Yearly working together, two Canadian Other innovations suggested Meeting and other events, with Quakers recently travelled to include holding Yearly Meeting some resolving to change their Australia to see what they could sessions every two years instead of behaviour. ‘I love attending Yearly learn. annually and reducing the number Meeting’, said one Australian ‘CYM [Canadian Yearly of times other committees meet. To Friend, ‘but as a Quaker I feel that Meeting] and AYM [Australia help prepare Canadian Quakers in it’s more important for me not to Yearly Meeting] have many similar discerning difficult issues at Yearly travel’. Australian Friends decided concerns’, said Susan and David Meeting, the report recommends in 2008 to pay a carbon offset Stevenson, who wrote the report the use of ‘preparatory sessions’ charge for all air travel undertaken ‘Big countries, few Quakers’ for where Friends can ask questions for Yearly Meeting purposes; Vernon Monthly Meeting in and become familiar with the Canadian Quakers are considering Canada. ‘Some of the discussions issues behind the topic before it doing the same; while separately we heard in Australia – about goes to a full, formal session. This Quakers travelling to this year’s using electronic communication, process has been used for several gathering of Friends from across about involving Young Friends years in Australia. the Americas have been encouraged in the life of our Meetings, about While a lot of business can be to use carbon offsets for their “the tyranny of distance” – could carried out over the telephone travel. However, the use of carbon just as easily have been heard at a or via email, there were concerns offsetting is controversial because Canadian Friends’ gathering.’ But, about whether that can replace of the negligible or negative effects they added, both Yearly Meetings human relationships. In their of some offset schemes and the are experiencing a period of report, the Stevensons note concerns that offsetting could stop change and renewal, as reviews that many Friends ‘believe Friends making lifestyle changes. are completed and innovations there is a place for electronic The goal, remarked Susan and implemented. communication, but caution that David Stevenson in their report, ‘is One method of working that we must be careful to maintain to reduce our carbon footprint, not excited the Stevensons was AYM’s right ordering, especially when to compensate for it’.

the Friend, 27 February 2009 5 Opinion A prisoner’s thoughts on

Even waiting at a bus stop can be a problem if another bail hostel resident is also waiting. (Photo: flickr/CC stringberd.) prison and after

It was so good to read the to society. As an example, they are the implementation of ‘Sarah’s article by Bob Johnson: ‘Prisons often forced to live in bail hostels law’ (even though it failed to get – Quakerism’s latest challenge’ upon release while also being told through parliament) and they are (30 January). This subject has that they must not associate with having all potential stability and become close to my heart since I other ex-offenders. Should they security removed from them. was imprisoned myself at HMP then be found standing at a local Reoffending rates will be reduced Acklington. Seeing the prison bus stop with a fellow bail hostel if we can offer ex-offenders some system from this side of the fence resident they will be returned to hope and security in the future. has been a real eye-opener. prison! The number of recalls to The current system and society Statistics have shown that the prison through ‘breaches’ of licence sends ripples of discontent and current prison system is not very is growing dramatically. These hurt out from the offender, effective at reducing crime, which recalls can be given ‘extended destroying their support network. should be the ultimate aim of the licences’, which will take them Friends and family are often ripped judicial system. When entering beyond the end of their original away, leaving ex-offenders destitute prison you are stripped of all tariff. With almost fifty per cent of and lonely – the modern pariah. respect and dignity, denigrated HMP Acklington being populated There are some beacons of and dehumanised. You become by ‘licence recalls’, some inmates hope in the system: the Human your crime only. There is lots are electing to stay in prison as Rights Act, if adhered to, is of of talk about prison reform, they are so afraid of recalls and bail great benefit. Within the prisons although what there is in prison hostels. there are those who see that things is often negated by its negative After prisoners have survived must change: the chaplaincies and environment. What is prison the prison sentence and the especially the Quaker ones; the currently? It is state-sanctioned licence period, they have what education and programme staff, punishment. can be the worst punishment: who offer great support but can Prison is only one of the the stigma that society puts do little to effect change. There punishments handed out and not on them. This is worst for the are some prison officers who can the worst one. Halfway through growing number of offenders see the need for change too. One a prison sentence offenders are who are on the Sex Offenders officer explained to me, after released on what is called licence; Register. It is now being used as working as a facilitator on one of this can be worse than being in a discrimination tool on many the programmes, that he now sees prison. Probation and police fronts. It is not only industries like that prisoners are like a big cake set a series of constraints and teaching or work with children of which only a thin slice is the boundaries on the premise of which are being restricted, but offence. I do hope that he is one of public protection. What these do is now also ones like accountancy. many who is seeing the light and stigmatise and prevent ex-offenders Add to this demonisation of ‘sex the beginning of change. from integrating and contributing offenders’ in the UK press and A prisoner

6 the Friend, 27 February 2009 Comment The future of the world

The 2009 Copenhagen Summit: the from climate change, despite through its domestic policies and future of the world depends on a having done the least to cause it. throughout the negotiations. A good deal. Friends rarely indulge As climate change gathers pace third runway at Heathrow and in such dramatic statements, but they will become more and more a new coal-fired power station when referring to the importance vulnerable, not just from the at Kingsnorth undermine the of this meeting it’s hard to environmental impact of climate UK government’s position and, overstate. Over two weeks in change, but also from the pressure if agreed, will have much wider December this year, world leaders it will exert on existing problems consequences than their immediate will be meeting in Copenhagen to such as poverty, disease and social environmental damage. negotiate a global climate change tensions. This will be a global Campaigning in the build up to deal. This meeting represents problem but developed countries Copenhagen is vital, but living with probably the last opportunity to are in a much better position to climate change doesn’t start or end prevent devastating climate change. cope and adapt as necessary. there. Whatever deal emerges from The Kyoto protocol will expire in Friends are increasingly aware Copenhagen, Friends and others 2012 and its successor will need to and concerned about their own must reorient themselves towards a be agreed this year in order to be environmental impact and this more sustainable path. What better ready to take over. The science tells year really needs to count. March time to start than spring. us that damaging climate change will see the start of many public Alison Prout is occurring faster than was first events, campaigns and activities Programme manager, QPSW thought: it really is now or never. building up to Copenhagen; study 2009 is a crucial year to lay out materials will be available from See also pages 10-11 for a review what a good deal in Copenhagen Quaker Peace & Social Witness of last December’s conference in must look like. The agreement (QPSW). There needs to be a Poznan. needs to have justice at its core. strong voice demanding that Go to www.quaker.org.uk/ The poorest are already suffering the UK demonstrates leadership copenhagen for more information.

Bolster the ‘love’ gene

Letters from Shirley Heathcote and David Saunders personal benefit to the individual. I like to think that (20 February) ask us to be willing to review our the human species is the best example of this, despite religious convictions in the light of developments in some contrary evidence. While some people may be evolutionary theory and to define a positive non-theist dismayed to see altruism reduced to the level of an position. I would not necessarily describe myself as a animal instinct, I find it reassuring to know that if we non-theist but I would like to make a personal attempt help each other because we believe it is morally right, to answer these two questions. it should also be an evolutionarily stable strategy. I In his 1976 book The Selfish Gene, the evolutionary am quite happy to describe this instinct (love?) as that biologist and atheist Richard Dawkins made a strong of God working within me. This love is of God and case for the evolution of altruistic behaviour in various God is love. I would suggest that, if our species is to animal species, including Homo sapiens. He argued survive, we need to do everything we can to encourage that it is a very important for the survival of many this instinct to develop and spread. The environment species that parents should care for their young and in which we live is changing fast and species do not that in social animals this caring instinct can extend always evolve quickly enough to adapt to change. to other members of a family and to members of the Evolution is not a guarantee against extinction. wider group. In the chapter ‘Nice guys finish first’ he gives examples of how animal behaviours have Trevor Evans evolved to be of general benefit to the group, not just Harpenden Local Meeting

the Friend, 27 February 2009 7 Letters All views expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Friend

Darwin Introductions In our enthusiasm for Charles Darwin I hope There must be a better way to introduce people in a that it won’t be overlooked that what I think of as meeting than sitting in a circle and having everyone ‘fundamentalist Darwinism’, summarised as ‘survival of introduce themselves in turn. For many it isn’t the fittest’, provided a justification for the Nazi death a problem. For me, and I suspect others, it is. At camps (the evolutionary destiny of the master race was Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre you often have to enslave and eliminate what it saw as defective human to go through this excruciating ordeal. For those stock) and for the slow genocide of the aboriginal races who are shy and many who are unused to speaking of the American and Australian continents. in public it is an ordeal. My problem is that until It also sees no point in trying to prolong the lives the age of about twenty I had a terrible stutter, now of the old (like myself!), the chronically sick and the thankfully almost disappeared. mentally or physically disabled. They serve no useful As the introductions gradually approach you evolutionary purpose. As for endangered species and round the circle I feel that old unwelcome bully, threatened ethnic groups, extinction is their inevitable panic, rising in my throat. My hands go clammy, my evolutionary fate. Let it take its course. heart races and each time I relive the humiliation I don’t in the least mind Darwinism making nonsense of all those years ago. It hasn’t abated over time and of the early chapters of Genesis but I do object to its the feeling of helplessness is just as real as it was undermining the message of the Sermon on the Mount. when I was rendered speechless in front of a school Ernest Hall assembly fifty-four years ago. Not being able to say 88 Dudley Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 3DJ your own name, out loud, can render you invisible in your own mind for a lifetime. Creationism versus evolution We wandering band of stutterers and shy people I am at a loss to know why there is such a furore over make an uncomfortable accommodation with life. the issue of creationism versus evolution. Why is it so We laugh it off, we make light of it, but it still cuts impossible to teach children that the Bible is a book of deeply and we learn to avoid unnecessary exposure. great truths spelled out in the simplest terms possible? It Be aware that our best attempts at inclusiveness was written for people who had little understanding of may achieve the opposite. So when you next anything outside their environment and whose counting facilitate a meeting, think carefully about how you skills probably did not exceed the size of their sheep do it. It can be done skilfully or it can be a disaster. flocks or their five fingers. How could they – or even David Jonas the rabbis teaching them – understand the concept of Shaftesbury Meeting hundreds of millions of years? Of course the Bible shows a true picture of evolution. There was a time when the sun pierced the miasma What’s in a name? around this planet and light was divided from darkness. It is my belief that the misguided phrase ‘same And there was a time when the continents drifted sex partnerships’ should be dropped and apart and seas and land were separated… The time- replaced by the more meaningful expression span referred to was ‘a day’, an understandable concept ‘partners of the same gender’. in everyone’s life, but what no-one seems to have Oscar Wallis asked is ‘How long was this “day”’. Pretty obviously it 37 Elms Road, Leicester LE2 3JD encompassed several hundred million years. I find no problem in believing that there must be some ‘creator’ who set all this in motion, down to the last nano-particle and chromosome, and who may Will Warren occasionally ‘tweak’ the creation to create something I am calling for information about Will Warren new, like a gardener producing an unknown flower (1906-1980), Quaker and lifelong peace activist. from an unlikely mixture of seeds. Because we humans I am researching my family history, one strand need to put a name on things we call the creator God, of which concerns Will Warren, who was my whereupon the church gets hold of ‘him’ and tries to tell father’s first cousin. I would be delighted to hear us ‘he’ is our controller (through the priests of course) from anyone who knew Will and can fill out my – despite the fact that we are also told that we have free very sketchy knowledge of him. will to make our own choices and I personally cannot Mary Green assign a gender to the creator I envision. 15 St David Road, Claughton, Birkenhead CH43 Anne Atkinson-Clark 8SW Wellingborough Local Meeting [email protected]

8 the Friend, 27 February 2009 [email protected]

Emphasise the positive Israel and Palestine David Saunders (20 February) asks for a Last summer I spent a week in Israel and the West description of Quakerism that is positive. Here’s Bank verifying for myself what Lindsey Cook mine: That there is something of God in every describes (20 February) so vividly from her vastly person; that there is something divine in every greater experience. The young citizens of Nablus child, woman, man of all races and religion, from (biblical Samaria) chillingly summarised their the terminally ill, shrivelled, elderly patient to the attitudes as ‘Saddam Hussein – good guy; throw the child in the mother’s womb. Israelis into the sea’; given what I saw, this is entirely If I downgrade Quakerism to just a friendly understandable but contrasts with the graciousness of society, then there is no reason for me to reach many older Palestinian academics – sadly dwindling out lovingly to others; the Darwin imperative is in number – who still admire Jewish culture. With ‘me first’. If someone in some country takes a one man, this was in spite of his witnessing the different view from me, just push them out of the unprovoked assassination of his mother. We must also way. But knowing that there is something divine in express concern for the young Israeli soldiers (men everyone transforms the world. and women) who are being psychologically brutalised The reality of something of God in all people by their orders to harass, despise and humiliate was the reason for my joining the Religious Society Palestinian ‘pigs’ at, for example, the many roadblocks. of Friends at age eighteen upon leaving Bootham A Christian Zionist leaflet (printed before the Gaza School for Cambridge; it upheld me at my incursion) analyses the current political situation in conscientious objector tribunal in 1940 at Bristol; Israel with no mention of or concern about the status it supported me in my Quaker relief work training of the Palestinian population. I don’t know which at Spiceland in Devon and in my five wartime frightens me more – the young citizens of Nablus or years of Quaker relief administration, based at the Christian Zionists in my home town. However, Friends House London; and also in my seventy the bravery of the various Jewish movements in Israel years of printing administration in York, including who are working against Israeli government policy the printing and publication of several hundred deserves our special praise and thanks, as well as giving Quaker books. some hope. Let’s also hope that the low-level unofficial Bill Sessions contacts between the EU and Hamas are sustained. 6 Rawcliffe Grove, Clifton, York YO30 6NR Frank Boulton Hampshire and the Islands Area Meeting

Following Greg Wilkinson’s stand against ‘Israeli’ produce from occupied Palestinian land (23 January and 20 February), may I urge Friends to buy Zaytoun produce from Palestine. Zaytoun works in partnership with small producing communities and depends on volunteers to buy and sell the produce, which includes What goes around, comes around olives, olive oil, dates, almonds, cous cous, soap and I was very moved by John Anderson’s herbs. You can buy a box of oil to sell at your Meeting. article ‘What goes around, comes Contact Zaytoun at www.zaytoun.org. around’ (20 February), which clearly Jenny Wistreich ‘spoke to my condition’! How much I/ Seaford Local Meeting we need the humility to recognise our own powerlessness in the face of our The Friend welcomes your views. Please keep letters short past experiences and our recurring and include your full postal address, even when sending prejudices, together with the courage emails. Please specify whether you wish for your postal or to stand firm in the face of those email address or Meeting name to be used with your name, howling, prevailing winds. To listen to otherwise we will print your post address or email address. that kindly ‘still small voice’ of God Letters are published at the editor’s discretion and may be and be responsibly present for our edited. Write to: the Friend, 173 Euston Road, London NW1 actions – now. 2BJ or email [email protected] Thank you, John. Remember if you are online that you can also comment on all Jill Jesshope articles at www.thefriend.org Chippenham Meeting

the Friend, 27 February 2009 9 Environment Climate change: a call to action (it’s up to us!)

A series of meetings, which in UN increase again even if we curbed mankind’s climatic influence. Its speak are called Conferences of all emissions immediately (which conclusions that temperature rises the Parties (COPs) to the United we’re not going to). Already, the since the mid-twentieth century are Nations Framework Convention Red Cross has shown that more ‘very likely’ due to an increase in on Climate Change, have been people are made refugees because anthropogenic greenhouse gases in held every year since 1995. In of environmental disasters than the atmosphere has been endorsed 1997, countries agreed the Kyoto because of war, while the UN by the national academies of Protocol, which came into force estimates that climate change will science for all major industrialised in 2005. It set (very low) targets create 150 million refugees by 2050. countries. for developed countries to reduce Unfortunately, the outcome was Furthermore, the next generation greenhouse gas emissions by 2012. rather disappointing: little progress of politicians all ‘get it’. This Many countries are destined to fall was made on this or any of the restructuring of government is short of meeting even these low other issues, with the strongest another positive development reductions. Other countries, most commitment being that states were that will hopefully lead to more notably the US, refused to even ready to move into ‘full negotiating joined-up thinking on these two ratify it. mode’ in 2009 (which begs the symbiotic policy areas. There is Over the last few years, countries question, what have they been a definite generational divide have begun talks to agree a post- doing for the past ten years?). with the older politicians stuck in 2012 climate change agreement. But there are still reasons to be the past. They know that by the At COP 13, held in Bali in 2007, optimistic. All major countries, time climate change becomes the a roadmap was agreed which including the US and China, the biggest issue they’ll be retired or set a target to conclude a new two current greatest greenhouse dead, so they stick with the only agreement by 2009 at COP 15 in gas emitters, now recognise climate policy they know – continuous Copenhagen (yes, they agreed to change as one of the defining economic growth. But the younger have an agreement in two years, issues of our age. This in itself, politicians have cottoned on – by such is the wonderful world of pitted against the powerful vested the time they are the world leaders, international relations). COP 14 in interests in the fossil fuel industry, climate change will be the most Poznan marked a midway point in is a remarkable achievement. pressing issue. As David King, this process. The main issue being The Intergovernmental Panel on the government’s former chief negotiated in Poland was that of Climate Change (IPCC) has set scientific advisor said, climate an ‘adaptation fund’, a large pot of a new standard for international change is ‘more serious even than money promised many years ago scientific cooperation and in 2007, the threat of terrorism’. They know by developed countries to help jointly with Al Gore, won the that it’s best to start thinking developing countries cope with Nobel Peace Prize for its work. In about it now, while the costs of those effects of climate change that what is probably the largest and mitigation are relatively low, rather are already desstined to happen. most comprehensive ongoing than later, once they’ve risen We have already experienced a study in history, several thousand almost exponentially. global average surface temperature scientists from over 130 countries Most countries made clear to rise of around 0.7°C between 1905 assess the peer-reviewed scientific the conference that the financial and 2005 and historical greenhouse literature on climate change and crisis was no excuse for shirking gas emissions mean that we are produce reports outlining the their responsibilities for tackling already committed to the same current scientific consensus on climate change. Indeed, the

10 the Friend, 27 February 2009 Climate change: a call to Joe Thwaites went to the UN Climate Change summit in Poznan with Friends of the Earth. His experience action (it’s up to us!) there convinced him that Quakers must take a lead

massive mobilisation of money their voices heard on climate the atmosphere at 350 parts per and resources to tackle the crisis change, the more we can shift million?’ has put paid to the old excuse that, the debate from ‘should we take When you vote, take a good even if we wanted to tackle climate action?’ to ‘are we doing enough?’ look at the candidates’ stance on change, we wouldn’t be able to When the government was the environment. Actually that’s find the money and coordinate drafting the Climate Change Bill, a misnomer – climate change an effective response. The bank which creates a legal obligation really isn’t about protecting ‘the bail-outs have far exceeded to reduce greenhouse gases, their environment’ as in the trees, fields, the spending Nicholas Stern’s initial commitment was a sixty per lakes and birds. This isn’t about landmark 2006 report estimated cent reduction by 2050. Following ‘saving the planet’ – the earth will would be required to mitigate pressure from campaigners and do just fine without us. Unlike our climate change and countries have scientists, including Friends of the banks, it can bail itself out and been able to work remarkably Earth with their ‘Big Ask’ campaign, regenerate but humans wouldn’t be well together when their common the government not only raised so lucky. The effects of climate will financial interests are under this commitment to eighty per reach into every aspect of our lives, threat. When they realise that cent, but also included emissions so it makes no sense to talk about extreme climate change will cause from aviation and shipping, which it purely in terms of environmental economic, social and political crises had threatened to be a major policy – it spans the economic, on a scale greater than anything loophole. The Climate Change Act energy, welfare, health, defence and previously experienced, then we became law in November 2008. development spheres. Because both will get action. Unfortunately the However, recent developments the causes and effects are multiple, delay in the biosphere’s response such as approving a third runway only a holistic approach will deal to greenhouse gas emissions means at Heathrow mean that the with the problem. that by the time the threat becomes government is likely to miss its own Our individual actions are not clear it will be too late to act. targets. enough. Changing light bulbs, That’s why it needs ordinary Next time you hear a politician cycling and reusing plastic bags, citizens to apply pressure. Climate speaking, throw in the climate even driving and flying less, will change minister Ed Miliband, change question – how are they be meaningless unless world talking to youth lobbyists in going to prevent catastrophic leaders can agree to stabilise global Poland, said that it was up to warming? Historical emissions greenhouse gas emissions within the electorate to put pressure on mean we’re already locked into the next five to ten years and then the government to take action. around a 1.5°C temperature rise, proceed to dramatically reduce No matter how much he may so it’s not about stopping warming them thereafter. personally want to take the UK altogether, it’s about mitigating This doesn’t mean we should down a low carbon path, and I worst-case scenarios – generally give up. On the contrary, it’s time personally believe he does, he agreed to occur when we get above for Quakers to lead once again. Tell cannot do so until he can show a 2°C rise in average temperatures. the politicians: the time to act is Gordon Brown that there is more So ask them: ‘how are you going now. Because God knows it’s taken support for this course than there to avoid a two degree rise?’, or if them long enough. is for maintaining the status you want to hit them with science: Joe Thwaites is a student at the quo and focusing on traditional ‘How are you going to stabilise University of York and attends both concerns. The more people make carbon dioxide concentration in York Friargate and Brant Broughton Cartoon: Art Today Cartoon: Art

the Friend, 27 February 2009 11 Spiritual writing Exploring our spiritual path

About two years ago we started write. Other in the group would it differently. I am always amazed an evening group in our Local feel this contemplative stage is at the diversity of responses to Meeting – Blackheath. Some of quite different for them. Just as in each topic. Also, of course, we all us had read in the Friend about Meeting, we do not have the same tend to let our own interests and ‘Writing from the Spirit’ groups descriptions for what we are doing backgrounds flavour our writings. or had been on a weekend course and experiencing. Our title for the group was to learn about that process. We The next stage of the process originally ‘Spiritual writing’. We wanted to try to do something also influences how I write. all understood what we meant similar and so decided to meet Having meditated and written by this and liked its simplicity. once a fortnight in each other’s for about half an hour, we move However, others, outside the group, homes. There are usually seven into ‘sharing’. People read out or wanted us to change it to a title or eight of us but the group ‘talk around’ what they wish to that explained more exactly what remains open for anyone to join contribute. We leave a few minutes we are doing. They felt ‘spiritual or leave, although each person’s of accepting silence between each writing’ gave the wrong impression contribution remains confidential. one, but without commenting on or they could not understand what The form has evolved gently, it. When all have done this, in any it meant. However, the present title remaining simple, relaxed and order, we then have a discussion of ‘exploring our spiritual path’ non-prescriptive. We start with about our various responses. This shortens to ESP. In psychological a few minutes of silence in order continues over tea or coffee. The circles this stands for extrasensory to attune, to settle and ground evenings begin at 7.30pm and perception! But we are not involved ourselves. Then a pre-arranged usually finish soon after 9pm. in that parapsychology – unless, of person (we take it in turns) offers a Before we leave, we arrange our course, you see all spiritual tasks topic. It is felt to be important not next venue and decide who is to and gifts as also psychic ones. to know the subject beforehand, offer the ‘yet unknown’ topic. This is the view of the Quaker otherwise we might be tempted to The topics have ranged from Fellowship of After-life Studies (see prepare an intellectual response a Quaker value like simplicity or www.webbscottage.co.uk). Writing or treat it like a ‘creative writing integrity to how some topical or from the Spirit can, I believe, group’. political event is affecting our sometimes result in a form of On hearing the topic, we own spiritual journey. A recent ‘automatic writing’ – ie received each ‘meditate’ upon it, in our topic was: Why are we here on without one’s volition. However, in own way, in silence. For me this the planet? So people wrote about our group that is not our intention means entering a ‘change-of- having a sense of their ‘meaning and it has not happened to me yet! consciousness’ state, like I do in and purpose’ or raison d’etre. Instead, I think what our group Meeting for Worship. So I deepen I love this group. Whenever we is really doing is deepening each and slow my breathing as the group have had to postpone sessions person’s understanding of being becomes centred. Then I begin to (such as when we are busy on a spiritual journey. Hearing ‘free-associate’ on the topic – ie running Quaker Quest or having about others’ spiritual ideas and letting my thoughts and feelings a summer break), I have missed it experiences nurtures our own flow while jotting down everything greatly. Sometimes, of course, our values and beliefs. It seems to that comes into my mind. I believe writing ‘works’ easily but at other consolidate our own experiential this is ‘guided’ by the Spirit – that times one can feel a bit stuck. I, faith – each one’s Quaker, evolving, my ideas, concepts and emotions personally, have to stop myself experiential faith, without creed or are being ‘led’. So often I feel I am writing factually but instead let dogma. ‘discerning’ what I am meant to it come from my heart. We all do Elizabeth Angas

12 the Friend, 27 February 2009 arts A look at Barclay Fox through his journal

Barclay Fox’s Journal 1832-1854 who was anyone in early Victorian the railway network into Cornwall), Original edition edited and England, but the friendships clearly left him with little time for introduced by R L Brett (1979). he formed with the political reflection. However, the previously New edition with a preface economist John Stuart Mill, the unpublished material is not all by Bert Biscoe and additional writers John Sterling and Thomas taken up with domesticity, as material edited by Catherine Carlyle and the future politician it coincides with a particularly Dinn. Cornwall Editions Ltd. and educationalist William Forster interesting period of English £16.99 were genuine and enduring. history. The first two decades of the In 1833 Barclay’s two sisters reign of queen Victoria were a time Robert Barclay Fox, who began (then aged seventeen and fourteen of political unrest with the activities his journal in 1832 at the age respectively) and their father of the Chartists in England and the of fourteen, was a member of established an institution in turbulent ‘Year of Revolutions’ in a prominent Cornish Quaker Falmouth to promote the study Europe; of disastrous harvests and family with business connections and exhibition of the arts and the unfolding tragedy of the Irish linking it to almost every part of sciences. Within two years the potato famine; of concerted efforts the British Isles. Through many polytechnic, as Anna Maria and to set up a European peace league, inter-marriages he was closely Caroline Fox dubbed it, received its swept aside by the outbreak of the related to most of the leading royal charter and thereafter became Crimean war. Barclay describes Quaker families – the Barclays, the known as The Royal Cornwall these events, sometimes as an Lloyds, the Gurneys and the Frys Polytechnic Society. Last year the active participant – accompanying (Elizabeth Fry was his mother’s ‘Poly’, as it became affectionately Quakers to Ireland to offer practical first cousin) are all mentioned known, celebrated the 175th and constructive assistance to the frequently. anniversary of its foundation. relief efforts and appearing as a Two factors contribute to making As part of the celebrations it speaker at the peace conference Barclay Fox’s Journal a uniquely was decided, with the support of held in Manchester in 1853. interesting document. The first is present-day direct descendants The modernism and open- that Falmouth, in or around which of Barclay Fox, to publish a new minded tolerance of Barclay Fox’s most of the Fox family lived, was edition of his Journal, an edited outlook is striking even by today’s in the early nineteenth century selection of which first came out in standards. He faced his own fate the packet station for mail ships 1979 but that has for many years with courage and equanimity, to most parts of the globe and been unobtainable. living his Quakerism as staunchly much frequented by travellers. The revised edition of Barclay in contemplation of his imminent The other is that Barclay Fox’s Fox’s Journal publishes for the early death as in every other aspect father, Robert Were Fox, was an first time the final ten years of of his life. As an employer he was eminent and distinguished scientist his journal entries, which I was philanthropic, as a friend loyal and inventor. The involvement privileged to edit. These were the and non-judgmental and in his of the Fox family in the shipping years following his marriage to Jane opposition to the slave trade, to industry, together with his father’s Backhouse, when his preoccupation capital punishment and most of all reputation, meant that Barclay was with his growing family, together to war, he was more than a century well placed to meet many of the with his increasing involvement ahead of his time. most interesting writers, thinkers in family business concerns (iron Catherine Dinn and intellectuals of the day. At foundries in Cornwall and south times the pages of the Journal read Wales, mines in the Midlands and Catherine was a contributor to the like a ‘Who’s Who’ of everyone the north-east and the extension of book.

the Friend, 27 February 2009 13 Reflection Hearts and Minds opened… personal thoughts on facilitation We sat in a circle and gradually got to know each other better. Photo: ArtToday Katie Venner talks about her experiences

In late 2007 our Meeting at format. We sat in a circle and insights to the rest of the Meeting. Spiceland, on the border between gradually got to know each other Being a Meeting of some twenty Devon and Somerset, embarked better. We shared our hopes and or so regulars (not so small but on ‘Hearts and Minds Prepared’. I fears, our personal stories and our not so large) we were anxious not was asked to co-facilitate, I think journeys to Quakers. We got stuck to become separated from others because I facilitate professionally on words like God, spiritual and not part of the group through – certainly not because I knew the Christianity. Slowly we bonded as a our development and our ideas territory. I had been an attender group – of very diverse individuals for the Meeting. Three of us have for a couple of years and still saw – with a common interest. Led since become members; one of the myself as a newcomer. Members by the materials in the ‘Hearts group is now facilitating a monthly of the Meeting had participated and Minds’ pack – held by the Journeys Group – continuing the in Hearts and Minds previously spaces for reflection and worship personal stories and reflections and – facilitated by an elder who now – we seemed to move deeper into involving others from the Meeting. wanted to participate in this group. understanding and valuing each When I look at the activity that’s The recent growth in numbers in other’s perspectives and knowing taken place in the last few months the Meeting meant we had a full ourselves as a worshipping (spring cleans, hedge planting, group of eight drawn just from community. As a facilitator I open days, shared lunches) I see Spiceland. From the beginning seemed to need to do less and less and feel a commitment to the life I think we all felt this was a rich – the inspired framework of the of the Meeting that I believe has opportunity. course guided us as I began to grown in and through our Hearts As the winter nights were trust the structure and the group and Minds. I imagine we all still drawing in we chose to meet in process. have questions (I know I do), but our homes and a local venue We arrived in 2008, having said as one of our group said: ‘It’s been to save on heating the Meeting goodbye to one of our group a precious gift’. I think we all agree, house. With my co-facilitator we who moved abroad, enriched and in so many ways. prepared who would lead which engaged with our Meeting. One bit of the evening programme of the challenges we faced during – the well organised material the next few weeks was how to Katie is a member of West Somerset worked well with a two-person feed back our experiences and Area Meeting.

14 the Friend, 27 February 2009 Worship On ministry

While in Britain ‘ministry’ and in the end they had to be politely conscious that we had been ‘silence’ in Meeting for Worship are shushed. In another Meeting a participants in something very equally important parts of Quaker youngster stood up and called the special in the life of our Meeting. religious practice, ‘ministry’ is the gathered assembly a ‘herd of pigs’. Why did it happen? Always part with which most visitors or My main awareness, however, a mystery, of course, but some people unfamiliar with Quakerism is that as we are all so different of us wondered if the ending will be most aware as it can be we should not expect to be of the formal Meeting but a heard. ‘Silence’ by its nature comfortable at all times with all continuation of the silence had appears negative even though Friends and all ministry. liberated especially those who Friends talk of the ‘Living Silence’. Keith Minton had found ‘ministering’ an But deciding what is ‘good’ and Newcastle LM overwhelming experience, too ‘bad’ ministry arising from the significant to be attempted. And ‘silence’ of Meeting for Worship could this kind of halfway house, is a question to which there is no somewhere between Meeting definite answer. Ministry which to Last Sunday we welcomed to and not Meeting, be something one person may be positive and Meeting a photographer who to attempt occasionally to helpful may be quite the reverse to wished to take pictures of us at encourage more of the members another. worship. Feeling uncomfortable of Meeting make their insights At Newcastle Local Meeting there about that, we had agreed at and understandings audible? is an ongoing discussion about our Business Meeting that we Certainly this experience what is ‘suitable’ or ‘unsuitable’ would worship as usual, mark suggests that such experiments ministry. Lately there have been the end of Meeting at the usual would be worthwhile. a number of Friends anxious to time with a handshake but then promote ‘silence’ within Meeting resume our positions for as long Keith Reeves for Worship. They feel that the as the photographer needed Skipton LM ‘living’ silence is of great value and to complete his work. As we that in that silence we can feel a settled back onto our benches closer contact with God. Ministry and chairs after shaking hands, In Meeting can arise from the ‘silence’ and will a Friend asked if we could be inspired by God. In presenting still minister in this additional ministry Friends are therefore time and proceeded to add his I shall go ‘moved by the Spirit’. ministry to what had been said Where all questions are Of course our humanity and shortly before the end of the answered. diversity will make such guidance Meeting. And suddenly there Do I know what I should ask? for ministry difficult to put into was a run of ministry, each piece My mind cannot contain so practice. It may be difficult to building on what had gone on much differentiate between someone before, heartfelt and sincere, Nor reach so far. who speaks ‘moved by the Spirit’ and some coming from Friends There are no words sufficient and someone who speaks by habit, and attenders who normally For such knowledge. in order to fill a gap or simply never speak. When, ten minutes because he/she likes to hear the or so later, the photographer But here there is silence. sound of his/her own voice and has announced he had finished his For the present time a captive audience. In one Meeting work and we shook hands again Silence is sufficient. for Worship I attended a person, we were all shaken by the power who remained seated, held forth of the energy that had been Elaine Bruley for a full forty-five minutes until released in that brief period but

the Friend, 27 February 2009 15 a Quaker look at the world [email protected]

And God created great whales* When did you last read the Bible? education section, Andrew Motion it’, he says, ‘but I do think there is According to the poet laureate, who explains why, although not a a real problem with the education says he is an atheist, children aren’t believer himself, he feels that Bible system that has allowed these great being exposed to biblical stories stories are crucial. ‘If people want stories to disappear’. enough for them to appreciate the to go down on their knees and Obviously the laureate is viewing great writers from John Milton to believe it line by line, good luck to the Bible as inspiration to fire up TS Eliot. them. I often wish I could, but as the imagination of pupils in order If schoolchildren aren’t familiar it happens I can’t. But it doesn’t to appreciate literature. Could we with stories in the good book, are destroy my pleasure in reading the approach the Bible in this way, we? The Bible sits centre stage Bible or my sense of its importance instead of constantly debating its in many Meetings on Sunday at all.’ authenticity? After all, Christ’s mornings. How many of us The laureate painted a picture of speciality was telling stories. It actually read it? pupils with no biblical knowledge. worked then, why not now? In talking to The Guardian ‘I don’t particularly blame them for *Genesis 1:21 Conventionally Survival of the spiritual Scientists are still searching for the reason why the human hideous mind needs belief. In which part of the brain is this located? We heard a lot about white Where did it come from? Was it the close-knitting of groups phosphorous (WP) in the recent of our ancestors who needed a myth story to survive? One Gaza conflagration. Was it used? scientist from Michigan thinks this idea doesn’t hold water. A (Yes, admitted an Israeli government belief in life after death, he says, wouldn’t be much use to our spokesman on BBC Radio 4 this week.) ancestors trying to survive long enough to reproduce. Now an international body of doctors In reading a resume of international experiments on these has called for its complete ban in any themes of human development in New Scientist (7 February). armed conflict. WP is used militarily as Eye liked best the one in which pre-school children watched a a smokescreen and has been deployed puppet show. During this, an alligator ate a mouse. Now that down the years from world war two the mouse was inside the alligator, could it still eat or drink, or (Dresden, Hamburg and Cherbourg) be ill? Apparently not, according to these small children. But and latterly in Iran and Iraq. Droplets could the mouse still ‘know’ things? Yes, they said. Awareness of of this hideous stuff can burn skin the spirit seems to start at a very young age. down to the bone and it destroys airways. Now International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) has condemned its use, noting that although it is not regarded Sacred cards? as illegal under the Chemical Weapons Convention as it is considered a Remember the hullabaloo about the atheist bus adverts? ‘conventional’ weapon, it nevertheless London International Christian Church struck back by would come under another protocol printing business cards that stated: ‘There’s definitely a God. banning weapons deemed ‘excessively Now stop worrying and seek him’, with a quote from Jeremiah injurious or indiscriminate’. 29:13 being attributed to God: ‘You will seek me and find me IPPNW is a global federation when you seek me with all your heart’. covering sixty countries and received Eye found this out through an unlikely source. Our a Nobel Peace Prize (1985). Our production editor, Jez, was shown one by the guy he buys his Friend Frank Boulton, who is chair first morning coffee from. ‘My man told me that a chap showed of the UK’s IPPNW affiliate Medact, up who was friendly and they had a chat. But as he served brought this to our notice. Now that the coffee, in return he got given this card, which isn’t what conflicts increasingly involve civilian the vendor was expecting. He thought that it slightly soured populations, there will be more outrage the whole exchange.’ Perhaps the enterprising Christian was at ‘legal’ conventional weapons. confused – the name of the coffee kiosk is Sacred.

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Friends&Meetings Diana Duncan HARRIS QUAKER CAMPERS 2009 Births 20 February. Daughter of the late Correct number for enquiries and Barbara Duncan Harris and G Percy bookings: 01463 224476. Anna ASEERVATHAM Harris of Croydon. Aunt of Beth 19 February. A daughter for Victoria Rowlands, Sue Scrivener and Will QUAKER FAMILY HISTORY and Christopher and granddaughter Harris. Attender at Gloucester SOCIETY. Saturday 18 April. for Jill & Jan Van der Knaap. Meeting. Aged 96. Meeting at Skipton FMH, 10.30- 16.00. No charge. Non-members welcome. Talks on Skipton Meeting, Deaths Changes to meeting two Quaker families, early Friends in Dent. Details from Richard Lucy Olive BROWN 16 February at WIGTON QUAKER MEETING Wilcockson 01752 660460, Conquest Hospital, East Sussex. There will be no Meeting for www.qfhs.co.uk (Contents>Events). Mother of Gill. Member of Bexhill Worship on Sunday 8 March. Meeting. Aged 89. Funeral service at RAF FYLINGDALES MEETING Eastbourne Crematorium 1.30pm FOR WORSHIP Saturday 7 March, Tuesday 3 March. Changes of address 12 noon - 1pm under the care of Pickering and Hull AM. Followed by John CROOKALL-GREENING CLERK OF LEICESTER AREA picnic at Pickering FMH. Contact 27 January, suddenly of a heart QUAKER MEETING Barney Smith 01751 432416 or 01751 472827. attack. Husband of Grace, father of to 1 Ronald Court, Avenue Road, Janet and Christopher, Grandfather Leicester LE2 3ET. Tel. 0116 270 1152. TALKING ADVENTUROUSLY of Lauren and Aidan. Member of 2 workshops: 10am - 4.30pm Bedford Meeting. Aged 81. Saturday 21 March, St Andrews FMH Memorial Meeting Bedford FMH, Diary (£40). 1pm - 4.30pm Sunday 11.15am Saturday 21 March. 22 March, Glasgow FMH (£20). NEW JORDANS CHALLENGES Addressing difficulties within meetings through communication John Charles DICKINSON FOR OUR TIME LECTURE. and honest speaking. Eudora Pascall 25 January, at home. Father of Tom Thursday 19 March, 7.30 for 8pm. and Jessica. Former teacher at & Bonnie Grotjahn. Details: 0207 Laurie Michaelis of the Living 993 5632. [email protected] Friends School, Saffron Walden. Witness Project on Beyond individ- Member of Saffron Walden Meeting. ualism - Quakers, community and Donations: Tom Dickinson THE COLLAPSE OF CAPITALISM climate change. Tickets £10 from - DEMOCRATIC ALTERNATIVES (Memorial Drama Fund), c/o Friends Janet May-Bowles on 01494 876594 School, Saffron Walden CB11 3EB. Quaker Socialist Society, 14.00 or [email protected] Saturday 21 March. London School www.jordans-quakers.org.uk Maggie GOODRICH 17 February. of Economics (St Clement's Mother of Jane and Tim. Member of Building, Houghton Street) Room Dorking Meeting. Aged 99. Funeral QUAKER WOMEN SURVIVORS S314. AGM at 11.00. All welcome. at Surrey & Sussex Crematorium, OF CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE Worth, 1.45.pm Monday 2 March. (QWSCSA). Meeting in Room 10, WESTERN GENERAL MEETING For further details contact Jane Friends House, London. Saturday 7 Closing meeting to lay down WGM Gorman on 01737 241720 or March. 10.30 for 11 until 4. Shared and share memories. Hereford FMH [email protected] lunch. More details 01480 413413. Saturday 21 March, 11 for 11.30. Lunch provided, followed by reading of Dorothy Nimmo's James Notices on this page Nayler poem. Births, marriages, deaths, anniversaries, changes of clerk, new wardens, changes of address, diary items, etc., should preferably be prepaid. Personal entries Meeting up £15.40 incl. vat, Meeting and charity entries £13.40 (zero rated for vat). Max. 35 words. 3 Diary/Meeting up entries £35 (£30.63); 6 entries £60 (£52.14). Add £1.70 to receive a copy of the issue with your notice. FEMALE, 50, seeks male compan- ionship 40+. Part-time lecturer Entries are accepted at the editor’s discretion in a standard house style. A gentle living near Manchester. No car. discipline will be exerted to maintain a simplicity of style and wording which excludes terms of endearment and words of tribute. Please include a daytime Interested in languages, walking, telephone number. Deadline usually Monday am. Cheques payable to The Friend. travel, gardening, theatre, cinema, music, chess. Replies please Box 909, The Friend, 54a Main Street, Cononley, Keighley BD20 8LL. Tel. 01535 630230. Email: [email protected] The Friend, 54a Main Street, Cononley, Keighley BD20 8LL.

the Friend 27 February 2009 17 Ad pages 27 Feb 24/2/09 14:41 Page 4

Classified advertisements CORNISH GRANITE DETACHED 54a Main St, Cononley, Keighley BD20 8LL T&F: 01535 630230 E: [email protected] comfortable accommodation. 4miles St.Ives/Penzance. Two bedrooms. Quiet ISLE OF MULL. Staffa House offers warm woodland garden. 01736 740266. job vacancies welcome. Comfortable B&B. Views of Availability: www.chycor.co.uk/cottages/ Iona and Ben More. Walking, wildlife, ludgvan-flowerbarn/index.htm EXPERIENCED BOOKKEEPER, P/T, beaches, boat trips. Delicious meals, Central London, to take full responsibility local/organic produce where possible. CROMER. First floor apartment over- for accounts, payroll and admin. 2 days/ Vegetarians most welcome. 01681 700677. looking sea. Sleeps 4. Ideal for exploring week. Contact Peter Schweiger, James www.staffahouse.co.uk the North Norfolk coast. Price? What you Taylor & Son, 020 7935 4149. can pay! Call 07867 955336 or email [email protected] SELF-CATERING HOLIDAYS THINKING OF RECRUITING A WARDEN or Resident Friend? Contact Quaker Life ENJOY A RELAXING HOLIDAY on the for friendly, helpful advice. Richard ADORABLE, TRADITIONAL COTTAGE, Llyn Peninsula in a cosy, well-equipped Summers 020 7663 1096. near Penzance. Country views to sea cottage. Near to beaches and countryside. [email protected] and St. Michael’s Mount. Sleeps 2. Sleeps 4. www.nantmynytho.com 01736 741180. Email: [email protected] Nant, Mynytho, Pwllheli LL53 7SG. where to stay BEAUTIFUL, RUGGED PEMBROKESHIRE. Two eco-friendly, recently converted ISLE OF HARRIS (WESTERN ISLES) HOTELS, GUESTHOUSES, B+BS barns on smallholding. Each sleeps 4. Coastal holiday cottage with spectacular Coastal path 2 miles. 01348 891286. views from picture window overlooking EDINBURGH. City centre accommodation [email protected] North Uist, Skye and numerous small at Emmaus House. Tel. 0131 228 1066. www.stonescottages.co.uk islands. Open fire. Unwind and relax. www.emmaushouse-edinburgh.co.uk Cosy for 2, max 8. 01445-781225. Email: [email protected] COTSWOLDS. Spacious, comfortable, [email protected] well appointed barn conversion in LONDON: B&B IN CENTRAL, quiet com- Charlbury. Sleeps 2+. Cot available. Good ORKNEY, WEST MANSE, WESTRAY. fortable family homes. Double £25 pppn. walking. Main line to London, Oxford, Dramatic seas and skys outside: peace, Single £36 pn. Children’s reductions. Worcester. Enquiries 01608 811558. security and friendship inside. Self catering 020 7385 4904. www.thewaytostay.co.uk [email protected] cottage, and rooms. 01857 677482 www.millwestray.com WARM, FRIENDLY NEWCASTLE B&B Jesmond. Quiet, adjacent Metro/city. PLEASE REMEMBER to mention Veggies welcome. 0191 285 4155. The Friend when you reply to an ad. PEMBROKESHIRE, NEAR TENBY. Golden sands, castles, Coast Path. Two comfort- able flats attached to 16th century farm- CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENT ORDER FORM house, each sleeping 5. Peaceful environ- ment. 01834 845868. malcolm.gregson@ DO NOT USE THIS FORM FOR BIRTHS, MARRIAGES & DEATHS, SEE p.17. littlewedlockgallery.co.uk Classified advertisements should be prepaid and a minimum of 12 words long. If you would prefer, please write a letter with the information below. RUGGED SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Loch Torridon. Comfortable house. Log fire. Send to The Friend, Advertisement Dept, 54a Main Street, Cononley Panoramic mountain views. £275 (inclusive). Keighley BD20 8LL Tel/fax 01535 630 230 Email [email protected] Brochure: 07818 082897. Please enter my advertisement in The Friend times, under [email protected] the heading, starting with issue dated SOUTHWEST CORNWALL. Helford River I want it to appear: weekly fortnightly monthly on specified area. Comfortable, characterful, self- catering accommodation. 2 adults. Quiet. dates attached Large garden. 01326 231382. Irequire a box number: Yes No Box number £2 extra per entry. SWARTHMOOR HALL. 1652 Country, I enclose £...... Please make cheques payable to The Friend South Lakeland. Flexible quality self- Please use BLOCK CAPITALS. catering accommodation sleeping maximum 17. B&B for individuals. Retreats, pilgrimages and holidays. Details 01229 583204. [email protected] www.swarthmoorhall.co.uk

WEST CORNWALL. Studio flat, sleeps 2. Near south coast. Walking. Beautiful beaches. Contact 01736 799170. [email protected] Name Address OVERSEAS HOLIDAYS Postcode POLAND. Mountain house for rent. Rates per entry: standard linage 47p/word; semi-display format 72p/word. VAT Amazing views. Sleeps 1-6. Mark 01223 included in rates. Series discount: 5-9 insertions 5%, 10 or more insertions 10%. 423333. www.holidayhomeinpoland.co.uk

18 the Friend 27 February 2009 Ad pages 27 Feb 24/2/09 14:41 Page 5

COTTAGE IN HEART OF UMBRIA. PRIVATE TUTOR, LONDON. English Swimming pool. Sleeps 6+. Convenient study tours literature, history, ESOL, basic maths, Assisi, Perugia (Ryanair), Lake Trasimeno. special needs. Adults and children. From £350pw. Dates April - October, QUAKER BOLIVIA TRIP 13-27 June 2009. Friendly, creative approach. 07837 some August weeks available. Telephone Study Tour and Community Service. Visit 834567. [email protected] 020 8642 5785/01225 723750. projects of qbl.org and bqef.org. Work www.tabucca.co.uk (security code Umbria). with villagers on Quaker funded projects. QUAKER MARRIAGE CERTIFICATES, Meet leaders of civic reform. Hike Inca partnerships, commitments, notices and CYPRUS, EXCELLENT B&B accommoda- ruins, Lake Titicaca. Optional Peru-Machu other calligraphy. Liz Barrow 01223 369776. tion in the foothills of the Troodos Picchu or volunteer service. Reserve early. Mountains. Wonderful walks. 25 euros www.TreasuresoftheAndes.com YOUNG FRIEND OFFERS FREELANCE pppn. Singles welcome. Contact (001) 707 823 6034 (California). Spanish to English translation service [email protected] and English text proof-reading. Political Tel. 00 357 998 64104. and social sciences background. Also events experienced in legal documents and FAUGÉRES, LANGUEDOC. Well equipped, business publications. For rates and unpretentious village house. Ideal for LONDON QUAKERS & THE KINDLERS further information please email walks, wine, historic towns. 310 Euros pw, Six fortnightly Wednesday evenings ‘New [email protected] sleeps 4/6. Terrace. 15 miles north Perspectives on the Quaker Way’ Beziers. Montpellier 1hr, Carcassonne 90 4. 4 March, Alec Davison. 6.30pm for 7- mins, sea 40 mins. Brochure/availability: 9.30pm. Friends House, London. Details THE www.faugeres.co.uk Call Liz 0113 257 020 7226 5448. 6232, email: [email protected] ORDER OF THE LANGUEDOC; our family’s holiday cottage miscellaneous CROSS near River Tarn, Roquefort, Albi; sleeps 5/8. Low rates to Friends. 01653 658203. [email protected] ACCOUNTING SERVICES WE ARE A SPIRITUAL Charity Accounts prepared. FELLOWSHIP and we follow a MALTA FAMILY FLAT, overlooking colour- Independent Examinations carried out. vegetarian/vegan, pacifist and ful harbour. Sleeps 6. £63/adult/week. Personal taxation. compassionate life-style as School children half price. Student rate Contact David Stephens FCCA reflected in the distinctive available. Ann Millar 01467 624483. on 07843 766685 mystical writings of the Order’s [email protected] Email: [email protected] founder, John Todd Ferrier.

SPANISH PYRENEES. Ca La Daina is a ECO ARCHITECTURE, PLANNING and The Cross is an ancient and beautiful, lovingly restored 16th century permaculture design. Sustainable, ecological universal symbol: house. Sleeps up to 15. Exceptional roof designs and consultants. Website: “The Cross is the most sacred terrace, stunning views. Swimming, walk- www.eco-architectureandplanning.com sign in the universe and is a ing and relaxation. www.caladaina.com Telephone: Sophie 01235 529266. symbolic expression of the Bookings: 01865 429285 or 07879 626037. sublimest Mystery of Being”. FRIENDS FELLOWSHIP OF HEALING It not only depicts for us the TUSCANY, CAMPIGLIA MARITTIMA. Restoring the Quaker tradition of healing. balance and uprightness that is Garden apartment, medieval village. www.quaker-healing.org.uk 15 min. Populonia, Etruscan Archaeological vital for spiritual growth and Park. Near coast overlooking Elba. attainment, but also emphasizes 1 hour south Pisa. Sleeps 2-4. MOLLY BOWN LEGACY the need for these qualities to be [email protected] present in our outer lives. For one more year the fund is able to invite applications. Grants are available for The continuity of consciousness for sale & to let helping children in need. through many lives enables A small portion is available for overseas work. spiritual realities to become Closing date for applications 1 May 2009. FRENCH PYRENEES, CORBIERES. clearer to the inner vision, thus Beautiful location, large village house of Conditions and application forms from helping fulfil the spiritual character, enclosed garden. After 15 years The General Secretary of Finance, potential of all souls. quakerly partnership (50/50) we need Friends House, 173 Euston Road new partners. Interested? 01539 625357. London NW1 2BJ. ******* [email protected] For information on the WELCOME THE SPRING in shoes made or Order’s teachings and activities, QUAKER COMMUNITY AT BAMFORD repaired at James Taylor & Son, Bespoke both in the UK and abroad, New community members sought: shoemakers, 4 Paddington Street, (near please visit the Order’s website: families, couples and singles considered. Baker Street), London W1U 5QE. Telephone. 020 7935 4149. www.orderofthecross.org Short term lets may be possible. Please or contact our London write to: Quaker Community, Water www.taylormadeshoes.co.uk Lane, Bamford, Hope Valley, Derbyshire headquarters: S33 0DA or email: isianne.neve@ WRITING YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY? The Order of the Cross (F) yahoo.co.uk for more information. Books typeset for your family’s pleasure. 10 De Vere Gardens Photos and other graphics can be included. LONDON W8 5AE PLEASE REMEMBER to mention Contact Trish on 020 8446 5772. Tel: 020 7937 7012 [email protected] Email: [email protected] The Friend when you reply to an ad. Other printed material also prepared.

the Friend 27 February2009 19 Ad pages 27 Feb 24/2/09 14:41 Page 6 vol ADVERTISEMENT DEPT EDITORIAL 167 54a Main Street 173 Euston Road Cononley, Keighley London NW1 2BJ BD20 8LL T 020 7663 1010 No

T 01535 630 230 F 020 7663 11-82 9 E [email protected] the Friend E [email protected]

Quaker Peace & Social Witness

Geneva Programme Assistants (2 posts) Salary Swiss Fr. 1,360/month plus housing, plus benefits will be provided. The Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO) in Geneva is seeking to appoint two Programme Assistants for the period 1 September 2009 to end July 2010 after a 2 week preparation period in the UK in August 2009. The programme areas in which these internships are offered are Disarmament & Peace, and Human Rights & Refugees. Information on these programmes is available at www.quno.org and Journal Letters of current Programme Assistants are available at www.quaker.org.uk/jl These posts are open to Friends or persons in close sympathy with the Religious Society of Friends. Programme assistants are an integral part of the small team at QUNO. Knowledge of French is preferred and a willingness to assist with general office, catering and domestic duties is Eva Koch essential. Further details and an application pack are available at: Scholarship 2010 www.quaker.org.uk or send an e-mail to: [email protected] Please use the application form which is specific to the QUNO We are now taking programmes, not the standard application form. applications for the Quote ref: QPSW 100. Closing date for applications: 27 March 2009. Human Resources Office, Friends House, Eva Koch Scholarship Euston Road, London, NW1 2BJ. United Kingdom. The Eva Koch Scholarship in 2010 offers full board and an honourarium of £500. It is tenable for 14 weeks and is to be taken in 2010. We are seeking proposals in any area of Quaker Studies. The majority of the research will take place at Woodbrooke where recipients will have access to our well stocked Quaker United Nations library with its major Quaker collection. Successful Summer School applicants will also have opportunities to draw on our 5 – 17 July 2009, Geneva wide range of research experience. No postgraduate For people with an active interest in international affairs. qualification is necessary. Would you like to study the UN at first hand? Closing date for applications 14 September 2009. Do you want to meet people from all over the world? Interested? For an The Summer School aims to provide an introduction to the work of application pack contact: the United Nations. In previous years it has been especially attractive Woodbrooke Quaker to people who have recently completed higher education studies. Study Centre 1046 Bristol Road Application packs available at www.quaker.org.uk or from Birmingham B29 6LJ Helen Bradford (QUNSS), QPSW, Friends House, Euston Road, Telephone 0121 472 5171 London, NW1 2BJ. Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.woodbrooke.org.uk Deadline for applications – 16 March 2009