FALL 2011

PYM Philadelphia Yearly Meeting A Journal of Our Quaker Faith and Practice of the Religious Society of To d a y Friends

News of Annual Sessions Thank You to Our Donors Vital and Growing PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Decision Making at Yearly Meeting Sessions

human condition and we Quakers are is a vision uniquely suited to our faith Arthur M. Larrabee General Secretary not exempt from them. because in Quakerism it is in commu- Some of what made our decision nity that we find one of our most mean- Quaker decision making is not easy. making difficult, however, should not ingful relationships with God. Our Perhaps this was your experience at one be expected and has no place in our decision-making process is an opportu- or more of last July’s annual sessions. It faith and practice. Our process has nity to build community if we will use it was certainly my experience, especially expectations, which we ignore at the that way. during the Saturday peril of our community life. Expecta- The second thing I treasure about our morning session when tions of our process include being will- process is that it requires us to do the we considered whether ing to listen to each other for the truth work of community before a decision is or not to undertake a that others may bring, being teachable, made rather than after. In a majority rule long-range planning being willing to change our minds, process, if there is contention and dis- process. It wasn’t easy staying in relationship, being patient cord, the work of community, of healing for at least two reasons. and trusting in a spiritual presence that wounds and disappointments, of rejoin- First, I think we were will help to guide us into right action. ing, is done after the decision is made. It still dealing with unresolved tensions Sometimes I think we romanticize is my view and experience that doing and emotional content carried over Quaker decision making. We expect it this work before the decision rather than from the months-long budget process to be perfect according to our own after strengthens not only the decision leading up to annual sessions. Second, desires and expectations. And when it’s but also the community. collectively, we did not participate in not the best it could be we talk about So, dear Friends, some of our decision our Quaker decision making process as withdrawing and giving up on it. making at annual sessions was not easy well as we could have. We seemed out I have a different energy and point but for me this is not a sign that we of practice and insensitive to the re- of view. I think our decision-making should look for another process. Rather quirements of a good corporate dis- process is the best there is for commu- it is a sign that we need to take seriously cernment process. nities such as ours. We just need to get the work of getting better at it. Getting Some of what made our decision better at it. The problem is not with our better at a process that suits us well will making difficult is to be expected and process, but it is with our competency. only enhance our vitality and growth. embraced. In my experience, no deci- There are two things I particularly sion-making process involving more treasure about our process. The first is than one person will always be easy our vision. Our process has a vision of and pain free. From time to time we community--the creation, maintenance will deal with issues that are difficult, and enlargement of community. No Arthur is a member of Central Philadelphia seemingly intractable, emotional and other group decision-making process of Monthly Meeting. messy. These experiences are part of the which I’m aware has a similar vision. It

Contents FALL 2011 2 Vital and Growing 12 Grant Making 26 Spiritual Growth and Renewal • Decision Making at Sessions • Restricted Grant Funds • Jesus of Nazareth 3 Sessions News • Pemberton Fund Supports Travel 28 Witnessing Our Faith • My Experience of Workshops at • Meeting House Trusts: Grants • Are You Called to Action? Annual Sessions for Repair and Construction of 29 Making Ourselves Known • Middle School, YF, YAF Mixer Meeting Houses • Arch Street Meeting House • The Work of Annual Sessions 15 Annual Fund A National Historic Landmark • An Answer to Our • An Attitude of Gratitude for our 30 Friendly Advertising Budget Problems Volunteers and Contributors 32 Upcoming Events • Quakerism in the 21st Century 24 Caring for Our Community • Glimpses Into Interest Groups • Students as Rising Leaders 2 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 sessions news My Experience of Workshops at Annual Sessions

thee.” Paulette worked meeting. A young person suggested that from a song-sheet of she could sit through six hours of a chants she had composed meeting for business if people would of quotes from Naylor, pledge a dollar an hour for her to do it! Fox, Penn, Fell, Penning- “Tie the ‘fun’ into fundraiser!” was the ton and others and ex- theme. plained that she had re- Next, in Building an Army of None: ceived inspiration from Military Recruitment in Schools, Jo Ann dreams that led her to Zimmerman, after giving her partici- devise chants from the pants information to read concerning wise, old writings of early common myths about recruitment, led Friends. them in role playing about how to In Structuring and Lead- resist recruiters offering college scholar- ing—a Multi-Age First Day ships. One of the brochures had a School Class, Greta Rech picture of a wheelchair-bound young handed out an innovative man which read, “College Can be supply list for teachers. In Expensive, But it Shouldn’t Cost an thinking of it as “This Arm and a Leg.” Friendly Space,” she sug- In another classroom, Matthew gested teachers ask, “What Grayville led his workshop in an explo- can I do with this space? ration of Vocational Identities. Some How many children will I participants were there because they have in it? How can I had retired or were nearing retirement, apply noise deadening thus, “exploring out of the rear-view materials? How can I mirror.” A younger person confessed I heard singing down the hall at move the furniture for more room she felt a difficulty in separating one’s DeSales University. It was workshop movement?” Greta suggested building self from one’s vocation. time at PYM. But the group was not a loft for storage and using dividers. As each workshop--each microcosm crooning Blowin’ in the Wind. They She also talked about putting up an old of searching, exploring and experiment- were holding out clear tones of “Be still bed sheet to close off materials, shelves ing--showed itself to me without reser- and cool in thy own mind and spirit, or other programs and taping art work vation, I felt blessed to share in the from thy own thoughts and then thou to it to disguise it and make it attrac- many offerings of PYM this year. wilt feel the principle of God.” This was tive. the workshop, Quaker Wisdom through As I moved down the hall, in Fund- Song and Chant. As I let myself into the raising Essentials led by Jennie Sheeks, cool classroom Paulette Meier was participants were urged to appoint a leading chants she had composed from fundraising committee so everything is pearls of Quaker wisdom. This chant not dumped upon the treasurer. “Not was from writings of George Fox. In all Meetings have one,” she said with a antiphonal fashion the audience re- knowing smile, “otherwise it falls on peated the line, then tackled the next. the treasurer to send out a letter to Another chant that participants learned everyone once a year.” One participant was from the wisdom of James Naylor, suggested having fundraising dinners to “Light arises out of Darkness and leads celebrate the older members of the

3 sessions news PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Middle School, Young Friends, Young Adult Friends Mixer

Jon Watts West Philadelphia Worship Group The story is as follows: Saturday after dinner the Middle “In Hell, there is a large, appetizing School Friends, Young Friends and pile of food a distance away from every- Young Adult Friends gathered to par- one. Everyone has a long spoon by ticipate in a mixing program designed which they may reach the food but around the concepts of heaven and hell once their spoon is full of food, they and intended for fun and play. With all are not able to feed themselves of the programs’ ages blended together and so they starve.” we each sat across the table from a “In Heaven, there is a large, appetiz- partner, with two cups of pudding and ing pile of food a distance away from a long stick with a spoon attached to everyone. Everyone has a long spoon by the end in front of us. Our task was to which they may reach the food and feed our partner sitting across the table. they thrive by feeding their neighbor.”

The Work of Annual Sessions

Tricia Coscia Annual Sessions Coordinator

As we entered Annual Sessions on approving the budget. Intermingled For the complete minutes please July 27, the challenge of discernment with this discernment we welcomed visit www.pym.org/annualsessions. about the budget and the future of our visitors and heard from meetings, com- yearly meeting weighed heavily on the mittees and keynote speakers about hearts and minds of session planners, their leadership within the Society of Wednesday attendees and staff. Confronting the Friends and the wider world. We began with intention to prepare reality of our resources meant the yearly Throughout Sessions, monthly meet- our hearts and minds and build rela- meeting faced the loss of staff, changes ings presented Meeting Leadership tionships, guided by spirit for the work to programs and services and the chal- Stories, relating their work and meet- ahead. Friends gathered Wednesday lenge of acceptance and discerning a ings that have experienced a deepening afternoon around lunch and conversa- way forward. Friends were at times and strengthening of the life of meet- tion, responded to queries in a collage divided over our process and the specif- ing. Children joined the adults toward and participated in mindfulness center- ics of the budget. We grieved for the the end of each plenary and we shared ing meditation led by Amy Ward Brim- individual staff members losing their our experiences including our chal- mer. Wednesday evening, Michael Min- jobs and our loss of their wisdom and lenges and joys. We closed each session nig, Director of Outdoor Education for good work. At the same time, as fami- in worship as one community. Westtown School and Irene McHenry, lies do, we cried, laughed, worked, Following is a summary culled from Director of Friends Council on Educa- played, ate and learned together. the minutes of each plenary session. It tion, led us in a multigenerational Much of the work in plenary sessions is challenging to abbreviate the richness welcoming celebration. Michael led centered on understanding the recom- of the conversations, the spirit of wor- movement and music on “Leadership mendations of the Financial Steward- ship and the weight of feeling in the in Action: Realizing and Sharing ship Committee, seeking unity and room during these sessions. Goals.” Irene employed passages from

4 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 sessions news the book Leading From Within (this year’s One Book/One Yearly Meeting selection) to focus on the idea that Nominations, Annual Sessions leadership is relational, like love. Thursday, July 28, 2011 Wednesday’s plenary concluded with Clerk games led by Program and Religious Thomas Swain, Middletown Monthly Meeting, Concord Quarter Life staff that challenged friends in small groups to discern who would Rising Clerk come forward to lead, how we would Jada Jackson, Trenton Monthly Meeting, Burlington Quarter support the leaders and how we trans- fer leadership to others. Alternate Clerks Sallie Jones, Birmingham Monthly Meeting, Concord Quarter Thursday Morning Dana Kester-McCabe, Wicomico River Monthly Meeting, Southern Quarter The Standing Committee reports Steve Olshevski, Radnor Monthly Meeting, Haverford Quarter reviewed the work and process of com- mittees and working groups, addressed Recording Clerks issues the committees have dealt with David Rose, Lehigh Valley Monthly Meeting, Bucks Quarter over the past year and changes they face Jane C. Keller, Pennsdale Monthly Meeting, Upper Susquehanna Quarter with the current financial situation. Jim Herr, Lancaster Monthly Meeting, Caln Quarter TylaAnn Burger (Green Street Monthly John G. Hope, Harrisburg Monthly Meeting, Caln Quarter Meeting), Yearly Meeting Treasurer presented the Treasurer’s Report to Worship and Care Standing Committee support consideration of the FY 2011 Chuck Devers, Salem Monthly Meeting, Burlington Quarter budget, highlighting the income Tom Rie, Gwynedd Monthly Meeting, Abington Quarter declines and increasing costs that make our current fiscal situation Friends Committee on National Legislation unsustainable. Linda Jeffreys, Woodstown Monthly Meeting, Salem Quarter Paula Cell (Germantown Monthly Hollister Knowlton, Chestnut Hill Monthly Meeting, Philadelphia Quarter Meeting), Clerk of Nominating Com- mittee presented the Nominating Com- mittee Report. A new experimental position this year is the Rising Clerk, group work and nonviolent direct meetings and shared their summaries. who will serve for a specified term change starting in January 2012. The They found it easy to find common along with the outgoing clerk. The group will meet monthly for six messages for our yearly meeting, in- Rising Clerk will be in the position for months working on particular direct cluding: We have a tradition that we one year and then will assume the actions – to get better at “loving the will live with and that will help us clerkship for one additional year, after world non-violently.” The goals are to through our challenges. We will never which she can be asked to continue as stay spirit-led, experiment and begin be abandoned by the Holy One. clerk. During this experimental period with love. Jack Mahon, Woodstown Monthly the position will be reviewed and may Diane Randall, Executive Director, Meeting, brought forward the work of be continued if yearly meeting Friends Committee on National Legis- the Financial Stewardship Committee approves. Nominating Committee lation (FCNL) presented “Exercising on our budget. The committee has appointments were presented and Our Citizenship.” Using examples worked hard to stay open to the move- approved. from her work with FCNL she discussed ment of the Spirit. The major changes three key leadership practices: 1) Lis- compared to the initial proposed bud- tening, 2) Trusting and 3) Acting. get from April include: Thursday Evening Viv Hawkins, Central Philadelphia • maintaining the Burlington Confer- Monthly Meeting, and several other Friday Morning ence Center with increased income friends introduced Called to Action (for- Allison Anderson, Central Philadel- from the Center. merly the Witness Formation Program), phia Monthly Meeting, and four others • higher rent for Friends Center office which will focus on transformational reviewed the epistles from other yearly space.

5 sessions news PYM TODAY • FALL 2011

• decreased fee income from Friends staff who have labored beyond the call. Quakers mistrust, Arthur presented an Education Fund. Anguish was expressed for the loss of alternative Quaker model that con- • reduction of PYM Today from four extremely valuable and important staff tained six points which stress a rela- issues to two issues per year. as a result of this reduced funding. tional connection between leader and • personnel changes including: reduc- community: ing youth program staffing from 3.7 In Children’s Sessions, our young FTE to 3.0 FTE, and a total staffing level people made lanterns, performed a 1. Our leaders need to think globally of 32.2 FTEs (full-time equivalents) freedom play, discussed the qualities of about the meeting community - What leadership, made reflection signs, had is God’s big idea for us? Generous contributions plus income water play, got stickers and played with 2. Leaders must share their big pic- from newly released funds helped to balloons--holding them carefully as ture and then release it to the meeting. balance this year’s budget but even this one holds things in one’s heart. Middle Speak and release and allow the Spirit is not sustainable in the long term. School Friends played games, did chalk to work that vision into a community There was a lengthy period of clarifica- drawings, and talked about responsibility. vision. tion and discussion. Later this day and 3. Leaders need to take risks and be the next we would consider future work vulnerable in service to the meeting. Be based on approval of this year’s budget. Friday Evening fearless with ideas but if those ideas are Ingrid Lakey, Central Philadelphia not accepted, release them. The following minutes of action Monthly Meeting, announced that an 4. Be spiritually grounded and be were approved: Earth Quaker Action Team action was open to spiritual guidance. It is critical held during the afternoon at PNC Bank that the community experience the 1. We agreed in 2007 that we would in Allentown. Twenty friends aged 2 to leadership’s spiritual concern for its life. release the income of “yearly meeting 92 years participated in a demonstra- 5. Ideas and visions must be tested designated funds” to the Annual Fund tion about PNC’s involvement with and seasoned with the community. The over a period of five years. The schedule mountain top removal. community’s impact has to be the most of the release of these funds was ap- Thomas Swain, Middletown Month- critical part of the relationship. proved in 2008. In order to balance the ly Meeting, presented the report on 6. Satisfaction must be received from budget for fiscal year ending 2012 we Interim Meeting which met eight times the success of the community. There is now agree to release the remaining since 2010 Annual Sessions to handle no room for self-congratulation. Be funds at this time, ahead of this sched- the regular business of yearly meeting, lifted up by what the community and ule. It should be noted that three funds including budget and property con- leadership have achieved together. removed from the classification of des- cerns, activities of standing committees ignated funds last year are not included and minutes brought forward from Leadership that follows these guide- in this release because they are struc- monthly meetings and quarterly meet- lines will prove trustworthy to Friends, tured funds. There are six funds that ings. A special experience was Junior gaining their respect and acceptance. It remain on the list of designated funds Interim Meeting, occurring at the same is that relationship, ultimately, which scheduled for release whose status as time as the adult sessions. A proposal can move a community to become restricted or unrestricted is being re- will be brought forward in September powerful beyond measure. viewed by the Financial Oversight to decrease the number of Interim Stephen Dotson, of Baltimore Yearly Working Group. When this review is Meeting sessions from eight to five per Meeting and Middle School Friends finished, income from those funds year. Coordinator, presented information on found to be designated will be released Arthur Larrabee, General Secretary the Emerging Leaders Scholarship Pro- to the General Fund in accordance with and a member of Central Philadelphia gram. Developed by the Young Adult this minute. The six funds being re- Monthly Meeting presented a talk on Friends (YAF). The program provides viewed are: the Michener Fund, the “Leadership in the Yearly Meeting.” grants to YAFs to assist their work as Dewes Funds, the Ridgeway Fund, the Acknowledging the theme of these youth coordinators with Middle School Charleston Fund, the Anna T. Jeanes sessions Powerful Beyond Measure - Trust- and Children’s programs. Kamali Bush Fund and the Thomas/Yarmark Fund. ing the Call to Leadership, a critical point of Downingtown Monthly Meeting and 2. We approved the Budget pro- made was that “a community that will Richard George of Frankford Monthly posed by the Financial Stewardship be powerful beyond measure is a com- Meeting each received $500 grants this Committee for fiscal year ending 2012. munity that trusts its leadership.” Not- year to serve as middle school and chil- Meeting expressed great appreciation to ing that conventional models usually dren’s staff. the committee and the yearly meeting promote a “power-over” strategy which Ben Camp, of Norristown Monthly

6 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 sessions news

Meeting and the Children’s Program continued to labor, worship and at evening for continued consideration of Coordinator, helped present the report times wrestle with the query, consider- the creation of a discerning and plan- from Junior Interim Meeting, introduc- ing the relevance of past actions and ning process. ing many younger friends who had discernment and a rightly ordered pro- 2. We as a meeting want to move for- participated in this year’s Junior Interim cess. One friend pointed out that on ward with a discerning and planning Meeting. Two summers ago, a chil- Friday night the children showed us process and will return this evening to dren’s program priority was created “to how to establish priorities and accom- discuss what form it will take. share games and food with homeless plish them and that perhaps we should children,” resulting in work throughout follow their lead. A Minute of Concern was also pre- the year with St. Barnabas Shelter in Toward the end, we learned that the sented by the Children’s Program Philadelphia. While adult Interim children also were engaged in a lengthy (kindergarten through fifth grade): Meeting met, the Junior Interim Meet- discernment process and it was sug- ing shared meals and played with chil- gested that we sing together as we wait- 1. The larger the yearly meeting, the dren at the shelter. Over 250 items of ed for them to finish. The children more friends we will have. We wonder sports equipment and $70 for the shel- entered to the sound of the meeting how we can help them find new jobs. ter were collected from members of singing “Dona Nobis Pacem.” The Children’s Program hopes we can Westtown and other meetings. Younger Friends reported learning think about these needs again next year. how to share, teaching about respect, and finding out where God is. The Saturday Morning children had engaged that morning in a Saturday Evening Saturday morning focused on discus- process to determine their priorities for Jay Marshall, Dean of the Earlham sion of a discernment and planning the coming year. “God’s big idea for us School of Religion, spoke on vitality in process. Friends responded to this resulted in the following priority: Friends’ leadership. He sees a new will- query: “Is the Yearly Meeting ready to “Make the world a better place and ingness among Friends to envision and undertake a discerning and planning share our Quaker faith by treating ALL discuss leadership. He noted different process?” We labored with differing as our brothers and sisters. We will do contexts for Friends’ leadership and the opinions about process and a way for- this by raising money and helping challenges and opportunities before us: ward. For a full sense of this discussion, those who are hungry and homeless.” We are conditioned to listen deeply to see the minutes at: www.pym.org/an- one another, we have a non-anxious nualsessions. The following minutes of action presence, we are given to plain speaking A proposal for long range planning were approved: and we have a willingness to consult was ready to be offered but the meeting and discern before decision making. It was not in unity, so it was held. We 1. The body approves meeting this is a dynamic faith because we believe in

“Friend Speaks My Mind” Release Party: Celebrating A Distinctly Quaker Radio Show

On Saturday afternoon Madeline Schaefer hosted a release party for her radio show, “Friend Speaks My Mind.” The program focuses on issues that are vital to Quakerism today, such as technology, aging, class and history. Madeline spoke with us about her process of recording the programs and exploring her own faith in putting them together. Madeline grew up in Radnor Meeting and she includes in her radio shows a documentary about returning to her home meeting as a Young Adult Friend, a process that can be uncomfortable and revealing. She has been releasing one program each week on www.quakerquaker.org and will be posting more in the coming weeks.

7 sessions news PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 the Inner Light. Good Quaker leader- meeting who have recently died. at Sessions this year--far more than ever ship reclaims that internal power; it is The Clerk recognized friends for before, thanks to the Education Stand- spirit-directed. We need to trust those their service as they leave volunteer ing Committee, which made it possible we invite to lead. With “that of God” in positions with the yearly meeting: Pa- for all children up to middle school age every person we can trust that the other tricia Finley, Susan White, Jack Mahon, attend for free. There were three times will hear us. Suzanne Day, Richard Morse, John as many middle schoolers here this Michael Gagné, Central Philadelphia Ellsworth, Paula Cell and the following year as last. Monthly Meeting, led a listening ses- staff who will no longer be employed: sion to help us move forward in con- Ginny Connolly, Mary Anne Crowley, The following minutes of action tinuation of the morning’s work. He Sadie Forsythe, Wright Horne and Rita were approved: reminded the body that the planning Varley (who has retired after 30 years of process is needed for clarity but we wonderful service as our librarian). 1. We agree that the two-year experi- need to listen from a place of love for Gretchen Castle, Doylestown Month- ment in location of Sessions be extend- one another. He asked us to invite love, ly Meeting, clerk of the Faith and Prac- ed for one more year so that the yearly joy and playfulness into the room. He tice Revision Committee, reported that meeting, with experience of Sessions in asked friends to consider: Which voices they hope to complete the project “in Philadelphia in 2012, can begin the really need to be in the room? What less than 10 years.” The committee is discernment necessary for a longer are the voices we don’t hear? Our hope revising the book by sections which range plan. To provide the time neces- is that we can provide a new model for will be sent to monthly meetings, post- sary for this discernment, Sessions will the Religious Society of Friends. Michael ed on the web, brought to Interim be held in a campus setting in 2013. posed these questions and invited re- Meeting and to Sessions for approval. 2. Among the body, there arose the sponses from the body present: The email address for comments and desire once again to take up the issue of suggestions is: [email protected]. GLBT, queer, and other equality con- 1. What do we want from the plan- Paula Cell, Germantown Monthly cerns in some way. We ask the Sessions ning process? What outcomes do we Meeting and clerk of Sessions Planning Planning Group to keep these concerns want? Group, spoke of the group’s charge in in mind as they decide on a venue for 2. What do we want our planning 2010 to plan sessions for two years as Sessions in 2013 and as we move for- process to produce for us? an experiment with this year at DeSales ward in other ways that may address 3. What type of process will help us University and 2012 Sessions in Phila- this issue. to live into what we have envisioned? delphia. The committee asked for an- 3. We approved allowing the clerk to What will the process look like? other year to clarify plans, with 2013 write a letter about the recent tragedy in Sessions to be held in a campus setting. Norway to friends and others in Nor- Many voices responded to these A question about coming back to De- way Yearly Meeting on our behalf. questions (please see the full minutes Sales University met with concern 4. We approved the outgoing epistle. for details) with a renewed sense of about Catholic Church discrimination We approved appending the Young energy and hope. Responses were re- against GLBT people. It was suggested Adult Friends, Young Friends, Middle corded with care by Viv Hawkins, acting that we remain open and engage in School Friends, Fell Group, Fisher as scribe. dialogue with DeSales leadership about Group and Fox Group epistles to this The body of yearly meeting has the these concerns and that Sessions Plan- outgoing epistle. authority to carry forward this concern. ning Group hold this concern carefully Friends agreed that a planning process in planning. A minute was approved Following expressions of gratitude proposal will be brought to Interim with one Friend standing aside. and worship together we finished ses- Meeting in September or as soon as it is The Clerk’s Minute of Exercise fo- sions with the awareness that our work ready. The process proposal will be cused on some of the new and unusual continues. developed by a group to be named by aspects of these Sessions. Some of the the clerks in consultation with others efforts involved during these Sessions Tricia is a member of Yardley Monthly and will build on previous work. were “difficult beyond measure.” How- Meeting. ever, he expressed his feeling of great joy and love in the work and the people Sunday Morning here with the over-arching reality of our Sunday morning began with a Me- time together being “powerful beyond morial Meeting for Worship naming measure.” friends from throughout the yearly There were 49 children in attendance

8 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 sessions news An Answer to Our Budget Problems of working for peace, justice, spiritual pand revenue significantly. Annual Tom Armstrong nurturance and the representation of Fund contributions are voluntary and Plymouth Monthly Meeting our values in the world community. unrestricted. These are the best dona- Financially, we know that the two main tions because they embody trust by the We left Annual Sessions with a good budget items for religious non-profits donor toward the organization and idea of the financial situation of Phila- are staff expenses and building expens- they do not limit the organization from delphia Yearly Meeting. We have spent es. We are no exception. We also know spending the money on the current more than we have received more than that prospects for more income are priorities of our yearly meeting. Re- once in the past ten years. We are not reduced by a lower expected return on stricted donations are the reason why financially insolvent but we risk getting investments. In addition, quarters and PYM has fifty million dollars in the there quickly. We have few reserves monthly meetings are also challenged bank but can only spend less than a remaining to cover any more deficits. in balancing their own budgets. million of it each year on priorities that The Financial Stewardship Commit- speak to our present condition. tee, which is responsible for yearly What can we do? Unrestricted dollars are the only meeting budgets, presented a proposed How many of us know that by vir- means we have to spend relevantly on budget to Interim Meeting in April tue of our membership in monthly contemporary issues we want to ad- including many ideas about items that meetings we are also members of yearly dress. To give an example, Peace and could have been cut from the budget in meeting? Monthly meetings can help Concerns Standing Committee, a yearly order to avoid the past practices that significantly in this regard by educating meeting committee that supports and got us into this difficulty. A revised new members about yearly, quarterly evaluates working groups within the budget proposal, which was a balanced and monthly meeting unity. In the past scope of activities that promote peace, budget, was presented to Interim Meet- friends recognized this connection and has saved money from other programs ing in June; it was then presented to contributed to all bodies both through to budget for a staff member to lead the yearly meeting in session in July and covenants and through individual do- Eco-Justice Working Group, a group on was passed. However, even this budget nations. The numbers of those Friends the cutting-edge of environmental con- is not sustainable in the longer term are diminishing and as they pass, there cerns. The same committee a few years because it appears that based on future does not appear to be the same level of ago supported financially the start of a income projections, we may need to understanding of the need to support community house of Young Adult further reduce staffing levels. all of our structure. This can be impor- Friends in West Philadelphia, a group There are dangers inherent in sim- tant work for our seasoned Friends who that is brimming with faith, and ideas plistic thinking about these budget know their faith and their organization for providing opportunities for trans- issues. If we simply cut from the budget, well enough to support this connection formation within our faith, for gradu- we lose excellent programs that are in our monthly meetings. ates of Haverford, Earlham and other important for our spiritual commit- The method we provide for friends Friends schools. ment as Friends. We risk losing good to contribute individually to yearly Why is this work difficult financial- staff who consider this the kind of work meeting is our Annual Fund. The An- ly? As a body, we are not adequately that fulfills their religious commitment nual Fund is the one way we can ex- contributing to it. Change this practice, Friends! Enlighten yourself about Year- ly Meeting. Join a standing committee or a working group. Contribute to the Annual Fund. Try donating five or ten dollars each month if you find that a single large gift is a challenge--and guess what, it will turn out to be a large gift anyway! For those who can con- tribute more, consider doing it weekly or monthly. By doing this, we will not have to borrow money to meet payroll. Care about what we do as Friends in our total scope. It is worth it.

9 sessions news PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Quakerism in the 21st Century: Growing into Paradox

Jon Watts West Philadelphia Worship Group

“Faith is the breakthrough into that deep realm of the soul which accepts paradox with humility. —Henri Nouwen On Friday afternoon at Annual Ses- could be (and have been) framed as sions 2011, Tom Gates gave a workshop either/or, contradictory, competing. called Quakerism in the 21st Century: Tom argues that when we approach Growing into Paradox, in which he pro- these concepts as competing, one or the vided a framework that helps to explain other eventually wins the debate and A Yearly Meeting stroll the shortcomings of all branches of we find ourselves drifting towards an modern Quakerism. The beauty of this extremism that is lacking in perspective, in which B and C are paradoxical ideas framework, however, is that it simulta- balance, health, vitality, power, Truth seemingly in tension, while A and D neously provides us with an under- and so many other qualities that Quak- are the extremes toward which we slide standing of the tools through which to erism is highly capable of. if we as a religious community allow confront those shortcomings. The framework, borrowed from Bill either B or C to win out. At the core of the framework is a pair and Frances Taber, is: Here are some examples: of paradoxical ideas or priorities which A B C D

Ranterism Individual Community Authoritarianism

Post- modernism Tolerance Transformation Fundamentalism

Rootlessness Continuing Tradition, Rigidity Revelation Scripture

Social action Witness Prayer Spirituality divorced divorced from God from the world

God as God as Non-theism Immanent Transcendent Supernatural theism

After presenting this framework and except that our group was too busy own. My favorite that we came up with exploring examples we sat down in plugging in other paradoxes to B and C was: small groups to discuss queries . . . and finding the A’s and D’s. Try your

Agnosticism Seeking Knowing Fundamentalism

Tom’s point is that ideally we can when we become attached to and gently and courageously the paradoxes hold these paradoxes in balance. We entrenched on one (“our”) side of a that we have been given in our faith have seen the consequences of not paradox, as well as the slides towards tradition. And it is a valuable practice holding them in balance, such as Ran- extremism when we lose sight of the indeed. terism or the period of rampant author- other end. itarianism in the quietist period. We To be clear, the argument is not for have also seen the splits that occur centralism but for a sense of holding

10 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 sessions news

Glimpses Into Interest GroupsBrenda

Walker Beadenkopf Concord Friends Meeting

On the beautiful campus of DeSales Native American sat in a radio studio Meeting, Resources for Aging Interest University north of Philadelphia the talking knowledgeably about a new Group, he asked people to actively afternoon of July 29, many Friends met Native concern—PCBs poisoning the envision the future. Previously, most for Interest Groups in the cool class- water in New Mexico. After fish drink Quakers made retirement decisions in rooms of Dooling Hall, clustering the water and humans eat the fish, their 50s and 60s, but today more peo- around their knowledgeable leaders to these poisons get to us. ple are making those decisions in their learn more about subjects of interest. In another classroom, Gretchen 70s and 80s. Also, more people are Here is a sampling of the many interest Castle, Doylestown Monthly Meeting, aging in their homes, because it is too A Yearly Meeting stroll groups that were held during Annual and Joan Broadfield, Chester Friends expensive to retire. He urged the use of Sessions. Meeting described ongoing revisions to the web site Quaker Aging Resources at Nancy Gibbs told of the new dis- Faith and Practice, a process stretching www.quakeragingresources.org. tinction of Arch Street Meeting House as a National Historic Landmark, granted just this spring. “Arch Street is the center of our historic outreach,” she declared. “When we took the application to the 12 experts sitting at the table, they looked up, puzzled, and said, ‘We thought you already had this!’” The answer as to why it had not been done before was that many friends resisted having anything to do with the federal government. But many friends had also been won- dering why Arch Street Meeting House was not on Philadelphia city maps. If it were registered as a National His- toric Landmark, tourism of the his- toric site could increase immensely. “In order to make the case that this is a landmark of national importance we made the connection that William Penn gave the land for the meeting- house in 1701. Many of the ideals upon which this country was founded were set down by William Penn 100 years before the Revolution. His Holy out for one-and-one-half years at this George also offered an Elizabeth Experiment is still the American Experi- point. One such revision is on the Gray Vining quote, “The secret of find- ment,” Nancy emphasized. subject of “When Does Meeting Start?” ing joy after sorrow lies . . . in the way “Hey-ya! hey-ya! hey-ya!” Another Gretchen explained, “Theoretically it is we meet sorrow itself . . . accept sorrow glimpse into Interest Groups was a when the first person sits down, but as a friend, if possible. If not, as a com- video of Native Peoples—Leading the sometimes the signal is a closing of panion.” Way to Earth Harmony with drums, doors. Distractions happen when peo- Another group discussed restorative chanting and pow-wow dancing pre- ple keep arriving and greeting one an- justice for sex offenders. “Sex offenders sented by Kate de Reil. Then the setting other near the outside door.” are people, too,” one person espoused. became more modern as a young In George Schaefer’s, Radnor Friends He believes that many current laws are

11 sessions news grant making PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 ineffective, grossly unfair and not applied in a manner that Restricted Grant Funds: makes sense. Some sex of- fenders become homeless Blessings and Challenges because they cannot get jobs. reinterpret restrictions in today’s world They cannot take part in their Carol Walz while remaining true to the original children’s education because Director of Grant Making intent. they cannot go near a school The graph on this page shows what and the tightened laws drive This year, 44 restricted funds and our donors require of us. Nearly two- the behavior underground. three structured funds will provide thirds of the income is restricted to He referred Interest Group $1,445,374 to be distributed as PYM assist friends’ retirement facilities and attenders to a group called grants. Our yearly meeting’s grants aging members in need. 20% is restrict- Community Renewal for Sex witness strengthens Quaker institu- ed to education including tuition aid; Offenders. tions, furthers friends testimonies and 10% to building projects (meetings, The interest group Grants helps friends in need. We are blessed by retirement facilities, and schools). The Witness, led by Carol Walz, the generosity and philanthropic vision rest is restricted to Quaker travel and Mount Holly Monthly Meet- of earlier generations. other very specific donor concerns. ing, explored the history, One of our earliest donors was John Friends today very likely would cre- culture and scope of PYM’s Pemberton, who left about three acres ate different priorities for our grants grant making. This year, for of land to our yearly meeting in 1795 witness. What would we choose to the first time, our yearly meet- for the accommodation of friends’ support? Friends who leave restricted ing’s 14 granting groups will horses while they attended yearly and bequests to PYM are able to support be making grants entirely quarterly meeting sessions or under- their witness and concerns beyond from restricted funds. We have took other religious service. It may their lifetimes in a tangible way. Our 47 of them! “It’s a real chal- have occurred to him that horses might donors’ legacy challenges us to match lenge,” she smiled ruefully, someday be replaced by other forms of the vision and generosity of earlier transportation, and Pemberton trusted “to make grants in today’s generations, knowing that today’s friends to make the most appropriate world when they are restricted causes will someday prevail, yet friends use of his gift in future times. And of to only those purposes stated worship and testimonies will endure, course, friends did! The next article in by individual donors over the and new needs will arise in future cen- this section focus on the Pemberton turies. I encourage Friends to consider past 200 years.” Fund, which now funds transportation the legacy they may leave for the future, Finally, an Interest Group costs of Friends traveling under a spiri- funding today’s causes but also accept- on being proactive about tual concern anywhere in the world. ing that Quaker testimonies will un- growing vital meetings sug- The Pemberton Fund exemplifies some dergo continuing revelation and new gested, “Do first what you can of the challenges in granting money needs will arise in the future. to get people into the build- that was restricted long ago, and the ing!” Increase exposure by creative solutions that can be found to Carol is a member of Mount Holly how your meeting looks and Monthly Meeting. do more activities in the com- munity. Let community groups use your meeting- house for their events and Restricted Funds Percentages indicate portion of principal that is meetings. Make your outdoor restricted for each purpose. signs bigger. One person in the group suggested merely Aging 62% having the letters ‘PYM’ on a sign out on the road is only Education 20.4% useful for those in the “In Building Projects 10% Group.” He thought we should put signs on the main Travel 2.4% roads that boldly advertise Speci c Friends Concerns 5.2% “what’s going on here!”

12 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 grant making Restricted Grant Funds: Pemberton Fund Supports Travel to AVP Blessings and Challenges Nicholas Gutowski Grants Associate

Three years ago more than 150 peo- workshops--they were ple from nearly two dozen countries also leading. John Shu- met in Kakemaga, Kenya to participate ford ran a three-day AVP in the 2008 Alternatives to Violence workshop with local Project (AVP) International Gathering. Kenyan police. Deborah John Shuford and Deborah Bromiley, described the experience. members of Centre Meeting and sup- “Our Kenyan friend and ported by grants from their meeting fellow AVP trainer Sha- and the John Pemberton Fund, flew to mala Joseph arranged for Kenya to attend the event. John to lead a workshop The gathering gave everyone in- with the Kenyan police. volved a chance to share stories, advice Shamala had long been and knowledge so that local programs wishing to break into could be improved. According to a this community and report from the couple, “the conference work with them to prevent further vio- necessary for AVP to be effective. This included sessions on topics such as: lence as was witnessed during the post- was a first step into the police environ- AVP in Prisons, AVP with Youth, Xeno- election time frame. The Kenyan police ment and we hope it will be continued by the Kenyans.” The couples’ work continues locally. For some years they have coordinated the AVP program in the Delaware state prison system. They are engaged with the organization’s international efforts as well, serving respectively as assistant clerk of the 2010 International Coordi- nating Committee and co-clerk of the Information Committee in 2008. The couple plans to attend the next AVP International Gathering to be held in Guatemala this fall.

What is AVP? The Alternatives to Violence Project is an international group which organizes workshops to teach nonviolent conflict resolu- phobia in South Africa, AVP for Heal- were responsible for much of the vio- tion skills with the aim of em- ing, AVP with Ex-combatants, Forgive- lence and killings. John and his team powering people to lead nonvio- ness, Re-entry to Prisoners , AVP in worked with about 15 male and female lent lives. The project began in post-conflict areas and AVP and Non- officers for three days, going through a 1975 with support from the violent Social Change. These work- workshop based on the AVP Basic Religious Society of Friends but shops were both informational and Workshop exercises and teachings. The the program itself is non-denom- experiential. It was very meaningful to police officers were a quiet group as a inational. You can learn more share ways in which AVP is utilized whole but when broken up into small about AVP at: throughout the world.” groups they really did get into sharing www.avpinternational.org. But they were not just attending the feelings and experiences that is

13 grant making PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Meeting House Trusts: Grants for Repair and Construction of Meeting Houses was officially laid down over a Nicholas Gutowski century ago, a small group of Grants Associate Friends still hold weekly meet- ings for worship there. A good roof is one of the key foun- Greenwich Meeting received a dations of a well-kept building--second grant to help replace the roof of only to an actual foundation--and one their lower meetinghouse. The of the most vulnerable: trees can fall, building has been in active use water can leak, beams can rot. Repairs since 1771, when it was built to and replacements can be expensive and accommodate Quakers from even cautious budgeting does not al- Fairton, who crossed the Cohan- ways suffice in the face of an unexpect- sey River to meet with other ed emergency. It should be no surprise Friends every week. Stephen that many grants from the Samuel T. Barndt, of Greenwich Meeting, Old Caln Monthly Meeting Jeanes Fund are for roof-related proj- says the building “hearkens back ects. In 2009, 36% of grants from the to an unbroken lineage of Quak- house to host a small gathering in our er settlement and First Day School. Having completed worship in the this project, the Trustees plan to hold Delaware Valley, an open house and a forum for the facilitated by river community to explain the undertaking transportation and the resulting improvements in and the desire to efficiency and environmental impact, truly meet with thereby modeling friends’ testimony of neighbors and environmental stewardship for our friends after time local community. It is hoped that this apart during the example and ensuing discussion of working week.” sustainable directions will help people Heating is consider similar actions in their own another issue of homes and businesses.” frequent concern. Wilmington Meet- ing and South- ampton Meeting What is the Samuel T. Old Haverford Monthly Meeting both received Jeanes Fund? grants in 2009 for The Samuel T. Jeanes Fund the emergency is a trust that provides income fund were roof-related; in 2010, 66% replacement of their respective heating for the Meeting House Trust were. Two of the three grants made so systems. Old Haverford Meeting re- Funds granting group to aid far in 2011 were as well--to Greenwich ceived a grant in 2008 to replace their monthly meetings with con- Meeting and Old Caln Meetinghouse. decades-old gas furnace with two small- struction of meetinghouses or Old Caln received a grant to help fix er energy-efficient furnaces to save facing unexpected or unusual structural issues with the timber beams money, conserve resources and reduce expenses for repairs. You can underlying their roof. The beams have carbon dioxide emissions. One furnace learn more about the Meeting been in place nearly three hundred serves the worship room and the other House Trust Funds and down- years (the meetinghouse was built serves the library and First Day School load the application form from 1726) and could no longer be guaran- area. The meeting writes that the new the website at: teed to support the combined weight of furnaces “have already resulted in sav- www.pym.org/grants. the roof, chimneys and any accumu- ings on our gas bill because we no lon- lated snowfall. Although the meeting ger have to heat the whole meeting- 14 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Annual Fund

An Attitude of Gratitude for our Volunteers and Contributors

Philadelphia Yearly Meeting is a community of 103 monthly meetings, 13 quarterly meet- Marguerite Williams ings and many thousands of members, attenders, sojourners and other people. We support John Ziegler and strengthen each other in Quaker faith, practice and witness. Our work together is made Plymouth possible by the countless hours of time given by Friends, financial support from monthly Four Anonymous Gifts and quarterly meeting covenant contributions and support of the Annual Fund by individu- William Alberts and Ann Brown als, meetings, working groups and others. Tom Armstrong and Dora Martinez Armstrong Agnes Blackstone Nancy Corson Thank you for your contributions! Elizabeth Foley Ralph and Louise Henninger Over 2,600 individuals supported PYM by contributing to the 2011 Annual Fund for the Charles Hough ongoing work of our yearly meeting. Everyone who contributed is included in the list below. David and Bonnie Miller We are deeply grateful for each and every gift. Thank you! Loretta Miller and Larry Hastings Vincent O’Grady Karen and John Ort Abington Quarter Ruth R. Sutton Gary and Nobuko Lapreziosa Craig and Deborra Pancoe Daphne Taylor Carleton Miller Abington Robert Taylor Reba Ann Mohan Seven Anonymous Gifts Daniel Turner Albert and Marcia Paschkis Richland Two Anonymous Gifts Christopher and Alicia Agoglia Diane Vernon D. Michael and Debra Peasley Susan and Jim Abbott Richard Arras David and Patricia Wermeling Vicki and James Poorman Scott Hufnagle Eugene and Phyllis Ballinger Bob Wirtshafter and David Pye John Knisley and Holly Thomas Bruce and Carol Beaton Angela Sorrentino Carol and William Pye Susan Powell William Berlinghof Daniel and Carol Ritting John Ries John Brady and Linda Haughton Robert and Marie Russell Byberry Kathryn Spare Mary Buckman Hannah P. Snyder Emily Conlon Helen File Lea Stabinski Elsie Cordus Gina and Michael Gilbert Sandra Sudofsky Unami Nancy Cunningham Harry and Lillian Leeser Bunny and Thomas Swartz Four Anonymous Gifts Thomas and Kathryn Dwyer David and Suzanna Nepley Marilyn and Craig Trueblood James and Sandy D’Amato Jay and Margaret Ely Arnold and Caroline Trueblood Philip and Nancy Donnelly Doris Fanelli Gwynedd Richard and Evelyn Willis Elizabeth Goff Harvey and Patricia Fingeroff Two Anonymous Gifts Mary and Frederic Hanisch Irving and Jennifer Hollingshead Loretta and Scott Fox Carl Baron Horsham Daniel and Edythe Garrett Henry Beck and Sandy Snyder Robert and Kathryn Leber Mark and Heather Garrison Jeanetta Bicking One Anonymous Gift Joyce Moore Teresa Glatthorn Beth Binford Evelyn Carpenter Randy and Marietta Quinby Marsha Golden Leonard and Grace Blumberg Kenneth and Judith Foulke Robert and Janice Reiff Martin Heckman William Carr, Jr. Drusilla and Herbert Gullberg Susan Knight and Glenn Lamb Skip Corson, Jr. Penrose and Marian Hallowell Todd and Susan Makler Chris and R. Kimber David Frank Jarrett Upper Dublin Janet McBride Virginia Dawe L. Schemm Ginny Cameron Elizabeth and Keith Mosley Mickey Edgerton Dorothea and Charles Sines Barbara Delaney Janet Pearce John and Karlene Ellsworth Richard and Alice Wetherill Anne and John Spears Ruth and Charles Peterson J. Morris Evans Alice Ridgway Cynthia Evans Norristown Craig Sanpietro Douglas and Deborah Faulkner Two Anonymous Gifts Bucks Quarter Peter Thankand Bonnie S Schorsch Mary Beth and Daniel Garrett Susan Beebe Y o u Bristol Preparative Edith Silvers June and Walter Hallowell Louise and Edmund Crossen Walter and Margaret Farley Walter and Kathleen Singer Rolland and Janet Henderson Clifford Gillam, Jr. Carolyn and Thomas Spencer Kenneth and Eleanor Hiebert Kelly and Mary Green Bruce Stewart and Andra Jurist Ronald and Judith Inskeep William and Annette Procyson Buckingham Meemie M. Sullivan and Dee Kruschwitz Emily Procyson Three Anonymous Gifts Allen F. Steere Jean Kuebler James Verno Robert Fenton

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Joan MacLatchie Lehigh Valley Middletown Laura Kinnel Bethann Morgan Nine Anonymous Gifts One Anonymous Gift Robert and Odie LeFever Grace and Jonathan Scott Sally and Joe Alley Jerry Belew Amy McLellan Karen Beatty Bruce and Deborah DiMicco Ginger Monarch Doylestown Nicholas Butterfield and Rachel Jan French Martin and Lisa Ogletree One Anonymous Gift Osborn Emerson and Jean Green Chip Poston, Jr. Andy Bauer and Diana Morris-Bauer John and Anne Cheezum Claudia and James Haviland Mark and Angela Ratliff Cookie Biggs Martha and William Christine James and Robin Hipple Ann and Norval Reece Stuart Bush and Mel Scott Frances Dreisbach Kate and Adam Hirsch Carol Richardson Ann Ehrich Amy and Jonathon Frey James and Deborah Newbold Ronald Runyan David Eldridge and Lisa Carney Howard Gallup William and Elizabeth Newbold Elizabeth and Jason Rylander Elizabeth Eschallier Robert and Cathy Gumlock Tom and Holly Olson Almira Sharp Wally and Jane Evans Donna Hartmann and Rick Dow Henry Parry, II Ray and Kati Sowiak Elizabeth and Charles Fritsch Mary Hatcher and Ted Morgan John and Kathie Parry Nancy and Jack Starmer Phillip Henderson Stephanie Heller George and Nancy Pickering Norman and Betty Tjossem Richard and Josephine Howe Joyce Hinnefeld Jenna Seuffert James Whitmoyer and Susan Ken and Susan Johnson Barbara Kozero Thomas Styer, III Thompson Richard and Paula Laughlin Mimi Lang Richard Townsend Caroline Wilson Walter and Beverly Lomax Jan and Paul Larson Russ Waters Anthony and Jennifer Wolf Julie McKay Daniel and Rose Laxar Roger Wood Ken Miller J. Gordon and Linda Maule Plumstead Monthly Karen Maurer Peter Schiano and Lisa Wildman Elyse Fox Tom Maxfield Newtown Jill and Dennis Tafoya Christopher and Betsy French Michele McLaughlin Two Anonymous Gifts Jerry Taylor Jr Carol and Alan Gray Christine Murray Carol Ashton-Hergenhan Carmen and John Wilmerding Carol Hey Bonnie O’Donnell Janet Braker and David McCullough Beth Taylor and Robert Happ James and Debra Orben Kenneth and Marjorie Burton Lane Taylor Fallsington Bob and Carmen Riggs Diana Collinelli Marie Tollini Six Anonymous Gifts Cori Rolon Betsy and Daniel Crofts Charles and Ruth Bancroft Robert Root and Anna Marzullo Mary Dart Will and Jackie Bowers David and Kimberly Rose Joseph and Carolyn Evans Quakertown Amy and J. David Brimmer Daryl Fair and Barbara Kibler Rick Schall Two Anonymous Gifts Violet Devlin George Fisk Nan Sell-Parry and John Parry Norma Bowers Dorothy Eaton Kate Fullerton and Eric Armour Faith and Woodrow Shireman Ramona and Gerry Kirwan Euen Gunn David and Mary Lou Gould Grant Stevenson Doug and Robin Meaker Maryly and Sohrab Hossain Donald and Margaret Grubbs Clifford and Lois Sunflower Concetta Stewart Felicia Humer Wanda and Alan Guokas Carol Voorhees Patricia Stover FrankThank Marks Mark and ChiyoY Haber o u Celie and Conrad Walton Dennis Wolf Robert and Stephanie McBride Paul Williams Bill and Linda Heinemann Sam and Marion Snipes Barry and Louise Young Elizabeth Hendricks Susan Snipes-Wells and Thomas Scott and Susan Hoskins Solebury Wells Makefield Marya Hunsicker Lisa and Boris Becker Evelyn Throne Vincent Shaudys Wendy and Steven Kane Malcolm and Elaine Crooks Marjorie Crooks Donald Griffin Robert Holt Christopher and Catherine Kerr Thank you for your time! Marilyn and Paul Lanctot Phoebe Lohmar Over 800 friends support PYM by giving their energy, talent and countless John Mathieu and Karen Love-Mathieu hours of effort as volunteers. Volunteers support yearly meeting youth programs, Kevin Mullen interpret Quakerism to tourists visiting Arch Street Meeting House, care for our Daryl and Rhoda Renschler library and serve on our many committees, working groups and granting groups. George and Frances Rhoads Volunteers are the heart of what is Philadelphia Yearly Meeting. During Fiscal Year Susan Tinsman 2011, volunteers contributed over 30,000 hours to the work of our yearly meeting. Thank you! Southampton If you are interested in volunteering to help with programs please contact Jill William Dockhorn and Carol Wengert Tafoya, Assistant to the General Secretary at [email protected] or call (215) 241- Laura Lynch and Hans Peters 7211. If you are interested in serving on a committee or working group please Anne Merrill contact Paula Cell, Clerk of Nominating Committee at [email protected] or call Samuel Nicholson (215) 208-1709. Maria Peters Mimsey Potts Harry Rothwell Dorothy Schroeder

16 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 annual fund

Wrightstown Frank Arrison Betsy Bayardi Volunteer Profile: Liana Hershey Tom and Pauline Biggs Liana has been volunteering with the Children’s Programs since she was in 6th Nelson Camp and Alice Maxfield Paul Haviland, Jr. grade. For the past 6 years she has played with and cared for our youngest members Alan and Gail Keim during March Sessions, Summer Sessions and at the Jean LaRue monthly Junior Interim Meeting. She has always Lincoln and Julie Merwin loved working with younger children. Liana recalls David Miller Susan Sandberg that “when I was in 6th grade my family was going to Richard and Bette Segel March Sessions and my mother thought that I should Jack Seitner be a part of the Middle School Friends program but I Susan and Bruce Stevenson wanted to help out at the Children’s Program. My mother and the program leader agreed and I have Yardley Two Anonymous Gifts been volunteering with the Children’s Program ever Jeffrey and Ann Bishop since.” Liana and her mother Ventina are members Sid and Carolyn Cadwallader of Mount Holly Monthly Meeting. Patricia Carson Laura and Charles Clappison Patricia and Joseph Coscia Jeffrey Dalgliesh and Biz Cherney Georgene Callahan Caln Quarter Jim and Cynthia Herr Holly and Joel Gardner Libbie Counselman Debra Hewes Susan and Samuel Madeira Ruth Gage Bradford Amanda and Doug Kemp George Phelps Janet Gardner Carol Hanson Charles Lane Cornelia and Marshall Schmidt Morton and Sarah Grossman June Lang Lilian Grosz Patricia Lea Andrew Sites Chambersburg Joseph Sites Judith Johnson Robert and Cynthia Lowing Six Anonymous Gifts Betty Steckman Mary and Desmond Leith George Nofer Rhoda Carnes Howard Thurman Kenneth and Heloise Mailloux Carl and Rachel Perry Robert and Marilyn Christie Cleora Wheatley Arthur and Julia Manuel Debby Spence George and Marae McGhee Sarah and Nicholas Trbovic Raymond Trayer Burlington Quarter Dick Nurse and Ninfa Mueller Chris and Marilyn Sally Oppenheimer Exeter Weinstock-Collins Barnegat Michael and Mary Robertson Kenneth and Jane Cook Patricia and Allen Sherwin Janice and Thomas Roddenbery Winfield and Margaret Keck Reading Daniel and Irene Rodgers Jed and Shirley Smith One Anonymous Gift John and Carol Spears Crosswicks Christine Field Five Anonymous Gifts Robert Stockton Harrisburg Judy Geiser Stephanie Brown Marie Louise Stokes One Anonymous Gift Kathy and Rick Githens Monty and Jack Caldwell Joseph and Marietta Taylor Nancy Alleman Jim and Wendy Hall David Czehut Charles and Letitia Ufford Connie Cardillo Betty Hanf Donald and Lauren Czehut John Vincent and Delia Pitts Rick and Anne Fonda Darlington and Frances Hoopes Maria and Michael John Judith Weiss Mark and Marie Gewiss Jane Hutton Jean Scattergood Susan and Allan White Jessica and John Hayden Curtis and Charmoine Jones Mary Sohler Ann and Mitsuru Yasuhara Rheta Holleran Taylor and Betty Lamborn Kristiana and Brian Stevenson John Hope Roger Lawn and Bonnie Kirchner Maurie and Anne Stevenson Rancocas Sabina Howell and Franz Jim and Nan Morrissey Harry and Jan Williams Susanne Bingham Niedermeyer Jean Pedersen Judy Wright Betsy Gravatt Richard Morse Deborah Pickett and James Russo Dorothea and William Heisler Richard and Patricia Naeye Marie Ryan Mount Holly Frank and Judith Smith Carter Nash Senovio Shish One Anonymous Gift Eugenia Steelman Donald Owen and Eileen Green Zehdreh Allen-Lafayette Bill and Kay Pickering Sadsbury Albert and Dorothy Bacon Trenton Glenn Pickering Tim and Claudia Kirk Chris Darlington One Anonymous Gift Kenneth and Wicky Woerthwein Judith Mullen Ed Dreby and Margaret Mansfield Gordon Brooks Barbara and Charles Spackman Toby ThankRiley, III Jane Brooks Lancaster YMary o Walton u John Steitz Jada Jackson Four Anonymous Gifts John and Carol Walz Sandra Johnson Nancy and Larry Bieber Fred and Sandy Millner Maria Cattell Schuylkill Princeton Joan Ordille Esther Cope Frank and Jean Marie Barch Diane Barlow Maia and Jules Simon Joseph DiGarbo, Jr. Brian Dudonis John and Gloria Borden Joseph Taylor, Jr. Jean and William Eaton Debbie Flad and Brian Weber Cheyanne Boyd and Robert Lasser Barbara and John Vadnais Robert Gast Christopher and Leslie Jones 17 annual fund PYM TODAY • FALL 2011

Mary Moulton Amy Snipes-McKamey Paul and Margaret Linvill Thomas Preston Rigmor Rice Robert and Nancy Thompson William and Lynn Oberfield Pierre Ravacon Robert and Denise Venturi Anthony and Isabel Olmstead Kit Raven and Steve Golub Robert and Janet Kay White Ken Park Kenneth and Anne Rawson Uwchlan Toni and Kenneth Yagoda Mary Raymond Five Anonymous Gifts Eleanore Potter Phyllis Raymond Keaven and Judith Anderson Mayland and Sean Reilly Michael and Genevieve Ritzman Charlene and Earle Bare Media Parker Snowe James and Berenice Saxon Jane and Ronald Beard Two Anonymous Gifts J. Tucker Taylor Willa and Jim Schell Dorothy and Richard Bewley David and Margaret Camp Priscilla Taylor-Williams Gertrude Seybold Jonathan Brezon and Christine Michael Campbell and Susan David Thomas and Debra Will Johanna Sibbett Beard Garrison Jennifer Van Denbergh and Daniel Snyder and Joan Neely Francis Brown Lila Cornell and Richard Baker Dan Curry Will Starr and Lisa Reno Harry and Martha Bryans Nancy DeMis David Williams Mark Taylor and Brenda Perkins John and Denise Ann Bryer Christopher Dietze and Lynne William and Ann Windsor Paul Williams and Virginia Joyce Jeff and Pam Bryer Jones-Dietze Elizabeth Wray Christine Foster Dorothy Flanagan Springfield Howard Frysinger Anne Flick Betty Fallon Erika Gross Garrett and Susan Forsythe Concord Quarter Kim Haas and John Diliberto James Forsythe Swarthmore Birmingham Yvonne Fraley Jean Duff and John Hall Four Anonymous Gifts Two Anonymous Gifts Lola Georg Averyl Hall Rudolf and Elizabeth Amann Nancy Arnosti Dorothy Haviland Sally Harrison Edward and Esther Bogardus Tod and Margaret Baseden Kanon Hewitt Keitha and Douglas Herron Elise and Henry Brigham Martha Boston and Christopher Alfred and Eleanor Hurd Anne Herzog and Hollis Graham Betsy Christopher McKenney Herbert Nichols Emilie McIlvain Christine and William DeGrado Richard Brigham Wayne Peischl Jamie and Cheryl McVickar Susan Edwards Ted Brinton Benjamin Preddy and Marjorie Sherry McVickar Margaret Fraser Amy and Michael Brooks Sickles Preddy Graham and Deborah Miles David and Barbara Grove A. Hays Butler and Judith Charles Randall and Judith Watkins Irene Oleksiw and Alex Miller Terence Hauger Childs-Butler Dorothy Reichardt Peggy Pillard Daniel Hoffman Dorothy Carroll Cecilia Sibinga Helen Read Mary Hoffman Luis and Wendy Castillo Sara Timmons Linda Robertson Adalyn and Edmund Jones Marcia and Charles Cole-Quigley Paul and Rhoda Weisz Matthew and Dina Schmidt Alexandra Kendrick Barbara Des Jardins Ella White Cathy Toner and James Tobin Andrea Knox James and Connie Eash Timothy and Nancy Warner Doris Landers Dale and Susan Frens Providence Florence Lewis Maryetta Glancey ChesterThank Quarter Donna and Robert Allen Michael and AnneY Malone Richard o and Janet u Heckler Allen Bonnell Rae and Harry Johnson Chester Paul and Mary Mangelsdorf Mayland Crosson Lark March David and Sallie Jones Anne Ensor John and Merril Dutton Barbara and James Marshall Cynthia Kipp Beth Lawn Joseph and Lynne Elliott John and Nancy McKinstry Barbara Knickerbocker Jeanette Page Mac Given Clark and Andy Palmer Celia and Christopher Lang Willard Richan Ward Goodenough Mary Lou and Curtis Parker Ted and Irene Moon Niyonu Spann Gray Goodman and Felicia Mather Jean Perkins Emily Myers Robin Harper Jo Pfaff Gwynne Ormsby Darby Margaret Petty Ronald Shrigley Volunteer Profile: Gregory Barnes Lansdowne Greg gives his time to the work of our yearly meeting in many John and Catharine Cary Paula and Richard Cullinan ways. He serves as Recording Clerk of Library Services Working Anne Darlington Group, National Historic Landmark Working Group and Interpre- Joan Feldman tation Outreach Working Group, and is a member of the Peace John and Mary Furth and Concerns Standing Committee. For the past six years, Greg Patricia and Orlando Haddad Helen Hardin has been an interpreter at the Arch Street Meeting House, which Jacqui and Harry Harper inspired his current project to write a “Biography of the Arch Richard Hoffman and Susan Kellog Street Meeting House.” As a volunteer at the library, Greg wraps Margaret Johnston books in an effort to protect and preserve the collection. Greg Donald Kidder Merlin and Jill Muhrer loves to be surrounded by books and says “carrying on a ministry Vivian Rankin of books is very important to me.” Greg and his wife Yoko are Eleanor Scott members of Central Philadelphia Monthly Meeting. Jerry and Linda Sena Paul Sheldon

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Ann Larson Mare McLoughlin A total of 1,456 households contrib- Including these members of Western Ellen Millick uted directly to the 2011 Annual Fund. Quarter, a total of 2,624 individuals Clarence and Helen Parker 1 Virginia Pusey Those households represent 2,174 Friend contriuted to the 2011 Annual Fund. Anne Satterthwaite individuals. Additionally, gave Approximately 72% of adult Robert and Jean Schaefer 450 members of Western $57,000 members did not give financially, Will and Rebecca Scull Quarter made Annual though many gave of their Betsy Swan and Jon Kimmel Kenneth and Liz Tankel Fund contributions 6 Friends gave time and talent. $10,000–$15,000 Richard Thompson through the Thank you! Anna Wright Quarter. 26 Friends gave $2,500–$6,500 Wilmington Four Anonymous Gifts Curtis and Carol Clapham 85 Friends gave $1,000–$2,499 Chenda Davison Stephan and Paulette de la Veaux Jean Dew 372 Friends gave $250–$999 Zac Dutton Cheryl Glasgow Richard and Hermetta Harper 2,134 Friends gave $1–$249 Patricia Haughton David Hollingsworth Mark and Jean Kaufman 6,892 Friends did not give financially Howard and Ethel Parker Charles Paschall, Jr. Leonora Petty and William Williams Jay and Claudia Pownall Barbara Parsons Rich Ailes and Shirley Dodson Margaret Brown David and Susan Scott Linda and Jim Phreaner David and Julie Bates Marc and Marion Dear Bayard Snyder Sonia Ralston Elinor Briggs Jonathan Evans Howard Starkweather, Jr. Greg and Julie Senko Betty and John Corry Earl Fowler Mary Starkweather-White Charles and Terry Spadoni Charles and Jane Mack Kevin and Karen Gallagher Serita Spadoni Jane Mack Isabella Harrison Haddonfield Quarter George and Anna Steele Thomas Swain Bruce Harrison and Lisa Cromley Bill Waddington, III Jane Torrance Thomas and Margaret Haviland Atlantic City Area Douglas and Betsy Wenny Nancy Hoffman Robert and Meed Barnett Harriet Wentz Paula Kline and Alan Wright Jamie Cromartie and Alice Gitchell West Chester Eileen and Richard O’Brien Berdelle Wishart Peg Anderson Peter and Juliet Lane Lark Worth Matthew H. Bradley & Melinda Margaret Locke Ruth Young Wenner Bradley Jan and Alice Long Cropwell Jonathan Burton Rebecca Mays One Anonymous Gift Concord Patrick and Kathleen Davis Anne Randall David and Nancy Barclay One Anonymous Gift Anna Marie Fischer Norman and Cathy Robinson Jan and Bob Durbin Brenda Beadenkopf Stephen and Delia Fitzgerald Janny and Timothy Sterrett Constance Evans and Dean Richert Carol and Francis Bradley Art and Jan Hatchard Frank Tarzanin, Jr. Deborah Saunders Gay Elliott Gillespie Caroline S. Helmuth Virginia Vaughan William Palmer Shirley Hood Susan and Brian Waterhouse Haddonfield Shelagh Wilson and David Dobbins Annette and Hiram Parent Anne Leuiken Six Anonymous Gifts Gretka and Ralph Wolfe Jessica Raymond Deb and Randy Lyons Pamela Anderson Anne Wood Elizabeth Richards William and Ursula Plummer Judith Barnes Deb Wood Marianne Potts Therese and Charles Barringer William Young Goshen Malika Richards and Daniel Indro Susan Borkowski and Mary Anne Two Anonymous Gifts Rod and Ann Waters Gaffney Paul Eisenhauer and Marian Post Ruth Weeks Willistown Lisa Boyell and David Brady Audrey Langhorne Larry Wheeler Two Anonymous Gifts Robert and Connie Brookes Alison Levie and Michael Wajda Margaret and Barclay White Carolyn Anderson Scott Buchheit and Pam Perry LaurieThank Lewis and Charles McElwee Lydia Willits Elisa and JohnY Barbis Nancy o Engle u David and Barbara Linton Martha Yerkes Tim Barnard Kathleen Fastiggi Jean McMinimee Erica Young Brennan and Alisa Barnard Stuart Harris Jacqueline and Edward Moll Lynmar and Claudie Brock Justin Loughry and Leah Morris Sallie Welte and Jack Embick Westtown Pamela Costanzi Wayne Partenheimer Denis and Judith Asselin Nancy Donaldson William and Judith Patterson Middletown John and Aminda Baird Willis and Annie Hidell Priscilla Pharo Four Anonymous Gifts Sarah and Robert Bernhardt Irene and Clay Johnson Ruth and Michael Podolin

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Leonard Rico Robert and Karen Barton Miriam Ward Robert Bishop Lucy Savarese Edwin and Monique Begg Tracey Whitesell Benjamin Blair, Jr. John Sheffield Adele and John Bourne Debra and Dennis Williams Gertrude Brett Maria Shivers John Caughey Hannah Wilson Sylvia Bronner Craig Stock and Cathy Wise Jane and Bob Cleaver Tom and Jackie Zemaitis Benita and Edward Campbell Anna Sutterley John and Susan Coleman Grace and Terry Cooke Patricia and Harley Williams Maurice and Martha Collins Newton Yolanda and Manuel Covarrubias Newbold Cooper, Jr. Francine Cheeks Elizabeth Emlen Medford Thomas Cooper Judith Kruger Edith Gleason Three Anonymous Gifts Walter and Larue Evans Beth Mutch Sandra Green Jim and Mary Frintner Michael Inskeep and Lynne Piersol Mary Bacon and Stephen Edgerton Westfield David Brick Gladys Gray Peter and Michelle Jenney One Anonymous Gift Jacqueline Cleaver Molly Haines Douglas Keith Joan and C. Miller Biddle Harry and Lois Forrest Elizabeth Haines Alan and Anita Kintisch Mary and John Bossen Walter and Joyce Haase Neil and Marian Hartman Benjamin Lloyd and Susan McKey Lynn Conant Richard and Susan Haines Sandy and Susan Heath Richard and Margaret Lytton John and Linda Cope Laird Holby and Alice Andrews Les and Patti Hopton Bill Mumma and Brenda Rose Marjorie Cope Janet Jackson-Gould Catharine Karsten Simkin Indira Cope Irving and Irene Jones Louisa Khanlian Robert and Elizabeth Post Robert Cope Florence Lippincott Cheryl Kozloff John Price Greg and Kandy Lippincott Charles and Elaine Coward Robert Roche Gertrude Marshall Carol Crawford Louis and Betsy Matlack Priscilla Roche Barbara Merle-Smith Robert Heal Anne Matlack and Eric Berndt Judith and Louis Santiago Katherine Reilly Linda and William Kimball John Mills Anne VanArkel Lois Rickett Richard Lippincott Betty Mutch Howard and Anne Wood Margery and George Rubin Beck Ney Ruth Quackenbush Justine and Robert Schmidt Karen Nulton Thomas Reagan and Mary Brown Margaret and David Spallone William Probsting Merion Emma Richter and Konrad Richter Roland Stratton and Mark and Deborah Roderick Rocco and Linda Bianchi Suellen and Matt Riffkin Jean Robbins-Stratton Polly Stevens Robert and Susan Campbell Coles Roberts Cathy and Scott Wilson Eleanor Stevenson Beverly and Donald Fitts Victoria Robertson Barbara Watson Evan and Janet Frazer Warren and Florence Sawyer Moorestown Barbara Zimmerman Alice Hoffman Bill and Marty Smith Ross Mitchell Seven Anonymous Gifts Asa Stackhouse Haverford Quarter Frank Prestileo Jack Allen Janet Thomas Lenette Richardson Brian and Susan Alnutt Carol Todd Haverford William and Sarah Roth NancyThank Asher Laurence and Margaret Van Meter Four AnonymousY Gifts Katy oRuckdeschel u Francis Strawbridge, III Yssabella Watt

Volunteer Profile: Richard George Newtown Square Richard gives the gift of time to our yearly meeting as a Hilary Conroy Doug Humes Friendly Adult Presence at Middle School Friends gatherings. He has served as a member of the Middle School Friends Old Haverford Working Group and was a 2011 participant in Emerging Lead- Walter and Louise Cope ership Scholarship Program. In a reflection after a Mid- Patricia Finley dle School Friends gathering, Richard wrote, “my favorite Franklyn and Nancy Judson Bruce and Sharon Livingston part, and the most touching part of the whole gathering, Bonnie McMeans was a brief second . . . Matt Sanderson asked the ques- Patricia Rettig tion, ‘What can you tell Quakers who don’t come to Ken Snyder and Suzy Rettig Middle School Friends Gatherings?’ The response was Carol Strawson and Stephen Loughin one that made me as proud as ever to be a working part of such an important community: ‘Seriously?’ one Mid- Radnor dle School Friend replied in disbelief, you haven’t lived Nine Anonymous Gifts until you come to a Middle School Friends Gathering!’ Elizabeth and Thomas Balderston We all should be proud of where these kids are taking Ruth Blattenberger this program. With their effort and energy, I have a blast Letty Lee Dahme Jeffrey and Anne Dalke and get spiritually uplifted when I need it as well.” Rich- Patsy Dent ard is a member of Frankford Monthly Meeting. Mary Kaye Edwards and Rob Knowlton Gene and Jolinda Grace

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Germantown Three Anonymous Gifts Volunteer Profile: Melinda Werner Bradley David and Holly Ambler Melinda is a volunteer who nurtures the spiritual lives of our children. She is a Samuel and Jeanne Angell Walton Burwell member of the Committee on Friends Education and serves as clerk for both the Chil- Mary Butler and Peter Baumann dren’s Spiritual Life Committee and the Faith & Play Working Group. For the past Deborah and Charles Cary four years she has been one of the volunteer leaders at the Children’s Program during Howard and Paula Cell Annual Sessions. “The work I do is fulfilling be- Jack and Virginia Childs Lovida Coleman, Jr. cause it connects me to the larger yearly meeting Deborah Cooper community. I have met extraordinary people and Theodore Coxe, Jr. learned a tremendous amount about Quaker pro- Caroline Davidson cess and leadership,” Melinda explained. “Above all David and Betty Jean Elder Marjory Evans, Jr. it is truly spirit-led work.” Melinda is a member of Elizabeth Evans West Chester Monthly Meeting where her family Christopher Evans attends, including her husband Matthew and their Thomas Evans children Ellie, James and William. Abbe Fessenden Thomas Fisher Joanne and Kenneth Ford Deborah Frazer David George and Patricia Gerrity Peggy and Brooks Harris Barbara Benton Robin and Elizabeth Robinson Barry Halkin and Cindy Hodgson Bart and Renata Harrison Betsy Berger Robert Rosenthal and Cindy Palmer Marion Heacock Denise and Christopher Hay Bruce Birchard and Demie Kurz Bill Sanderson and Carolyn McCoy Klaus-Peter and Gertrude Hoehne Alice Kelley Becky Birtha Jennie Sheeks and Jason Bethune Patsy Hunt and Jack Hagele Walter and Jennifer Borders Judith Keogh Bradley Sheeks and Patricia McBee Gay Johnson Mona Cardell and Berta Britz Robert and Elizabeth Krick Nan Thompson Rebecca Johnson-Weisberg Gerald Carlson Fay Lawton Thomas and Louise Tritton Daniel Jones Bonnie Clark Craig Long and Linda Hock-Long Rita Varley Harold Juram Cathryn Coate and Robert Capanna Margaret and Thomas Mayer Dorothy Wilson Richard Juram Rob Cope and Lela Betts Steve and Jennifer Olshevski Rocky and Pamela Wilson Adam Kendon Chuck Esser and Pamela Haines Lindalee Oswald Karen Winner Margaret Kendon Peter Forrest Martha Payne Richard Kimber Grace Gonglewski and Eric Schoefer George Schaefer Chestnut Hill Patricia Macpherson Justine Gudenas Winnie Shaw-Hope One Anonymous Gift Suzanne Marinell Steve Gulick and Glenavie Norton Paul Smith Mickey Abraham Ed Marshall and Joanna Bassert Nicole Hackel June Smith Philip Anthony and Meg Mitchell Anne Maxfield Alan and Judith Harker Isobel Thompson Jude Brandt and Grace Moses Joan McIlvaine Ian and Tess Hemphill Geraldine Tisdall Ginny Christensen Michael Mini and Florence Battis Patricia Prudence Hill Karen Cromley Mary Anne Hunter Mini Zach and Christie Duncan-Tessmer Valley Julia Judson-Rea Ed Nakawatase and Jean Hunt Eileen Flanagan and Tom Volkert Two Anonymous Gifts Anthony and Lee Junker Chris and Helen Nicholson George and Dona Garrettson Georgeann and Mark Blaha Carrie and Kathleen Karhnak-Glasby Donald Palmer and Virginia Tobler John and Mary Hagner Paul Felton, Jr. Arlene Kelly and Helene Pollock Christopher and Kathleen Paulmier Philip and Ann Jones Tom Hoopes and Beth Castiglione Amy Kurkjian Jeffrey Purdy Hollister Knowlton Kert and Jean Kadyk Ingrid Lakey Robert and Patricia Reifsnyder Jon Landau and Signe Wilkinson Anne Moore George Lakey Donald and Marianne Rhoads Irene McHenry Ted Rhoads James Schellenger, III Arthur Larrabee and Nancy van Stanley and Margaret Myers Jonathan and Julia Rhoads Ann and James Schellenger Arkel Charles and Shirley Philips Samuel Rhoads Richard and Alice Walkling Elisabeth Leonard Corey and Jonne Smith Thomas Roby and Rachel Burch John and Debra Waters Alison Lewis John Lohac and Elizabeth Diesroth Dylan Steinberg and Amey Anne Sampson Philadelphia Quarter Phillip Mullen Hutchins Marlena Santoyo Esther Murer Peter and Jean Warrington Ruth and Robert Seeley Central Philadelphia David Nicklin and Amy Kietzman Carla and Bruce White Christopher Segal Four Anonymous Gifts Ron Ozer and Dorinda Dove Sarah Whitman and Abraham Toni Sharp MarjoryThank Abbott Sara Palmer Witonsky YAndrew o Sharpless u Alison Anderson Marcia Paullin Warren and Pat Witte Robert Smith Mary Flounders Arnett Zandra and Alfred Price Francis and Sheila Stokes Charles Ault Jess Purvis Frankford Ramsey Thorp Phyllis Babcock Sandy Rea and Stephanie Judson Kathleen Braker-Woloszczuk and Homer Wilcox, III Greg Barnes and Yoko Koike Barnes Dana Reinhold and Michael Woloszczuk Donna Wilhelm Raymond Bentman and Robert Henderson Mary and David Reed Rachel Wilson Louis Del Sodo Johanna Riordan Paul Riley Gail Woodbury

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Charles Woodson and Deirdre Tim and Myriam Siftar Kathleen Crewes David and Dorothy Way MacLeod Courtney Smith, III David and Suzanne Culver Craig Smith, Jr. Chuck and Anita Devers Southern Quarter Green Street Carol Spawn Edward and Nancy Fogg Camden Dick and Shirley Bansen David Spawn Benjamin and Kitty Ford One Anonymous Gift Richard Betts Tom and Jane Unkefer Mitchell and Dana Gayner Roger Allen Doris Clinkscale David Wilder and Mary Ann Layden Donald Hindle and Sally Birdsall Mary Beatman Robert and Roma Dockhorn Curt and Linda Lefferts Paul and Ginny Bender Suzanne Kalbach Salem Quarter Anna Rohrer Lance Billingsley David La Fontaine and Patrick Egan Alice Waddington Eric and Susan Boving Greenwich Mary Waddington Hewitt and Merna Malone Steve and Kathy Barndt Joanne Freed Sharon Mullally Julia Davies Carol Giesecke Alyson Scott Burton and Jeanne Doremus Seaville Ralph and Ruth Johnson JoAnn Seaver Lisa Garrison Jean Chadwick Polly Jose Charles Walter Stewart John and Catherine Parrish Letty and Thomas Chadwick Eileen and Allan Redden Ethel Trefsger Carol Powers William P. Harris and Lois S. Harris Michael and Allison Richards Allan and Peggy Walters James Wasson Frederick and Margaret Long Linda Simpson Diane Metz Monthly Meeting of Friends Mickleton Blair Seitz Chester River Bob and Shirley Williams of Philadelphia Two Anonymous Gifts Albert and Anne Briggs Three Anonymous Gifts Nancy and David Beauchemin Jack and Pat Matthews Mignon Adams and David Geliebter Emily Blanck and Bill Carrigan Woodstown Kenneth Roberts Mark and Kathryn Amarotico Elizabeth Crispin Four Anonymous Gifts Andrew Anderson and Nancy Colon Robert and Gloria Horvay Mike Ayars, Jr. Third Haven Emily Brown Walter and Kathleen Pierson Patti Burns Gwen Beegle Michael Gilbert Arlene and Robert Storer Sally Crane Kenneth Carroll Audrey Greenhall Minerva Ward Jeffrey and Donna Gibson Lorraine Claggett Christine and John Hoenstine Elizabeth Hasbrouck Sally Claggett John and Penny Hunt Mullica Hill George and Dana Houghton Esther Cooperman Michael E. Kachur Charles Johnson Linda Jeffrey and John Frisone Thomas Corl and Mary Cotton Anne Brockman Kerr Vinton Prince Dorothy Kramme Deborah Cox Jeff Kippax Charles and Judith Suplee David and Priscilla Lamont Catherine Cripps Ruth Kirk John and Margaret Warner Shirley Lock Stephen and Jane Escher Dabney and Mark Moncher Chris and Jack Mahon Doreen Getsinger Pamela Moore Salem George and Beatrice Shenton John and Marsie Hawkinson EmmaThank Paladino Two Anonymous Gifts Loren ThomasYAllan o Mielke u Lisa Santer and Anjan Chatterjee Betty and Frank Crane Charles and Toy Tyson Sumner and Frances Parker Dee Rein and Ronald Finn James and Anne Rouse Adrienne Rudge Volunteer Profile: Jada Jackson John Schreiner and Heidi Wetzel Jean Wheeler Jada is a volunteer who helps to guide the processes and leadership of our yearly Frank and Joyce Zeigler meeting. She is the Rising Clerk and serves on the Advisory Committee, Agenda Com- mittee, Development Services Working Group, General Secretary Oversight and Eval- Wicomico River uation Committee; and is an ex-officio member of the Sessions Planning Group. Jada One Anonymous Gift recalls that her PYM volunteerism “started with a nominating committee call to be Jean Johnson Toby Smith the Interim Meeting Alternate Clerk. Being unfamiliar with the friends and customs of Interim Meeting, Upper Susquehanna saying yes to this service was both an act of trust and faith. Trust that during the nominating committee’s Quarter discernment the committee saw a gift in me I had yet Huntingdon to see in myself--faith that I would be supported by Larry and Virginia Mutti spirit and friends in this new service. We all hold a Lewisburg responsibility to look within ourselves and each oth- Gerald Cooke er for our gifts, to name and support the use of gifts amongst us and to trust the call to service.” Jada is a Millville member of Trenton Monthly Meeting and the Burl- Two Anonymous Gifts ington Meetinghouse Worship Group. James and Carolyn Dalton Mel and Carol Endy Anne Foulke Robert and Constance Miller

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Robert Mosteller Members of Western Thomas and Brenda Macaluso Haverford Monthly Meeting Bruce and Susan Rockwood Quarter meetings who Harold and Patricia Miller London Grove Monthly Meeting Sara and William Moore made additional gifts: Monthly Meeting of Friends of North Branch Mark and Anna Myers Philadelphia Two Anonymous Gifts Greta Rech and Brooke Knierien New Garden Monthly Meeting David and Carolyn Elliott Elaine and George Amoss Martin and Sandra Reber Plumstead Monthly Meeting Barbara Lewis Richard and Carol Bernard Scott and Susan Rhodewalt Reading Monthly Meeting Herbert and Gwen Quick Peter and Suzanne Franck Gordon Roehrs Jonathan E. Rhoads Trust Caroline Romano and Skip Mendler Karen Halstead Robert and Joyce Shaffer Solebury Monthly Meeting Michele Sands Barclay and Diana Hoopes Alice Taylor Upper Susquehanna Quarter Wright and Sandra Horne Elinor Thomforde Westtown Monthly Meeting Dick and Mary Logan Pennsdale Shirley Wood Willistown Monthly Meeting Beverly McCausland James and Barbara Yeatman Two Anonymous Gifts Woodstown Monthly Meeting Anna Marie Medeiros and Western Quarter Mary and Victor Engel Stan Glowiak Jane and William Keller Other 2011 Annual Young Adult Friends Working Donald and Bertha Pratt Group Patricia and Tom Martin June and Carroll Pratt Edwin and Carole Moses Fund Gifts Nancy and Richard Pratt Friends who requested their Sally Rickerman Individuals names not be published are listed as State College Charles and Joann Shoemaker Jennifer Bradley Anonymous. Please help us keep One Anonymous Gift Jim Reamer and Michele Sullivan our records up to date. If you see an Raymond and Christine Ayoub Len & Mary Ann Cadwallader Kendal Ginny and Robert Connolly error or omission in this list, or if Robert and Renee Crauder you prefer to be listed as Anony- Martin Beer Mary Anne Crowley Polly and James Dunn mous in the future, please Marian Bronner Ashley Gosnell Lu Evans contact Jennie Sheeks, Director of Daniel Frysinger Bill and Shirley Dorsey Mary Hammond Terence Hauger Development at [email protected] Laurie and David Jeffreys Peter Frorer or call (215) 241-7115. Mark and Mardy Shaw Marian Fuson Kaye Henley Richard Swails and David Hewitt Thomas Lucas Louise Sandmeyer Mary Hopkins Cliessa Nagle Mary Thom Edwin Jordan Tammy Nguyen Russell and Carol Tuttle Erika Muhlenberg Bob Paige Steve and Pam Wagner William Ravdin Celeste Richardson Contributions Beth Schulkind ThankScott SchumackerYfor o Fiscal u Year London Grove Wellsboro William Taylor Kenneth and Marilyn Benson Robby England Ronald Taylor 2 011 Claire Birney Bryn Hammarstrom and Kevin and Kerry York Total Contributions Lynne Graham James and Karen-Lee Brofee Greg Smith and Molly Williams Mary Jo and Englebert Ciganek $463,516 Leo and Helen Daiuta Organizations Average gift $246 Western Quarter Rick and Barbara Draper Barnegat Monthly Meeting Median gift $100 Philip and Alice Gilbert Colyton Foundation Special Note: Nine monthly Pamela Leland and Renna van Oot D’Olier Foundation meetings within Western Quar- ter contribute to the Annual Fund through the Quarter. Members of Kendal Monthly Meeting and London Grove Monthly Meeting contribute Volunteer Profile: Neil Hartman directly to the Annual Fund. Neil Hartman has been giving his time to PYM as a vol- Members of the following meet- unteer for over twenty years. Neil serves as Treasurer of the ings contributed through International Outreach Granting Group. He is also an es- Western Quarter. sential member of the volunteer interpreters at Arch Street Meeting House, where he visits with tourists from around Centre the world and shares his extensive knowledge of Quaker Fallowfield history. Of his experience as an interpreter Neil says, “I like Hockessin speaking with the people who are interested in Quakerism Kennett and ask good questions. Recently, a couple from San Diego Marlborough were quite interested and wrote down the address of a meeting near where they live. Mill Creek This feels like an accomplishment.” Our local community and the wider world are New Garden truly enriched by the dedicated service of Neil Hartman. Neil and his wife Marian are Newark members of Moorestown Monthly Meeting. West Grove

23 caring for our community PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Students as Rising Leaders ents, parents, and interested Friends. An Wenner Bradley observes that friends Grace Sharples Cooke older Friend sat to the side, drinking in “have wonderful tools in our ‘leader- Friends in Education Coordinator the positive energy of the youth, savor- ship toolbox’ as a faith community.” ing their energy, advice and insight. As a teacher at Westtown School and an It was a perfect Annual Sessions day. Just how do students become lead- active member at West Chester Monthly There were plenty of inducements for ers? When parents send their kindergar- Meeting, she is in a good position to students to be outside in the sun in- ten children to school in September, notice how Quaker convictions and stead of participating in the Committee with quick hugs at the bus stop and practices support emerging leaders in on Friends Education (CoFE) workshop admonishments to “be good,” they both meeting communities and friends on student leadership, but the room must trust that teachers, in their role as schools. Melinda describes these tools was full, and the circle grew as latecom- classroom mentors, will support each as: practicing deep listening; individual child’s social and and corporate discernment; and recog- intellectual nition of the diverse gifts in a group of development. Small people. “They are powerful resources heartaches, great joys, for leaders of any age,” she says, “ones little disappoint- that Quakerism can help to grow . . . ments and new when we make space for young people friendships accumu- to see themselves in different kinds of lated during the first leadership roles.” days of school cer- Students agreed that there were tainly set the stage many qualities that support leaders. for bigger lessons Three panelists spoke about their own that come later. But leadership and service experiences and it is by being allowed lead discussion groups: Tenaja Henson, to step forward and a Middle School Friend and eighth take initiative that a grade student; Dan Hoskins, a Young Princeton Friends School working at Hamilton Day Care child becomes a lead- Friend and high school senior; and er. Simple phrases, Kamali Busch, a Young Adult Friend like: “I have an idea! (YAF) and alumna of the Emerging ers pressed in. Three educators, Laura I know what we should do! I know a Leadership Scholars Program. Small Kinnel, Penny Colgan-Davis, and Me- person I want to help! I have project to group discussions among participants linda Wenner Bradley—all CoFE mem- make our world better, safer, cleaner!” generated a list of qualities necessary bers--welcomed the group and helped contain the building blocks of leader- for leadership within school communi- everyone settle in. Many were teens but ship. ties. These included: creativity, keeping a few were younger students, grandpar- Workshop organizer Melinda everyone safe, a fair amount of flexibil-

Service Projects at Friends Schools • United Friends School “adopted” • A Stratford Friends School stu- and school supply drives and raise a local creek and received a grant to dent, Thomas Hircock, led his school money for significant needs (like a purchase stream monitoring equip- to fundraise, purchase and deliver 40 school van) at the Hope School, a ment. Middle school students ran the bicycles to villages in India so that chil- South American AIDS orphanage. water quality monitoring project, prov- dren there can attend school. • In addition to running voluntary ing how extensively the creek was being • Westtown School’s middle school community service projects seven days polluted by yard run-off. They then leadership group (student clerks) orga- a week, the William Penn Charter protected the creek by getting the bor- nized “Haiti Support Week” to support School’s 7th and 10th grade Quakerism ough to pass new regulations governing earthquake relief work and this year courses have an integrated service com- yard waste. raised more than $1,000 for Japan. ponent. For example, the entire tenth • Friends Central School students • The Quaker School at Horsham’s grade will be working in a Philadelphia do many service projects and commu- students serve as pen pals, run clothing public school this year. nity work days but, most creatively, the

24 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 caring for our community

ideas to emerge and help them help others!” A PowerPoint presentation about friends schools and their student ser- vice projects showed that creativity and student ownership of projects mattered. But the most powerful message to come out of the workshop was that each student could make a big difference simply by choosing to engage. That engagement might be as a mentor to younger children, as a service project leader or even as a project follower— for as students pointed out—one can demonstrate leadership by supporting the good work that’s being organized by others. Workshop participant Griffin Lloyd (a seventh grader and member at Haverford Friends Meeting) had an- other take on leadership that Friends United Friends School conducting a stream study could learn from. He observed that sometimes the best leadership was not ity and patience, a willingness to “do”-- needed to function as places where about “being right.” In fact, he said that to take responsibility--but also a need love, collaboration and plain speaking even though you might feel you were to respect differences. about truths may happen. Effective right about something, you did not Selflessness, the students said, mat- youth leadership definitely involves always have to tell everyone that you tered. So did taking action, listening, remaining open to multiple perspec- were right and they were wrong. By managing hurt and individual/group tives, articulating the sense of the meet- hanging back and keeping your reactions. They also listed key supports ing, asking for help and support, dis- thoughts to yourself you might just for leadership that made a big differ- cerning how to move forward and find- open up to another person’s truth in a ence: mentoring, organization, taking a ing out where your own energy is best way that really supported them. That stand and reflecting back to where the placed. too was leadership. Griffin’s insight sat group is. Key to all of this was main- Penny Colgan-Davis, principal at exceptionally well with the group as taining a sense of humor, knowing Frankford Friends School, says she first they concluded the workshop with a what you can manage and considering suggested a CoFE workshop on student period of worship sharing. the long view. Friends’ meeting com- leadership because she knew “that Reflecting back about the students’ munities, according to students, also schools and meetings have a significant contributions that day, Penny Colgan- role to play in nurturing the skills Davis concludes: “We sell young people young people need to be of service to short and need to have more trust . . . students themselves developed a others as well as nurturing their dispo- [so we] enable them to realize their program to redistribute their unused sition to serve.” Her hope was to “hear dreams of being of service. Their first cafeteria food to area food kitchens. from students what they actually efforts may be messy but they will be • Princeton Friends Schools stu- thought about service and service learn- authentic.” Authenticity, whether felt dents lend a hand at area non-profits ing.” Having seen the afternoon work- through our personal leadership experi- like HomeFront; Mobile Meals of shop unfold, she was struck that ences or our collective community Trenton and Ewing; Mary’s Little “young people most appreciated adults service projects, really does open a Lambs Nursery School; Hamilton who trusted them to serve and provide window to the inner light. Day Care; The Crisis Ministry; the leadership.” Penny said that hearing YWCA; Princeton’s SAVE Shelter for this “was an amazing concept for me. Grace Sharples Cooke is a member of Animals; Enable, Inc.; Snipes Farm, As an educator who tries to create ser- Haverford Friends Meeting. and the George School Children’s vice learning opportunities for stu- Center. dents, I now know I should step back and make room for young people’s

25 Spiritual Growth and renewal PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Jesus of Nazareth sect, the Pharisees, worked with peas- was to seek Tod Baseden ants in matters relating to their faith. the support Birmingham Friends Meeting The Sadducees and Pharisees com- of the ruling prised the main governing body in Jeru- class while If we were to hold a memorial meet- salem, known as the Sanhedrin. The suppressing ing to celebrate the life of Jesus Christ, Romans saw to it that the cost of sup- popular Easter would be a good day on which porting the temple and the Sanhedrin movements to have it. And if we were to have it came out of the taxes levied on the that might today, this might be my spoken ministry. peasants. As a result the Sanhedrin was arise among In my readings, I learned that the very supportive of the Romans. Over the peasants, word “Christ” is derived from the Greek this compliant governing body sat the a movement translation of the Hebrew word “mes- power of Rome, as dictated by the resi- that might occur through the influence siah,” meaning an anointed king or dent Roman Proconsul. Rome’s control of a prophet. Thus, the greater the in- leader destined to lead the Jewish peo- was direct and firm for the province of fluence and following of these proph- ple into a time of peace and plenty. The Judea and its capital Jerusalem, but was ets, the harder was the Roman oppres- word does not imply a deity, although less rigidly enforced in the outer prov- sion, which led the Jews to an even to many Christians it has come to inces such as Galilee, where Rome’s greater pursuit of prophetic teachings mean that. wishes were passed down through the about a liberating messiah. This was Historians have concluded that Jesus local king. The Jewish taxpayers also the only thing that these people could was born in Palestine probably around had to pay for the cost of the unwel- turn to and it was, for them, a hopeless 4 BC. When I read that, I decided to come Roman occupation. The tax bur- “Catch-22” situation! How desperate find out what life might have been like den on the peasants was oppressive. must have been the condition of these for Jesus back then. These days Pales- The Jewish faith was based on the people! This was the society that Jesus tine is rather arid, with a warm, dry covenant between Moses and God in was born into. climate. But in Jesus’ day, it was prob- which the Israelites promised to obey Jesus grew up in Nazareth, a town in ably milder and wetter and supported the Ten Commandments and God, in the northern province of Galilee. There an estimated population of 800,000 to turn, agreed to look after the Israelites is little account of his early years but 1,000,000 Jews. About 90 % of the as his chosen people. This “looking the gospels state that he attended the population was peasants, mostly poor after” was later defined as God sending ministry of John the Baptist and was farmers. The infant mortality rate was them a messiah who would lead them baptized by him. Historical research about 30 % and life expectancy was into an age of peace and plenty. Follow- indicates that Jesus began his own min- about 30 years. The literacy rate has ing this act, God would descend and istry in the last two or three years of his been estimated at three to five percent. establish his rule on Earth and the dead life. His ministry departed significantly Palestine was first occupied by the would rise from their graves and walk from Jewish orthodoxy and gave hope Jews during the late Bronze Age, about again. The implication was that Jews as to his followers where none existed 1,000 B.C., after their exodus from a whole would have to comply with the before. Egypt. Since that time it has been re- Ten Commandments before God The problem historians face in de- peatedly occupied by foreign invaders. would send them their messiah. scribing his ministry is the lack of con- In Jesus’ time the country was under For the peasants, the greater Rome’s temporary written accounts, but this the cruel heel of the Romans who had oppression, the greater was their long- lack of direct written evidence is under- invaded in 63 B.C. ing for the arrival of their messiah to standable; few if any of his supporters What sort of a society was he born liberate them from their suffering. And would have been able to write and into? A Jewish society that first and the greater was their attention to the those who had writing skills were in foremost was governed by the laws of many prophets who wandered through the professional classes, including the its faith, essentially the Ten Command- the land explaining why they had not Pharisees and Sadducees. No Christian- ments. The center for their religion was yet fulfilled their side of their covenant related documents have been found the temple in Jerusalem, administered with God or describing to them the that can be dated to the time of Jesus, by the Sadducees, a priestly aristocratic marvels they would experience upon but many documents have been found sect. The Sadducees included most, if the arrival of God’s rule on earth. that originated within about 100 years not all of the richer and more influen- An important principle practiced by of his death. Unfortunately most of tial Jewish families. Another religious Rome to maintain control of its colony these documents have survived not as

26 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 spiritual growth and renewal historical records but as texts that have At the start, the Jesus Seminar af- early Christian documents and seven of been altered to conform to current firmed that Jesus was a real historical the 13 presented in the New Testament dogmas and to earlier biblical prophe- figure, “as real as Alexander the Great.” are accepted as genuine. It is believed cies, perhaps to help make the new The Jesus Seminar then decided that that they were written over a 10-year Christian churches more appealing to many of the parables were likely to be period from 50 to 60 A.D. The early interested Jewish inquirers. authentic, including the sayings in the epistles, such as First Thessalonians, are Modern historical research skills give Sermon on the Mount. The Seminar compatible with the Didache. But the us a better picture of Jesus. Most knowl- also concluded that Jesus mingled with later epistles, such as the epistle to the edge of Jesus’ ministry comes from the social outcasts and rode in triumph Romans, depart significantly from the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. into Jerusalem, following which he was Didache. They raise the status of Jesus Historians estimate that the earliest arrested, tried and crucified on the to a deity and the Son of God, and state gospel, Mark, was written about 75 instructions of the Roman Proconsul that he died for our sins--today’s core A.D., 45 years after Jesus’ death. Mat- Pontius Pilate. concept for many Christian churches. thew and Luke were written about 90 Jesus was about 34 years old when Paul’s epistles taught that abiding by A.D. and 100 A.D. respectively and are he died. He was clearly a spectacular the Ten Commandments was not suf- apparently largely based on Mark be- speaker and his ministry seems to have ficient to enter the Kingdom of God, cause so many quotations are almost truly addressed the needs of his audi- and that one had to lead a righteous the same. Careful analysis indicates ences. In a short two to three years life as described by Jesus’ teachings and that Matthew and Luke were also based wandering through Galilee he had that this was available to Jews and Gen- on a fourth gospel called “Q”, now lost. already become well known in Jerusa- tiles alike, a philosophy rejected by the Q has been dated to about 60 A.D. and lem, about 70 miles to the south. Why Sanhedrin. may have initially existed as an oral did he enter Jerusalem? He must have I imagine that Jesus’ death must have tradition that originated near the time known that the large crowds he attract- been a disaster for the early Christian of Jesus’ crucifixion, about 30 A.D. Q ed would be a challenge the Romans churches. But documents such as the has been reconstructed and the most could not ignore. His crucifixion would Didache and Paul’s Epistles must have famous quotation in it is “The Lord’s be inevitable. But maybe he believed helped unify and strengthen these Prayer.” John Mark, the reputed author that God would protect him or perhaps churches. And so the small Christian of the gospel Mark, was apparently that this was God’s plan for him. And sect with its scattered churches started literate and founded a Christian church so he was born and died a Jew. In the to flourish despite Rome’s attempt to in Alexandria. It was reported that John end he faced death with great courage, suppress it. Eventually, by 313 AD, Mark served as a secretary to the apostle refusing to abandon his ministry and in Rome capitulated and under Emperor Peter, from whom he recorded much of his steadfastness leaving his fellow Jews Constantine, Christianity became of- the information about Jesus. Mark also a shining ray of hope, as summarized ficially tolerated throughout the Roman joined Paul of Tarsus for part of his by Paul in his epistle to the Romans: Empire. travels. Paul was the author of the epis- individuals can enter the Kingdom of Many Quakers are uncertain about tles in the New Testament and he also God if they have faith in God and live whether our faith is truly Christian. I claimed to have stayed with the apostle their lives righteously. believe that there should be no uncer- Peter for about 15 days in Jerusalem. Jesus’ teachings of what constitutes tainty about this, whether you believe These claims suggest that some of the righteousness have come down to us in Jesus to have been human, as the early apostle Peter’s memories of Jesus were ways that are apparently reliable. In Christian churches apparently did; or recorded in the gospels. addition to portions of the gospels, an as avowed by later Christian churches Starting about 25 years ago, a series interesting document known as the that he was and is a deity and the Son of meetings called “The Jesus Seminar” Didache, dating from the late first cen- of God. If you are guided by the teach- was held at the Westar Institute in Cali- tury A.D. and believed to be genuine, ings of Jesus Christ then you are a fornia to try to determine the reality of was discovered in Turkey about 130 Christian. The echo of Jesus’ voice that Jesus. Initially about 30 academic histo- years ago. This document details the has come down to us from 2000 years rians attended. News soon got out and beliefs and practices of early Christian ago speaks to us still and confirms that in the last session some 200 historians churches and was widely used for about he would have found common cause and theologians were in attendance. two hundred years. It referred to Jesus with our testimonies. The major work of the seminar was to as the “Servant of God,” a title fitting So let us today, with our faith in examine the gospels and other contem- for a prophet or a messiah and it very God, celebrate the life of Jesus and the porary documents to determine which well described what Jesus taught as consequences of his teachings which of the reported acts and statements constituting righteousness. have brought hope and love to millions attributed to Jesus were likely true. The epistles of Paul are important of people throughout the world.

27 witnessing our faith PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 Are You Called to Action? George Lakey called us to nonviolent Emily Higgs direct action for climate justice. Hollis- Lancaster Friends Meeting ter Knowlton urged friends to act out of love for God’s creation. Joe Volk re- If you long to “be the change you minded us that we live in a world that want to see in the world,” join a power- is “Now and Not Yet.” Carl Sigmond ful group of people who are applying called out, “Show me the way!” to participate in Called to Action, a new May 15, 2010, at Burlington Meeting initiative to build power for social ac- House, 80 Friends gathered at the invi- tion in Philadelphia Yearly Meeting tation of the Peace and Concerns and beyond. You may have heard Standing Committee. We looked at our Called to Action referred to as the Wit- yearly meeting’s condition and consid- ness Formation Program in recent ered ways toward right relationship. into the Peaceable Kin-dom: an earth months. Here’s how it came to be, At 2010 Annual Sessions, the Eco- commonwealth community where all what it involves, and how you can be justice Working Group brought forth a beings live in mutually beneficial rela- part of the action. vision: “Led by Spirit, Philadelphia tionship, on an Earth renewed. Yearly Meeting is a powerful force in The Program Goals The Need: co-creating an equitable and sustain- The 21st century may be a watershed able world where human culture holds Curriculum: moment in human history as this era is sacred, actively respects, and supports Called to Action follows a holistic and witness to profound ecological, eco- the full beauty, diversity and resilience experiential curriculum that bridges nomic and social injustices that require of the entire commonwealth of life.” spiritual formation, “macro-analysis,” our attention. As Friends acknowledge At 2011 Annual Sessions, the Called discernment, and social change skills. the urgent need for action in the world, to Action team testified that a moment The six-month program is informed by we can reaffirm the unity of our faith of grace combined with spirit-led peo- and geared toward courageous experi- and practice by engaging the connec- ple power is a divine wish. That mix- ments with witness, truth, “satyagraha” tions between spirit, our individual ture of grace and people power is what (soul force) and “the work that recon- integrity, collective responsibility, and Called to Action seeks to catalyze. nects” (Joanna Macy’s expression for the possibilities for living in right rela- We invite you to discern if you are reintegrating with the web of life). tionship with one another and with all led to be—meaningfully and powerfully Called to Action seeks to support all creation. There is a sense that we are —a part of this great work. participants in living in that life and being called to build spirit-led power power that can make peace and justice for transformative social change—and The Vision: possible. In doing so, we envision four that we are ready to respond to that call. Our vision is of a renewed and revi- primary “take-aways” for our partici- Called to Action has been developed talized yearly meeting, one consisting pants: in light of this need for a “Great Turn- of Friends and meetings living in right 1. To gain experience with transfor- ing” and a Religious Society of Friends relationship with each other, with mational inner and group work, and that is actively engaged in the shift neighbors both locally and globally, nonviolent direct action. toward a peaceful, just and sustainable and with all beings. We envision 2. To step outside their emotional society. Friends supported in being faithful, comfort zones and challenge them- disciplined, deeply grounded and pow- selves to live with increased reverence, The Context: erful through a program of adult reli- courage, mutual accountability, sup- At 2009 Annual Sessions, Peter gious education that includes experien- port, joy and power. Brown asked us, “Is this necessity, that tial training in active nonviolence. We 3. To deepen their understandings we re-imagine the world, perhaps a envision empowered members of our of how to faithfully, effectively and moment of grace?” We who are creat- faith communities designing, partici- strategically work for structural social ing this practical training say “Yes!!!!!” pating in and carrying out effective, change. Participants will hone new Keith Helmuth explained that we are spirit-led campaigns embedded in the skills and learn new tools. As they do well into, not a crisis, but a global movement some call “The Great so, they may find themselves led in new “climacteric”—a change so huge that a Turning.” We envision us all living into directions. fundamental new reality takes place. the beloved community, into shalom, 4. To build a learning community, 28 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 making ourselves known Arch Street Meeting House deepening their relationships with A National Historic Landmark other program participants, mentors and others (Quakers and non-Quak- ers) working for structural change. Jane M. Unkefer Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia Called to Action is structured around six one-day sessions in which On Thursday November 4, 2010, Towne” was over 100 years old. At the participants meet as a community. several Philadelphia Friends sloshed heart of the colony, Philadelphia Quak- These full-day gatherings will be held through heavy rain to arrive at the of- ers had played a key role in bringing at Friends Center in Philadelphia on fices of the National Trust for Historic their beliefs of simplicity, equality, January 21, February 18, March 17, Preservation in Washington, D.C., religious freedom and social justice to April 21, May 19 and June 16 (9am where the nomination of the Arch America. Philadelphia had become the – 7pm each day). Lunch and dinner Street Friends Meeting House for na- country’s most important city and will be provided at each session. Overnight hospitality and childcare will be arranged on an as-needed basis. An online component will assist learning, team formation and taking action. While there is a par- ticipant fee associated with Called to Action, accessibility is our priority and scholarship funds are available. Participants will also be divided into smaller groups based on geogra- phy. These small groups will be ex- pected to meet between the full-day Called to Action sessions. Each small group will engage the take-home course work and work together on a direct action campaign for the practi- cum component of the curriculum. Get Involved: Applications are now being ac- tional landmark status was to be con- Quaker men and women were running cepted for the upcoming offering of sidered by the National Park System many charitable and civic organiza- Called to Action. While individuals Advisory Board Landmarks Committee. tions. Friends needed a place that could are welcome to apply on their own, Included in the group were Arthur Lar- accommodate the full meeting in a we encourage all applicants to apply rabee, General Secretary; Nancy Gibbs, single structure where both men’s and with another person from their meet- Director of the Arch Street Meeting women’s business meetings could be ing or community to ensure that House and National Historic Landmark held at the same time and where there each participant has at least one Working Group members Tom Unkefer, was office space and meeting places for other person geographically acces- Greg Barnes, Carol Spawn, Jane Unke- its social outreach committees. Biddle’s sible for the action group practicum fer and Jay Worrall. The rain could not simple but elegant building design component. For more information, dampen the spirits of this hardy group provided what was needed and reflect- please visit www.pym.org/called- assembled to witness what they hoped ed the spiritual and ethical history of action. Additional questions may be was to be the culmination of years of Quakers then as it does today. The directed to Michael Gagné at hard work. meetinghouse has been in continuous [email protected] or 215-241-7216. When influential master-builder use since 1805, serving as home for the Owen Biddle built the Arch Street Meet- Monthly Meeting of Friends of Phila- ing House at the turn of the 19th cen- delphia (MMFP) and meeting place for tury, William Penn’s “Greene Countrie Annual Sessions, committees and many 29 Making Ourselves Known PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 outside service groups. Experience has shown that In the early 2000s Friends from foundations, corporations and Friendly Advertising MMFP and PYM became seriously inter- individuals give more generously ested in outreach. Recognizing that to National Historic Landmarks. Quakers have a message worth sharing, On June 30, 2011 we received Quaker organizations and individuals they sought ways to increase meeting- the happy news that the Secretary pay to advertise in this section. See house visitation. New exhibits were of the Interior had officially desig- policy on next page. designed and mounted, docents were nated the Arch Street Meeting

Barclay Friends Continuing Care Community with Short- Stay Rehabilitation—A Kendal Affiliate® Gardens surround Barclay Friends bringing nature closer to those who live here or come for rehabilitation. Horticultural Therapy enables residents to get their hands in the soil and add purpose to life by arranging flowers for the community. Our program for those with dementia is designed to be respectful of their dignity and individuality; segregation is unnecessary. Couples with differing needs can share an apartment in Woolman-Residential Living and Personal Care. Barclay Friends, where we Cultivate the Arts and Gardens, has been respected for its mission to the West Chester community since 1893. Please visit www.barclayfriends.org or call (610) 696-5211.

Cadbury at Cherry Hill Cadbury is a beautiful lakeside community in scenic Cherry Hill, NJ. Licensed as a trained and the Arch Street Property House as a National Historic Continuing Care Retirement Community and Use Working Group recommended Landmark, cited for its significant (CCRC), Cadbury offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Sub-acute seeking landmark status as a means of contribution to American history Rehabilitation. Amenities include waterfront increasing its visibility. As a national and its architectural merit. dining, indoor pool, fitness center, library, landmark the meetinghouse would be A celebration of the meeting- auditorium, art studio and computer lab. With on Park Service maps and listed in bro- house’s new status and an unveil- over 30 years of experience, based in Quaker chures so that individuals and groups ing of the bronze citation plaque tradition, Cadbury respects the dignity of each would be more likely to stop by. The will probably will be held in the individual while nurturing independence and meetinghouse would be in the com- late fall as soon as the plaque is encouraging the highest possible quality of pany of other National Historic Land- made and installed prominently life. marks in Philadelphia’s historic district, on the meetinghouse. Direct entry is available to all levels of including Independence Hall, Carpen- care. Various contract options are available ters’ Hall and Christ Church, which is including lifecare. For more information call 1 (800) 422-3287 or www.Cadbury.org. where it deserves to be. In addition, landmark status would help Friends find the necessary funds to maintain, Chandler Hall operate and improve the building. Located in Historic Newtown, Bucks County, offers a Wide Array of Services. The Friends Nursing Home opened its doors in 1973. The well known Hospice Program

30 PYM TODAY • FALL 2011 friendly advertising began in 1982 and includes ‘Hospice medical care and pharmacy. Explore how For more information, call toll free at (888) at Home’ Programs and the residential retirement to Foxdale can be your opportunity 455-2438 or visit our website at Pavilion. Other offerings include: Residential for personal growth. www.friendsvillage.org. Apartments, Personal Care Residences For more information call 1 (800) 253- and Nursing Home Accommodations. 4951. www.foxdalevillage.org. Community Programs include: Home Health, Kendal~Crosslands Communities Adult Day Programs, Child Development Located in beautiful southern Chester and the Wellness Center. For Program Friends Home in Kennett County, Kendal at Longwood and Crosslands Information, please call (215) 497-0905. (610) 444-2577 are continuing care retirement communities www.chandlerhall.org Services Offered: Independent Apartments, offering a lifecare contract. Coniston and Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing Care, Short- Cartmel are residential communities providing term Respite stays and Hospice Care maintenance and housekeeping services. Foulkeways Philosophy: Since 1898 Friends Home Residents of all four communities have access Located on 110 beautiful, suburban has provided older adults quality care. The to libraries, cultural and academic programs, acres in Montgomery County, Foulkeways Home has a strong tradition of encouraging craft areas, gardens, and wellness and at Gwynedd was one of the first Continuing independence and respect for the individuality recreation facilities. In keeping with Kendal’s Care Retirement Community (CCRC) and and dignity of each person. Life among commitment to inclusiveness, smaller cottages the first Quaker CCRC in the country when friends offers residents a full array of services and apartments are offered at more affordable the campus opened in 1967. Over the and amenities including: rates. For more information call 1 (800) 216- years, “Setting Standards of Excellence in * Individualized 24-hour Assisted Living 1920, or www.kcc.kendal.org. Retirement Living” has become synonymous Care with the Foulkeways name as it continues * Newly renovated apartments Medford Leas—A Quaker-related to lead the industry with innovative health * Full Activities Programs community for those age 55+. care, environmental greening initiates and * Fully Licensed 20-bed nursing home Visit us and learn all about our: volunteerism efforts. * Moderately priced • Two beautiful campuses in Medford and In November of 2010, Foulkeways was Because it’s not just where you live… Lumberton, NJ recognized as the recipient of the ‘Pathways but how you live. • Over 200+ acres of arboretum settings To Greatness 2010 Award for Exemplary • Wide choice of garden-style home & Aging Services,’ co-sponsored by the apartment designs American Association of Homes and Services Friends Home and Village-Newtown • Dynamic, resident-driven community life for the Aging (AAHSA) and LarsonAllen LLP, Independent and Personal Care Living • Ideal locations for culture & recreation CPA’s, consultants and advisors serving aging Small by design and remarkably priced, our • Superior health & wellness services service providers. This prestigious award was two separate retirement communities are For details on our community and our designed to recognize and identify the traits guided by Quaker principles of simplicity, many programs open to the public — call us of high-performing senior living providers inclusion, equality and respect. The at (800) 331-4302 or visit our website, across the country and the selection criteria unique settings offer several types of living www.medfordleas.org included Customer Excellence, Best Practices accommodations including one- and two- Home of the Barton Arboretum & Nature and Innovation, Distinctive Impact and bedroom cottages in and around Newtown Preserve. Member: American Public Gardens Leadership. Borough, Bucks County. Pets are welcome! Association, Greater Philadelphia Gardens, For more information call “Entrance fees waived for November and and Garden State Gardens. (215) 283-7010 or visit our website at December 2011 move-ins!” www.foulkeways.org. For more information visit our website at www.friendshomeandvillage.org or call us at (215) 968-3346. Foxdale Village Retirement Policy for Friendly Advertising Community These notices are the responsibility Come visit our Quaker-directed, of the person placing them. PYM continuing care retirement community in Friends Village at Woodstown is a makes no claim about their accuracy. State College, nestled in the heart of Happy Continuing Care Retirement Community Valley, amid central Pennsylvania’s beautiful for those age 62+ in beautiful southern Notices by Friends institutions, mem- mountains and valleys. Foxdale encourages New Jersey. Choose a cozy cottage or bers and attenders should be mailed and supports older adults as they seek to an apartment. No need to worry about with a check for $2 per word (mini- live full and graceful lives in harmony with maintenance, housekeeping or cooking. Enjoy mum $40, maximum 100 words) to Quaker principles of equality, simplicity, more time to engage in favorite activities with “PYM Today,” 1515 Cherry St, Philadel- the peace of mind that future continuing care and compassion. Residents have access to phia PA 19102. Questions? Contact us services are available on campus. Friends Penn State’s many educational, cultural, and at (215) 241-7211. Suitability of content Village at Woodstown is close to major sporting events. is determined by PYM staff. State College Meeting is vibrant and highways and bridges, providing easy access welcoming. Reasonable fees include lifetime to Philadelphia, New York and the Jersey Shore.

31 PYM This publication was made possible by the financial support of friends, Today meetings, individuals and organizations. Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends 1515 Cherry Street Philadelphia PA 19102-1479

PYM Today is published twice yearly Preview of Upcoming Events by Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends 1515 Cherry Street (Please see www.pym.org for complete details of events.) Philadelphia, PA 19102 Phone (215) 241-7211 December 2-4, 2011: Middle School Friends Gathering: Fax (215) 241-7045 Hibernation and HolyDays. Birmingham Website www.pym.org Monthly Meeting, PA. Thomas Swain, Clerk PYM Today is Arthur M. Larrabee, distributed free December 27-30, 2011: Young Friends Christmas Gathering. General Secretary to members. Burlington Conference Center, NJ.

January 6-8, 2012: Young Adult Friends Winter Retreat. (Check the PYM website for details).

January 14, 2012: Interim Meeting & Junior Interim Meeting. Arch Street Meeting House.

January 20-22, 2012: Middle School Friends Gathering: The Longest Night, The Inner Light. Burlington Conference Center, NJ.

February 5, 2012: Youth Worker Training Day. (Check the PYM website for details).

February 11, 2012: Interim Meeting & Junior Interim Meeting. Arch Street Meeting House.

February 25, 2012: We Can Do It Day. Friends Center, 1515 Cherry St., Philadelphia, PA.

March 3, 2012: Quaker College Fair. Arch Street Meeting House.

March 16-18, 2012: Middle School Friends Gathering. (Check the PYM website for details).

March 30-April 1, 2012: Young Friends Urban Life Skills Adventure Gathering. Arch Street Meeting House.

March 31, 2012: William Penn Lecture. Arch Street Meeting House.