Why Friends Are Friends: Some Quaker Core Convictions

by Jack L. Willcuts

What is worship? What do Friends/Quakers believe about baptism and communion? How does the Quaker business meeting work? Those acquainted with Friends, and some Friends themselves, find some of the doctrinal differences of Quakers troubling and confusing. Why Friends Are Friends is an attempt to examine the Quaker past and connect it with the present and the challenges of the future. "These connections," writes Willcuts, "become again our own convictions as we return to the revealed Word and the leadings of the Spirit. This is why Friends are Friends." Topics include worship, the sacraments, the Friends concept of ministry, peacemaking, the Friends business meeting, and living a powerful Christian life.

98 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1984

Reviews

[Mackenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a good (and short!) overview of basic Quaker Christian beliefs. There are chapters on worship, spiritual sacraments, ministry, peace, how Quakers’ unusual way of doing business is Biblical, and working in Christ’s power.

I’d recommend it for people new to Quakers. Even if you’re not, you might still find some new insights. I did.

[Sheila Myers · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an informative, although short, book about the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).

[Sean-david · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a helpful book in better understanding the Quaker tradition.