Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
A peace-loving Christian community that worships in silence, listening for the inward voice of God, with no ordained clergy or set creed.
Quick answer
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) is one of the Christian traditions covered by Church Near Me, with 6 UK churches listed — most numerously in Birmingham, London, Manchester. This page explains its history, beliefs and worship, and links to every local congregation (directory data verified 1 July 2026).
History & Origins
Founded in 17th-century England by George Fox, who taught that everyone could experience God directly without need of clergy or sacraments. Persecuted in their early years, Quakers became known for honesty in business, opposition to slavery, and advocacy for peace.
What Makes the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) Distinctive
- Worship is normally held in expectant silence, with anyone free to speak as they feel led.
- There is no clergy, no creed, no liturgy and no outward sacraments.
- Central is the belief in "that of God in everyone" — the Inner Light.
- A historic "peace church", committed to peace, equality, simplicity and truth.
- Decisions are reached together in a worshipful "meeting for business".
Core Beliefs
- There is that of God in everyone
- Direct, unmediated experience of the Divine
- Equality, simplicity, peace, integrity, community, sustainability
- No formal creed
Worship & Practices
Most Meetings for Worship are held mainly in silence, with anyone free to stand and speak if moved by the Spirit. There is no set liturgy, no minister and no music.
- Silent Meeting for Worship
- Consensus decision-making
- Active commitment to peace and social justice
Key Terms Explained
A quick glossary to help you understand worship and life in the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) tradition.
- Meeting for Worship
- The Quaker gathering, usually held mostly in silence.
- Inner Light
- The Quaker belief in the presence of God within every person.
- Testimony
- A shared Quaker value such as peace, equality, simplicity or truth.
- Friend
- A member of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
- Clerk
- The Friend who facilitates a Quaker meeting for business.
Notable facts
- Quakerism was founded by George Fox in 17th-century England.
- Quakers played a leading role in the abolition of slavery and in prison reform.
- Their commitment to peace has made them conscientious objectors throughout modern history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Quakers Christian?
Quakers grew out of Christianity in 17th-century England and many remain rooted in Christian language and the teachings of Jesus. Today the Religious Society of Friends in Britain is broad — some members identify strongly as Christian, others draw also from other faiths.
What happens in a silent meeting?
Friends gather and sit together in silence, waiting on God. From time to time someone may rise to speak briefly out of the silence. After about an hour, the Meeting ends with a handshake.
Notable Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) churches
A selection of Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) congregations from our directory.
Blackheath Quaker Meeting House
London, SE3 9LL
Friends Meeting House
Manchester, M2 5NS
Friends Meeting House
Birmingham, B28 9BG
Friends' Meeting House Bournville
Birmingham, B30 1JT
The Priory Rooms
Birmingham, B4 6AF
Westminster Quaker Meeting House
London, WC2N 4EA