Meetings have a particular responsibility to concern themselves when families are in distress. Too many Friends feel the effect of physical or emotional violence inflicted by members of their own families. There may be serious illness, financial difficulties, or other problems within the family. Healing comes through counsel, time, hard work, and supporting relationships. Prayer, love, and forgiveness, with divine grace, are powerful forces in restoring healthy personal interactions.
A monthly meeting alive with the Spirit provides support for its children, parents, families, teachers, and caregivers. In identifying and nurturing the gifts of our children and youth, we pass our heritage on to the coming generation, and they in turn are being prepared to become the future of our religious community.
|
I have long been convinced that families are
the primary agents of social change in any society. It
is in this setting that individuals first become
aware that the passage of time means growth and
change, that tomorrow is never like yesterday. It is in
this setting that one's first daydreams about a
different future take place.... The family is not a barrier
between us and a better society, but a path to that
better society.
--Elise Boulding,
|