A Quaker author talk. John Helding’s “How Can I Keep from Singing” appears in the August edition of Friends Journal.
This episode explores how Quaker worship language can feel confusing or intimidating to newcomers, and why more welcoming terms may help. John Helding shares how different Quaker meetings use open worship, guided worship, and worship sharing in ways that blend tradition with innovation. The conversation argues that clearer, more positive terminology can make worship feel more accessible, inclusive, and community-oriented.
Bio
John Helding is a member of Lopez Island (Wash.) Meeting, where he has served as co-clerk for a number of years. John previously served on the board of American Friends Service Committee and was founding board clerk of Quaker Voluntary Service. He currently serves on the Friends Fiduciary Corporation board.
We want to hear from you, not an AI! Please be thoughtful and use your own words. Comments on Friendsjournal.org may be used in the Forum of the print magazine and may be edited for length and clarity.