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Table of Contents |
Book of Discipline of
the Ohio Valley Religious Society of Friends, 1978
Religious Fellowship |
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Friends in the American Colonies The Second Period of Quakerism Some Twentieth Century Developments History of Ohio Valley Yearly Meeting Personal Life and Family Relations Business Relations and Civic Relations
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Responsibility of Membership Fuller spiritual life can be fostered by membership in a religious organization. Liberty to choose a religious affiliation exists for every individual. When the choice has been made, responsibility for service follows. Attendance at Meetings Regular attendance at meetings for the promotion of religious interests, such as meetings for worship, First-day schools and meetings for business, will enable us to avail ourselves of the opportunities for service which exist in such organizations. It will also enable us to become more firmly grounded in the faith and principles upon which our Society is founded and will result in our spiritual growth. Advancement of Principles Held by Friends Our separate existence in the religious community is justified by our testimony to the truth as revealed to us. It devolves upon us therefore to be faithful in the expression of those principles for which our Society stands. Beliefs become vital only when translated into life and conduct. The faith of our members should find expression in work for spiritual, moral and mental education, and in the improvement of social and economic conditions. World Religious Unity The Living Spirit of Christ commends Friends to openness in their relationships with all people. Cooperation with those of other religious faiths promotes mutual understanding and unity among all those who endeavor to follow the will of God, by whatever name they are called. Loving relationships should be practiced wherever our lives touch those of others, guarding against any feeling of superiority, showing respect and understanding for one another's point of view, and finding one's way into the hearts and minds of others. We can practice our view that God's presence is in every person.
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