Conservative Friends are a branch of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) who seek to preserve the original spirit and practices of early Quakerism as expressed by George Fox, William Penn, Robert Barclay, and the first generations of Friends. They emphasize faithfulness to the Inward Light of Christ, plain living, and worship centered in silence.

It is important to note that this "conservatism" is distinct from political conservatism. Rather, “Conservative” in traditional Quaker Faith & Practice is utilized to describe those friends who are called to “conserving historical Quaker witness”. Those called of an even more conservative witness sometimes even conserve the testimonies of historical or plain Quaker dress, speech, and the like.

While all Friends value peace, simplicity, and spiritual seeking, Conservative Quakers place stronger emphasis on:

• Waiting worship in silence without programmed sermons.

• The centrality of Christ’s Inward Light.

• Faithfulness to plain speech, dress, and life.

• The Scriptures as a vital guide, read in the Spirit.
  Other branches may adopt pastoral leadership, modern liberal theology, or outward forms that Conservative Friends avoid.

Yes. Conservative Friends hold the Bible as a sacred witness to God’s truth. However, they believe its proper understanding comes through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the Inward Light of Christ. Scripture and Spirit are never in conflict.

Waiting worship is the traditional Quaker form of gathering, where Friends sit together in silence, “waiting upon the Lord.” Outward silence helps open hearts to the Inward Light. Sometimes one may be moved by the Spirit to share a spoken message, prayer, or Scripture reading, but only if it arises from divine leading, not from human planning.

Silence is not emptiness but an active waiting. It creates space for God’s Spirit to speak to the heart. In silence, Friends learn to listen inwardly for Christ’s presence, guidance, correction, and comfort.

The Inward Light of Christ (sometimes called the Inner Light) is the living presence of Christ within every person, guiding them to truth and righteousness. Friends believe this Light is universal, but must be heeded, obeyed, and allowed to transform one’s life.

No outward rituals are practiced. Friends believe that the true baptism is of the Spirit, and true communion is inward participation with Christ, available at all times. Every act of life can be sacramental when lived in obedience to God.

Plain speech is the traditional Quaker way of speaking truthfully and simply. Historically, this included using “thee” and “thou” for everyone (to avoid class distinctions), refusing to swear oaths, and avoiding flattery or exaggeration. Today, plain speech continues as an effort to speak honestly, without ornament, and in a way that reflects equality and integrity.

Plain dress is a testimony to simplicity, humility, and modesty. It avoids vanity, waste, and the pressure of fashion. Though practices vary, many Friends still choose modest, unadorned clothing as an outward reflection of their inward commitment to simplicity and equality.

No. Plain living is a way of life. It means living free of unnecessary luxury, speaking truthfully, using resources wisely, and placing faithfulness to Christ above wealth, status, or worldly fashion.

No. Conservative Friends believe Christ is the true Teacher and Shepherd. All may minister if led by the Spirit. Elders, overseers, and other roles may exist, but authority comes from spiritual discernment, not a hired ministry.

Decisions are made in a “meeting for business” conducted in the same spirit as worship. Friends seek unity through prayerful listening for the will of God, rather than voting. A decision is carried when the sense of the meeting feels aligned with divine guidance.

In more individual matters, Friends may request a Clearness Committee. A Clearness Committee is a a distinctively Quaker practice, particularly emphasized among Conservative Friends, used to help an individual discern God’s guidance on a personal, spiritual, or life decision. A Friend will then meet with small group of Friends to seek guidance in order to help them find clarity and direction from the Inward Light of Christ.

Conservative Quakers have a distinctive understanding of salvation that is inward, spiritual, and transformative, rather than primarily doctrinal or ritualistic. They see salvation as a process guided by the Inward Light of Christ.

Friends believe salvation is not just a future hope but a present reality—Christ brings new life, freedom from sin, and inward transformation here and now.
Conservative Quakers understand salvation as a lifelong, inward process guided by the Inward Light of Christ. It involves:

1. Awareness of the Inward Light – recognizing Christ’s presence within.

2. Conviction and repentance – turning away from wrongdoing and aligning with God’s will.

3. Listening to divine guidance – prayer, silence, and discernment help the Spirit lead.

4. Inner transformation – developing love, humility, peace, and righteousness.

5. Faithful living – expressing salvation in daily life through truthfulness, simplicity, nonviolence, and service.

6. Continual renewal – growing spiritually and participating in God’s eternal life here and now.

Salvation, for Conservative Friends, is not a single event or ritual, but a dynamic relationship with Christ’s Light, lived and deepened throughout life.

Yes. Since the 17th century, Friends have refused to take up arms, believing that Christ calls us to love our enemies and live in peace. This Peace Testimony extends to all areas of life, including justice, reconciliation, and care for creation.

Yes. Conservative Quaker meetings exist primarily in Ohio, North Carolina, and Iowa, though there are small groups and isolated Conservative Friends worldwide (I myself and one of them). Many seekers are rediscovering this traditional expression of Quaker Christianity today.

Absolutely. Visitors are warmly welcomed. Come as you are. Be prepared for silence, prayer, and the possibility of Spirit-led ministry.

No. Plain dress and speech are personal leadings, not requirements. Conservative Friends encourage all seekers to listen to the Light of Christ and follow faithfully as led.