Different people will use different words to explain what happens in a Quaker Meeting for Worship. The common element in our meetings is listening in silence to our ‘inner voice’ in the company of others. For some that ‘inner voice’ is that of God, however we think of God. For others it may be spirit, an inspiration, or conscience, or self-reflection. Sometimes people will stand to offer a message they feel prompted to share.
Curious about Quakers? You’re welcome here.
Whether you’re seeking quiet, meaning, justice, or simply a new experience, you’re invited. You don’t need to have particular beliefs or know what you’re looking for. Some people are spiritual, some Christian, some unsure or non-religious — what we share is a commitment to listening deeply: to ourselves, each other, and the world.
A Quaker meeting for worship usually lasts about an hour. People sit together in silence — there is no minister, sermon, or programme. The main idea is that people come together to be quiet, to listen inwardly, and to be open to whatever spiritual insight they have. Everyone listens — to what might be said, to the silence, and to what might be stirring within them.
Some people reflect quietly, some pray, some simply sit.
Occasionally, someone may feel moved to speak.
There is no discussion or debate; people don’t reply directly to what others have said.
Many meetings have no spoken words at all.
You do not need to participate in any particular way. The silence can feel peaceful, grounding, or unfamiliar — all reactions are okay.
Listening in silence is central:
The silence isn’t just quiet — it’s a shared time to listen deeply — to one’s own inner life, to a sense of Spirit/God, conscience, or whatever helps you reflect and grow spiritually.
Everyone can speak if led:
If someone feels moved by that inner stillness or spiritual prompting, they are free to speak, briefly and from the heart — but only if they feel genuinely led to do so. There is no leader.
What people find meaningful about it:
Many Quakers say Meeting for Worship helps them:
Slow down and listen inwardly
Connect with their deepest values or sense of Spirit
Be part of a calm, respectful community
Explore their spiritual life in a simple, unhurried way
Can anyone come?
Yes! Everyone is welcome, whether you’ve been to a church before or not.
Do I need to know anything about Quakers?
No. Just bring yourself.
Will I be asked to speak?
No — speaking is entirely voluntary, and spirit-led.
Is there music?
Our worship is silent, though some meetings may have music or readings afterward.
What happens after the meeting?
Sometimes, people share informal thoughts or reflections after the formal silence time is done.
Many stay for tea, coffee, and conversation — a relaxed way to meet others.
People of all backgrounds and beliefs are welcome, there’s no dress code or beliefs you must hold to attend.
You might find it helpful to read our pamphlet, Your First time in Quaker Meeting.
Check our Find a Quaker Meeting page for times and locations.
Helpful hints for your first visit:
No need to phone ahead, no RSVP
Arrive 5–10 minutes early to find a seat and settle in.
Wear whatever is comfortable — there’s no dress code.
Families and children are welcome. Some meetings have children’s activities.
Most meeting spaces are accessible.
You can try an online meeting first if you wish. Find those on the Find a Quaker Meeting page.
You might like to learn more about:
We're glad you are here. You are welcome at a Quaker Meeting.
Many people are drawn to Quakers because they are looking for a deeper spiritual life. They want the support of a community and encouragement to live in ways that reflect Quaker values, such as honesty, peace, and care for others.
Quaker Meetings support spiritual growth in several practical ways. Most Meetings appoint volunteers, often called Elders, or small groups such as pastoral or spiritual care committees. Their role is to look after the spiritual wellbeing of the Meeting and the people in it.
Across Aotearoa, Quakers also offer wider support for spiritual growth. This includes the Quaker Settlement, which runs weekend retreats, seminars, and workshops, and the Quaker Learning and Spiritual Development Committee, which helps organise learning and reflection opportunities.
At a local level, Meetings provide chances for people to deepen their understanding and experience of Quaker faith and practice. These may include study groups, quiet reflection days, and seminars. Spiritual learning is offered for everyone in the Meeting, including children. Overall, these efforts help the Meeting remain a caring community, grounded in love, respect and mutual support.
Quakers worship in different ways: some Meetings follow a planned service (programmed), while others centre on shared silence, with no set structure (unprogrammed).
Quakers around the world practise their faith in a variety of ways, but all are grounded in the teachings and experience of the first Quakers, including George Fox, Margaret Fell, and others who helped shape the movement.
In Aotearoa New Zealand and the UK, most Quaker Meetings are unprogrammed. There is no set service or preacher, and people sit together in silence. If someone feels inwardly led to speak, they may offer a short piece of ministry that comes out of the silence.
In many parts of Africa, Quaker Meetings are programmed. These Meetings follow an organised order of worship and may feel similar to other Protestant church services, with hymns, sermons, and readings.
In the United States, Quaker worship takes many forms. Some Meetings are unprogrammed, some are programmed, and others are semi-programmed, combining shared silence with prepared elements such as music or readings.
Find a Quaker Meeting
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