Quaker Life

All students at Oakwood are introduced to the history and testimonies of Quakerism through a regularly scheduled academic class, and all students and faculty participate together in weekly Meeting for Worship. This gathering, which lasts just over one half hour, takes the form of expectant silence, growing from the Quaker belief that each of us has a measure of divine spirit within. From time to time, a member of the gathered group – student or faculty member - may rise and share a brief message. There may also be long periods of silence. The gathering concludes when members greet one another with a handshake.

Members of the school community use this time in different ways. Some might say they reflect peacefully and quietly; some might say that they pray or meditate. Some find it a healthy way to settle their mind and to focus their attention. We ask simply that all members of the school community respect the silence and listen attentively and openly to spoken messages. All of us gain something from this time of stillness and reflection.

Graduates tell us that the personal and group affirmation brought about by the Quaker ethos of the school is one of Oakwood's most important qualities.