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Quaker, facts about Quakers
Quakers are Christians who belong to the Society of Friends. In
some parts of the United States, the Society is called the Friend's
Church. An Englishman, George Fox, started Quakerism in the 1640's.
Fox believed that Christ had come 'to teach his people himself, and
there was no need for priests, churches or organized prayer and
services.
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Quaker facts: George Fox
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Quakers try to lead a simple life.
They are noted for their efforts to relieve suffering
and bring peace into the world, in accordance with
Christ's teachings. Quakers believe that every man and
woman receives 'an inward light' from the Holy Spirit.
Because of this, Quakers are often left to make
important decisions of conscience for themselves.
Quakers regard every day as a holy day and also refuse
to take oaths.
Quaker facts – they belief that all
men and women are equal encouraged many Quakers to
campaign for the abolition of slavery in the 1800's.
Quakers have also been active in peace movements,
because they regard wars as against God's will.
The Quakers' concern for people and
for peace led them to set up organizations to help those
in need. Friends' relief services helped millions of
people in World Wars I and II. In 1947, the American and
British Friends' Services received the Nobel Peace
Prize. |
In the I600's, English Quakers suffered from
persecution and many went to America. In many American colonies
(though not Rhode Island) they were again persecuted. In 1682,
William Penn, a Quaker, set up a colony called Pennsylvania, where
many Quakers settled. In 1960, the world's Quakers numbered more
than 200,000. Over half were American.
More Quaker facts you can find on this
page, for example
You can read these articles also:
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