Quakers explore ‘ritual as hope’

Winchmore Hill Friends have been considering the theme of hope and ritual

by Rebecca Hardy 17th January 2025

Winchmore Hill Friends have been considering the theme of hope and ritual, following a talk by a Quaker artist. Anne McNeill Pulati spoke on the subject on 5 December, after interviewing many people on the rituals that help them sustain hope in a turbulent world. ‘Hope is an aspect we all benefit from, if we learn how to generate it from within ourselves,’ she told the Friend. ‘Rituals for optimism, hope, and positivity can help us move into a more comfortable space in our lives when we are dealing with uncertainty, depression, negativity or hopelessness.’ This can be as simple as praying with a mantra, or a morning cup of special coffee, she added.