‘Our speakers offered inspiration and challenge.’
Group dynamic: Gerald Hewitson on Meeting of Friends in Wales
‘A creative, imaginative and dynamic organisation at work.’
I once heard the Society of Friends described as simultaneously being a church, a movement, a people and an organisation. Those attending Meeting of Friends in Wales (MFW) last month were able to enjoy a creative, imaginative and dynamic organisation at work, simplifying its own structures and impacting on the world. We are fortunate (another age, or a different Quaker community, might use the word ‘blessed’) in having role-holders who are rooted in our tradition, yet flexible and responsive to discernment. Our new administrator offers new energies and fresh possibilities in the form of a website. And, thanks to technology and an adept translator, we were able to recognise the bilingual nature of our community with monoglot English speakers enjoying translation of contributions made in Welsh.
Key reports were presented by the focus group and Symud Ymlaen (Moving Forward). The focus group conducts research for, and advocates on behalf of, Quakers across Wales. It recently produced three questions for the major parties contesting the Senedd. It has oversight of special interest groups. The Peace and Peace Education group has produced a strategy document establishing contacts and interchange with ally groups. An initial outcome of that process was a presentation in May of the manifesto produced by Cymdeithas y Cymod (Fellowship of Reconciliation), to be used as a campaigning tool.
We heard a report from the group for the State of Truth and Integrity in Public Affairs. It has been holding interviews with academics and politicians, seeking to understand what might be done, so MFW might discern whether Quakers have a role. Prior to MFW, a useful meeting of members of this group and BYM staff helpfully reminded us that there are many ways to take concerns forward without the necessity for beautiful structures. The special interest groups for BAME and Migrants, Environment and Economic Justice, Transport and Technology, and a new group for Digital Concern, continue mainly by email.
Seeking simpler structures, Symud Ymlaen continues to explore whether our four Area Meetings, plus MFW itself, can form one unified charity. Much has been done; there is work still to do.
Our speakers offered inspiration and challenge. Sam Ward, campaign manager of Climate Cymru, and Poppy Stowell-Evans, a sixteen-year-old ambassador, spoke passionately and eloquently about developing momentum in the lead up to the UN Climate Change Conference. They encouraged us to add our voice to the campaign. We saw a trailer for Breaking Boundaries, a film by David Attenborough, and heard of the possibilities of joining The Great Big Green Week (18-26 September). Many of us took fresh encouragement from their obvious enthusiasm and commitment.
