Ulverston Quakers reflect on peace
‘Quakers do not assume they can escape the realities of the world in which violence appears so deeply rooted.’
Quaker involvement in international moves to ban child soldiers was highlighted in the press this month, when Ulverston Friends wrote about the Peace Testimony.
Barbara Mansell, from Swarthmoor Hall, wrote in a section titled ‘Faith Viewpoint: Peace in 2022’ for the Westmoreland Gazette: ‘Friends are deeply attached to the Declaration made to Charles II in 1660 which begins “We utterly deny all outward wars and strife and fighting with outward weapons, for any end or under any pretence whatever” and it is the Quaker experience “to live in the life and power which takes away the occasion of all wars.”’
She adds: ‘Quakers do not assume they can escape the realities of the world in which violence appears so deeply rooted.’
The article touches on Quaker work to recognise the right to conscientious objection to military service, as well as relief and ambulance work in war-stricken areas. It also mentions the establishment of the Department of Peace Studies at Bradford University.
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