Through the Flaming Sword

We are a kind of do-it-yourself religion, in that we do not have paid religious professionals. So the job of knowing and passing on our tradition comes down to us.

If we wanted to become find players of the cello, we would seek out good teachers, study music theory, and practice, practice, practice. Likewise, to play The Messiah well, an orchestra and chorus must have a fine conductor, know its music, and practice, practice, practice.

Just so, if we want to become seasoned as individuals in the Quaker way, we must seek out teachers, study our history, faith, and practice, and practice. And, if as a meeting, we want to become a fine orchestra and chorus, we must provide opportunities for teaching and learning the Quaker way, and we must practice.

Now, while the outward forms of our tradition are important—they are the music that makes up our repertoire—the more important focus should be on the music that is being written right now, in our hearts and through our members’ ministries, in witness and action, in word both spoken and written. We must have ears that can hear the new Messiah that will pour forth from the Spirit in continuing revelation. 

For the spirit of the christ is the true Composer and Conductor. That spirit is the Spirit that anoints us, that “christs” us, that “messiahs” us with healing, forgiveness, strength, guidance, and inspiration, just as it anointed/christed Jesus and the disciples at the Pentecost, and all the prophets and saints and harpists and singers since, who are seeking to do right by their new oratorio.