Our Stories
Stories from Friends sharing their personal experiences of the Spirit moving in their lives.
Stories have always played an important role in the Quaker tradition. From the earliest days of the Religious Society of Friends, people shared personal experiences of how the Spirit moved in their lives. These stories—often called testimonies or witness—help others understand what it means to live faithfully and to follow the Inner Light.
When Friends share their experiences of worship, support, or guidance, others may recognize something similar in their own lives. These simple expressions of lived experience encourage reflection and help us discern together where the Light may be at work.
“A place that accepted us as we were.”
— E, Holland Quaker Friend
“My beloved late wife, Julie, discovered the Holland Friends Meeting while we were searching for an escape from the noise of the world and the sensory overload we experienced in some modern churches. What we found was a place that accepted us as we were, with no expectations beyond where we were on our spiritual journey. When Julie became ill, this community walked with us every step of the way—and continues to walk with me after her passing.” — E.
Still mind, body, heart—
making room for something more.
Hard path. Not alone.
— P, Holland Quaker Friend
“I can focus on what truly matters.”
— J, Holland Quaker Friend
“Worshipping with the Holland Quakers is how I remain faithful. In the unity of the Meeting, I can focus on what truly matters and find clarity and peace. Most of all, I receive encouragement to remain accountable to the Testimonies—Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship.” - J.
“In Quaker practice, I’ve found an understanding that we are always becoming, rather than having arrived.”
— K, Holland Quaker Friend
After several difficult experiences in other religious communities, I wandered into the Holland Quaker meeting. What a blessing. There was no pressure to join, adopt specific beliefs, or be someone I’m not—only acceptance of who I am and where I am right now.
The spaciousness of Sunday meeting creates room for the divine to speak and gives my body, mind, and spirit time to rest and reflect in a safe place.
The queries and advices shared in meeting offer rich ground for contemplation and introspection.
In Quaker practice, I’ve found an understanding that we are always becoming, rather than having arrived. Each of us is on a journey, and accompanying one another for part of that journey is an honor and a privilege.
“I feel fortunate that my family can be part of a circle of people committed to seeing the Light in every person.”
— B, Holland Quaker Friend
Our Values
Although Quakers have no official doctrine, we do have shared testimonies or values which are unifying across communities—Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship.
Our Worship
A Quaker Meeting for Worship is a time of silence, to sit in expectant waiting for Divine guidance, and to build unity by seeking Truth together.