Quaker

The Quakers, also known as Friends, began in the 1600s as they became unsatisfied with the Church of England which still had many similarities to the Catholic Church. They are known for stressing the importance of a direct relationship with God through Jesus Christ, and a direct religious belief in the universal priesthood of all believers. Although never large in numbers they have had a profound influence on Western society. The famous Quaker, William Penn, settled Pennsylvania and they were strong abolitionists before the Civil War. Their values are centered around the belief in the “Inner Life” in man. Some have unprogrammed worship services where the services are devoted to communion with God. They have evangelical, holiness, liberal, and some conservative values as well.