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What does it mean to be a Quaker camp?

Our Quaker heritage emphasizes valuing the 'Light of the Spirit' in everyone, practiced through daily Silent Meetings that foster community and environmental appreciation. We uphold values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equity, and susta

  

Our Quaker heritage lays out the concept of valuing the ‘Light of the Spirit’ in each person and we work to live up to this ideal.  We practice Silent Meeting every morning as a way to come together as a community and appreciate our environment in silence.   Silent Meeting consists of the community gathering in silence for 15-20 minutes.   Unless it is raining, this happens outdoors and this quiet time in natures fosters an enduring appreciation for the environment.  If someone is moved to, they speak into the silence.  It doesn't matter if they are the youngest or oldest member of camp, they are trusted to hold the space and honor it.   This practice of Silent Meetings and respecting the value and voice of every member of camp is a foundational practice that encourages a deep connection with nature and each other.  

Quaker values:

Simplicity
We believe in the radical notion of unplugged resourcefulness and restful stillness

We minimize that which separates us from one another and the natural world

Living simply prepares each of us to find ourselves

Peace
We cultivate peace: first within ourselves, then the world

We are called to speak our truths compassionately

It’s not easy, and it’s worth the struggle

Integrity
We strive to embody our beliefs in our actions

We are mindful of our intentions and are each responsible for our impact

Keeping our word and keeping it real

Community
We gather in joyous service to each other and the land

We honor traditions that guide us and they must not bind us

Inclusivity facilitates belonging

Equity
We take our place alongside others working towards a more just world

We confront societal forces that divide, degrade, and dehumanize

The work is never done; we lift as we rise

Sustainability
We are not separate from the land, the water, and the life all around us

We work with humility for the well-being of our planet, now and for future generations

Living in nature sparks curiosity and wonder, and that’s what we’re here for.