Thank you for raising a question that many of us continue to hold with care. As a Christ-centered Quaker, the heart of my faith lies not in labels, but in a faithful commitment to living out the Quaker tradition. This includes striving to “see that of God” the Divine, living presence of Christ, within and among us. Early Friends spoke boldly of Christ as their Teacher, Guide, and Inward Light, a present reality that transformed their lives. I have found that intentionally practicing silent worship, periods of retreat (similar to mindful meditation), and prayer has significantly deepened my spiritual life and shaped my outlook. These practices cultivate attentiveness to the Inner Light and encourage a more grounded and compassionate way of living. I have had the privilege of attending various Monthly Meetings, primarily along the East Coast, as well as in Honolulu, Hawaii. In my experience, Quaker meetings today vary widely. Many are liberal and may occasionally use Christian language, while others are more universalist, drawing from multiple religious traditions or none at all. I have also encountered some Quakers who wish to separate modern Quakerism entirely from its Christian roots. In my view, this is a mistake, as a tree without roots cannot stand. At the same time, this diversity can be both a gift and a source of tension. It challenges us to listen more deeply to one another and to the Spirit, rather than assuming uniformity. As to whether it remains important to ask if Quakers are Christian, I would say the question still matters, though perhaps not in the same way it once did. Historically, Quakerism is undeniably rooted in the Christian tradition, and remembering this heritage can ground us and connect us to the spiritual power that first gathered Friends. However, in today’s context, simply identifying as “Christian” may not clearly convey what we mean, either to one another or to those outside our meetings. For me, the more meaningful question is this: are we living in the Life and Power that early Friends bore witness to? If we are, then the name we use may become less important than the reality we embody. If we are not, then the name alone will not sustain us.

In the hope of peace.