Youngsters - book now for November's Yearly Meeting

Long before the first Yearly Meeting session begins, something important is already happening.

Friends are preparing rooms. Volunteers are gathering materials. Someone is checking a craft activity. Someone else is wondering whether they'll remember everybody's names. Across the country, families are packing bags, and children and young people are anticipating time spent together in a community that reunites them from far and wide.

One of those hoping to remember everyone's names is Simon Hardie, the Quaker Life Team Leader for Youth, Children and Families.

"It would be easy to think of our planning as simply practical organisation," said Simon, “but it is also something deeper. For generations, Quaker communities have made room for children and young people - not simply because they might become future Quakers, but because they are part of the Quaker community now. Their questions, insights, friendships, worship and experiences matter."

Many of the Friends who help run children's and youth programmes today first encountered Quaker community as young people themselves. Someone made room for them. Years later, they are doing the same for others.

"When children and young people are present at Yearly Meeting, they are not just being looked after while adults do the important work. They are building community, exploring spirituality, asking searching questions and discovering that they belong within a faith tradition that values every voice," Simon added.

This November, volunteers will once again be creating spaces for children, young people and families to gather alongside the wider Yearly Meeting community. Whether you're bringing a baby, a primary-aged child, a teenager or coming as a family, we'd love to welcome you.

There will be a dedicated children's programme, offering a fun, welcoming and age-appropriate space to explore, play, reflect and build community together.

Older teens will also be able to take part through the accompaniment programme which supports young people to engage with the wider Yearly Meeting, connect with one another and experience the gathering as part of the wider Quaker community. Our supportive environment enables older teens to take part in Yearly Meeting at the pace and depth that suits them.

Please book early so we have plenty of time to meet the needs of everyone attending and to give us a chance to learn everyone's names! Places are limited so sooner rather than later please!

Book here for the November Yearly Meeting Children and Young People's programme