Quakers in the South West look forward to gathering
Quakers in the south & west of England have been revisiting regional gatherings. A decade ago it became difficult to organise residentials, something that Devon & Cornwall Friends had enjoyed doing on a regular basis up until that point.
With the help of Quaker Life staff two very successful gatherings were held before the pandemic, and now a small team of local Friends and Quaker Life staff are putting the final plans in place for a regional gathering at the end of August.
It will be held at Spiceland, a beautiful heritage meeting house on the borders of Devon and Cornwall. Priority has been given to families and to those who have come to Quakers in recent years. This is an ambitious all-age residential and day camp 'first event' of this kind on site. To be confident of success it has only been offered to Friends living in the region.
Feedback has already been taken on board. With the help of lessons learned, a 'blueprint' for organising a similar event is planned, to aid others in planning similar gatherings. Hopefully in future years more events of this kind will be possible. For instance a Friend who uses a mobility scooter is planning to come. A site visit has ensured that as much of the site is accessible as possible, and she is confident in support.