Penn Valley Friends Meeting is an “unprogrammed Meeting.” The Quaker worshipping community has traditionally been called a Meeting for Worship. The worship is “unprogrammed” because there is no order of service and we have no pastor or minister. These are practices that follow from the convictions of those who founded the Relgious Society of Friends in the seventeenth century.

Visit us!

Penn Valley Friends may now worship together in the Meetinghouse.  Those who have immunity issues and/or have not been vaccinated are asked to wear masks.  Additionally, worship is available via Zoom to be inclusive of those who wish to attend but cannot come to the Meetinghouse.

What to Expect in Worship?

As an unprogrammed meeting of Quakers, Friends worship in silence. As 10 am approaches, conversation dies down and Friends settle into silence. As we gather in silence, we wait expectantly for the leading of the Spirit. Speaking in Meeting is unprogrammed.  Anyone who feels led by the Inner Light to express a message shares that inspiration. Friends believe that every person can have a direct experience of the Divine without human intermediaries.

Sometimes the time for worship may pass completely in contemplative silence. At other times, several people may speak for a few minutes.

During the last ten minutes of worship, Friends (including you) are encouraged to share joys, sorrows, and concerns in a spirit of worship.

We break meeting by shaking hands and greeting those around us. Then a Friend will lead us through introductions and announcements. We go around the room, sharing our names and any announcements we have. If it is your first time at meeting, we’d love to hear you say a few words about who you are.

Walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in everyone.

George Fox