QUERIES FOR AUGUST: PEACE
The first step to peace is to stand still in the Light. (George Fox, 1653) I lived in the virtue of that life and power that took away the occasion of all wars. (George Fox, Journal, 1651)

Consider how our way of life relies on and benefits from violence. Friends’ peace testimony is the positive exercise of good will calling us to lend our influence to all that strengthens the growth of friendship and understanding.

How does my daily life express this effort within my family, my community, and my workplace? What are we doing to build a more peaceable world? Does our way of living rely on violence?

How do we communicate to others the basis of our peace testimony? Do we join with them in working for peace? What are we doing to encourage consideration of alternatives to military service? How do we reconcile our peace testimony with the payment of taxes that support war?

Have we considered whether the seeds of war may be nourished by the way we treasure our possessions? Have we thought about the structural violence imbedded in our economic, political, and legal systems? Is our manner of participation in these systems consistent with obedience to the living spirit?

To oppose war is not enough; how are we responding to the injustices and inequalities that often lead to violence? Are we mindful that simply refraining from using or supporting violent means may not be an adequate response to war and atrocities? Do we provide refuge and assistance, including advocacy, for spouses, children, or elderly persons who are victims of violence or neglect?

How do we support institutions and organizations such as the American Friends Service Committee, Friends Committee on National Legislation and Quaker Earthcare Witness that are actively engaged in peace building and the prevention of violence?

A note on the queries. Lake Erie Yearly Meeting adopted these queries at its annual sessions in July 2012, after four years’ development and consideration. They are organized by topics, 16 in all, each with an introductory quotation or two. We provide a new topic each month.