Quakers explore these values by sitting in silence, sometimes reflecting on a query, and listening for deeper truth.
- How is living simply a way of being?
- How do I promote peace in the language I choose when talking to someone I disagree with?
- How am I living my values versus just talking about them?
- How do I recognize the different talents that people have in my community?
- How do I nurture a sense of belonging in our community and demonstrate my commitment to a just world?
- How do I steward my relationships with care?
Values that Reject the Idea that Power Matters More than Compassion
Our culture often urges us to “buy more”; tells us to value power over compassion; leaves us seeking “the truth” over knowing someone speaks from their perspective with integrity; encourages acting individually and competing over working together for the collective good; teaches us that belonging means merely acting like everyone else. In our culture, living Quaker values is powerfully counter-cultural.
Living Values that Foster Connection and Hope
Living in ways that run counter to the culture can be difficult, but living Quaker values can also connect us in ways that are affirming and bring us hope. Living Quaker values requires us to be thoughtful about our place in this world and how we live in “right relationship” with people who are like-minded as well as those with whom we disagree. Quakers strive to see the light – the humanness – in everyone. This means they are naturally dedicated to creating a more just world, and it also means they seek to stay in relationship through conflicts and disagreements.
A Foundation Our Students Take With Them
Quaker values are central to Quaker education. As a school, we are proud to embrace these values and reflect on how we live them and where we may fall short. We see the light in everyone. We know that creating a more just world is a vision directly tied to our mission and we embrace that vision with hope. Together, bound by values that we may at times need to defend and work hard to practice, we are committed to caring for and educating our young people. We are committed to giving them a strong foundation that supports them throughout their lives.
No Religious Instruction – Instead, A Place of Lived Values
There is no direct religious instruction at Friends School of Minnesota, instead we are a place of lived values where students learn by doing, by listening, and by reflecting. Families who are looking for a community that values justice, belonging, and hope often find a home here.
Learn More About How These Values Come Alive at Friends School
If you are curious about how Quaker values come alive in the classroom, schedule a tour or join us for one of our last open house on January, 24th. Experiencing Friends School in action is the best way to understand how we help students grow not only as learners, but as compassionate, grounded people in a complex world.
