Death and Dying
- The Religious Society of Friends (Quaker) movement arose in mid 17th Century. Followers call themselves Friends of Truth or simply Friends.
- There are no ministers or pastors. Elders or Overseers are appointed to oversee the spiritual and pastoral wellbeing of Quaker meetings and its members.
- In their meetings for worship Quakers do not sing hymns or use set prayers, but wait on God in silence, with a member occasionally speaking briefly, praying or reading from the Bible or other religious work.
- Quakers believe the whole of life to be sacred and the experience of God is available to everyone. They respect the creative power of God in every human being and in the world around us. They work through quiet processes for a world where peaceful means bring about just settlements.
- Quakerism is a group of insights, attitudes and practices which together form a way of life rather than a dogma or creed. It rests on a conviction that by looking into their inmost hearts people can have direct communication with their creator. This experience cannot be described in words but Quakers base their whole lives on it.
- A Quaker may like to be visited by a member of their own faith tradition.
- Some Quakers are vegetarian and a few are vegan.
- There are no special rituals or practices for the dying. Patients will appreciate a visit from an Elder or other Quakers who may sit in silent worship. A number of people are appointed to support and advise families after death and to assist with practical arrangements.
- There are no religious objections to post mortems or organ donation/transplantation.
- The wishes of the deceased are respected with regard to burial or cremation.
- Routine procedures are acceptable.