Orthodoxy and Quakers -- looking for documentation

[Elsa]

Hello everyone --

I'm looking for historical documentation about interactions/dialogue between the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) and Eastern Orthodoxy, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries.

So far, all I've found is an article entitled "Orthodoxy and the Teachings of the Early Quakers: Some Common Ground" by Aleksandr Yagodovsky, but I've only begun my search and thought this would be a good place to ask.


Thanks,

Elsa

 

[HandmaidenOfGod]

Hmm, I'm not really aware of much interaction between the groups but I'll have to get back to you. Their beliefs and methods of worship are so different from the Orthodox, I'm not sure that there would be much interaction.

 

[HandmaidenOfGod]

The only thing I could find is both groups belonging to the National Council of Churches.

NCC Member Communions

 

[Elsa]

Thanks for your thoughtful assistance, HandmaidenofGod.

I wouldn't expect much in the way of current connections, but am looking for historical ones. (I.e. 200-300 years ago)

Perhaps I should check with an Orthodox historian; if you or anyone else knows of one, or even someone who would be willing to poke around in some dusty old books, I would be much appreciative.

 

[HandmaidenOfGod]

You may want to reach out to one of the seminary's.

You can try Holy Cross in Boston Hellenic College and Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology | HC/HC or St. Vladimir's in NY St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary - Home

 

[angrylittlefisherman]

In the line of Handmaiden
St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary - Home

 

[Elsa]

Thanks so much! I'll try all three.

 

[buzuxi02]

I dont think there was much interaction. Orthodoxy didnt come to this country until 1794 via Alaska by russian missionaries. And of course back then Alaska was part of Russia! Any interaction would be after the 1850's.

In Europe at the time the quakers originated in 1650, the traditional Orthodox lands were under the control of the Ottomon Empire so any interaction would have been slim. Likewise i doubt much interaction took place between orthodox russians and british quakers at this time.

 

[Elsa]

Hello buzuxi02 --

My search isn't restricted to the Americas; for as you noted, the Religious Society of Friends began in 17th century England. I've been finding a little more documentation than I thought I would, especially in regards to Russia.

As to the Ottomans -- You are correct, that this would minimize interaction; however there is an interesting account of Mary Fisher, who felt led to speak to sultan Mehmet IV. (New England Judged, by the Spirit of the Lord, by George Bishop, London, 1703.)