I have recently joined the Friends Meeting of Austin, and I am soooo happy to have found such a genuine group of Wonderful Christian People!
After my first experience with Quakers some five years ago, I didn't quite get it, and thought it was a bit wierd. Now, I am so thankful and so moved by the deeply moving Worship and Ministry and, honestly, by the Presence of God.
I have long been dissatisfied and sometimes even disgusted by many experiences in various churches, and the overwhelming presence of greed, apathy, nationalism, etc., so I feel like I have found the closest thing to genuine Christianity yet. Anyhow, now I'm rambling... Here are some of the key Christian beliefs/values that I've found exemplified by the Quakers: (in no particular order)
-though they shun any official creed or dogma-
Keeping oneself from being wrapped up in the world, or, simplicity in lifestyle
Being selfless and giving to all
Being non-violent, even when attacked
Not taking pride in worldly kingdoms (nations) or rulers
Treating all people as equals regardless of wealth or status
Being good stewards of the Earth
Being compassionate, as God is compassionate, towards all living things
Caring for those in need and those less fortunate
Caring for prisoners, sinners, and those who harm us
Not swearing or making oaths, but letting our yes be yes and our no be no
Being humble, ready to listen and slow to speak
Being forgiving and merciful