Michael Birkel on Quakers, Mysticism, and Reading the Bible
A thoughtful Quaker scholar shares his thoughts on mysticism, spiritual reading, and giving the next generation of Quakers room to express their faith.
Author: Georgia Sparling
Georgia Sparling is a multimedia journalist from the Deep South. She has written for print and online publications in Shanghai, China, Mississippi, and Massachusetts.
Before joining Thee Quaker Podcast, Georgia created and produced the award-winning Why We Write podcast and an award-winning newsletter at Lesley University.
As part of Christian communities since high school, Georgia has long been interested in exploring stories at the intersection of faith and culture — especially when they take unexpected turns.
When not podcasting, Georgia is usually practicing pottery, reading, or making something in the kitchen.
What Do Quakers Believe?
Unlike most Christian traditions, Quakers intentionally have no creed and so, of course, the question they get asked the most is: What do Quakers believe?
Quakers in China
We explore the history of Quaker missionaries in China — both evangelical and liberal — as they lived and worked amid wars, internal conflict, and the rise of the Chinese Communist Party
Swimming With Spirit: Growing Out Of A Colonial Mindset
Quaker pastor Mark Pratt-Russum shares a message inspired by a recent trip to Hawaii in which he was confronted with the uncomfortable marriage of Christianity and colonialism.
The Making Of Monopoly: How Quakers Shaped The World’s Most Popular Board Game
We explore the twisty history of the world’s most popular board game, from its anti-capitalist origins to the Quakers who transformed the game into what it is today.
Can Somebody Say Amen?: Inside a Kenyan Quaker Church
This week we’re sharing our first international vocal ministry episode by taking you inside a Kenyan service!
Quakers in Kenya: Exploring the Faith of East African Friends
There are more Quakers in the East African country than anywhere else in the world, and their numbers are growing.
Quaker Pacifism: A Better Way to Engage in Conflict
Well-known Quaker pacifist George Lakey shares his lifetime of nonviolent activism.
How to Build a Daily Quaker Practice
We’re exploring ways that spiritual discipline has helped Quakers connect with the Spirit today and throughout history.
Quakers and Poetry: Two Friends Share Their Love of Verse
We know many people love poetry, but it can also feel opaque. So, we called up two Friends who have found a home both in Quakerism and in verse.
Lost and Found: Finding God’s Voice in the Wilderness
A message of getting lost and being found by the still small voice of the divine.
Bayard Rustin: The Unseen Architect of the Civil Rights Era
Lifelong Quaker Bayard Rustin was the architect of the 1963 March on Washington, a mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and an international peace activist.
Quakers in the Civil Rights Movement: Stories of Peaceful Persistence
We share first-hand stories of Friends whose spiritual courage led them into the heart of the movement.
Quaker Musician Carrie Newcomer Finds Songs Out of the Silence
Award-winning singer-songwriter Carrie Newcomer has been called a “prairie mystic” for her meditative, poetic lyrics and folk-infused melodies.
What Do Quakers Wear?
Are Friends still called to wear bonnets and broad-brimmed hats?
Finding a Spiritual Home: What Does Quakerism Look Like for the Next Generation?
What can Friends of different generations learn from each other?
Black Quakers Build The Beloved Community on Their Own Terms
What can we learn from Black Friends?
Season 2 is almost here. Listen to a preview!
This year, we’re exploring the life and work of spiritually courageous Friends like Bayard Rustin. We’re delving into burning questions about Quakerism. We’re going inside Quaker meetings across the U.S. and the world.
Our Top 5 Episodes of the Year
Join us as we remember some of the most thoughtful moments in our first season.
Finding Silence in Post-Twitter Life
What happens when we choose silence over social media?
How to Start a Quaker Nonprofit
Take a peek behind the curtain of Thee Quaker Project.
You've reached the end! (or is it the beginning?)
You've reached the end! (or is it the beginning?)