Isn’t it remarkable how a simple meeting house can hold so much history? We are standing before the Quakers Australia Blue Mountains Local Meeting. This place embodies peace, community and reflection. It is a sanctuary for those seeking a simpler life.
The Blue Mountains Local Meeting is part of the Religious Society of Friends. Many people call them Quakers. They gather to worship and connect. The meeting offers a welcoming space. It is here at 4 Oakura Avenue, Woodford. This is a five-minute walk from Woodford railway station.
The Blue Mountains have been a place of learning for two centuries. It has nurtured artists and scientists. It has provided leaders in many fields with a place to escape. It is a place of adventure, rest, challenge and healing.
The Quakers Australia Blue Mountains Local Meeting acknowledges the traditional custodians of this land. These are the Gundungurra people. Their land stretches south to Weereewa/Lake George near Canberra. The Darug people’s land extends north to the Hawkesbury River. The Quakers respect the land and its history.
Meetings for worship are held every Sunday at 10 am. Friends often arrive early to greet one another. They might have tea or coffee. They center themselves in preparation for worship. Worship typically lasts about an hour. It is generally silent. Quakers believe that gathering together enhances their ability to listen. They listen to the word of God. They listen to the spirit within. There is no minister or sermon. Occasionally someone shares a few quiet words. These words come from the spirit. This is referred to as vocal ministry.
The Quakers Australia Blue Mountains Local Meeting has a unique practice. On the second and fourth Sundays of each month worship is followed by a shared lunch. Each person brings a dish to share. It could be hot food, fruit, bread or cheese. Even without a contribution everyone is welcome to stay and eat.
On the second Sunday of the month, between worship and lunch, there is a discussion. The discussion covers a topic of interest. It may concern peace. It may concern Quaker history. Friends listen respectfully to each other’s views. Interruptions are discouraged.
The Blue Mountains Local Meeting is also known for the Nancy Shelley Bequest Fund. Nancy Shelley was a long-time member of the Blue Mountains meeting. She died in 2011. Her legacy was entrusted to the Blue Mountains local meeting. The fund supports projects related to Nancy’s passions. These passions include peace and indigenous concerns. They also include women’s education and leadership. These efforts include local Blue Mountains and Yearly Meetings.
Nancy Shelley herself was a remarkable woman. She was born in Victoria in 1926. She studied mathematics. She taught mathematics in the United Kingdom. Later she became Headmistress at Woodstock Presbyterian Girls School in Albury. She introduced Quaker practices to the school. She wanted everyone to enjoy mathematics.
Nancy was a peace activist. She campaigned for indigenous people and children’s rights. She wrote many letters to politicians. She offered advice and encouragement. She was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 1989.
The Quakers Australia Blue Mountains Local Meeting embodies these values. It is a place of worship. It is a place of community. It is a place of action.
Whether you seek silent reflection or shared fellowship, the Blue Mountains Local Meeting welcomes you. Come and experience the peace and simplicity. It is here in the heart of the Blue Mountains.