Believing that community is an integral part of the Christian experience, Friends seek to function in harmony and reject the divisiveness that can result from a majority imposing its will on a minority.  Instead we operate by seeking a consensus in our understanding and discernment of God's direction.  We share with one another as needs arise, and are committed to building relationships with one another as we grow together in our walk with God.

Simplicity

    God has called us to live in harmony with His world and we are not to hoard possessions or abuse His creation.  Friends choose not to be possessed by our concern for possessions, but seek to be content with eternal rewards rather than the riches of this world.  We utterly reject the currently popular "prosperity doctrine" which claims that God's desire is for our material prosperity.  It is the understanding of Friends that the possession of great wealth and worldly power are corrupting influences which turn our hearts from the Lord.

Integrity

    Christ has called us to simple and consistent honesty, letting our "yes, be yes and our no, be no."  Honesty in speech, in business practices, and in our relationships with one another are all part of this distinctive testimony of Friends.

Peace

     Jesus taught us to love our enemies and to not repay violence with violence, but to respond to those who abuse us with compassion, forgiveness, and love.  War is generally the result of a struggle for earthly power or possessions, and is contrary to the Spirit of Christ, so Friends have historically been a "peace church," rejecting outward fighting and participation in war.  We believe that peace-making is the calling of the church, both individually and corporately, and that Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, calls us to live at peace and in harmony with our neighbors and one another.

Justice

    Friends have historically been active in promoting social justice for oppressed peoples.  Acts of compassion, social service, and a merciful attitude characterize this aspect of Friends' ministry.  Force and violence are rejected as contrary to the Spirit of Christ and ultimately ineffective as the lead to more violence.

Mercy

    Jesus said "Blessed are the merciful," and challenges us to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who despitefully use us.  This is certainly one of the most challenging of Jesus commands, but Friends take it seriously.

    We do not believe that we are exempted from following Jesus' teaching and example on the basis of difficulty.  Instead, Friends seek to turn the other cheek and reject the path of force and violence as we follow the Prince of Peace.

Service Ministries

     Friends throughout history have been in the forefront when it comes to providing ministries of social service and disaster relief.  Compassionate service grows out of the love and mercy which are characteristic of Friends.