Unnecessary Structures
After the fire destroyed part of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, there was a rash of proposals to not rebuild it as before. Discussions highlighted different opinions on what was original and necessary – not to mention what would be appropriate and most beautiful. I liken this discussion around cathedrals to some of my takeaways from the recent Future of British Quakerism Conference.

Quaker Meeting Houses aren't Cathedrals...
…and neither are the committees and organisational structures that have helped us grow and maintain them. Since the 2006 Charity Act and the establishment of the Charity Commission we are working in times of increasing charitable regulation. Increasing legislation relating to the employment, maintenance of heritage buildings, and fundraising we have to deal with to run our charities (registered or exempt, or a non-profit).
A meeting house should not be regarded primarily in terms of bricks and mortar, or merely seen in relation to potential site value. Its real value derives from the worship and service of the meeting. Even so, our meeting houses no less than our own homes deserve our care, attention and imaginative thought, so that they may be attractive both to ourselves and to others whilst remaining faithful to our commitment to simplicity, care of the environment and equality. Care of our premises is an important and sometimes exacting responsibility, which should be exercised by or on behalf of the meeting to which it belongs.
Qf&p 14.25 (part)
Supporting Structures
I have always been fascinated by the flying buttresses and gothic arches which through clever engineering disseminate stress outside and away from the main structure.
During The Future of British Quakerism Conference I recently attended, there were references to the existing committee structure. It highlighted, for me, the apparent burden caused by the requirement to nominate for roles.
Friends from smaller meetings shared how removing those roles and sharing tasks between the entire group had made things easier all around.

In response, a Friend ministered about how these
…committee structures were built with love, leadings and care into things of elegant structures that gave support to the Society that was needed. As elegant as those gothic arches that both reached to the sky and gave support….
They went on to remind Friends that although these structures are well known and loved – the ‘cathedrals’ and ‘structures’ aren’t the point! Instead, it is the worship and community being supported that are living and growing.
Rather more prosaic than flying buttresses and gothic arches – ordinary garden trellis was also used to describe these structures.
Rebuilding the 'cathedral'
As it’s made of wood, I can see it needs regular maintenance and inspection. At some point, everything will need to be untied and untangled for the good of the plant. This is accepted as part of life – the plant has grown – as I feel new opportunity does.
As we move forward we need to be aware that some will need to grieve as we start the process of taking things down to allow us to rebuild. Especially those who have found comfort in those structures, or who have dedicated many years to their maintenance.
We need to be faithful to the leadings of the spirit as we create new structures to support but not constrict. Finding ways to ensure these new structures support our communities as they grow and change.
We are aware of the need to care for ourselves and each other in our meetings, bearing each other’s burdens and lovingly challenging each other. ... When we look at our past we can see the length of time needed for transformation. We are a small church with the pretensions to change the world. But first we have to let God change us – to empower us to be better Friends, and more active in our own work. We should not be creating structures to work for us, but empowering each other to do the work laid on each of us. However we plan … the Spirit is unchanging and will always lead us… All is interconnected, worship with action, wisdom with love.
Qf&P 29.02 (part)
Here at MBS, we spend much time supporting organisations to make positive change. Processes and procedures that can be streamlined and reorganised ease the burden for role-holders, volunteers and employees. We are often told what a win this is. Sometimes a helping hand using tried and tested methods recoups time for charities to focus on doing good.
Much of this knowledge is available in our online classroom. Take a look and see if a self-paced course could help you and your members thrive. Alternatively, if you are considering outsourcing book a FREE consultation with me and we can discuss your needs.

Wendrie Heywood
MBS Founder
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