Quaker Theology was an independent journal founded and edited by Chuck Fager, devoted to exploring faith, reason, and witness in the progressive Quaker tradition. For twenty years, 1999 to 2020, the quarterly newsletter published essays, commentary, and debate that probe how Friends think, worship, and act in the world—from biblical interpretation and peace testimony to equality, ministry, and modern social issues. This site is an archive of every issue, offering a living record of contemporary Quaker thought and the ongoing conversation about what it means to follow the Inner Light in our time.
We are building an accessible list of topics to help you find what might interest you. It’s linked in the main navigation as:
Progressive Quakerism
We define “Progressive Quakerism” as a form of Christianity that emphasizes the social aspects of Jesus’ teachings — the “Love Thy Neighbor As Thyself” edict that readily segues into the pacifism and anti-oppression work for which Quakers have been noted, for centuries now.
Since 1999, Quaker Theology has been publishing a wealth of articles by many great progressive Quaker thinkers. They are all amassed here. We are hoping a new generation will study and discuss the issues raised here, and add some of their own. This will be an ideal environment for study groups to post discussions that can be added to over time by all comers.
Becoming a Progressive Quaker
For those wishing to acquire an understanding of the essential, defining elements of this progressive form of Quakerism, we’ve put together these articles:
Authenticity of Historic Progressive Quakerism
Liberal Quakerism has both a distinguished history and a Distinctive religious message. But overall, liberal Quakers have not done well either at recalling this history or declaring the message. The work of remembering our history and rethinking our faith is of continuing importance for liberal Friends. In a time of resurgent conservatism, religious as well as political, this effort may be of particular use to those who are dissenters from this new Establishment. It can provide us with a “cloud of witnesses” from whom we can draw support and strength.
Quaker Slant on Studying the Bible
Don’t know much about the Bible, but think you would like to? Are you an independent-minded person who prefers to form your own judgments rather than simply accept the pronouncements of a traditional authority, no matter how venerable? You can start here.
Modern Quaker Controversy
Modern liberal Quaker theology has grown out of the early twentieth century’s effort to reconcile traditional faith with modern biblical criticism, science, and social progressivism. These essays trace how Friends moved from quietist orthodoxy toward a more open, experiential understanding of divine guidance—one that sometimes inspired renewal and sometimes sparked controversy. It explores the thinkers, debates, and spiritual tensions that shaped today’s diverse Quaker landscape.
General Theological Documents and Sites
This section gathers key theological documents, statements, and online resources that reveal how modern Friends think about faith, worship, and the life of the Spirit. It offers readers a starting point for exploring Quaker theology in its own words—from classic declarations to contemporary essays and official statements from yearly meetings around the world.
Editor: Chuck Fager
Associate Editors: Stephen Angell & Ann K. RiggsPublished by: QUEST: Quaker Ecumenical Seminars in Theology
E-mail: QKRTHEOLOGY@GMAIL.COM