Meeting for Worship and Moment of Silence

Meeting for Worship is the heart of Quakerism and the center of spiritual focus for AFS. Quakers believe there is “that of God” in each person. The belief is that each individual can steer himself or herself toward one’s own truth and that silence is the manner in which this process can take place.

In the Cardinal classroom, we have been talking about what it means to be in a “moment of silence” and how to think of it in a positive way. As we settle into our quiet space, we are encouraged to think of our body as high as a mountain, sitting tall and strong. We then turn our focus to our breath and envision it being like the wind. As we sit like a mountain and listen to the sound of our breath, we then focus our mind to be as high as the sky. Our aim is for the Cardinals to become comfortable with this process. It is an opportunity for not only shared silence, but for reflection as well.

This week we once again joined the Kindergartners in a shared Meeting for Worship in the Music Room along with our friends, the Doves. What a wonderful opportunity for all of our friends to share such a beautiful piece of our school culture together. We first read Deborah Underwood’s book, The Quiet Book.  This is a story about all the different kinds of quiet, the different peaceful moments during the day like, “Don’t scare the robin quiet” and “Hide and seek quiet.”

Afterwards, a candle was lit, the singing bowl was rung and we all began to settle our bodies. As we gathered in silence, the Cardinals are learning to listen to their own thoughts, and if they so felt the desire to share, they may rise and do so ... as some did!

The experience lasted about 10 minutes and concluded by everyone shaking hands with their neighbors. Then, we all sang “This Little Light of Mine” as Raji, our Kindergarten teacher, played his guitar.

It is experiences like these that strengthen us in our lives and our relationships with others. It nurtures the bonds of our community.

The following photos give a glimpse of our shared experiences...