San Jose Friends Meeting (Quakers)

Welcome! We are a Quaker (Society of Friends) gathering in San Jose, rooted in a centuries-old tradition of listening deeply for the Light within each person. Quakers have a powerful history as seekers of peace, simplicity, and social justice, from early abolitionists and suffragists to conscientious objectors and modern-day advocates for equality and environmental stewardship.

Our local community meets at the San Jose Friends Meeting House, a historic space that has quietly held room for worship and witness in the South Bay for over a century. We gather in silence, waiting together in expectant stillness, and share messages that arise from that deep listening.

Whether you’re new to Quakerism, exploring spirituality, or simply curious about a peaceful space for reflection, you’re warmly invited to come as you are.

Important Things to Know About Quackers

---Not Amish! Quakers and Amish are different groups. Both came from Christian traditions in the 1600s but have distinct beliefs and lifestyles. Most Quakers do not practice plain dress, though you may see some from time to time.

---Quakers Don’t Have a Creed. We don’t all believe exactly the same thing; instead, we focus on direct experience of the Light or Spirit within. Some Quakers may believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior; others do not. At our meeting, you can believe what makes sense to you — it’s okay.

---No Paid Clergy. In our Quaker worship, everyone listens for what Spirit may be leading them to share. There’s no single preacher.

---Silent Worship. We worship in silence and speak if moved by the Spirit. Discernment — listening for what is truly ours to share — is part of our spiritual practice. We believe we’re all connected to the Light, and each of us has a responsibility to reflect it in our lives.

---Historic Peacemakers. Quakers were early abolitionists, advocates for women’s rights, and conscientious objectors in wartime. Many continue this work for peace and social justice today.

---Global Community. There are about 400,000 Quakers worldwide, across very diverse cultures. Many experience worship in different ways. For example, the largest group of Quakers is in Kenya, where Friends meetings are more aligned with evangelical Christianity.

---Simple Living. Quakers value simplicity, equality, integrity, community, peace, and stewardship of the Earth.

---Quaker Oats. The Quaker Oats Company isn’t actually run by Quakers — they chose the name in the 1800s to evoke honesty and integrity, because that’s what Quakers were known for.

---Open to All. We welcome people from many spiritual backgrounds. You don’t have to “convert” to attend — just come as you are.

---The SJ Friends Meeting House. San Jose Friends have gathered here for over a century, and we’re celebrating the 140th anniversary of our meeting house. Come check it out!