Other Quaker gatherings, assemblies or associations provide a place of fellowship and a means for Friends to have a vital sense of being part of a larger Quaker body beyond their local meetings.
A number of Quaker gatherings are former geographic general meetings which wish to continue as gatherings, having been removed from the administrative and constitutional structure by Yearly Meeting (see 5.02). Yearly Meeting asked them at that time to consider renaming themselves. Other Quaker gatherings may be set up subsequently.
General meetings and gatherings provide for conference and inspiration, and for broad support of the life and witness of Quakers within their compass, considering regularly what is being done and what might be done to extend the service of their members and to reach out to those who are in need of spiritual guidance and friendship (see 12.06). They also find opportunities to consider the work of the yearly meeting and may link with ecumenical and interfaith activities in their area.
Next: 5.07
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