It is unlikely that the work of the central committees, as described here, will remain unchanged for the next generation. The existence and basic functions of Quaker Life and Quaker Peace & Social Witness may not be altered except with the approval of Yearly Meeting (8.03) but the more detailed outline of the work of the committees described below may change more frequently according to the emphasis given by Meeting for Sufferings, the Britain Yearly Meeting Trustees and the central committees.
Participation of staff in meetings of the Britain Yearly Meeting Trustees
Quaker Communications Central Committee exists to support and strengthen local meetings and Quakers in Britain as a whole. It does this by helping to promote a dialogue through which the purposes and programmes of Britain Yearly Meeting's work are developed. It seeks to secure financial and other support to enable Quaker testimonies to be demonstrated in the world; the strength of our religious society rests on the quality of our shared understanding and the degree to which we are prepared in discussion, voluntary action and financial contribution to commit our support to common purposes. It is accountable to the Britain Yearly Meeting Trustees.
Quaker Communications works to increase and monitor income from meetings, Friends, other individuals and grant giving bodies, in the form of contributions, legacies and grants. It uses its marketing expertise to contribute to the effective planning of income-earning activities, including publishing and conference provision. It sponsors work on legacy development (14.09-14.10) and, on behalf of Britain Yearly Meeting, it makes proposals to appropriate bodies who might wish to provide grant aid to support approved initiatives. The committee oversees the arrangements for the Annual Conference of Treasurers (see 14.16-14.17) and provides services including the annual schedule (14.08) to assist local treasurers and collectors.
Quaker Communications works to improve information sharing amongst Friends. Its services include providing printed and audio-visual materials and exhibition materials, applying information technology, and arranging conferences, study visits and gatherings. It also liaises with the press and electronic media on behalf of Britain Yearly Meeting.
Next: 8.09
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