The name "Quakers" was given to members of the Society of Friends over 300 years ago. George Fox, a minister of that day and seeker of religious truth, became disillusioned with churches and religious leaders of the time. He experienced a voice saying, "There is one, even Christ Jesus, that can speak to thy condition." In response, Fox declared, "My heart did leap for joy." He began to proclaim that Christ had come to teach His people directly. God's power, Fox said, was available to all without need of ritual or clergy. Receiving and obeying Christ's Spirit empowered early Friends to become obedient children of God, just as His Spirit has led faithful Friends since. Christ Jesus, the same and ever new, speaks to our condition today, and our hearts still leap for joy as His Spirit touches us. We -- and you -- can still, in this day, be obedient children of God under Christ's leadership.

Rockingham Monthly Meeting, a member of Ohio Yearly Meeting of Friends, is formed as a spiritual home for those who will abide to Friends' principles and seek to be the servants of Christ among its members and amidst the world around us. In addition to members in Virginia, we have affiliate members elsewere in the United States, in Bolivia, and in Great Britain. There has been active visitation between resident and affiliate members. Visitors are always welcome at Rockingham. We love the Bible, believing it was written by people of God as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

We believe in a free gospel ministry with no clergy over us. Each of us is a minster and pastor to all in the meeting. We gather in silence, waiting expectantly to be led by the ever-present Spirit of God. Any attender may be led to speak or pray by God's Spirit. When God sends a message, the speaker's own feeling of personal inadequacy should not prevent him from speaking. When we are faithful, we have felt a sense of almost indescribable happiness, peace and encouragement. At other times we may have a sense of our own failure to do what is right as we "hunger and thirst after righteousness." In all things, we continue as seekers in His name, encouraging and supporting each other in our journey, and striving to be His servants to the members, their families, and to the world around us. We adhere to the peace testimony so dear to Friends and to peace-loving people everywhere. We also maintain other testimonies to build and strengthen sober, responsible Christian lives of service.

Is it time to get past labels, distractions and slogans? Is it time to worship the Lord directly, to feel his power directly in worship and life? Is it time for personal renewal in Christ, time to serve Him? We feel it is, and we strive to seek and find answers under His leadership. We are here to discuss progress or problems in your spiritual journey whenever you wish. Remember, there is only one cost in all of this for any of us -- ultimately, one issue, one question for all of us: will we pick up the Cross and follow Him? Jesus still reassures us, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matt. 11:28-30.

If you want to discuss a religious concern, if you have a prayer request or want to learn more about our Meeting, or Quakers generally, feel free to leave us a message below, write or phone us. We want to hear from you.