Considering what type of organization provides the fewest obstacles to the free-flowing of the Spirit, Margaret Heathfield addresses the problem of guidance within our individual and corporate lives. The way in which we discover and follow these leadings is the essence of our shared spiritual journey, which, if we follow it widely, makes Quakers a "people of God", rather than just another charitable organization.

In the introduction she writes (… I could see why we were each led in different directions by the Spirit in our personal lives, but why did this also happen when we were considering corporate matters?" In seeking an answer, Margaret draws on the findings of history and theology, as well as contemporary theories of management and the nature of organizations.

By reflecting on the unique way Quakers respond to the inner promptings of Spirit--either as individuals or as a corporate body or committee--the author seeks to identify those elements or attitudes that promote a unified response. To quote Fox -“if we all take heed to the promptings of love and Truth in our hearts, and live in the Light, we will all be united in our perception of the will of God”

The question she considers is whether today’s corporate body have veered away from Fox's insight? Do they need to be realigned if the free flow of spirit is to be restored? In seeking answers to these question, the author draws on the findings of history and theology, as well as recent theories of management and the inherent nature of organisations.

Swarthmore lecture-2 copies

2 Copies