QLGF is a welcoming and supportive group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Quakers – and those who are in general sympathy with Quaker thought and lifestyle. We aim to encourage friendship and support among members; also to help members who are experiencing difficulties in being accepted or accepting themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered. We aim to promote dialogue at all levels within the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) with a view to achieving a deeper mutual understanding.
QLGF welcomes new members – details are provided under ‘contacts’. It organises occasional gatherings around the country providing an opportunity for conversation, sharing experience and fellowship. It publishes a quarterly newsletter.
Quaker Lesbian and Gay Fellowship grew out of Friends Homosexual Fellowship, formed in 1973. In 2013, QLGF was awarded Community Group of the Year by Stonewall.
Our Mission
QLGF exists within the historical Quaker testimonies to equality and truth, to provide an inclusive and welcoming spiritual fellowship where people of all sexual and gender minorities (and those interested in sexuality and equality) may come for mutual support and information.
During the period 2014-2019, we will aim to inspire the Quaker community in Britain to reach out to people who are seeking a spiritual home but who feel marginalised or subjected to discrimination by faith communities, because of their sexuality or gender identity.
What we do
QLGF is a Fellowship of people of diverse sexual or gender identities within the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in Britain. It provides a voice and a space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex Quakers, for Quakers interested in sexuality and equality, and welcomes others seeking an inclusive spiritual community. Quakers believe that “human sexuality is a divine gift, forming part of the complex union of mind and spirit which is our humanity” (Quaker Faith and Practice, 22.11). QLGF has therefore always welcomed those of all sexual and gender identities as equals within the glorious diversity of creation. We hope:
- To reach out to the Quaker community
- To work with Friends House to reach out to the LGBT community with the Quaker message
- To consider whether it is feasible to reach out to other faith groups, Christian and others
We hope that you’ll find things of interest in the pages on this website, but if you don’t, please don’t hesitate to contact us through the contacts page.