"tremble at the word of the Lord." George Fox believed, as the Puritans did, that the formal practices of the Church of England violated the spirit of Christianity. He taught that people could worship God directly without help from clergy. His followers refused to attend the services of the Church of England or to pay taxes for its support. They refused to take oaths on the ground that an oath recognizes a double standard of truth. They were frugal and plain in dress and speech. The authorities persecuted them with fines, confiscation of property, and imprisonment. Nevertheless the sect flourished. In 1689 the Toleration Act ended the persecution. Meanwhile, Quakers could settle freely in America on the large area of land given to Penn. Quakers still reflect the teachings of Fox. They do not sanction taking part in war because they feel that war causes spiritual damage through hatred. Most Quakers therefore refuse to give military service, but individuals follow their own convictions. Although some evangelical Friends have pastoral meetings and Quakers rely on recorded ministers, clerks, elders and deacons they have no rituals, sacraments, or ordained clergy. They appoint elders and overseers to serve at each meeting. Men and women who have received the "gift" are called recorded ministers. The meeting for worship is held "on the basis of silence." The belief in that of God is in every person is also responsible for their distinctive form of worship, and accounts for their general confidence in working for the kingdom of God in the world. Members speak in prayer or testimony as the inward light moves them. After an hour the meeting ends with the members shaking hands. In government as well as worship the Quakers rely on the guidance of the inner light working through the individual and bringing the whole group to a consensus. Congregations generally hold a meeting for business every month. In the 19th century Quakers in the United...
