Eye - 6 October 2022
From Opening the doors to Friends and festivals
Opening the doors
Friends in London took part in a city-wide community initiative in September.
Bessie White, of Brentford and Isleworth Meeting, got in touch to shed light on local Friends’ activities (see photos).
‘Brentford and Isleworth was one of a number of London Meeting houses, old and new, welcoming visitors this year as part of the London Open House Festival between 6 and 17 September.
‘In addition to showing off their historic building, displays on Quaker history and artefacts from the Meeting, an extra draw were some additional activities. These comprised crochet and sewing workshops, a concert by Syon Early Music Group (which rehearses at the Meeting house), and an art show by members of the Meeting and local group Art for All.
‘The mayor of Hounslow, councillor Afzaal Kiani, accompanied by councillor Adesh Farmahan attended, as did local MP Ruth Cadbury.
‘The organisers, wardens Miranda Barrett and Justin Treadwell, said, “Open House was a wonderful chance to bring people in, locals and visitors from further afield alike, celebrating the creativity and community of the neighbourhood and local Friends – whilst also displaying some Quaker history. We had some attendees who had attended Quaker schools or had family links, but also several who had never encountered Quakers in Britain before. It was a fantastic festival. Our thanks to everyone involved!”.’
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