Regarding the Meeting’s support of personal and family relations, Friends’ replies have been varied: one mentions that the support of a clearness committee provided critical support during a crisis. Another notes that more input from those needing help would be desirable. Another comments that he/she did not feel corporate care, and that individual care and responsiveness seemed fragile and unplanned. It has been mentioned that we could increase comfort for the elderly, …that many elderly are sensitive to the cold and would appreciate well-padded comfortable chairs in the common room…that we should encourage people to speak up loudly, although the headphones help.
Concerning how effectively Meeting deals with issues of peace and social justice, a Friend notes that “…sustainability is related to peace and justice, and they are primary concerns of the Meeting. ” One felt more participation was needed. Some Friends think that there is an absence of political activity. Some suggestions for improvements include that the Meeting take up an issue collectively rather than individually, for more effect…that we encourage people who have interests in specific concerns to e-mail the Meeting to enlist help for this concern to increase participation…and that we mention more about these activities to the general Meeting, enlisting help from the YALTTS.
Responding to questions regarding Quarterly Meeting and Yearly Meeting, Friends note that generally they receive necessary, timely information; in addition, Friends acknowledge enthusiastically that the VMM Library is an inspirational source of Quaker information and ongoing spiritual rejuvenation. Expressing great appreciation, Friends are extremely positive regarding the VMM Newsletter. Some comments were: “…backbone of the Meeting”… “well-published and useful“…”lovely and informative”… “helps us keep up,” “excellent and helpful”… “provides information.” In considering Meeting for Business, some Friends are quite upset at the small numbers who attend. Participation is encouraged by announcements at rise of Meeting, the VMM Newsletter, e-mails, admonitions by the Clerk, and the use of humor. Barriers to attending include the length of time needed to attend both Meeting for Worship and Meeting for Business, and personal commitments and time constraints. VMM Friends express enthusiasm and appreciation for the informational e-mails which contribute to unite our Meeting, helping to overcome the large distances which physically separate us.
Most Friends feel that Meeting is open and welcoming, without pressuring attenders to join or conform; however, some Friends feel that the issue of membership is quite crucial…especially since we have an aging community. Significantly, Meeting must find ways to encourage participation from more attenders and members…realizing that distance and family-employment responsibilities can make consistent participation difficult. As one Friend says, “It’s about commitment.”
With seventy-four members and approximately half as many attenders, Vassalboro Monthly Meeting continues to be a vibrant Community of Worshipers; certainly, we have issues before us which we need to address, as we hold each other in the Light; yet, as our survey indicates, Friends at VMM value their attendance of Meeting for Worship and extended VMM Community activities as fulfilling their spiritual needs.