Since the transmission level for Richmond and the surrounding area is now at low levels, per CDC guidelines, mask wearing is now optional. We will still crack the windows to allow for proper ventilation and the air purifiers will be running.
In the first week of March, I will send an updated, 2023 RFM Directory to the printer. A copy of the current, electronic version will be attached to a Newslist message so you can check your information. If your information needs to be revised, or if you aren't currently included, please submit your contact information by the end of February to rfmdirectory@richmondfriendsmeeting.org. The Directory listing typically includes physical address, phone (indicating home and/or cell) and email address.
Quite a few newer Friends have become active since the current Directory was compiled. Please encourage them to submit their information.
When the printed 2023 Directory becomes available for distribution, I will also distribute an electronic version. Don Miller, Directory Editor
There is so much happening in the realm of social justice, environment and world emergencies.
keep informed and act according to our Quaker values? The following organizations can help you take timely steps to address various issues according to our Quaker testimonies. Subscribing to get their updates.
American Friends Service Committee: https://www.afsc.org/about-us
Friends Committee on National Legislation: https://www.fcnl.org/
Virginia Interfaith Center on Public Policy: https://www.virginiainterfaithcenter.org
“The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) promotes a world free of violence, inequality, and oppression. Guided by the Quaker belief in the divine light within each person, (they) nurture the seeds of change and the respect for human life to fundamentally transform our societies and institutions. (They) work with people and partners worldwide, of all faiths and backgrounds, to meet urgent community needs, challenge
injustice, and build peace.” They offer several workshops to increase our knowledge and develop skills to act.
In addition to these activities, they work directly with populations in need.
FCNL seeks a world free of war and the threat of war, a society with equity and justice for all and a community
where every person’s potential may be fulfilled. They lobby members of our national legislatures on issues
related to Middle East and Iran, Nuclear Weapons, Peacebuilding, US wars and militarism, gun violence
prevention, Just Immigration, Justice Reforms and Native Americans. They will keep you up to date on
upcoming legislation so you can communicate with your legislators most effectively.
Richmond Friends Meeting is affiliated with Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP),” a non- partisan coalition of 25,000 members, including 750 houses of worship, 1,000 clergy of all faiths, and people of goodwill, ten chapters (and growing!), many partner and affiliate organizations, most of the judicatory leaders in the state, and activists in every House and Senate district in Virginia, all working for a more just society.” Just as FCNL helps us make our efforts effective on a national level, VICPP helps keep us informed about current legislation initiatives.
Virginia Interfaith Power and Light: https://vaipl.org/
RFM supports VIPL, a local branch of national organization which is dedicated to bringing together faith communities to “mobilize a religious response to climate changes through energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energies. Similar to the other organizations they can help keep you reliably informed, on current legislation and local initiatives. Let co-clerks, Ellen or Rhonda know if you have another non partisan organization which you count on to provide information for action.
Care and Counsel would like to remind Friends that we have a Fund for Sufferings which assists folks in financial distress. It is in addition to the Financial Assistance line in our budget. The money for the Fund for Sufferings come directly from contributions from our meeting members and attenders. If you wish to contribute, write a check to Richmond Friends Meeting with Fund for Sufferings in the memo line. If you need financial assistance, please see a member of Care and Counsel.
Friends are asked to return to wearing masks during Meeting for Worship.
The community transmission rate in Richmond and surrounding counties is now High, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Transmission). Therefore, the Ministry and Worship Committee asks that starting January 8, 2023, we will wear masks for in-person worship. Friends may also choose to join 11:00 worship online using Zoom.
Here are the guidelines that the CDC provides:
• Wear a mask indoors in public and on public transportation.
• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
• Get tested if you have symptoms.
• If you are at high risk for severe illness, consider taking additional precautions.
M&W committee will keep an eye on the community transmission rates and make changes in the future as directed by the CDC.
Barbara Myers, for the Ministry and Worship Committee
This is fair trade extra virgin olive oil from occupied Palestine. Sales help Palestinian farmers.
750 mL for $25.
Also long-lasting handmade olive-oil soap from Palestine. No chemicals or preservatives, traditional cold process method and scent free. $5 per bar.
These products are sold at cost, under the care of Peace and Social Concerns.
Contact Julia Hebner