Martinsburg Friends Meeting

About Friends

Quakers believe there is that of God in every person — an Inner Light that, if heeded, can lead each of us toward truth, justice, and love.

The Religious Society of Friends began in 17th-century England, when George Fox and others rejected the formalities of the established church in favor of direct, unmediated experience of the Divine. Friends have always practiced a faith of action: testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship — often remembered by the acronym SPICES — shape how we move through the world.

About our Meeting

Martinsburg Friends Meeting is an Allowed Meeting under the care of Shepherdstown Friends Meeting, gathering each First Day in a private residence on Winchester Avenue in Martinsburg. We are part of Baltimore Yearly Meeting, the regional body of Friends serving West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, central Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia.

We are a small Meeting — small enough that you will be noticed and welcomed, and small enough that your presence makes a real difference to the gathered silence. Friends of every background, belief, and circumstance are welcome at our worship.

Our Testimonies

• Simplicity — living without unnecessary distraction or excess.
• Peace — seeking nonviolent answers, even to the hardest questions.
• Integrity — keeping word and deed in harmony.
• Community — gathering as equals and caring for one another.
• Equality — honoring the Light in every person, without exception.
• Stewardship — tending the earth and our resources with care.

Meeting for Worship

Worship begins when the first Friend sits down. There is no leader, no liturgy, and no prepared message — only the gathered silence.

What happens in worship

Friends sit together in silence, settling into a quiet, expectant waiting. If someone feels truly moved by the Spirit, they may stand and speak — this is called vocal ministry. After a message is shared, the silence resumes, leaving space for the words to settle. Meeting closes when two Friends shake hands.

What to bring

• Yourself — nothing else is required.
• Comfortable clothing; we are informal.
• A phone set to silent or off, if you carry one.
• An open and patient heart.

If it is your first time

You need not announce yourself in advance, though a quick call or email ahead is welcome and helps us know to look for you. Arrive from 9:45 if you can, sit anywhere, and let the silence carry you. Worship is followed by Hospitality — coffee, refreshments, and unhurried conversation — and we would love to meet you.

Monthly Meeting for Business

On the second First Day of each month, after Hospitality, we hold our Meeting for Worship with Attention to Business jointly with Shepherdstown Friends Meeting, by Zoom. Members and attenders of both meetings are welcome; please contact Mark for the Zoom link.

Visiting Us

We meet in a private home at 512 Winchester Avenue in Martinsburg. All are welcome.

A note for first-time visitors

Since we gather in a private home, things are quiet and informal. Park on the street, come to the door, and someone will greet you. If you would like a word in advance, please call or email Mark — he is glad to answer questions and help you feel at ease before you arrive.

Accessibility

Please let us know in advance if you have mobility needs, allergies, or anything else that would help us welcome you well. We will do what we can to make you comfortable.

Contact

We are a small Meeting, and a Friend will respond personally to your note.

For pastoral concerns

Friends in need of a listening ear, a wedding, a memorial, or care during illness or loss are welcome to reach out at any time. We will respond as a community.

Affiliations

• Under the care of Shepherdstown Friends Meeting
• Part of Baltimore Yearly Meeting
• Affiliated with Friends General Conference