After filling up at an oatmeal bar and a brisk run outdoors, First Day students settled into silent worship and sharing. They then took turns reading about the early Reading (England) Quaker children who held worship when their parents were imprisoned. Before the 1689 Toleration Act, Quaker worship was illegal because the Church of England was the “established” place of worship. As a result, many early Quakers were imprisoned for practicing their faith in patient, silent waiting. Their children risked safety to continue meeting.

We talked about Quakers being “children of the light” and what the symbolism of the light might mean. Students suggested the light signified God’s love as referenced by Genesis and God’s command: “Let there be light.”

As a reminder of their light, they each decorated a battery-operated candle mounted on wood to take home to worship, meditate, pray, de-stress and remember they are each a child of God.

Much like a one-room school, with a range from second grade to high school, our children nudge each other in their creative, curious and thoughtful ways. Consider getting to know them by signing up to teach First Day School. Contact First Day School Coordinator Linda Daigle, ldaigle@yahoo.com.