Quakers and the Supernatural

The Liberal theologian Rudolf Bultmann once observed: 'We cannot use electric lights and radios and, in the event of illness, avail ourselves of modern medical and clinical means and at the same time believe in the spirit and wonder world of the New Testament'. Such a wonder world included for Bultmann the domain of ghosts, angels and ultimately a man rising from the dead. But is this how people really are? We may function as rational-agnostic beings for much of our lives, but many still need a language and a practice to express 'the mysterious,' the extra-rational, and the uncanny.

A cursory glance at the Body Mind and Spirit section of one's local bookshop confirms that there are lots of people who use antibiotics, iPads and microwave ovens, who at the same time affirm a world which includes faith healing, channelling, spirit-guides and automatic writing. Where do modern Quakers sit with this? Some may avoid such topics altogether, while others may have experiences that might be characterised as paranormal, but find it hard to talk about them in their Meetings, and so look for spiritual validation elsewhere. This session is an opportunity for Friends to explore their relationship with the supernatural and the challenges associated with exploring such experiences with others. We'll reflect on: