On Thursday November 12th from 6 to 7 p.m. Memphis Friends Meeting will host one in a series of vigils for the disappeared sponsored by the Immigrant Relief Taskforce. We are joining many other faith groups who have hosted these monthly vigils. It will be Quaker-like even though part of the hour will be programmed.
Robert Pugh sums it up well. “This won’t be a Quaker meeting as we know it but a Quaker ‘gathering.’ In a unprogrammed Quaker Meeting most of the time is spent in silent meditation and reflection. Many participants are focused on ‘that which is Divine & mysterious in the lives of everything that is living.’ Although this is not a Quaker requirement, as Quakers do not have a creed nor a liturgy that we follow. Those of us who may briefly speak in a Quaker meeting don’t usually plan in advance what we may say. However, most of this vigil IS planned. We will be somewhat performative.”
Alyson adds that there will be music, a candle-lit table for the people who bring a physical representation of their missing dear one, introductory remarks explaining the nature of Quaker worship, a planned reading to introduce a query, and silent worship focusing on the query and on the witness and testimony of those who are suffering because of people in their lives who have disappeared due to immigration enforcement.
We will stress how important everyone’s presence is whether they share or listen. Folks are welcome to bring chairs and blankets. We will provide some small LED votives for participants. Following the service, there will be announcements by IRTF and an invitation to join us in the meetinghouse to continue fellowship with light food and drink, and participate in a support activity for Monarch Hospitality House which facilitates accompaniment for those detained at West Tennessee Detention Facility in Mason, TN. During the support activity we will sign cards in both English and Spanish, with Spanish words of support provided. We will also have the opportunity to make a donation or book purchase to support the Monarch Hospitality House. IRTF encourages those attending to bring a $25 gas gift card for any major gas station chain, which can be distributed to those using Monarch Hospitality House.