The role she or he carries out in a gathering is rather like a chairperson and secretary combined. There is no payment for this or any of the other roles listed below. When a Quaker feels a religious compulsion to act in a certain way based on a 'leading of the Spirit' it is described as 'having a Concern'. This appointment is for three years, but may be renewed. It does not confer particular status on the role holder.
Friends believe firmly in the equality of all worshippers.
This is the name most often used amongst Quakers today. Because of our testimony to equality, we do not use titles such as Mr, Mrs, Sir, - but instead refer to each other as 'Friends'. These gatherings covering one or two counties meet about three times a year, for discussion, consultation and education. The name for the Quaker church in this country until 1994, when it was changed to Britain Yearly Meeting. This refers to Quakers meeting together to worship God, waiting in silence.