Thus, universalism is an old theme among Friends. Christianity is one of many expressions of humanity's striving toward the Absolute. Jews, Buddhists, Muslims, agnostics, and others can be found in Friends' meetings, and their writings and ideas are honored. But many Quakers are very orthodox in their Christian belief, and would not grant equal status to any other tradition. God's grace is just as available to us now as it was to the scripture writers.
Quakers place less emphasis on theology than many other religious groups.
Because they're reading ahead to see if they agree with the words. Unprogrammed Meeting for Worship must appear strange to a newcomer. People gather in a room and sit silently. From time to time, one or another member of the group may speak a few sentences. Or the entire hour may pass without a word being spoken.