A big project currently being worked on at Abington Friends Meeting is centered around accessibility, safety, and inclusion. Our meetinghouse was originally built in the 17th century with the John Barnes Room (Fellowship room) being added in 1929, so as you can imagine our buildings were not meant to accommodate people with physical or mobility disabilities, people who are blind or visually impaired, or people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. At that time, they were generally home-bound and not welcomed into society. As we began discussing our meetinghouse in these terms, we quickly realized that besides accessibility and safety, some pointed out that improvements needed to be done to make our buildings more welcoming to all new people as well. We love the historical nature of our buildings but wish to be more than a museum. We want to make all people feel welcome into our vibrant growing community.
Through the many discussions about the renovations at adult classes, called threshing sessions, meeting for worship to attend to business, within spiritual nurture groups, and so on, there arose some themes. One such theme is our intended focus on the testimonies of equality, community, stewardship, and integrity. We hold these in common and see this renovation as a way to live them, not just hold them as an idea. We want to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
