The Sacred Teachings of our Creator are not founded upon dictatorial authority, but upon humble fellowship. They are not rooted in arbitrary power, but in the spirit of frank, loving, and prayerful consultation.
Nothing short of this spirit can reconcile mercy and justice, freedom and loving submission, the sacred right of the individual and the call to self-surrender, vigilance, discretion, and prudence on the one hand, with fellowship, candor, and courage on the other.
Those who are called to serve must regard themselves in no other light than as chosen instruments for a more efficient, dignified, and faithful presentation of our Creator’s Sacred Teachings.
We must never imagine that we are central ornaments of the body of our Creator, or that we are intrinsically superior to others in capacity, merit, or spiritual station. Nor should we ever suppose that we alone are the promoters of these teachings and principles.
Rather, we should approach this sacred task with extreme humility. Through open-mindedness, a high sense of justice and duty, candor, modesty, and complete devotion to the welfare and interests of the Friends, Peace on Earth, and all humanity, we must strive to win not only the confidence, genuine support, and respect of those whom we serve, but also their esteem and real affection.
We must, at all times, free ourselves from every domineering attitude. We must banish all forms of prejudice, passion, pride, and self-importance from our deliberations.
Our consultation must be clean. Our hearts must be humble. Our words must be truthful. Our listening must be sincere. Our decisions must arise from prayer, unity, justice, and love.
And when we are called upon to arrive at a certain decision, we should, after dispassionate, anxious, cordial, and loving consultation, turn to our Creator in prayer and thanksgiving.