For those who aren't familiar, the word "meeting" in Quakerism, can refer to the meetinghouse…read more(Quaker version of a church), the actual Meeting for Worship (Quaker version of a service), or the body of meeting members (Quaker version of a congregation). For clarity, and to avoid redundancy, I will try to specify which is which, below.
This is a small meeting, as in there are only a handful of attendees (not even sure if they qualify as members), due to its state of renovation/construction. The meetinghouse is in need of much repair, and it is slowly happening with aid from the Newtown Square Historical Society, but, while regular Sunday Meeting for Worship is held here, it is not a fully functional meeting, and hasn't been for many years.
We attended MfW here for a few months in 2015. I grew up Quaker, and sometimes appreciate MfW when I am in need of respite or guidance, however, I would not call myself a practicing anything, in my adult life. That said, this meeting is pleasantly noncommittal, and lacks the group congregation factor that most meetings (or any religious organizations) possess. This can be nice if you just want a quiet meditation, or two. The very few who attend, are welcoming. The caretaker who lives in the adjacent house, opens the building and preps everything to be ready Sundays at 10am. Sometimes no one shows, so if you pop in, don't be alarmed if you are the only one there, you're still welcome, and the caretaker will close up after you.
Note that at the time we attended, there was no heat in the winter, except a small wood stove, and after a glance at the fb updates, I don't think this has changed, so wear many layers in winter, because it's freezing.
The efforts of the Historical Society are to undo old renovations that covered or damaged original features of the building, while also making necessary repairs and updates, to create a functional and improved space. There are not many funds, so this is a very slow process, which will take years. Most local Quakers attend nearby Willistown, Radnor, or Media (3rd St or Providence) Meetings.
There is no First Day School at this meeting, and I do not recommend bringing children to Meeting for Worship here if temperatures are extreme (hot or cold), because it is difficult even for adults (me, at least) to be comfortable.
Last I knew, this meetinghouse offered an open house on Newtown Square Day, where you can visit and learn more about it.
I applaud the small number of members of this meeting for their efforts to make it whole again.
