Posted: February 8, 2024   •   Posted in: Discussions, Faith

‘Holding in the light/Light’

Hold yourself and others in the Light, knowing that all are cherished by God. (Advices & queries 3)

There are some words and phrases often used by Quakers. ‘Holding in the Light (or light)’ is one such phrase. This may be applied in a variety of ways and on different occasions. We asked some Friends in our meeting to share their understanding and usage of the term.

‘Light’ (with a capital ‘L’)  is often used as an alternative to the Divine, God, Spirit. For some Quakers the phrase may hold a spiritual dimension – a sense of the Inner Light. For others, ‘holding in the light’ might reflect more a state of being. It may still reflect a desire for guidance or support, for example, but without this necessarily being attributed to a particular spiritual belief.

We can hold ourselves and others in the light. This can be a deeply personal and contemplative exercise, practised individually. It can also be undertaken with others such as in a Quaker meeting, which can bring a sense of connectedness and encourage mutual support. We may also be guided through a meditation, such as the Quaker practice of Experiment with Light, or it may be a less structured and more spontaneous process.

When we hold someone or something in the light, what is our intention?

Offering support and care

In ‘news of Friends’ after a Quaker meeting we can be invited to hold someone in the light. This may mean keeping that person in our thoughts or prayers, offering emotional and spiritual support, or seeking the best possible outcome for them in a challenging situation.

To me, this means paying attention to someone, with love, thinking of them and trying to see ways to help – if that’s possible and appropriate. (Quaker 1)

At times the practice may involve awareness and sending of loving kindness to ourselves, and to others, or beyond, such as in the Buddhist meditation of this name. How straightforward or easy is the process, and who is being helped?

To hold someone in the light … I find this tricky – perhaps I don’t have a very good imagination, which I think is what might be required to do this.  I try to think of the person and think kind, loving thoughts of them.  I wonder if this might be of more help to the person doing the ‘holding’ than to the person ‘being held’? (Quaker 2)

Being able to visualise a person or community may make the practice seem easier, as well as perhaps having had the experience of being held oneself.

‘To hold someone in the light’ is more problematical for me. To hold someone in the light, you have to first experience it yourself. And I don’t believe you can do this to order. It can come during Silent Worship – again, I used to think this was a primary purpose of Silent Worship – or it can come at the most unlikely of moments.  (Quaker 3)

Seeking guidance

Are we seeking guidance, clarity or wisdom about a dilemma we or others are facing? If the latter, do we need to know about or understand the particular dilemma?

We are often moved to hold someone in the light at specific moments when we ourselves may not experience it. So, for me, if I am challenged in this way, I might pray for the person in question that they may find peace of mind and happiness. Irrespective of the particular problems they may be facing. That they may come to terms with whatever is happening, and not be overpowered by it. (Quaker 3)

Being led

We may hold a particular community or population in the light, perhaps praying for healing or peace. The practice might also relate to the care of the natural world.  Holding or being held in the light might be a catalyst for action, providing encouragement and courage.

Over past months, as I’m sure for many others, I have found myself holding in the light people facing conflict. I felt and often feel helpless, not knowing what to do. On one occasion having followed the practice on and off throughout a meeting for worship, I experienced a powerful leading which I shared with others. The result was a silent vigil for peace, which we held on a market day in our town. To this event we welcomed others. (Quaker 4)

Whether we hold ourselves or others in the light, our intentions may differ at different times. We may practice individually or with others, seeking guidance or hope for a desired outcome. In my experience, however, ‘holding in the light/Light’ is most often offered as a source of comfort, care and support. It can be very special to give and also to receive.

Carrie (Beccles Quaker Meeting)