Epilogue, as used by young Friends, can create very powerful Quaker worship. Matt Alton reflects on what we can learn from his experience and research.

I enter a darkened room, the only light coming from a scattering of electric candles, and through the tall windows, cracked to the warm evening. A circle of chairs is laid out around the edge, but I choose a cushion on the floor. Quakers aged 18-35 pad into the room in sock feet, some already wearing nightclothes, many carrying pillows and blankets. Some choose chairs, many sit or lie on the floor, making sure to maintain our circle. Occasional Saturday night whoops drift into our silence – I think to myself: they’re having their fun, and we’re having ours.

Over the last 24 hours this space has been host to Quaker decision making, talks and workshops, games, snacking, cleaning, tooth brushing and sleeping, but now the silence of fifty worshippers deepens. After five minutes, an Elder begins to speak about spiritual gifts. They invite us to write one of our own and one of another YFGM member on a card tag, to be tied to a makeshift tree later. The squeaking of felt tip pens rises then fades, and silence settles again. After five minutes, the worship is closed by each person holding hands with their neighbours – some giggling as they twist and reach to ensure each person is included in the circle.

The article reflects on what Matt has learned from sharing epilogues with young adult Friends, and research into epilogue funded by a Living Adventurously Grant. For more information on the Living Adventurously grant and other grants for young adult Quakers please see Grants for young adults | Quakers in Britain.

YFGM has recently changed its name to YFB: (General Meeting of) Young Friends in Britain. You can hear a report on the most recent Young Friends gathering at March Area Meeting. The next gathering, for young adult Quakers aged 18 – 35 will be 22 – 25 May 2026 in Bristol.