The origin of regional gatherings, each embracing several monthly meetings, goes back to 1660 when George Fox was 'moved to set up the men's quarterly meetings throughout the nations'. These were followed by women's quarterly meetings. From the middle of the eighteenth century these progressively became mixed. They gradually took on considerable responsibilities for discipline, inspiration, pastoral care and records of membership. They also nominated members for service on Meeting for Sufferings. Overall they functioned as a link in the chain of responsibilities joining local meetings to the yearly meeting. With reorganisation in 1967 the title and function of quarterly meetings disappeared and they were renamed 'general meetings.' In the years following some became inactive and were held in suspense pending any further changes in the structure of Britain Yearly Meeting. All continuing meetings concentrated mainly on their functions of being places of wider fellowship, holding meetings for conference, inspiration and extension work, and offering a broad support of Quaker life and witness within their region. Some retained administrative responsibilities, particularly in relation to Quaker schools and the care and nurture of children and young people.
Next: 5.02
To find out about new appeals, go to 