Quakers in Warwick are welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds to find out about their group next week.
Also known as the Religious Society of Friends, members of this sect of Christianity believe in the four principles of equality, simplicity, truth and peace.
There are no other rules, there is no leader and people who attend a Quaker meeting are f
ree to express themselves as they wish and show as much committment as suits them.
The movement was founded in England in the 17th century and the Warwick group has been going strong since those early days.
It now has 60 members who regularly attend gatherings at the meeting house in High Street.
As part of Quaker Week, which starts tomorrow (Saturday) and runs until next Sunday (October 11), the group will be holding special events to give people the chance to talk to members and see how their faith is practised.
Paul Rutter, 48, has been a member for 25 years. He said: "A lot of people think Quakers are a very old group because of the history - for example, the Quakers played a key role in abolishing slavery in the 1800s.
"People do not realise that Quakerism is alive and open today.
"We don't sell our religion - becoming a member is something people decide for themselves."
He added: "Quakers are often at the forefront of social change. We believe in equality for everybody.
"Our testimony is more relevant today than every before and it appeals to all ages.
"A lot of younger people find it fits in with their way of thinking."
People will be able to chat to members and peruse Quaker books at Warwick market tomorrow and next Saturday from 9am onwards.
Next Friday (October 9) the group is holding a 'Quaker story in song' session at the meeting house at 7.30pm. Newcomers can watch or take part.
There will be an open garden party at the building's cafe next Saturday from 3pm until 6pm to give people a further opportunity to meet members. Tea and cakes will be available.
And anyone can attend one of the group's regular meetings, which take place at the Warwick venue on Sundays at 10.30am and at Dormer Place Conference Centre in Leamington on Wednesdays at 12.30pm.
All events are free and there is no need to book.
To find out more about Quakers, visit www.quaker.org.uk
