“‘Silent Worship’, in the fully-formed character in which the Quakers practise it, is not possible in a ‘Church’, as we understand the word to-day, but only within a narrower limits of a more intimate ‘Brotherhood of the Spirit’”, “a circle of self-dedicated enthusiasts”

In silent worship it is possible to participate of “a tender mystery, restricted to a fellowship of brothers, pertaining to a special time and hour, and needing particular preparation – in short, something that should be precious and rare” and “reserved for particular feasts, for celebration at evening or in the night stillness. It ought to be withdrawn altogether from the use and wont of every day”.

“No form of devotion which does not offer or achieve this mystery for the worshipper [i.e. “the real presence of the transcendent and holy in its very nature in adoration and fellowship, so as to be laid hold of and and enjoyed in present possession”] can be perfect or can give lasting contentment to a religious mind.” – Rudolf Otto