Over the past few weeks, the Financial Task Force, Finance Committee, Executive Board, and General Board of Friends United Meeting have each met to carefully review our current ministries, financial realities, and future directions. Together, these bodies have sought to steward FUM’s resources faithfully while preparing FUM for a more sustainable future. Many Friends have also received a letter from the General Board, making Friends aware of FUM’s concerning financial position and the difficult decisions that this reality has required.On Friday, October 24, 2025, the General Board met to receive and consider the Fiscal Year ‘26 budget for Friends United Meeting. The Board discerned that the pathway forward will require a period of restraint, creativity, and strategic restructuring. The following represents some of the significant changes that result from the approval of this budget.
Pause of Quaker Life Magazine
After nearly seventy years of publication, the Board has made the difficult decision to pause future editions of Quaker Life. This decision was not made lightly but reflects current budgetary realities. FUM deeply appreciates our dedicated subscribers, and our office will be in contact with readers in the coming weeks regarding options related to this suspension. The General Board will also be discerning whether Quaker Life will fit into FUM’s ongoing communications ministries as we seek more sustainable forms of storytelling and outreach.
Staff Reductions and Transitions
The FY26 budget also includes a reduction in staffing levels, one of the most difficult decisions by the board and administration. We are saddened to announce that Kathleen Wooten, our Web and Social Media Specialist, will no longer be employed with Friends United Meeting, effective December 1. This decision in no way reflects on the quality of her work or the depth of her dedication. Kathleen has served FUM with excellence, expanding our social media presence and strengthening our communications ministry. She will be greatly missed. Please hold our staff in your prayers as they navigate this period of transition with courage and grace.
Deeper Partnership with African Members
The FY26 budget also reflects a $2000 per month reduction in the funds sent to support FUM’s African ministries office in Kisumu. This adjustment arises not only from budgetary necessity, but also from an emerging priority for African Friends to participate more fully in funding the shared budget of FUM. African Friends have been building fundraising capacity for some time, and this reduction is not an abrupt change in policy but a next step toward long-term global partnership.
Accountability and Financial Stewardship
The FY26 budget also reflects FUM’s deep commitment to completing outstanding audits and strengthening financial accountability procedures. We believe that this investment will serve Friends United Meeting well in the long run by ensuring greater transparency and better reporting for our board and members.
Other Measures
In addition, FUM has implemented a set of temporary measures to remain in effect until the financial position of Friends United Meeting becomes more stabilized. These measures include a pause on staff international travel, a freeze on new hires, and a temporary suspension of salary or compensation increases. Looking ForwardThis is a moment for renewed focus and faith. Even as we simplify and restructure, our calling remains clear: to build relationships of faith across cultures, to nurture spiritual leadership, and to extend the love of Christ through the ministries we share.The board continues to work on FUM’s longer-term financial sustainability. A balanced budget for the current fiscal year will provide the necessary spaciousness for evaluation and discernment.In mid-November, we will host a budget presentation for the wider FUM community. The date and time of this virtual gathering will be announced soon through the FUM e-news. We ask for your ongoing prayers and partnership as we walk forward together, trusting that even in seasons of change, God’s Spirit is preparing us for new growth.
