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    <title>beacon-hill-friends-house-153340</title>
    <link>https://www.bhfh.org</link>
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      <title>If It Doesn’t Work for Everyone, It Doesn’t Work</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/if-it-doesnt-work-for-everyone-it-doesnt-work</link>
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          There's trusting the process/trusting the system, and then there’s stagnating in the system or process. As the world changes and as we all learn, process, and grow in different ways, it’s good to remember that the process or system only works if it actually works for everyone.
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          For instance, I honestly really like our resident handbook. It’s thorough and it flows in a way that makes sense to me. It does not do this for all housies. It might not even be sufficient for most housies. The system can’t work if the users can’t access what they need in order to do what they need to do, right? If what we keep hearing is “we need this support” and “there should be a policy about…” and “I don’t know who to ask for this” when *I think* all the information is clearly presented in the handbook—then a change is needed. A handbook that was written decades ago when the world was a very different place—and there wasn’t even language yet for neurodivergence, for people having different learning and processing speeds and styles—is just not going to work in this current world.
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           ﻿
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          Adaptability as a leader isn’t just about rolling with the unexpected hiccups and finding a way through—although that’s definitely a huge part of it. Leaders also need to look at the folks we’re leading: what do they need to accomplish our goals? Sometimes we need to redesign the starting point. Or if we’re viewing life as a video game (and why not?)—sometimes we just need a better tutorial.
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      <pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 18:30:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/if-it-doesnt-work-for-everyone-it-doesnt-work</guid>
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      <title>Our Wider Quaker Fellowship</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/our wider quaker fellowship</link>
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          While we host meetings from a variety of organizations, we deeply value our Quaker connections. This past week we hosted the Good Friday Witness for Peace and Justice as we have for many years. Organized by Friends Meeting at Cambridge, Friends from the greater Boston area gather here for opening and closing worship. Vickie provided a simple lunch after a chilly day on Boston Common. 
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           ﻿
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          This coming weekend we are hosting the House Board retreat where Friends and friends from around New England will meet to do the business of running the House. Also this weekend, I hope to attend the Visioning Day on Vibrant Quarterly Meetings. The House helped hold Salem Quarter during its sabbatical and we would love to be a part of getting it started up again. And in July, Jen will be delivering the Bible Half Hour at Friends General Conference Gathering. 
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          Our connections to our Quaker community ground our work, support our mission, and keep us connected. 
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      <pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:37:21 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Some Elbow Grease Required</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/some-elbow-grease-required</link>
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          Some Reflections on Cleaning
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          The first thing I do when I move into a new place is clean. I don’t mean I sweep the floors, I mean I 
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          scrub
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           everything. I take a brush to the baseboards, dust the ceiling, clean the grease trap over the stove—things it may take me another 10 years to get around to cleaning again. Over the years, I have come to think of it as claiming a space for my own. It’s kind of like marking my territory, but with the scent of Murphy’s Oil Soap instead of musk. But it is also a way of getting to know my new home. As I clean, I notice the shape of the molding or an odd asymmetry in the layout. 
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          I’ve been attending Meeting for Worship at the Friends House for about 35 years. That’s a lot of time spent staring at the elegant inlay of the floor, the intricate design of the carpet, and the view through that gorgeous window. I feel like I know the space well. But since I’ve been working here, I’ve had occasion to notice the Meeting Room in a new way: by really cleaning it. Of course, I’ve swept up after fellowship and attended a few House Workdays. But now that I’m working here full-time, I have had the opportunity to care for the space regularly — and to really clean it like I do my own space. 
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          The last few times I’ve been to Meeting for Worship, the room feels different. The carpet is the one I vacuumed the day before and will vacuum again in a few days. The floors reflect back the oil and wax I applied by hand last month.
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          As Quakers, we don’t believe that places are sacred, which is why we call our buildings “meetinghouses” not “churches.” It is us, the people gathered together, who are holy. But our connection to the space where we meet matters, too, even if just through decades of association. We come to know and love the places where we spend time connecting with the divine in each other.
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          We’ll be hosting our Spring work day on May 23rd. Perhaps you can join us to tend to our beloved building and maybe find a new way to connect with it.
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      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:20:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/some-elbow-grease-required</guid>
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      <title>Interim Operations &amp; Community Support In Residence</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/interim-operations-community-support-in-residence</link>
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          Spend a summer living in intentional community in downtown Boston, helping sustain Beacon Hill Friends House during a planned senior staff sabbatical. This role offers a chance to practice steady presence, sound judgment, and clear boundaries while supporting day-to-day operations and community life. It’s an opportunity to contribute meaningfully within a well-defined scope — holding continuity, responding to emerging needs, and supporting a values-driven residential community.
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          Duration:
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           Approximately 8 weeks (mid-June – early August)
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          Hours:
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           ~15–20 hours/week + on-call presence
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          Compensation:
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           Base Stipend $3,200 
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          Housing:
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           Must reside on-site. Room and board included.
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          Primary Responsibilities
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          Community Presence
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           Maintain a consistent, calm, Friendly presence in the building.
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           Hold 2-3 scheduled office hours per week for residents and staff.
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           Provide basic orientation, information, and logistical support to residents when questions arise.
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           Encourage residents to utilize existing house processes and agreements when interpersonal concerns arise.
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          Urgent Situations Triage
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           Serve as the first point of contact for building or operational concerns that arise in the house.
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           Assess the situation and determine whether escalation to the Board Clerk or a designated board contact is necessary.
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           Follow documented emergency protocols and ensure incidents are recorded.
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          Facilities Coordination
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           Coordinate and ensure vendor access for facilities issues as needed.
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           Escalate significant building issues according to the established escalation protocol.
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           Document facilities concerns and actions taken in the incident log.
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          Scope Limits
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          This role is designed to provide stabilization and support while a senior member of staff is on leave, not organizational leadership.
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           The role does
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           Fundraising campaign leadership
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           Strategic planning decisions
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           Staff supervision
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           Policy development or changes
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           Financial decisions beyond a pre-approved emergency spending threshold
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          The role also does not function as a mediator or counselor for resident conflicts, except where safety or house policy requires intervention.
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          What we’re looking for 
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          We’re looking for someone grounded, reliable, and clear about boundaries.
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           Holds firm boundaries without overstepping or over-functioning
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           Emotionally steady in stressful or ambiguous situations
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           Uses good judgment about what to handle, document, or escalate
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           Understands community dynamics 
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           Communicates clearly and neutrally
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           Follows through consistently
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           Respects the limits of the role
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          Experience in intentional communities or residential settings is helpful but not required. Familiarity with Quaker values or a willingness to work within a values-based community is beneficial.
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           To apply:
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           Fill out our
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          application
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            by
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          Friday, May 8, 2026
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           .
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           Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Priority will be given to applications submitted by Friday, May 8.
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           Questions?
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          Reach out to Executive Director Jen Newman at
          &#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           ﻿
           &#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
            director@bhfh.org
           &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
        
           ﻿
          &#xD;
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          .
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:35:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/interim-operations-community-support-in-residence</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Work at BHFH</g-custom:tags>
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        <media:description>main image</media:description>
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    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Foundational Agreements</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/foundational-agreements</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
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          Community Values and Understandings, Basic Expectations, Queries and Advices)
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           This is an excerpt from our Resident Handbook. At places, it links to our
          &#xD;
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    &lt;a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IXU2hxw5GjIN93ZGSnZ6uXby11A7tHoEwzsXB9-xQzc/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
          current handbook
         &#xD;
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           for more details. As an applicant, you only need to read these foundational agreements, but you are welcome to peruse the entire Resident Handbook if you’d like to take a deeper dive.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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          Community Values and Understandings
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          Below are some values and understandings we agree to hold as a community. We know that we can return to these whenever we need to clarify our purpose or make changes in our House practice. The agreements below are not true because we write them, but because we do our best to live them. Each of us has a responsibility to help make these understandings true in our shared lives.
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  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
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           We value respect for ourselves and others in our community. 
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           We understand that respecting our varied identities and backgrounds is foundational to respect of any kind.
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           We value our diverse experiences, identities, backgrounds, and lives.
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           We understand diversity to include spectrums of identity including race, gender, class, socioeconomic status, religion, sexuality, ability. This diversity strengthens our community, and we seek to make our community welcoming to all those who find alignment with our values.
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           We value honesty in our relationships. 
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      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           We understand that through honest communication we enter into a deeper connection with others and open ourselves to learning and growth. We understand that something we say may be harmful to someone, regardless of intent. We seek to assume positive intent, and name harmful impacts. 
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           We value our shared spaces. 
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           We understand that we have collective responsibility for their care. This includes contributing to the physical care and upkeep of the house, respecting others’ possessions, and using our shared resources wisely. 
          &#xD;
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           We value joy in our time together.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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           We understand that naming our gratitudes and appreciations for each other helps us to share in this joy as a community.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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           We value integrity, respect, and gentleness in our approaches to conflict.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           We understand that conflict is a natural part of living together in community, and that by engaging intentionally with conflict, our relationships and community can grow stronger. We seek to live in alignment with the Quaker testimony of nonviolence.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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           We value the safety and well-being of ourselves and others, and seek to prevent harm to members of our community. 
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           We seek to support and affirm each other. We understand that harassment, intimidation, racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia are different from interpersonal conflict, and have no place in our community. 
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            We value
           &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aZXIfwd6b3dnQwlyNfKNvCzl19w6xD1JnrnrY8kg3po/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
        
           stewardship of the earth
          &#xD;
      &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
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           .
          &#xD;
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           We understand that our everyday actions, like how we use and discard resources, have an effect on our environment. We seek to learn best practices from and with each other.
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      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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           We value solutions that take into account the needs of the individuals and the whole.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           We understand that the process of reaching a decision is important in itself and affects whether the decision works, so we try to make the process thoughtful and intentional. 
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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           We value the practices we’ve inherited from the Quaker tradition, along with the wisdom we each bring from our diverse backgrounds.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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           We understand that our best group process here involves a mixture of engaging with the Quaker tradition, learning from the practices of other communities, and creatively forging our own way.
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      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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           We value an appropriate balance of power between residents, staff, and board, and we value open communication between these groups.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           We understand that power does not operate in a vacuum, and recognize that our engagement with power in this community will involve greater social structures such as race, age, gender, class, and others.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           We value boundaries in our personal and professional relationships. 
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           We understand that healthy relationships in community necessitate a sense of people’s boundaries. We understand that these boundaries may be slightly different for each of us, and that communication of our own boundaries and respect for the boundaries of others are key to our relationships.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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           We value change and adaptation.
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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           We understand that these and other agreements will need revision over time. We each have a role in noticing, naming, and nurturing changes to better meet our community’s needs.
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      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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          Basic Expectations
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  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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          Chores (1x/week)
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Every resident is assigned a task to help keep the House going. These chores are done one to three times a week and take between 30-60 minutes each week. Detailed descriptions of chores are available in the
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KWMOp13rB9FfC6wnLnP5q3Kqz0LXMmRS/edit?usp=drive_web&amp;amp;ouid=108964371423464532678&amp;amp;rtpof=true" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
          chore handbook
         &#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           (also located in the kitchen.)
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  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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          Dish Crew (1x/week)
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Every resident is expected to sign up for dish crew one night per week. Dish crew assists the Kitchen Manager in setting up for dinner, and is responsible for cleaning up after.
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  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Dinner (3-5x/week)
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Shared meals are a cornerstone of our community. Of the five times we sit down to dinner each week (Sunday-Thursday at 6:30), residents should plan on coming to at least three.
         &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          House Meeting (2x/month)
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          We meet two Sunday evenings a month to share updates on our lives and discuss issues of concern to the community. House Meeting is one of the few opportunities the community has to spend time all together, and we expect residents to hold themselves to a high standard of attendance. 
         &#xD;
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  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Committees
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          Committees do a lot of the work of running the House. Everyone serves on a couple committees at a time while living here. While committee work can vary in frequency, it usually takes a few hours per month.
         &#xD;
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  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Work Day (2x/year)
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          In the Spring and in the Fall, Residents gather with alumni and members of BHFM to attend to the physical House. We prepare for the coming season, and tackle projects ranging from deep cleaning, building, painting, and more.
         &#xD;
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  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Retreat (2x/year)
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          In the fall and spring, the whole House gets together from a Friday evening through Saturday afternoon on Retreat  in order for us to get to know one another better and to help build community.
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Helping Hand 
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          There is some work of our community that doesn’t neatly fit into any standard requirement, such as welcoming guests and setting up for events. A willingness to pay attention to small things that need doing -- such as changing hall light bulbs, shoveling snow, or distributing mail -- is always helpful. We expect residents bring a spirit of collaboration and shared purpose, and to help support each other and the House. 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Queries and Advices
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           
         &#xD;
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          “Dearly beloved Friends, these things we do not lay upon you as a rule or form to walk by, but that all, with the measure of light which is pure and holy, may be guided...”
         &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          -Postscript to an epistle issued in 1656 by a meeting of Quaker elders at Balby, England
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          In the spirit of the early Quakers, we of Beacon Hill Friends House have developed this set of queries and advices based on themes relevant to our lives in community. 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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           Queries are provocative and open-ended questions designed to encourage reflection on a topic, thereby promoting clarity of purpose and understanding.
          &#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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           Advices arise from the experience and aspirations of successive generations of residents, and are specific suggestions to guide us through life in the House. 
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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          We also have policies, which stem from these same guiding principles.
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Policies are explicit expectations that protect the safety and well-being of residents and the sustainability of the House as a whole. 
          &#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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           The following policies are set by the Board, and cannot be directly changed by House Meeting. They are marked with an asterisk (*) in the handbook:
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Pet policy
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Substance Policy
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          In big picture terms, the Quaker principles that inform personal and group conduct reflect the belief that we are accountable to one another, and that authority originates not in the rule of officials but in a common commitment to the principles of integrity and mutual respect. The queries, advices, and policies are intended not to govern but to guide residents, individually and communally, as we seek to shape the life of our community.
          &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Shared Responsibility
         &#xD;
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Queries:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How will you be accountable to the community for maintaining the house, participating in House Meeting, and supporting the work of our community?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How will you express your needs and concerns to the community?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How familiar are you with the systems that govern life in the house, and how engaged are you in keeping those systems current and relevant?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Advices:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Living in community requires that residents hold themselves and each other responsible for honoring their commitments to the House, completing them in a complete and timely manner and arranging for substitutions when necessary.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Making your needs and concerns known is an essential piece of living in community; otherwise they cannot be addressed, and may lead to conflict or resentment. It is important, however, to do this in a respectful and compassionate manner.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           More helpful information about house systems can be found in the Residency Handbook, house emails, and the experience of other residents.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Hospitality
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Queries:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How will you help make our home a place of hospitality, friendliness and peace, where the spirit of community may become real to residents and to all who visit here?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How will you account for your guests so that they are able both to enjoy our community and contribute positively to it? 
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How will you help to engage dinner guests who may be visiting us for the first time and may know no one at the table?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Advices:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           When you are hosting a guest, you can introduce them to the House by email or in person (e.g., at dinner). Even if your guest may be familiar to many residents, all residents may wish to know who they are and who is hosting them.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           When planning a guest visit, we should keep in mind that the public and guest spaces of BHFH are a shared resource. When visiting with guests, we should be sensitive to issues such as noise, excluding residents in common spaces, and roommates’ concerns. 
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Policies:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           See Hosting Guests and Events
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Recreations
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Queries:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Are your recreations those that will renew your physical, mental and spiritual strength without causing harm to yourself or others?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Will you help create an environment that will be comfortable for individuals who wish to avoid contact with alcohol, tobacco, and other substances?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How do you take care of yourself physically, spiritually, and emotionally? How does that affect the community?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Advices:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Being a whole person in community makes the individual and the community stronger. To that end, we seek recreations that support and nourish our whole selves.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           We are an inclusive community that is accessible to those who wish to avoid alcohol and/or intoxication as well as those who wish to enjoy alcohol/intoxication responsibly and in moderation. We should uphold our standards lovingly, so we can be in harmonious relationships with those whose choices are different from our own.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Policies:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           See Behavior Policies
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Diversity and Equality
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Queries:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           What actions can you take to make our community a comfortable and supportive one for people of all backgrounds and personal identities?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Are you willing to challenge your own assumptions and step out of your comfort zone in order to help others feel supported and respected?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How can we support ourselves and one another in expressing all facets of who we are?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Advices:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Behavior that one person finds comfortable may make someone else feel uncomfortable. We seek to work through these tensions, which inevitably arise in a close community, in a loving and respectful manner.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           We recognize that examining our own places in systems of privilege and oppression is crucial to building a community that upholds the equality of all.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           BHFH promotes diversity in many forms, including but not limited to age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender, sexual preference or orientation, gender identity, relationship status, and (dis)ability.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Policies:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           See Behavior Policies
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:54:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/foundational-agreements</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Residency</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>Transformative community the world needs</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/transformative-community-the-world-needs</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          As we look back on 2025, we are clear that residency at Beacon Hill Friends House leaves a lasting impact.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Residency at BHFH is not simply about sharing space; it is about learning how to live into community. As resident and associate director Vickie Wu reflects, 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          “[Living at BHFH] has taught me how much stronger we can be together, when we are walking the path together, as opposed to separately in vaguely the same direction.”
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          This kind of shared commitment (to presence, to accountability, to collective care) shapes how residents show up not only within these walls, but in the wider world.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Residents arrive seeking many things: grounding, purpose, spiritual depth, a way to make change that is sustainable. What they often discover is a deeper capacity for leadership rooted in relationship. Current resident Kutub shares, 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          “I came to the Friends House seeking personal growth and a way to impact the world, and I found both.”
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Through roles like House Meeting Clerk, or serving on the BHFH Board, 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          residents learn
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           to not only consider budgets and participate in Quaker-rooted group meetings, but also to 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          facilitate trust, dialogue, and shared responsibility. These are skills that endure, and skills the world needs desperately.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          This is how Beacon Hill Friends House nurtures the Light in all of us: through daily practice, shared rhythms, and the quiet, transformative work of living together with intention.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          As we close out the year, we invite you to help sustain this work. Your gift today will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $15,000 doubling your impact and ensuring that residency at BHFH remains accessible, formative, and alive for the next generation. Join us in walking this path together.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           ﻿
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          In Light and community,
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Jen Newman
          &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Executive Director, Beacon Hill Friends House
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 01:16:10 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/transformative-community-the-world-needs</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">donor,Home</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/5f5985d2/dms3rep/multi/107467184_10157009613747583_5747132869721697194_n+%281%29+%281%29.jpg">
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    <item>
      <title>Looking Ahead to 2026: Momentum, Planning, and Your Matched Gift</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/looking-ahead-to-2026-momentum-planning-and-your-matched-gift</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Dear friends,
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          As 2025 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on a year of meaningful progress at Beacon Hill Friends House, and to share what we’re preparing for next. 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Together, we: 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Finished our rear deck renovation,
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Completed the first phase of critical cellar structural work (including new steel columns and joist reinforcement), and
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           Welcomed hundreds of people through residency, worship, guest rooms, and public programs.
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          At a time when many community spaces are closing or scaling back, Beacon Hill Friends House has remained open, active, and deeply rooted in its mission.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Looking ahead to 2026, our focus is on preparing
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           wisely for the future while sustaining our work in the present.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Recently, our Board and staff have been working with architects to develop a long-range 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Vision Plan
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           for our building’s next 70 years. The plan asks three essential questions:
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How can we increase accessibility to our space?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How can resident spaces better support daily life in community?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           How can our public spaces better serve Beacon Hill Friends Meeting and the many groups who gather here?
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          We are running a 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://donorbox.org/beacon-hill-friends-house-annual-fund" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
           matching campaign for our FY26 operating budget
          &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          , and we are 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          very close
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           to reaching the full match of $15,000. 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          We are deeply grateful to everyone who has already given — your generosity has brought us almost to the finish line. 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          We have just 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
          $3,389 left to raise
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          ,
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           
         &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          and every dollar given now will be doubled until we reach our goal. 
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Your gift supports the day-to-day life of the House: resident financial aid, programs rooted in peace and justice, staff capacity, and the ongoing care of this 200-year-old building as a living, active community space.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          If Beacon Hill Friends House has been meaningful to you, or if you believe places of spiritual depth, hospitality, and public witness matter in this moment, we invite you to help us cross this finish line.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://donorbox.org/beacon-hill-friends-house-annual-fund" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
           Make your Annual Fund gift while it’s matched
          &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           and help sustain our work as we prepare thoughtfully for what’s ahead.
         &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          With gratitude,
          &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
          Jen Newman 
          &#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
           ﻿
          &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 01:13:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/looking-ahead-to-2026-momentum-planning-and-your-matched-gift</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">donor,Home</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/5f5985d2/dms3rep/multi/Flexible-Space-for-BHFM-and-Other-Groups-Space-for-child-care-and-fellowship-potluck-facilities-warming-ovens-sink-and-counter-space-and-an-additional-bathroom.-1.png">
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        <media:description>main image</media:description>
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    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Why I Give to BHFH from my IRA</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/ira-giving</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          Suzanna Schell, Beacon Hill Friends House Board of Managers
         &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
          I’ve been a part of the Beacon Hill Friends community for more than 25 years. Most recently I’ve been serving on the Beacon Hill Friends House Board of Managers as one of two Meeting representatives. I felt drawn to the mission of the House as it has lived into the Strategic Plan that was discerned 4+ years ago. 
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          I’m excited about the opportunities that the Beacon Hill Friends House has to reach beyond our Quaker Meeting and the House Residential community to connect with others working for a more peaceful and just world while also taking advantage of our close proximity to the Massachusetts State House. 
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          Now, as we all struggle with life in the Covid-19 pandemic, I’ve seen how the House staff and residents have quickly stepped up to create new ways of nurturing our extended community, from new virtual programming to repurposing the spaces in the House itself. As I shelter in place, the Beacon Hill Friends House has played a vital role in my spiritual life as well as offering new opportunities for engagement in social justice action. I’ve become a regular at MIDWEEK: Experiments in Faithfulness on Wednesday nights, which I highly recommend to anyone who is interested in different forms of spiritual practice. 
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          Until retiring three years ago, I worked as a fundraiser for a number of dynamic organizations that were dedicated to social, racial, and economic justice. Because I live simply and have enough for my own needs, I’ve been able to donate to groups who are helping to create a more just and peaceful world – including the Beacon Hill Friends House. It’s also been my own form of tax resistance. Every dollar I give to social change has been one less dollar to the war machine. 
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          And now that I’m retired I’ve been able to use a new method to support my values – a Qualified Charitable Distribution from my IRA. 
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          I was able to do this for the first time last year. Under the 2019 Tax Bill, I could no longer itemize my deductions which included my charitable giving. By giving through my IRA, I was actually able to increase my donations and still avoid paying federal income taxes that support our bloated military budget and more. If you are over 70 ½, and are fortunate to have enough, I invite you to join me in making a Qualified Charitable Donation from your IRA. 
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      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 01:07:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/ira-giving</guid>
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      <title>The Arc of Residency at BHFH</title>
      <link>https://www.bhfh.org/the-arc-of-residency</link>
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          BHFH Residency Program
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          The Mission of Beacon Hill Friends House is: 
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          To embody the Quaker principles of faith, simplicity, integrity, community and social responsibility in order to nurture and call forth the Light in all of us.
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          Beacon Hill Friends House is as much a thing one does as a place one lives.
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           The Friends house is a place for people to grow and deepen, whether you attend one public event, or you live here for four years. Our full-time residents have the deepest opportunity for engagement here, and thus the deepest opportunity for growth. 
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          We all arrive at the Friends House at a different point in our lives, and we work together to build a residential community rooted in Quaker values that supports growth, discovery, and reflection. In addition to the life here at the House, we value each individual’s life outside the House, and seek to honor that balance.
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          Though each experience will be unique, the House provides some structures and support to help residents reflect, grow, and build skills and capacity to live in greater alignment with their values and our shared vision of a just world. Three main areas where the House seeks to offer support are Community and Service, Cooperation and Collaboration, and Personal and Spiritual Growth. Below are some things a resident can expect in their journey here.
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          Community and Service
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          Being an “intentional community” is one of the most obvious ways we live into our value of community, and the practice of living intentionally with a diverse group of people offers a wide variety of joys, challenges, and opportunities for growth. We build community here through our shared House dinners five times each week, our House Meetings twice a month, our Retreats twice a year, as well as other opportunities to connect offered formally by our committees and informally by our housemates.
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          Our sense of community here extends outside just our full-time residents, and includes the Beacon Hill Friends Meeting, guests who come to stay in our two overnight guest rooms, people who attend our public events, and others who use our space. On an institutional level, we support a diverse group of organizers and activists with affordable (often free) use of our space. Residents are exposed to these networks of change in Boston, and often get opportunities to interact and make connections with the folks coming through our space. Additionally, many House residents bring their own social concerns, and the House seeks to support these with educational and service opportunities.
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          A resident will leave here having shared welcome, hospitality, and fellowship with a wide array of people, and having reflected on and practiced living a life in line with their values.
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          Cooperation and Collaboration
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          When a resident first arrives at the Friends House, there is a lot to learn. While all residents work together to support new arrivals, each new resident is assigned a mentor, who helps to orient them to the systems we use to live and work together, from our dish crews, to our chores, to our committee structures. 
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          During a resident’s tenure here, they will serve on various committees, learning group process skills from our Quaker roots, and from the experience of the wide variety of folks they work with. Many residents will take on leadership roles, such as serving as a Clerk (facilitator) for a committee or for House Meeting, or serving on the Board of the non-profit that governs the House.
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          All residents participate in collective care for the House by participating in our twice-yearly Work Days. Many residents will also serve on our Building and Grounds committee, which helps with ongoing maintenance and larger building projects.
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          A resident will leave here with a strong sense of group process and experience with collaborative work, which are skills that extend beyond cooperative living into our personal and professional lives.
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          Personal and Spiritual Growth
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          While some residents are Quaker, most are not; we are a diverse community running the spectrum of faith and non-faith backgrounds. Each resident will have different personal and spiritual needs; at the same time, we often grow most when we share in each other's journeys. Residents participate in a number of programs here designed to facilitate this sharing and growth. During House Meeting and House Retreat, we explore deep topics together. Committees organize events to share their diverse holiday traditions and to create times for reflection. Residents are encouraged to attend and to help create public programming at the House that offers opportunities for spiritual and personal exploration.
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          In addition to these communal activities, each resident also participates in a personal yearly reflection process, engaging in queries both individually and with others in the community. Throughout their time here, residents are exposed to tools, practices, and guidance from the Quaker faith, including most notably the use of centering silence. 
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          Residency at the Friends House is an opportunity to explore one's faith, to love, accept, and accompany, and to prepare for whatever comes next in one’s journey. We hope that the lessons and growth someone experiences as a resident stay with them beyond their time at the Friends House. 
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      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:14:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.bhfh.org/the-arc-of-residency</guid>
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      <title>Finding Balance</title>
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          I could write so many essays (and have filled many journals) with thoughts about work I want to revisit and musings on what I have learned in my time attending Beyond Diversity 101 Workshops.Today, the word that is coming to me is balance. I'm still learning how to work with polarities/dualities. But I'm realizing that so much of the time, the things people think might be "either/or" are actually "yes/and"—like yin and yang, light and dark, they are two parts of a whole.
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          What's alive right now for me personally, and in our lives here at the house, is that we are all going through so much—the world is scary, our day to day lives are complicated and difficult. It is easy to sink into the anger, the hopelessness, and the feelings of powerlessness that are so prevalent. Those feelings are real and I honor them. But in order to keep myself going, I also need to remember to balance those feelings with the joy, the whimsy, and the sometimes absurd beauty of community. 
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          Among the ways we lean into joy range from introducing our international residents to uniquely American foods—fluffernutter sandwiches, s'mores, and tater tot hotdish—to Housies joyously and riotously sledding on the Boston Common during our recent snow days. We seek to balance the hardness of the world with the soft, warm landing place that feels like Home.
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          We're in this together—here's hoping you are also able to create Balance in your system.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:03:22 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>QuakerSpeak Features BHFH</title>
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          Eye-Opening Lessons from Living In a Quaker Intentional Community
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           Check out our staff in a video about what life is like to live at Beacon Hill Friends House!
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      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:29:35 GMT</pubDate>
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