Introducing Early Quakers

Silver Wattle Quaker Centre
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Religion & Spirituality
  • Updated Monthly

Introducing Early Quakers is a nine-part podcast series from Silver Wattle Quaker Centre in New South Wales. By exploring the lives and legacy of the first generation of Friends, this series introduces remarkable 17th-century women and men whose lives of courage, clarity, and Spirit-led conviction helped form the Quaker tradition as we know it today. Narrated by Michael Corbett. Learn more at silverwattle.org.au/podcast

Episodes

  1. Episode 9 – Four Early Quaker Women

    Jun 4

    Episode 9 – Four Early Quaker Women

    Episode 9 – Four Early Quaker Women Elizabeth Bathurst, Katherine Evans, Sarah Chevers, and Judith Zinspenning In this episode of Introducing Early Quakers, Michael Corbett explores the lives and ministries of four remarkable women from the first generation of Quakers: Elizabeth Bathurst, Katherine Evans, Sarah Chevers, and Judith Zinspenning. These women played significant roles in the early Quaker movement as preachers, writers, missionaries, and spiritual leaders. Elizabeth Bathurst became known for her theological writings and defence of women's ministry. Katherine Evans and Sarah Chevers endured imprisonment by the Inquisition in Malta while travelling in ministry. Judith Zinspenning helped establish Quakerism in the Netherlands and became a leading voice among early Friends. Their stories reveal the courage, faith, and perseverance of women who followed their spiritual leadings despite persecution, illness, imprisonment, and the social expectations of seventeenth-century Europe. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website for transcript and discussion questions: silverwattle.org.au/introducing-early-quakers-ep9

    20 min
  2. Episode 8 - Francis Howgill

    May 4

    Episode 8 - Francis Howgill

    Episode 8: Francis Howgill — A Life of Conviction and Witness Francis Howgill was one of the early leaders of the Quaker movement, known for his deep spiritual searching, bold ministry, and unwavering commitment to truth. From his beginnings among the Westmorland Seekers to his role among the “Valiant Sixty,” Howgill helped shape the foundations of the Religious Society of Friends. In this episode, we explore his journey from established minister to Quaker preacher, his travels and partnership with Edward Burrough, and the cost of his convictions—including imprisonment for refusing to swear allegiance to the crown. Through his writings and witness, Howgill invites us to turn inward to the Light and to build our lives on what is eternal. Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: https://silverwattle.org.au/podcast

    14 min
  3. Episode 7 - Joan Vokin

    Mar 28

    Episode 7 - Joan Vokin

    Joan Vokins (1630–1690) was an early Quaker minister from Berkshire, England. After becoming convinced of the Truth in 1663, she became a passionate preacher and traveller in the ministry.In 1680 she sailed across the Atlantic to visit Friends in New York, Long Island, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and the Caribbean, encouraging meetings and strengthening the Quaker community. Her journeys were difficult and often dangerous, but she remained faithful to the call she felt to serve.Joan was also a prolific letter writer. Her writings were later collected in the book God’s Mighty Power Magnified, which shares her experiences and spiritual reflections.This episode explores her life, ministry, and enduring witness among early Friends.Show CreditsPresented by: Silver Wattle Quaker CentreWritten and Narrated by: Michael CorbettIntroductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver WattleProduced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers AustraliaBased on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David JohnsonProduced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world.Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle)Website for transcript and discussion questions: https://silverwattle.org.au/introducing-early-quakers-ep7

    16 min
  4. Episode 6 - James Naylor

    Mar 4

    Episode 6 - James Naylor

    This episode tells the story of James Naylor (1618–1660), an early Quaker minister who worked closely with George Fox, drew many followers, and later faced severe punishment after a public action in Bristol. His life raises questions about leadings, community accountability, repentance, and the inward light. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website for transcript and discussion questions: https://silverwattle.org.au/introducing-early-quakers-ep6

    16 min
  5. Episode 5 - Mary Fisher

    Feb 5

    Episode 5 - Mary Fisher

    Episode 5: Mary Fisher (1623–1698) Mary Fisher was one of the earliest and most remarkable Quaker missionaries, known for her courage, endurance, and deep faith. Born in Yorkshire, she became a Convincement Friend after hearing George Fox in 1651 and soon joined the ranks of the Valiant Sixty, travelling widely to preach the Quaker message. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: silverwattle.org.au/podcast

    14 min
  6. Episode 4 - James Parnell

    Jan 5

    Episode 4 - James Parnell

    Episode 4 Summary James Parnell was a young but powerful voice in the early Quaker movement. Episode 4 tells the story of his deep spiritual commitment, fearless preaching, and harsh imprisonment for his faith. Despite his short life, James’s witness and final writings reveal a strong trust in the Inner Light and a willingness to suffer for truth rather than compromise it. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: https://silverwattle.org.au/podcast

    13 min
  7. Episode 3 - Margaret Fell

    12/04/2025

    Episode 3 - Margaret Fell

    Episode 3 follows Margaret Fell, who became convinced of the Quaker message after meeting George Fox. Soon her home, Swarthmoor Hall, became a center for the growing movement. Episode 3 looks at her practical leadership, her support for imprisoned Friends, and her strong defense of women’s ministry. Her work helped shape the early organisation and direction of Quakerism. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: silverwattle.org.au/podcast

    20 min
  8. Episode 2 - George Fox

    11/04/2025

    Episode 2 - George Fox

    Episode 2 follows the early life of George Fox, from his years as a shepherd and apprentice to his spiritual crisis and breakthrough. Narrator Michael Corbett shares how Fox's inward journey led him to reject religious institutions and discover the living presence of Christ as inward teacher. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: https://silverwattle.org.au/podcast

    16 min
  9. Episode 1 - Setting the Scene

    10/05/2025

    Episode 1 - Setting the Scene

    Episode 1 sets the social and political context in which the early Quakers emerged. Narrator Michael Corbett shares how 17th-century England was a time of upheaval, persecution, and radical spiritual seeking. From civil war to the Puritan crackdown, early Friends discovered their faith not in institutions, but in the inward experience of divine truth. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Produced on Ngambri–Ngunnawal land, near Weereewa (Lake George), where Silver Wattle Quaker Centre is located. This series includes contributions from Friends across Australia and around the world. Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: https://silverwattle.org.au/podcast

    9 min
  10. Introducing Early Quakers: Series Trailer

    09/16/2025

    Introducing Early Quakers: Series Trailer

    Welcome to Introducing Early Quakers, a podcast series presented by Silver Wattle Quaker Centre in New South Wales, Australia. In this short trailer, Ann Zubrick introduces the series and shares how it emerged from a course at Silver Wattle in 2023. Queensland Friend Michael Corbett reflects on his experience compiling the stories of early Quakers — and the unexpected leading that brought them to life. “I’ve never done anything like this before… A few minutes meditating and then just let my fingers type out what was coming.” The first full episode, focusing on George Fox, will be released 5 October 2025, with new episodes on the 5th of each month through June 2026. Show Credits Presented by: Silver Wattle Quaker Centre Written and Narrated by: Michael Corbett Introductions Read by: Ann Zubrick, Board Member, Silver Wattle Produced and Edited by: Holly Dhynes, Quakers Australia Based on materials originally developed by: Michael Corbett, with gratitude to David Johnson Recording Location: Australia Music: Classical Guitar by Mantikore (licensed from AudioJungle) Website: https://silverwattle.org.au/podcast Introducing Early Quakers ✨ Exploring the Lives and Legacy of the First Generation of Friends

    2 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Introducing Early Quakers is a nine-part podcast series from Silver Wattle Quaker Centre in New South Wales. By exploring the lives and legacy of the first generation of Friends, this series introduces remarkable 17th-century women and men whose lives of courage, clarity, and Spirit-led conviction helped form the Quaker tradition as we know it today. Narrated by Michael Corbett. Learn more at silverwattle.org.au/podcast

Information

  • Creator
    Silver Wattle Quaker Centre
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Silver Wattle Quaker Centre
  • Show Website
    Introducing Early Quakers

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