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Formally called the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, the religion began in England as an offshoot of Quakerism.

When conscientious objectors are asked to establish their bona fides, the fact that they belong to a tradition with pacifist commitments — such as Quakerism — may be taken as a useful proxy.

“To shroud it in Quakerism,” he said, was “opportunistic and cynical.”

Thompson, who had converted to Quakerism, moved to Friends House, and relocated to a few more assisted-living homes before settling at Arbor Place, where she was known as Dr. Patti.

This new frontier in virtual Quakerism posed a question — was it possible to gather with God over Zoom?