Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at a meeting?
People gather in proximity.

What happens during the silence?
During the silence, people may sit, stand, change position, read, write, stretch, meditate, or attend to quiet work. There is no required posture or activity. The only condition is that actions remain quiet and do not interrupt the shared silence.

How long are meetings?
Meetings typically last between 45 and 75 minutes. The exact length is set locally and may change.

Who runs the meetings?
No one runs the meetings. Practical tasks (opening spaces, reading texts, closing) are handled by participants on a basis determined locally.

Is there a leader or facilitator?
No. There are no leaders, central facilitators, or guides. 

How are decisions made?
Local, practical matters are handled by those present.

Why silence?
Silence removes pressure. It allows people to be present without being required to explain or justify their time at Open Silence.

Is this connected to Quakers or AA?
Open Silence is not affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends or Alcoholics Anonymous. The form of gathering is historically similar, but Open Silence does not share theology, program, or organizational structure with either.

Why don’t you accept outside funding?
To avoid external influence, obligation, or expansion pressure.

Where does the money go?
Funds collected are used only for basic administrative and maintenance costs or as any group sees fit amongst themselves.

Why doesn’t Open Silence promote itself?
Promotion creates expectation and representation. Open Silence relies on attraction rather than promotion.

Does Open Silence include activities outside the meetings?
No. Open Silence consists only of the meetings themselves, though participants are welcome to connect with one another and organize activities outside the meetings that do not involve silence. 

Is this for everybody?
Open Silence is for anyone who wants to be together without needing a reason, explanation, or outcome.