A nine-day conference with more than 300 Quakers from all over the world begins today in Dublin.
Members of the Religious Society of Friends from 40 countries will attend the denomination's triennial international conference to explore their response to global issues.
Delegates from as far as New Zealand, Bolivia, Japan and Kenya have travelled for the opening ceremony at King's Hospital School, Palmerstown, tomorrow.
It is the second time the event has been held in Ireland, the last one being in Waterford in 1964.
"It is a tremendous privilege for us in Ireland to host this gathering of Quakers from around the world," said Alan Pim, Clerk of Ireland Yearly Meeting of Friends.
"The conference happens every three years, and this is only the second time that Ireland has been the venue.
"We stress putting our faith into action in a variety of ways, so it is really special to meet with Friends from other countries to hear about their experiences and the challenges they face.
"The triennial conference builds solidarity and connections which we can use in spiritual and practical ways when we return home."
Almost 40 Irish Friends will be attending the conference, which has been organised by the international Quaker network, Friends World Committee for Consultation.
Its theme — Finding the Prophetic Voice for our Times — was inspired by the Bible verse 1 Corinthians 14:1 with its programme including business, worship, discussion of current global issues, and a celebration of 70 years since the founding of FWCC.