IMYM Faith & Practice, 2009, p 55

 In the beginning, the Religious Society of Friends mistrusted church hierarchies, believing that the path to the Divine is inward for each individual and worshiping group. Friends have kept the power of decision in religious matters as close as possible to the primary worship group and the individual. The monthly meeting, accordingly, has a freedom of action and responsibility in matters of membership not given to the yearly or regional meetings, with some exceptions. On the other hand, there are some matters on which a degree of uniformity among neighboring monthly meetings is essential to the good order of the Society.

 By virtue of membership in a monthly meeting, Friends also become members of a regional and a yearly meeting. All members have the privilege and responsibility to participate in decision making within each body. All members are welcomed and encouraged to attend their regional and yearly meetings.

 Within its own area of responsibility, each body is autonomous. Friends attend regional or yearly meetings not as instructed delegates of their monthly meetings but as their representatives. They join others in worship and in decision making that responds to the movements of the Spirit at that time and place.