Jon teaches as an associate tutor on outreach, marketing, communications, and online community in the Quaker context. Jon works in charity communications and is the former Head of Communications & Impact at Woodbrooke and the Outreach Marketing Officer for Quakers in Britain, building on a background in arts marketing and student union communications.
Jon has a MA in Politics from Lancaster University where his study focused on student movements and the Neoliberal University. He has over ten years of experience participating in and thinking about online and offline communities; including building an active online community around Football Manager. He is the former co-host and co-producer of A Quaker Take podcast, hosts the FM Thoughts podcast, and live streams on Twitch.
Jon’s home meeting is Bailrigg Meeting at Lancaster University. He has served as a Meeting for Sufferings Rep for his Area Meeting and has been Secretary to Quaker Life Nominations Committee, as part of his role at Quakers in Britain. He has also supported Quaker work on engaging young adults, simplifying structures, and inclusion.
Publications:
Our limited understanding of community: It’s time to remake Quakerism
Friends Quarterly – Issue 2 2021
An exploration of the nature of online church and identity in the Quaker context looking at the limits of Quaker membership in comparison to the fluidity of online community. One of four articles by four different authors on ‘the future of Quakerism’ for the Friends Quarterly.
Students in Government?
Alborada – Latin American Uncovered – Spring/Summer 2015
An article in the first Alborda magazine (Spring | Summer 2015) on developments in Chile with the student movement and the Bachelet Government following the 2014 election.
Quaker Blogs and Articles:
‘It’s more about a mindset than knowledge – it’s a willingness to experiment.’
The Friend – 26 March 2020
How can Quakers gather, and minister, when Friends are forced into isolation? Jon Martin considers digital options at Woodbrooke
Why we’re going to Glastonbury
Quakers in Britain – June 2019
With its mix of music, politics and spirituality, Glastonbury festival remains one of the biggest in Britain. Jon Martin explains why this year young adult Quakers will be there to provide a place of spiritual sanctuary.
6 things you never knew were invented by Quakers
Quakers in Britain – February 2019
From anti-capitalist boardgames to star-spangled banners to one very controversial line, Jon Martin takes a look back at some of his favourite Quaker innovations through history for #QuakerFacts.
Are Sundays more sacred?
Quakers in Britain – November 2018
Jon Martin explores the faith basis for meeting for worship and challenges the notion that Quakers should always meet for an hour on Sundays.
A quick history of chocolate and Quakerism
Quakers in Britain – March 2018
Jon Martin looks back at the mixed legacy of the Quaker confectionery companies.
Quakerism: a faith for turbulent times
Quakers in Britain – October 2017
For Quaker Week 2017 Jon Martin reflects on how the history of Quakerism means it has always been a faith for uncertain times.
