Religion

Please join us. We have 6-12 Zen practitioners every Sunday evening for Zen meditation. Our teachers and sometimes a senior student will offer an encouraging community talk or practice- instruction in Zen practice. First bell rings at 7 pm so come 15 minutes early. Please be in your seat by that time. Our meditation is silent for 25-minutes, with 5 minutes walking mediation and dharma talks in between. ***On first Sundays***, we have a meet and greet with tea, discussion, and snacks. Meet with a teacher for instruction; let us know if you are new to meditation or to Zen practice. ***We welcome newcomers. We end our time together with tea and conversation. Join us!*** **Location:** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of **Rockville United Church** at [355 Linthicum St, Rockville MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9). After parking in front, walk slightly down the slope and take the small rightward path up a slight slope to the back door of the church. Look for our signs. We're on the lower level of the church past the double wooden doors. Here's a [guiding map](https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/14bx6iasquh838t1gyvze/Joyful-Mind-Zendo-Location.png?rlkey=p4vpcrj9bvhfeinqq6bh1nhgy&st=0lgovsmy&dl=0). [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting and walking meditation on Sundays, Monday and Tuesday in our Rockville Zendo. All are welcome, no experience necessary, free to all. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. All are welcome. No experience necessary. Let us know if you have questions.

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

Please join us. We are a group of 6-12 people who come together weekly on Mondays for an hour of silent meditation, walking meditation. We all need more silence and peace in this world. We end with tea and snack and a poem with sharing. Our guiding teacher has practiced Zen meditation for 25 years, but we all share leadership. Beginners or anyone interested in silent meditation and fellowship are welcome. We sit in chairs, have a reading or brief instruction, a bell and silent meditation for 10 minutes, followed by walking meditation, a bell and 20 minutes of silent meditation. We end with an offering of tea and a snack, conversation and a poem and reflections. A warm and welcoming group. Free, please join us. We meet in the sanctuary In [Rockville United Church](https://www.rockvilleunitedchurch.org/) in Twinbrook, MD. Plenty of parking. Enter the main door and look for a green sign. ***This is a good place to rest and refresh on the way home from work and before dinner.*** Free. Try it.

Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1975943804109?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count. **There is no cover.** Support NoVA's only LGBTQ+ bar! There is no cover. There also is no group tab to worry about; order whatever you want on you own. The Go Gay DC Pride happy hour officially starts at 6 p.m. on the front enclosed patio. Enjoy the happy hour drink specials (which last until 7 p.m.) The dinner menu is at [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu) Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets. This fun happy hour gathering brings LGBTQ+ folk, including Allies, together for conversation. Feel free to invite all your friends to join you there! **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Freddie's is up 23rd Street just a block. Just look for the rainbow flags on the right side of the street! Freddie's was voted the Best Virginia Bar by Washington Blade readers. Don't like a smoky bar? You are covered: Freddie's is a smoke-free establishment. (Ashtrays are provided in back of the building if smoking is 'your thing'). Freddie's is an LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar. It offers Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/) Arrive at any time that's convenient for you. There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for 21+. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course. This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](http://www.gogaydc.com)**, Metropolitan Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [http://www.gogaydc.com](http://www.gogaydc.com) Mingle with fabulous LGBTQ+ folk and allies. Go Gay DC Leader **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)** will be there to greet you. Bring your friends and meet new people from all over the world. Casual attire is fine. You are welcome regardless of where you live. Guests from DC, Maryland, and Virginia often attend. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies

**🎉 Book Swap: Bring Your Books to the The Potter's House Café & Bookstore! 📚** 📅 **Date:** Monday, December 22nd, 2025 🕒 **Time:** 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 📍 **Location:** The Potter's House Café & Bookstore - 1658 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009 **Agenda:** * **6:00 PM - 6:30 PM** \- Check\-in and chat * **6:30 PM - 7:00 PM** \- Introductions * **7:00 PM - 8:00 PM** \- Book swap **Please note**: * Gently used books are ideal for swapping. * If a book you bring isn’t swapped, you will have the option to donate it to The Potter's House community shelf. * This is a “stay-and-swap” event, so please join with the intention of engaging and connecting with the group.

Let’s enjoy the festive surroundings at the Meadowlark Winter Walk of Lights. Buy your ticket now for the 7:30 pm slot on Sunday 12/21. Time slots do sell out. You can buy tickets [Here](https://tickets.novaparks.com/event/2025-meadowlarks-winter-walk-of-lights-pniz2u?utm_campaign=0ZaVKcKU&utm_source=WWOLMainPage&utm_medium=Website&utm_content=BuyButton&utm_term=Intro) If you’d like to get together for dinner before Meadowlark, please comment below and let’s plan to meet st 6:00 pm Bear Branch Tavern 133 Maple Avenue East Vienna, VA. 22180

Greetings, For those still in the area for the holiday, let's meet again at **Union Market in NE DC** **for coffee and conversation** regarding various topics to include team building, purpose, partnerships, and advocacy project collaborations with those who share similar values **(readers feel free to bring books; several indoor/outdoor restaurants, bars, lounges, stores, and coffee shops in the market area)**. Also, for those interested, District Running Collective (DRC) meets at this location (Union Market curbside) nearly every Wednesday evening (at 6:30pm) and Saturday mornings (at 7:00am for 6 to 10mile runners; 8:00am for 3 mile runners). Updates can be sent regarding any location changes/run rescheduling. Three miles takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on fitness level). Great opportunity for novice or more experienced runners to jumpstart their holistic health journey (e.g., sleep, diet, exercise, mental resilience) with others who share similar personal development goals (see DRC information link below). **If you are not interested in the the morning run, feel free to RSVP for the coffee and conversation only.** If there are any questions, comments, or concerns regarding this meeting feel free to call or message. Updates may also be added to the event chat/comment section at anytime, thank you. Link for District Running Collective (DRC) * https://www.districtrunningcollective.com/ Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday December, 7th, 2025 1:15pm

This is a single person event for an in-person quantum healing session in Alexandria, VA. If you are interested in visiting a past-life and getting in touch with your higher self, please join me for this free and very intense opportunity. The session is based on Dolores Cannon’s *Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique* and takes about three hours to complete. We have human friendly cats. There are some small activities that should be accomplished prior to the meeting, for a more quality session, so I will be requesting an email address to send instructions to. It is important to let me know prior to the session if you cannot make it to allow someone else to take your space. See you soon!

Hello friends!! K has graciously opened her home to host a 6 hour Kirtan and Community Potluck! Come for just a bit, or stay the whole time! Schedule: 2pm - Peter 3pm - Micah 4pm - Rufus 5pm - Open Jam 6pm - Vandya 7pm - Sumer Please come if you feel compelled to lead a chant, play instruments, or request a chant we can learn. Of course, please come to just chant too! That is the most important aspect, after all! I like to describe Kirtan, in simple terms, as a chanting meditation. When you chant in Sanskrit, and repeat the mantra over and over, it vibrates your vocal chords and resonates through your whole body. When everyone in the room is chanting together, that vibration unifies us on a particle level and allows us to access and connect with the Divine within ourselves and each other. It is one of the main practices of Bhakti Yoga, which is another path of Yoga, which unites our mind, body, and spirit. Feel free to bring some food to share or an instrument to play. Any and all are welcome to join! Time: 2pm - 8ish Address: 5914 Johnson Ave. Bethesda, MD 20817 This is a private residence - open to the public - all are welcome - bring a friend, the family, the kids, the parents, the spouse - comfortable setting. If you want to sit on the floor, it might be wise to bring something to sit on - Zafu or pillow or the like.

Kate welcomes anyone from Singlefaith to drop in at her apartment on Christmas Day. Stay a few minutes, stay an hour, stay longer. Noon to 6:00 PM (I do have one cat, he is friendly, but I can put him in my room if necessary). Kate will provide cookies, cider, hot cocoa and other non-alcoholic beverages. Feel free to bring an appetizer, snack or other finger food item to share. 3909 Lakehouse Road, Apt #4 Beltsville (Calverton), MD 20705 ***Kate will post some signs to direct you*** \- here are written instructions: ***Once you arrive at BUILDING 3909*** \- this number is displayed at the top of the entrance door\. When you enter the building, go down the stairs. At the bottom of the stairwell there is another door. Go through that door. In the hallway will be another door on your left. Go through that door. Kate's apartment (#4) is the first door on your right. ***Please read these PARKING instructions carefully.*** Street Parking is FREE along Beltsville Road, which runs adjacent to Lakehouse Road and the Lighthouse at Twin Lakes apartment complex. Parking in the parking lot for Lighthouse at Twin Lakes requires a fee for guests. The fee is paid with the PANGO App. It is a small fee, between $1.00 and $3.00 depending on how long you stay. There are two rows of parking in front of Kate's building. The first row faces the building (and is for residents only) and the other row faces the street (this is the Pango paid parking for guests.) If you choose to pay to park in the parking lot, download the PANGO App. Each section of parking has different numbers - the number for the lot outside Kate's building door is 70908. Kate will send her phone number via Meetup Messaging to everyone who RSVPs to attend.

What does it really mean to live generously—beyond money, beyond obligation, and beyond the quick fixes of “being nice”? In this discussion, we’ll explore the habits, mindsets, and daily practices that cultivate genuine generosity of spirit and help us become people who strengthen the communities we’re part of. Together, we’ll consider questions like: * How does generosity reshape our character over time? * What small, consistent practices open us up to deeper compassion? * How can we give in ways that are sustainable, meaningful, and rooted in connection rather than burnout? * What does a truly generous community look like, and how do we help build it? Expect a warm, reflective, and practical conversation. No prior experience or preparation needed—just curiosity and a willingness to listen and share. Whether you’re looking to enrich your personal life, your relationships, or your broader community involvement, this meetup offers space to think, learn, and grow alongside others. Join us as we explore how ordinary actions—offering attention, extending patience, practicing gratitude, or showing up for others—can shape us into more generous people and create communities marked by kindness, trust, and mutual care.

Join the DMV Bible Study's prayer night for an evening of connecting with the Holy Spirit through a corporate prayer. Dive deep into the teachings of the Bible, specifically exploring topics related to Christian theology, spirituality, and the significance of doctrine in our faith journey. This session will be an enriching opportunity to study the Word of God, reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, and connect with fellow Christian men and women in a supportive environment. Through interactive discussions, prayer sessions, and group activities, participants will have the chance to enhance their understanding of key theological concepts, deepen their spiritual connection, and foster a sense of community. Whether you are a seasoned Bible study enthusiast or just beginning to explore Christianity, this event welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and beliefs to come together for a night of growth, reflection, and fellowship. Don't miss this opportunity to grow in your faith and knowledge of the Christian doctrine!

All professionals in the DMV and MidAtlantic area are invited! This event is to every and each professional in different industry, sector and specialization to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment, to meet other professionals, to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global professionalism. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will give out name tags and you write your name and your industry/sector/specialization. However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that area. DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member\. \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITELINK. IT RULES.** http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/3/2/b/600_449154059.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/7/a/600_448335994.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/0/2/6/600_448197382.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/1/7/600_448196599.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/8/e/600_434712942.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/9/a/600_434712954.jpeg

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

The holiday season can be beautiful—but for many, Christmas Eve can also feel quiet, heavy, or lonely. At Unity of Columbus, we believe no one should feel alone during this sacred night. You are warmly invited to join us for a **Christmas Eve Celebration** filled with light, music, connection, and the true spirit of Christmas. Whether you are seeking a peaceful place to reflect, a spiritual home for the evening, or simply the company of kind-hearted people, you are welcome here.

As we prepare to enter a new year, the Burning Bowl Ceremony offers a powerful and heartfelt opportunity to let go of what no longer serves us and make space for new beginnings. You are warmly invited to join us for this sacred and reflective ritual. The Burning Bowl Ceremony is a beloved Unity tradition—an empowering moment where we release old patterns, worries, or limiting beliefs by writing them down and symbolically releasing them into the flame. This act of letting go opens the door to clarity, peace, and transformation.

You are invited to participate in one of Unity’s most meaningful and empowering traditions—the **White Stone Ceremony**. As we enter a new year, this sacred ritual gives you the opportunity to listen within, connect with Spirit, and claim a new name or intention for your life. In ancient times, receiving a white stone symbolized freedom, new identity, and fresh possibility. Today, we continue that tradition by holding a smooth white stone, entering a quiet meditation, and allowing Spirit to reveal a word, name, or message that reflects who you are becoming.

**Women of Truth Circle** is a sacred space where women come together to grow spiritually, share authentically, and support one another in living from truth and love. Each gathering invites reflection, open conversation, and gentle practices that help participants deepen their connection to Spirit — and to one another. Together, we explore topics such as self-awareness, forgiveness, compassion, emotional healing, and living with intention. The circle is rooted in Unity principles and honors each woman’s personal path to spiritual awakening.