Creating a Kind Ethical Egalitarian World

## **Sunday Worship: Encountering God’s Word** Join us every **Sunday at 10:45 AM** for a powerful time of worship, prayer, and deep biblical engagement. Our Sunday service is the heart of our community, where we gather to honor God and equip ourselves for the week ahead through the transformative power of the Gospel. *** ### **What to Expect** * **Christ-Centered Worship:** We begin our time together by lifting our voices and hearts, creating a space to experience the presence of the Holy Spirit through song and prayer. * **Exegetical Preaching:** We value the depth of Scripture. Our sermons focus on unfolding the Bible verse-by-verse, providing clear theological insights and practical applications that speak to the challenges of modern life. * **A Welcoming Community:** At Bethel, you aren't just a face in the crowd. You’ll find a diverse family of believers dedicated to walking together in love, grace, and mutual support. * **A Call to Action:** We believe faith should move us. Every service concludes with an encouragement to take the hope of Christ out into our neighborhoods, workplaces, and families. ### **Plan Your Visit** Whether you are wearing your "Sunday best" or coming in casual attire, you are welcome here. We believe that no matter where you are in your spiritual journey, God has a message of grace waiting for you. * **Location:** 9200 Edmonston Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770 * **Time:** Sundays at 10:45 AM *** > *"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."* — **Matthew 18:20**

# **FREE HUGS** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** \*\*Lots of [Hugs...jeff**](http://hugs...jeff%2A%2A/) 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

**MLK Library - Room 401A** Why do so many of us feel like we are alone when we have so many more ways of connecting with others than ever before? Are we missing out on forming true friendships by failing to consider the spiritual impulse for those connections? It seems to be our instinct – and need – to be connected to others. But we also seem to have created increasingly fractured and isolating social structures that don’t actually require us to build those connections – much less with anyone who may look or think differently than we do. So how might recognizing our reality as spiritual beings, as all of us being part of one human family, help us understand where this instinct comes from – and what we need to fulfill it? How might it inform the types and qualities of relationships we look for – and who with? And beyond our individual relationships, what would it look like to reconfigure our communities to make finding and building connection easier for all of us? How can we create a culture of community that supports everyone in this search, that allows every individual to thrive not despite but with and because of the larger diversity of people around them? What are the spiritual principles and qualities we need to build and nurture these diverse, inclusive, and connected communities? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the deeper truths that unite us – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the search for true friendship. Please join us for a lively discussion as we explore how we can build true community together. *“Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone, let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.”* – Bahá’í Teachings **\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

Thanks to extensive surveillance, tireless exploration, and intelligence from a recently rescued ally, First Seeker Sarmak has finally pinpointed a secret entrance to the mysterious Wreck of the Returned. If the Starfinders can gain access to this entry point and secure it without being caught, they can use this entrance as a foothold to launch two vital missions: a rescue mission to the conversion facility within the Wreck’s sublevels, and a direct assault on the being at the heart of the Wreck, Elovai. It’s up to you to navigate underground tunnels through the Sloughscar Hills on Akiton to gain entry to the Wreck of the Returned and secure an entry point without being discovered! A Starfinder Society Scenario designed for 3rd- through 4th-level characters, playable in 2-3 hours. This is an adventure in the ongoing Invasion's Edge metaplot. Written by Kyle T. Raes.

Petitioning in the belly of the beast! From Cannabis legalization to reforming Washington DC’s election system - to raising the minimum wage - no one has lead more successful ballot initiatives in DC than Adam Eidinger. As Social Action director for Dr Bronner’s he’s been what MSNOW’s Rachel Maddow once called the family owned organic and fair trade company’s “Activist in Chief” for the past 25 years. Adam will share his thoughts on initiative 86 and reveal what’s in store for future projects. He’ll also be sharing free samples of Dr Bronner’s soap at his 30 minute talk. 🧼 Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

* Sun May 31, 2026 * 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM * 22124 Oakton, Virginia 22124 [map it](https://www.google.com/maps?q=22124%20Oakton,%20Virginia%2022124) ### Enhance your leadership skills in this free, interactive program facilitated by *Dr. Tyrone Byrd*. Dr. Byrd is the Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Arlington Public Schools and was recognized as the APS 2025 Leader of the Year. It will address understanding how our experiences shape how we see and respond to others. ● Recognizing how assumptions influence relationships and decision-making ● Practicing awareness, empathy, and responsibility in community life ● Leading in ways that foster dignity, trust, and connection across differences. At its heart, this work affirms a simple truth: **Leadership is not positional; it is relational and relationships shape community health**.

**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.** Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions** 1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? 2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? 3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

* Workshop: ***Resonate to the God Current Within You*** * Video Presentation by Sri Doug Kunin ***The Quest For God Consciousness*** * Keynote talk by Guest Speaker Bob Lawton ***Spiritual Keys For Your Journey Home to God*** * Discussions, creative arts, panels * Catered Lunch Included 👉 Free for Guests (Limited Seats) Pre-register by May 21st, 2026 👉For the full program and to Registration go to: [eckankarmaryland.org](https://eckankarmaryland.org/) **Maryland ECK Center, Third Floor** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 314** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **Suggested donations, which include lunch, are listed on the registration page.** **[CLICK HERE TO REGISTER](https://eckankarmaryland.org/2026-day-of-eck/)** **Presented by the Maryland & D.C. Satsang Societies, Inc., Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2026 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

**NOW ONLINE** The weekly Sunday morning (10:30 am to 12 noon) class begins with a welcome, short reflection on an aspect of the teachings, and includes an arriving meditation (15 minutes) that will often incorporate poems and may end with a reflection or question. The opening meditation is followed by an invitation to each person to share their name and a few words (for example, what is alive for them right now or what their intention is for the class or the day). The sharing has been a powerful support to help welcome new people, get to know each other, and build community/sangha. Following a brief period of mindful stretching/movement, we finish with a longer meditation (25-30 minutes) and final reflections on the teachings, sharing, Q&A, and announcements. Class participants are welcome to stay and engage with other members of the community or adjourn to a neighboring restaurant or coffee shop. This space is inclusive, everyone is welcome, and we invite you to bring with you all aspects of yourself. Learn more here: https://imcw.org/Calendar/Event-Calendar/EventId/3686/e/drop-in-class-livestreamed-19-apr-2020

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

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

A time to make signs, pack swag bags, and have fun together in anticipation for the Pride festivities the week after.

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

You're invited to Indiana D365 User Group Meeting Wed Jun 10, 2026 2-4 PM Agenda (sessions may change time slots before the meeting.) 2 Welcome 2:10 Stratgies for successful testing - Carla Teasdale from Wilmuth Solutions 2:50 Building Power Apps in an AI world using Claude Code demo - Natalie Roberts from Leaf Software Solutions 3:30 Everything you need to know about Quality in BC - Derek Bohman, BC Consultant 4:00 Closing Notes 4:10-5 Networking Social at Upland Brewing at Clay Terrace (walk over) Link Information to join remotely below [https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YWRkNmQ1NWMtN2E0Mi00ZDU4LThmNzMtMDdlODMwMDNkMGMz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b4c9f32e-da17-4ded-9c95-ce9da38f25d9%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2267db4a27-1865-4ea7-bb20-a28137a8aa56%22%7](https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YWRkNmQ1NWMtN2E0Mi00ZDU4LThmNzMtMDdlODMwMDNkMGMz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b4c9f32e-da17-4ded-9c95-ce9da38f25d9%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2267db4a27-1865-4ea7-bb20-a28137a8aa56%22%7d) Tap on the link or paste it in a browser to join

The Unity of Columbus Resource Group for the Homeless is seeking compassionate volunteers who would like to help serve and uplift members of our homeless community. This group is dedicated to sharing kindness, resources, and support with individuals who may be experiencing difficult circumstances. Anyone with a heart for service is welcome to join us as we work together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Community members are also invited to contribute by bringing helpful items for those in need. Donations of items can be contributed at the meeting and will be distributed to assist members of the homeless community. Please consider joining us and sharing this opportunity with friends, family, or associates who may also wish to help. Learn more about Unity of Columbus at www.unityofcolumbus.org or call (614) 267-4959. Together we can extend compassion, dignity, and support to our community. 💛

Let's talk about relationships in such a way that you can really benefit from the knowledge. We can talk about * Soulmates * How to start a relationship * How to maintain a relationship * How to pick the right partner * How to recognize the red flags * How to improve communication * How to avoid argument and fights * How to increase trust You ask the questions, we'll talk about them. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/