Historical Jesus

## **Mid-Week Service: Renew Your Spirit** Join us every **Wednesday evening at 6:15 PM** for our Mid-Week Service, a dedicated time to pause, pray, and recharge in the middle of a busy week. Held in an intimate and welcoming setting, this service is designed to help you reconnect with God and find peace through His Word. ### **What to Expect** * **Deep Biblical Teaching:** We move beyond the surface, engaging in verse-by-verse studies of Scripture—such as our current journey through the **Book of Acts**—to gain practical wisdom for daily life. * **Community Prayer:** We believe in the power of collective intercession. Each week, we lift up the needs of our families, our city, and the world. * **Heartfelt Worship:** A time of singing and reflection to center our hearts on the presence of the Holy Spirit. * **Authentic Fellowship:** Connect with a supportive community of believers who are walking the same path of faith. Whether you are looking for a deeper understanding of theology or simply a quiet place to sit at the feet of Jesus, our mid-week gathering offers the spiritual nourishment you need to finish your week with strength and purpose. *** > *"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."* — **1 Peter 3:15**

* **“What if sleep is more than rest?”** * **Have you ever had a dream that felt more real than reality?** * **Could our nightly experiences offer insight, meaning, or a broader perspective on life?** **Join us for a welcoming spiritual discussion. Come as you are… and explore what unfolds.** **FREE EVENT VIA ZOOM: 🔗[ONLINE SPIRITUAL DISCUSSION](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83717909160?pwd=4z00SOFYWKhdIKzfl02SCZiTGSLwei.1)** **Meeting ID: 837 1790 9160** **Passcode: 790616** **📞Dial in: (301) 715-8592** **Questions?** **Call or text: (301) 439-2120; Email: [MEC@eckankarmaryland.org](mailto:MEC@eckankarmaryland.or)** **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.**

Holy Shift! is a weekly small group focused on spiritual growth, authentic conversation, and exploring faith through different forms of media. Each series rotates formats — including books, podcasts, TV shows, movies, and more. For a fresh way to engage spirituality, theology, philosophy, and everyday life, join your small group hosts Steven Robeson and Allie Olson on Wednesdays from 6:00–7:25 PM in the Vine Church Middle School Room. 6:00–6:30 PM — Bring-your-own dinner & casual conversation 6:30–7:25 PM — Spiritual discussion The group will begin June 17th by exploring the Unbelief Podcast, hosted by Jeremy Steele, pastor of NOOMA, which recently joined Vine as a cooperative parish. Holy Shift will expand into deeper seasonal studies in the fall, with future topics ranging from the contemplative writings of Richard Rohr, the Biblical reimagining of The Chosen, and the philosophical underpinnings of The Good Place. Questions? Contact [jennifer@thevineva.org](mailto:jennifer@thevineva.org)

The **Reston-Herndon Toastmasters club** is the place to be if you want to improve your public speaking, communication, listening, and leadership skills in a friendly, supportive environment. By joining Toastmasters, you'll learn to relax, plan, and present great speeches, whether you have ten days to prepare or just 10 seconds. Our club meetings are held every **2nd and 4th Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM** at Herndon Fortnightly Library located at 768 Center St, Herndon, VA 20170. The library will be closed, so please contact us for directions. Guests are always welcome at our club meetings! If you are interested in joining the club or would like to attend as a visitor, please fill out the form at [https://3550.toastmastersclubs.org/?contactus](https://3550.toastmastersclubs.org/?contactus). We will reply with directions.

* **“What if sleep is more than rest?”** * **Have you ever had a dream that felt more real than reality?** * **Could our nightly experiences offer insight, meaning, or a broader perspective on life?** **Join us for a welcoming spiritual discussion. Come as you are… and explore what unfolds.** **FREE EVENT VIA ZOOM: 🔗[ONLINE SPIRITUAL DISCUSSION](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83717909160?pwd=4z00SOFYWKhdIKzfl02SCZiTGSLwei.1)** **Meeting ID: 837 1790 9160** **Passcode: 790616** **📞Dial in: (301) 715-8592** **Questions?** **Call or text: (301) 439-2120; Email: [MEC@eckankarmaryland.org](mailto:MEC@eckankarmaryland.or)**

**Tired of surface-level conversations?** Join us for *Ditch the Small Talk*—an evening of deep, real connection with strangers who are down to go there. We’ll meet in the grass in front of the cathedral, break into small groups, and draw questions from a deck of cards designed to spark vulnerable, honest conversations. How it works: Draw a card and ask a question. Listen. Don't coach or give advice without permission. Try to ask follow-up questions when people share. You can spend 1 minute on a question or 1 hour, just go with the flow. **If you show up late, please don't interrupt the speaker. Just sit down in a group of your choice and they'll bring you up to speed when whoever is talking finishes. Bring a blanket or chair if you don't want to sit in the grass. *** Rules*** 1. Don't debate politics 2. Keep what is shared in the group within the group 3. If you need to use your phone, step away from your group first

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Dune and Messiahs,”** on word of saviors in religion and science fiction, with Peter Herman, former lecturer in theology and religious studies at Marymount University and scholar of religious and social themes in sci fi. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-dune-messiahs](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-dune-messiahs) .] *Dune: Part Three* is scheduled for release in December, and trailers for the epic space opera film have fans of the *Dune* franchise longing for it like visitors to its desert planet Arrakis long for water. Based on the second volume of renowned science fiction novelist Frank Herbert's *Dune* saga, the movie depicts the internal and external conflicts of protagonist Paul Atreides, an emperor treated by others as a messiah while being depicted as an antihero. The film will raise intriguing questions related to the presence of redeeming figures, or messiahs, throughout both science fiction and religious texts. Among them: What exactly do we mean by the term “messiah”? Why have many religious traditions looked for a redeemer to emerge? What happens if the messiah gets it all wrong? Explore such questions—and prepare yourself to enjoy the upcoming *Dune* film at a much deeper level—with Dr. Peter Herman, who has given several excellent, thought-provoking Profs and Pints talks on the *Dune* franchise. To center *Dune* in the discussion, we’ll look at the character of Paul Atriedes as a ruler who has launched a jihad across known space to reconquer it. His prescient visions show him that although the spread of religious war is not optimal, neither is it the worst potential future for humanity, and he allows excess and violence to continue in his name out of a conviction that it’s for the greater good. Throughout the book on which the upcoming film is based, Atriedes struggles with his followers' desire to view him as a divine figure. Dr. Herman, a trained theologian, will set such themes in the broader context of religious studies by discussing messianic figures across various religious traditions. Among them, Christianity names Jesus of Nazareth as the messiah, but he is hardly the first person in the canonical Bible given that title. Mainstream Judaism does not anticipate any similar, deified figure descending from heaven, but messianic strains of Judaism have looked for the arrival of a political liberator. Islam, from which Frank Herbert borrowed terms applied to Paul Atriedes, contains reference to someone serving not as a redeemer but as a heavenly guide. All branches of Buddhism situate within each new age of their cyclical cosmology a Buddha-yet-to-come. We’ll look at the human tendency in confusing times to seek out direct, uncomplicated answers and to embrace messianism as part of apocalypticism, which foretells a straightforward sorting process in which believers, as good people, see reward while their enemies, as bad people, see punishment. *Dune* fans will feel rewarded for coming to this talk. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

Hello Everybody! Join us this Saturday at 11 AM at the Fairfax Wegmans as we continue our Bible study and discussions. Recently, we've been studying the "types" (patterns or pictures) of Jesus in the Old Testament in chronological order starting with creation. We will go all the way to David as a type of Jesus the King. As anyone who's attended before knows, we have open discussions. Our goal is always to grow in our love, knowledge, and relationship with Jesus and to have fellowship. We invite the presence of the Holy Spirit as we meet together and we've had some great conversations and revelations. Please join us as we continue our Bible study and prayers. God bless you all, Mihail

**Unlocking the Power of the Gospel: A Journey Through the Book of Romans** Are you looking to deepen your understanding of the Christian faith and experience the life-changing power of the Gospel? Join us for an inspiring and in-depth study of the **Book of Romans**, often called the "Greatest Letter Ever Written." Romans is a masterpiece of theology, grace, and practical living. Whether you are a lifelong believer or someone just beginning to explore the depths of Scripture, this study will offer fresh insights into God's plan for humanity and His incredible love for you. ### **Why Study Romans?** * **Discover the Foundation:** Understand the core truths of salvation, justification by faith, and the transformative power of God's grace. * **Find Strength in Truth:** Explore how the "Chief Cornerstone" provides a firm foundation for our lives, no matter what challenges we face. * **Practical Transformation:** Learn how to move from theological understanding to everyday devotion, living as "living sacrifices" in a modern world. * **Build Community:** Connect with fellow students and seekers as we journey together through Paul’s most profound letter. ### **What to Expect** Each session will feature engaging teaching, thought-provoking group discussions, and a warm environment where questions are welcomed. We will move beyond just "reading" the text to truly *investigating* how these ancient truths apply to our contemporary walk with God. **Come and see why this book has sparked every major spiritual awakening in history.** Let’s grow in faith, speak the truth in love, and be built together into a community centered on Christ. **We can’t wait to meet you there!**

## **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**

Good food has a way of bringing people together. Faith & Fork is a small group built around the simple idea that meaningful connection often happens around a table. Each gathering includes a shared meal, conversation, a brief devotional, laughter-filled games, and prayer. Together we'll explore one guiding question: "If Jesus were at the table..." What would he say? What would he notice? How would he respond to the stories, struggles, celebrations, and questions we bring? And how might we be invited to respond as people seeking to follow him? Whether you're new to church, have been part of a faith community for years, or simply long for authentic connection, there's a seat for you. Come enjoy a meal, meet new friends, share meaningful conversation, and discover how faith can shape everyday life around the table. Expect good food, thoughtful discussion, plenty of laughter, and a welcoming community where you can know and be known. A seat is waiting for you at Faith & Fork. 🍴❤️ When: 4th Fridays \| 6:30–8:00 PM What to Expect: Shared meal • Fellowship • Devotional conversation • Games • Prayer • Community Questions? Contact [jennifer@thevineva.org](mailto:jennifer@thevineva.org)

With Christopher Nolan's film adaptation on the horizon, it's time for us to finally read one of the most iconic classics of Greek literature: Homer's *Odyssey*! We'll be continuing on from last meeting to books 9-16 of the epic poem, which cover the most perilous episodes of Odysseus's journey back to the island of Ithaca, such as his encounter with the Cyclops and the witch Circe. I will be reading from the modern and very accessible [Wilson translation](https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-odyssey-homer/75c6123a70f69665?ean=9780393356250&next=t), but feel free to use whichever version you prefer. As usual, we will meet in the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in the **205-B Accessibility Room**, located on the second floor. Ask at the Center for Accessibility front desk if you are looking for us. See you there!

"Do as I say, not as I do." Children tend to have a built-in ability to recognize hypocrisy quicker than many adults, and there are few children who will respect an adult whose actions do not match his or her words. John the Baptizer wanted to make it clear that God himself is in NO way pleased by people who claim to follow Him and whose lives in NO way reflect His character. In fact, the Greek word for "actor" that people used in the first century is *"hypokrites"*. John called out the truth to any and all who would listen--from peasants to the king, even at peril of his own life and freedom--and insisted God does not judge by words alone, but by actions and in truth. Luke Chapter 3 concludes with making it clear to the Jewish and Greek readers of the day that Jesus was not only the rightful King of Israel, but also the true Son of Man--the Son of Adam, Who came to provide a way for those who had followed Adam into sin to return to fellowship with God. Take a look at Luke Chapter 3 and join us at **10 am,** **Sunday, June 28,** at **True Food Kitchen at Easton Town Center.** We'd love to see you there! Get your tickets on [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/columbus-luke-3-tickets-1989802924110)! Check us out on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/1657939185252324)! Connect with us at our new website for [LocalCA](http://%5Bwww.localca.org%5D(www.localca.org)/ "\[www.localca.org\](www.localca.org)")!

From the moment sin entered the world, death began. Adam and Eve were not stricken dead immediately, but the process by which none of us lives forever in health and wholeness in these earthly bodies started its inexorable march to the inevitable end—death. The Bible makes it clear that by one man’s sin, death came to all mankind, but that by the obedience of One Perfect Man, Jesus, many are made righteous (Romans 5:19). F.F. Bosworth recognized this truth; he also would have people consider that the God Who provided for our greatest need—salvation from eternal death—would also provide healing for the lesser, but still great needs, of health and healing from sickness, disease, and the consequences of sin that we encounter before we die. Join us as we examine the case for biblical healing in the book first published in 1924, ***Christ The Healer*. We meet at True Food Kitchen, Easton Town Center on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 6:30 pm.** Get your tickets on [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/christ-the-healer-columbus-ohio-tickets-1989133215995)! Connect with us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/1495777228332299)! Check out our new website, [LocalCA](https://localca.org/)! Say hello on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/christianbookclubwellness/)!

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)

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.