Christian Missions

Let’s get together for a phone free picnic! ☀️🧺 🌳🌷🪻 Bring a snack to share! See you there! 🤗 I’ll post the exact location of our spot in the chat.

**Hopeful Cafe Conversations @Panera Kentlands** * **You are cordially invited to join in the conversation to catch the positive vibe... a cup of coffee, or another of your favorite refreshment.** **At NEW HOPE CAFE CONVERSATIONS 8:30am-9:30am (3rd Saturdays, Monthly)** **Address: Panera, 285 Kentlands Blvd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878** **Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83326239362** ===== **New Hope Workshop**: What is Negativity Bias? How do we get ahead of it to reach more positive outcomes in work, life, and relationships? Discover the difference between goals and outcomes. 1\. How do we reaffirm ones role\, despite negativity bias from others? 2\. The New Hope Community Affirmative Statements of Foundational Principles \- What are some helpful affirmations? 3\. Your Perspectives in Conversation **"Star Points Meal Deal"** If you have New Hope "Star Points 💫" you can get a discount on a meal. Also you can earn Star Points, if this is your first time attending Cafe Conversations, in-person. Ask Gene, newhope321community@yahoo.com, 240-848-0808.

Join the Jaycees in volunteering at the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC)! We sort donated canned goods or bag portions of dry goods or produce for AFAC's weekly food distributions to low-income families in Arlington. AFAC is a long-time community partner of the Arlington Jaycees! After volunteering at AFAC, the group will usually meet up for food and drinks nearby in Shirlington! So that we can appropriately plan the tasks to do for the right number of volunteers, **PLEASE UPDATE YOUR RSVP** as soon as possible whether or not you are able to attend. We have to limit the number of volunteers due to limited space at AFAC, and don't want spots to be taken by people who sign up but don't show up. AFAC is located at 2708 South Nelson Street and Four Mile Run Drive. There is street parking available near the building although parking spots are limited. The Volunteer Entrance is the GRAY DOOR by the loading dock. Once inside, the volunteer sign-in station is ahead and to the right. Volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes (no sandals or flip-flops) and must have your hair covered while bagging food. You can bring a hat from home or AFAC will provide disposable hairnets. At 2:30, or when we are done at AFAC, we will head to **Dudley's** in nearby Shirlington for food and drinks. The Arlington Jaycees (part of Junior Chamber International) is the premier nonprofit in Arlington that provides young people (ages 21-40) with opportunities for personal & professional growth, business networking, community involvement and social engagement in the Arlington Community and worldwide. Our mission is **leadership development through community service**. Check out our website [www.arljaycees.org](https://arljaycees.org/) to learn more and to become a member of this amazing organization!

**GO TO EVENTBRITE FOR LINK TO MEETING:** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/recovering-from-religion-virtual-support-group-meeting-registration-159506756001?aff=oddtdtcreator This is an RfR-wide event, not tied to any particular local chapter. The Virtual Chapter Recovering From Religion support group will meet the the 1st Sunday of each month at 6 PM Central Time AS WELL AS at the 3rd Saturday of each month at 9 AM. This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom. Attendees are welcome to share, but may also decide to remain anonymous if they so choose. The primary focus of a Recovering From Religion support group is to provide ongoing and personal support to individuals as they let go of their religious beliefs. This transitional period is an ongoing process that can result in a range of emotions, as well as a ripple effect of consequences throughout an individual’s life. As such, the support meetings are safe and anonymous places to express these doubts, fears, and experiences without biased feedback or proselytizing. We are here to help each other through this journey. There is no cost to attend this support group but, if you feel so inclined, donations can be made at www.recoveringfromreligion.org/donate If you find you need to talk with someone before the meeting date, RfR has a hotline and online chat for that express purpose. Call (844) 368-2848 to speak with someone. Go to www.recoveringfromreligion.org and click on the green chat bubble in the lower left corner of the site to chat online. If you are in need of professional help, we can offer the Secular Therapy Project to provide options to connect with a professional therapist. All therapists have been thoroughly vetted by our organization and offer only evidence-based and non-religious treatment. Connect with them at www.seculartherapy.org. Like what RfR does? Why not volunteer! There are quite a few options. Head over to www.recoveringfromreligion.org/volunteer for more info.

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

Walk about 6+ miles on a variety of trails and some streets in NW DC to discover where SCPRO helped save a park, a trail that may be threatened by construction, the place where the UN was started, a Memorial to a Lebanese poet, and a lively Greek Festival at St. Sophia Cathedral where the hike will officially end – about a mile from the trailhead. There will be some elevation changes and one stream crossing. More information about the Festival here: [https://www.dcgreeks.com/event_display.asp?EventID=2026051502](https://www.dcgreeks.com/event_display.asp?EventID=2026051502). Wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear, bring water, sunscreen and bug repellent and money to purchase some wonderful food at the Festival (and to give a $2 cash voluntary donation to the local Sierra Club). A positive attitude is also recommended!

**Creating Communities of Hope (Free Event)** *** In a world often marked by division, uncertainty, and conflict, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed or powerless. But what if, instead of despair, we saw these challenges as an invitation to create spiritually vibrant communities where unity, trust, and hope are not just utopian ideals, but actually shape our lived reality? Amidst the chaos around us, the increasing fractures apparent in our society, many of us find ourselves asking: *What can I do to make a difference, to contribute something better?* But the answers so often presented to us don’t seem to be enough. Perhaps what is needed is a new, positive vision of humanity’s future, one centered around and reflecting the spiritual reality of humanity’s oneness – and filled with people working together to bring that vision to fruition. What would this world look like? How can we create communities where every individual feels they have a role to play in the betterment of society? How can we work together to build a society defined not merely by shared geography or common interests, but by a shared commitment to principles such as unity, justice, mutual support, and spiritual growth? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on how we can each contribute to creating communities of hope. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how we as individuals and as neighbors can come together to create a more just, compassionate, and spiritually vibrant society where everyone can thrive not just materially, but spiritually as well. **“*...the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony.”* – Bahá’í Teachings** \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

## **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**

**Real connection with fellow Catholics who are eager to grow in Faith and friendship!** This 3 year--- 45min deep dive into the Catholic faith is a great way to spend your Sunday rest day. When you are ready to dig deeper and live the faith more fully this is an optimal opportunity. Talk yourself into this! You may start whenever and can come as often or as little as you desire. Coffee is served w/ small donation. It is taught by the priest and/or OCIA director at St Louis Parish who are ALL fabulous- faithful educators filled with theologically inspired knowledge. You can ask questions at the end, which I love. It is just a wonderful experience to grow. Afterwards if you wish, you can also find your way over to the Little Way Cafe Coffee shop across the parking lot to stay for more community time or read some of the excellent books that line the shelves throughout. If you are new to the community of Alexandria and want to meet like minded folks or a veteran of it, this is a special and unique opportunity and did I mention it is free? :) Hard to believe! Please join me every Sunday at 945 am.

**MLK Library - Room 401F** In a world often marked by division, uncertainty, and conflict, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed or powerless. But what if, instead of despair, we saw these challenges as an invitation to create spiritually vibrant communities where unity, trust, and hope are not just utopian ideals, but actually shape our lived reality? Amidst the chaos around us, the increasing fractures apparent in our society, many of us find ourselves asking: What can I do to make a difference, to contribute something better? But the answers so often presented to us don’t seem to be enough. Perhaps what is needed is a new, positive vision of humanity’s future, one centered around and reflecting the spiritual reality of humanity’s oneness – and filled with people working together to bring that vision to fruition. What would this world look like? How can we create communities where every individual feels they have a role to play in the betterment of society? How can we work together to build a society defined not merely by shared geography or common interests, but by a shared commitment to principles such as unity, justice, mutual support, and spiritual growth? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on how we can each contribute to creating communities of hope. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how we as individuals and as neighbors can come together to create a more just, compassionate, and spiritually vibrant society where everyone can thrive not just materially, but spiritually as well. *“...the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony.” – Bahá’í Teachings* **\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

**Hi Amazing Singles,** Have you been looking for a precious community? People who pursue God seriously :) People who love hard and laugh equally :) People who pray in abundance but also eat with rigor ;) LOL Then you've come to the right place! The Spring/Winter is upon us where I and Chaplain Ted will work to love and lead us all to get additional fuel for our Christian adventure as we study and emulate the early exciting Christian church! If your new we would love for you to give us a try! If you've been around it's time to return. An Amazon link to the 2 needed books are provided below: Ted and I are excited to walk with you and dive into this rich book together, part 2 Our actual Study, Acts 13-28 Acts for You ***There is no more thrilling part of the Bible than the book of Acts, and no better guide to it than Albert Mohler. If you have any questions let Ted or I know. Lots of love, Ted - 443-905-2585 Andy - 804-986-3164 The below is not a hyperlink, but you can cut and paste and put it in your browser. https://a.co/d/cH5QHzi https://a.co/d/b7MUOhq

**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?

This is our 3rd Sunday of the month meetup at Restaurant Rus Uz in Arlington. Russian speakers can gather for Russian and Uzbek food, friendship, and conversation two Sundays every month--the first and third. Please join us and bring your Russian speaking friends. Everyone is welcome, but please keep conversation in Russian only, no English. For many of us, this is our only chance to practice our Russian PLEASE RSVP if you are coming - we have to make a reservation. Please do not RSVP and then not come. However usually there are more people than the number that RSVP. So don't think there will be too few people. спасибо

**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!**

**Join us for Soul Coffee, an informal gathering where we can connect a bit deeper, check in on each other, and share some real soul conversation together - as always, across beliefs and traditions.** Soul Coffee is a gathering by BreadBreakers, a community for people of all stripes to build meaningful relationships and have curious conversations. **Our mission in BreadBreakers is to be a place of compassion and belonging in a time of division and isolation; to rebuild the town square, one table at a time.** Usually we do this by breaking bread and having facilitated conversations over dinner, but sometimes it's good to just meet over coffee and spend some unstructured time talking about the deep stuff. At each Soul Coffee, we'll keep it simple and talk about three questions: - How's your soul doing? - How have you experienced wonder lately? - What do you need right now? No matter your religion, or if you even are religious; no matter where you are spiritually; no matter if you even think souls exist - come to be seen and known, to just be humans together in a crazy world, to talk about those things of the spirit that are so central to the human experience but rarely get discussed. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of being in community with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by[ Restoration United Methodist Churc](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers)h in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community, a collaboration between the church and those of all different beliefs. All faiths and all stripes are welcomed. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Next meeting is June 1st. Contact the library with questions! Monthly Russian conversation groups are held on the first Monday of every month from 6:30-7:30 PM at the Germantown Public Library at 19840 Century Blvd in Germantown MD. Call the library to confirm the schedule. Ежемесячные разговорные группы по русскому языку проводятся в первый понедельник каждого месяца с 18:30 до 19:30 в публичной библиотеке Джермантауна по адресу 19840 Century Blvd в Джермантауне, штат Мэриленд. Позвоните в библиотеку, чтобы уточнить расписание.

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. We are a collaboration between people of all faiths and stripes. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Every Friday night at 7:30pm you are welcome to attend the Covenant Life Church School of Holy Spirit. Whether you are just beginning in the prophetic or a seasoned saint, the Friday night School of the Holy Spirit provides the opportunity to be trained and exercised in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. The sessions are taught by Apostle/Prophets Jeff & Linda Herbert who are ordained by Christian International. They are fully certified by CI to raise and train using the Manual for Ministering Spiritual Gifts and the Apostolic Prophetic Training series. Everyone who is willing will have the opportunity to pray for others during the activation times and will be used in their gifts. All sessions are free. Everyone is welcome. Childcare is not provided. For additional information: www.covenant-life-church.org

Pastor Weaver will lead an in person meditation session on June 7th in the sanctuary at 9:15 to 9:40am. Come, learn, experience and/or practice the Mercy meditation.