Reconstructionist Religion

**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.

Anne Conway (1631 – 1679) and Mary Astell (1666 – 1731) share a sex, intelligence, and the same unsettled century. After a long obscurity, their work has reemerged and invites the reader to consider how reason, belief, and the self might still be brought into harmony. **The Women** Anne Conway, born and raised in London, spent her youth wandering through the vast hallways of what is now known as Kensington Palace. Apart from being a woman, at least two other notable circumstances shaped Anne’s life – she lost a son in infancy and later suffered from severe pain. Pain as a concept found its way into Anne’s philosophy as a purgative, transformative experience. It was while seeking a relief from pain that she came into contact with the Flemish physician and philosopher Francis Mercury van Helmont, who later introduced her to Kabbalistic thought and to Quakerism. Anne converted to Quakerism shortly before she died. Mary Astell was a native of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England. Unlike Anne Conway, Astell remained unmarried and eventually moved to London with little or no financial support. Her early philosophical writings are found in the correspondence with John Norris and were later published as *Letters Concerning the Love of God* (1695). After publishing the *Letters* and *A Serious Proposal to the Ladies, Parts I and II. (1694, 1697),* Astell became somewhat of a celebrity in London. Her two other well-known published works were *Some Reflections upon Marriage* (1700) and *The Christian Religion* (1705). In her later years, in keeping with her investment in female education, Astell managed a charity school for poor girls in the Chelsea neighborhood. **The Philosophies** Anne’s only surviving work, *The Principles of the Most Ancient and Modern Philosophy*, was published posthumously and anonymously in 1690. It is said that Leibniz had a copy of *The Principles* in his library with Anne Conway’s name written on the front page. Anne’s vitalist conception of all being may have influenced Leibnitz’s own views, in particular his *Monadology*. *The Principles* is often viewed as a theodicy. The existence and nature of God occupy the central place in Anne Conway’s triadic philosophical system. The three “species” are God, Christ, and the “unity of multiplicities” where “the whole creation is just but one substance or entity.” God is the immutable and perfect maker of all things. God “wanted to create living beings with whom he could communicate.” Alas, God’s light was intolerable for his Creatures, and, after dimming the light a bit, God designated the Messiah’s soul as the Middle Nature and “a safe place” for all Creatures. Everything and everyone fall under the umbrella of Anne’s “Creatures.” Everything and everyone is a subject to eternal mutability. Creatures can metamorphose into other kinds of creature, growing more or less spiritual – more or less like God. Under the principle of similitude, Conway maintains, everything and everyone has some semblance to God and therefore must be in some sense spiritual and alive. Mary Astell sides with Descartes in his dualistic views and in the method of obtaining knowledge through clear and distinct perceptions. In her metaphysics, Astell distinguishes two kinds of beings—minds and bodies that come in various degrees of finitude and corruptibility. God is placed at the heart of her metaphysical system and is the “first intelligence.” Human minds and corporeal particles are finite and incorruptible, while human bodies and physical objects are finite, naturally corruptible entities. Within the created beings, Astell names four categories: minds, bodies, mind–body unions, and the particles that compose bodies. A mind-body union is mysterious. However, we “know and feel” it, and therefore it must be real. **Reading:** We will read and discuss Anne Conway’s *The Principles of the Most Ancient and Modern Philosophy* and the second part of Mary Astell’s *A Serious Proposal to the Ladies.* Anne Conway, *The Principles of the Most Ancient and Modern Philosophy,* 25 pages, [https://www.earlymoderntexts.com/assets/pdfs/conway1692_1.pdf](https://www.earlymoderntexts.com/assets/pdfs/conway1692_1.pdf) Mary Astell, *A Serious Proposal to the Ladies, [https://www.gutenberg.org/files/54984/54984-h/54984-h.htm](https://www.gutenberg.org/files/54984/54984-h/54984-h.htm)* **Additional Reading:** Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Mary Astell, [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/astell/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/astell/) Anne Conway, [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/conway/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/conway/)

Socrates Cafés are gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the Socratic Method; the idea that we learn more when we question, and question with others. Although this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Those attending decide upon the questions of the night. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, moral issues, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

This offering, *Rest. Restore. Reconnect: When Slowing Down Feels Hard*, was born from a truth I know intimately — that rest isn’t always easy. That stillness can feel unfamiliar. That slowing down can bring us face-to-face with everything we’ve been carrying. **And yet… it’s also where the healing begins.** **[REGISTER HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rest-restore-reconnect-3-week-yin-restorative-popup-yoga-experience-tickets-1988229785811?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **DROP INS: $20.00 PER SESSION** **ALL THREE SESSIONS: $60.00** **TWO FOR ONE ALL THREE SESSIONS: $70.00 (invite a friend)** **DATES: Saturday, June 13, Saturday, June 20, and Saturday, June 27** **TIMES: 10 AM - 11 AM** Over the course of three Saturdays, we’ll gather in a space at the **Black Owned Teahouse: [Adjourn Teahouse](https://adjournteahouse.com) in Lanham, MD,** intentionally curated for softness, support, and gentle return. Through yin + restorative yoga therapy, you’ll be guided to release tension, regulate your nervous system, and reconnect with your body in a way that feels safe and sustainable. This is not about doing more. This is about allowing yourself to *be*. And because your experience matters beyond the mat, each session will close with a beautiful tea time — a moment to integrate, connect, and savor. There will be other thoughtful touches woven throughout… little surprises to deepen your experience and make each gathering feel like a retreat from the noise of everyday life. If you’ve been feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or disconnected… If your body has been asking you to slow down, but you haven’t known how… This space was created with you in mind. **[REGISTER HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rest-restore-reconnect-3-week-yin-restorative-popup-yoga-experience-tickets-1988229785811?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **DROP INS: $20.00 PER SESSION** **ALL THREE SESSIONS: $60.00** **TWO FOR ONE ALL THREE SESSIONS: $70.00 (invite a friend)** **DATES: Saturday, June 13, Saturday, June 20, and Saturday, June 27** **TIMES: 10 AM - 11 AM** ALL ARE WELCOMED Limited spots available — because intimacy, presence, and care are at the heart of this experience. I can’t wait to hold space for you 🌿✨

### 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 on 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 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.

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: * What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? * How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? * What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? * What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: * What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? * How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? * What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? * What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

**MLK Library - Room 401A** Is tolerance enough? Or can it sometimes just be prejudice in disguise? Or even hate? In an increasingly divided society, does simply “tolerating” others sometimes inadvertently separate us all into “us” and “them” categories in our minds (and hearts!), only serving to further reinforce those divisions? How can spirituality and the dual concepts of the “Oneness of Mankind” and “Unity in Diversity” help us to see past our differences and regard all – whether family, friend, or stranger – as one of “us” and part of our own shared story? How can we see our differences not as something to be merely tolerated but rather as a source of strength for our communities? 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 the role of love for all of humanity in moving beyond tolerance. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how a spiritual foundation can enable us to work together for the betterment of ourselves, our families, our communities and our world. *“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.**

Please bring a nutritarian dish or salad to share with at least 8 members. Also, you could bring containers to take home etras at the end of the evening. We will share resouces, recipes and other info as we support each other in choosing high nutrient dense eating.

**MoCo Psychedelic Society — Monthly Gathering** 📅 Date/Time May 23rd \| 1:00 – 3:00 PM 📍 Connie Morella Bethesda Public Library \~ Medium Room Come join us for our monthly gathering — a space for fellowship, learning, advocacy, and community connection. Whether you're a familiar face or joining us for the first time, you are welcome here. *** **✨ This Month: Understanding Psychedelics: The Journey Continues — Part Two** Are you new to psychedelics, or simply curious to learn more? This is the meeting for you. This session goes deeper. Building on Part One, we'll explore what actually happens in a psychedelic experience — from personal healing and ego death to mystical states and entity contact — and then get practical: safety protocols, contraindications, substance testing, and how to choose or vet a sitter or retreat. We'll also cover microdosing protocols, the ethics of touch and consent in ceremonial settings, how to find and grow your own medicines, and what integration really requires after the journey ends. Whether you're newly curious or already walking this path, this is an evidence-informed, judgment-free conversation for adults who want to navigate this territory wisely. No prior knowledge is required — just curiosity and an open mind. \*\*\* **A Few Important Notes** The MoCo Psychedelic Society is a community space for education, connection, and advocacy — not a venue for sourcing or sales. All information shared at this event is for **educational purposes only** and does not constitute medical advice or encourage the use of any illegal substance. A note on legality: Most psychedelic substances are currently classified as **Schedule I** controlled substances by the DEA. Their use outside of clinical trial settings or states where they are becoming legal remains illegal in the United States. **Ketamine** is an exception — it is legal when administered by a licensed medical professional. \*\*\* We hope to see you there. Come as you are. 🌱

## **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**

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Attend a free seminar on how to have successful and lasting relationships. At this seminar you will learn: How to spot and handle negative and toxic relationships. How to get through the "rough patches" in a relationship. How to choose the right people to work with. The three things that make or break any relationship. How to make a good relationship great. All are welcome. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. Hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

We will be marching again this summer at Pride. Come ready to show your Pride and stand-up for every human's right to love, respect, and family! * **Step-off:** 10:30AM * **Route:** High Street from the Capital to Goodale Park Update: We are meeting at Bob Leonhard's house. You can park your car there and we will carpool to the parade. This will eliminate you finding parking in the city and excessive walking. You SHOULD BE AT BOB'S HOUSE BY 8:45 a.m.! We will leave for the parade at 9:15 am sharp! Bob's address: 2858 Thorndale Avenue, Columbus, OH 43207 If you have questions, his number is 614-301-7436

This is a free, in-person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Open Shelter has teamed up again with Red White and Boom! Friday, July 3rd & we are looking for volunteers to run the event’s alcohol booths. Proceeds from sales go to the Open Shelter’s organization. There are two available shifts: 12-6p & 5-11p. There will be an ipad-like device to process transactions in addition to cash. Everything will be in bottles or cans, so transactions should be very easy. Must be 21+. There are multiple beverage stations along the Civic Center Bridge. The stations are covered and also have beverage trucks next to them, so volunteers can cool off in the trucks. As far as parking, it is suggested those who are coming from the east use the Columbus Commons Garage, and those from the west use the Belle Street Garage. Harry from the Open Shelter will be your contact. (614)562-2169 mailto:harry@theopenshelter.org More information about the event: https://redwhiteandboom.org/ More information about the organization: https://theopenshelter.org/

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.