Reliability of the Bible

Francis Hutcheson (1694-1746) was a pivotal early figure of the Scottish Enlightenment, a movement which strongly embraced empiricism and concentrated on the study of human nature and the relationship of individuals and society. Born in Ireland to a line of Scottish Presbyterian ministers, Hutcheson was educated by dissenting Irish Presbyterians in Ulster before matriculating at the University of Glasgow, where he studied philosophy and theology. In 1719 he was licensed to preach in Ireland, but rather than adopting the more traditional views of his forefathers, he gravitated toward the tolerant and liberal “New Light” Presbyterianism. Instead of further pursuing the ministry for which he had trained, he put his efforts into founding a dissenting academy in Dublin—a successful venture that occupied him for the next ten years. While teaching in Dublin, he moved in intellectual circles, and it was there that he wrote the four early treatises—collected into two books, the *Inquiry* of 1725 and the *Essay* of 1728—that quickly established his reputation as a philosopher. On being appointed chair of moral philosophy at his alma mater, he left Ireland for Glasgow in 1729. Contemporaries described Hutcheson as a popular and animated professor—the first at Glasgow to deliver lectures in English rather than exclusively in Latin. His most famous student was Adam Smith (enrolled 1737-40). Hutcheson's influence on Scottish thinkers was considerable. With his emphasis on the primacy of feeling over reason in our moral perceptions, he inspired David Hume’s moral sentimentalism. His analysis of natural rights and property in the *Inquiry* (Treat. II Sect. VII) as well as in his later works directly influenced Smith. The Scottish school of common sense realism derived partly from Hutcheson's explication of moral sense theory. His influence also made its way to colonial America, where his works were included in college curricula beginning in the mid-1700s. John Adams and other signers of the Declaration of Independence are known to have read Hutcheson. In the *Inquiry*, he takes up Locke’s epistemology of sense perception and broadens it into a theory of the “internal senses”—faculties of perception as powerful as the commonly designated five external senses. Elaborating Lord Shaftesbury’s notion of a “moral sense” and the earl's analogy between beauty and virtue, Hutcheson divided his *Inquiry* into a discussion of the sense of beauty and of the paramount moral sense—both being internal senses which operate without depending on mediation by the will or reason. Like Shaftesbury and the philosopher Richard Cumberland, Hutcheson held a strong distaste for the Hobbesian worldview. In the vein of the former two, he promoted a vision of humans as naturally benevolent and innately interested in the welfare of others, maintaining that others’ good brings us no less pleasure than our own good. Notably, he also sowed the seeds of utilitarian thought with his phrase “the greatest happiness for the greatest numbers” (Treat. II Sect. III). **Main Reading** The reading below is available at the Online Library of Liberty: * The [Inquiry](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004), comprising the first two of Hutcheson's four early treatises (we are reading the 1726, or 2nd edition, of the book): read the [Preface](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_head_019) and Treat. I: Sections [I](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_051), [II](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_071), [III](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_088) (Art. [IV](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_101) is optional), ([V](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_109) is optional), [VI](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_137), [VII](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_158), [VIII](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_165); and Treat. II: [Intro](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_head_032) and Sect. [I](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_181), [II](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_205), [III](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_228) (Art. XI, XII until “Intention, foresight” optional), [IV](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_258), [V](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_275), [VI](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_296), and especially [VII](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/leidhold-an-inquiry-into-the-original-of-our-ideas-of-beauty-and-virtue-1726-2004#lf1458_label_324). * Hutcheson's lecture upon his appointment at Glasgow, “[On the Natural Sociability of Mankind](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/hutcheson-logic-metaphysics-and-the-natural-sociability-of-mankind#lfHutcheson_head_238)." The first 3 paragraphs, until footnote 10, are optional. * The beginning of the fourth treatise [Illustrations](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/garrett-an-essay-on-the-nature-and-conduct-of-the-passions-and-affections-1742-2002#lf0150_label_230), Sect. [I](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/garrett-an-essay-on-the-nature-and-conduct-of-the-passions-and-affections-1742-2002#lf0150_head_019), and Sect. [IV](https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/garrett-an-essay-on-the-nature-and-conduct-of-the-passions-and-affections-1742-2002#lf0150_label_296). Note that the ebook page on OLL can take a few moments to load. **Secondary resources** [IEP - Hutcheson](https://iep.utm.edu/hutcheso/) [SEP - Hutcheson](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/hutcheson/) Liberty Fund: Editor’s [Intro to Inquiry](https://oll.libertyfund.org/pages/hutcheson-on-liberty-and-happiness). [SEP - Scottish 18th C. Philosophy](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/scottish-18th/) [Wiki - Scottish Enlightenment](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottish_Enlightenment) [Hutcheson and private property](https://www.adamsmithworks.org/documents/matson-hutcheson-property-virtue-march-2022) Routledge: [1](https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/biographical/hutcheson-francis-1694-1746/v-1/sections/life-and-works-43333), [2](https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/biographical/hutcheson-francis-1694-1746/v-1/sections/the-foundations-of-morality-and-the-moral-sense), [3](https://www.rep.routledge.com/articles/biographical/hutcheson-francis-1694-1746/v-1/sections/practical-ethics-and-influence)

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

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

Join StepMoms of the DMV for an in-person coffee meetup! This casual and supportive gathering is a space for stepmoms to share experiences, offer advice, and connect with others navigating similar challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned stepmom or just beginning your step-parenting journey, this event is open to all. Grab your favorite coffee, settle in, and let’s chat about the unique dynamics of blended families and how to thrive as a step-parent. Let’s celebrate StepMother’s Day together with people who truly get it — building community, encouragement, and connection along the way!

**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.

PawsUP for David and Brick for originally suggesting this awesome meetup and our dogs love it! -Dumbarton Oaks/Montrose Park in Georgetown -Meet at the entrance off of R st, on the East side (closer to the cemetery) -Plenty of street parking in the area -Bring water and a ball for your Aussie This park is a very large open field, that is very dog friendly. Tons of space to run and chase. Most if not all dogs are off leash. Occasional runners and kids (there is a playground), so keep that in mind. There is also a trail inside with a stream that the dogs love to play in.

John Brown, a long-time volunteer with Career-Confidence.org, will spend the morning encouraging you on how to build / start more professional relationships. Relationships allow you to bypass much of the online application process. They allow you to perfect your job interviewing. Relationships allow you to hear about jobs before they open up. It is essential in your job search. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- At the end of this seminar/webinar, there will be a brief Christian story. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- IF YOU ARE NEW TO Career-Confidence.org and want to learn about us via our team, here are some videos that we have done. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to our channel and LIKE our videos. \-\-\-\-\-\- Career-Confidence.org, Laura Hamilton and Robert Brandau both long-time recruiters give you an overview. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R20iMmWWsas](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R20iMmWWsas) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Bruce, Silvia, and Mary Beth talk about the impact of Career-Confidence.org on their job search. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtFRWzhKLo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtFRWzhKLo) \-\-\-\-\-\- Tim Jack, one of our current volunteers and attendees [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq-qfaDVDMU](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq-qfaDVDMU) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Doris McMillon of our Board of Directors [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNmOi9TsYGs&t=10s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNmOi9TsYGs&t=10s) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Kim DeWitt Succinctly Talks about our Team [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSHCEK11jD0](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSHCEK11jD0) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Cecilia and Nate – 2 of our Alumni give an overview of Career-Confidence.org. perspective. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNstYHVnfAA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNstYHVnfAA) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Sara's Experience with Career-Confidence.org - Surprise Ending – Pre-Covid [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEuKuvZyEYE&t=51s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEuKuvZyEYE&t=51s)\`

## **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**

Sunday, May 17, 2026 **How Bad Were Bad Roman Emperors?** Josiah Osgood – Georgetown University Nero fiddling while Rome burned, Caligula appointing his horse as consul, Commodus fighting as a gladiator: Rome’s worst emperors live on in popular memory as few other figures from the past do. Just how bad were these men? Modern historians have often dismissed ancient accounts as unreliable and also have suggested that it didn’t matter who the emperor was. A re-examination of the evidence, including recent archaeological finds, however, argues that an emperor could put his stamp on a whole age and affect the lives of millions for good and for bad. Come and meet anew these notorious rulers and learn how their abuse of power generated a literature of protest that has shaped culture to the present day. Luncheon at 2 pm; Lecture at 3 pm This event will be held at: Tandoori Fairfax 10312 Willard Way / Fairfax, VA 22030 How Bad Were Bad Roman Emperors? Reserve your spot: [https://basonova.org/next-lecture-reservation.html](https://basonova.org/next-lecture-reservation.html)

Apostolic Word Of God Church Freewill Prophetic Worship Service. Apostle Dr. David and Prophetess Dr. Marguerite Carter are inviting you to join our Sunday Worship Services. Optional Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83705862326?pwd=OVZHMFB6U0lrOUlIT1gxSDZ3c2w1QT09 Meeting ID: 837 0586 2326 Password: 667084 Optional one tap mobile +13017158592,,83705862326#,,,,,,0#,,667084# US (Germantown) +13126266799,,83705862326#,,,,,,0#,,667084# US (Chicago) The Purpose Of Our Worship Of God The purpose of our worship is to glorify, honor, praise, exalt, and please God. The nature of the worship God demands is the prostration of our souls before Him in humble and contrite submission. Jesus says in John 4:23-24, "But the hour is coming, and now is when true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth."It doesn’t say we can worship God any way we want, but we "must worship Him in spirit and in truth". The word "must" makes it absolute. There is no other way we can worship God and be acceptable to Him. God seeks true worshippers, and He identifies them as those who "worship Him in spirit and in truth". Worshipping God in spirit means that it must be done from the heart. Worshipping God in truth means that it must be done according to God has specified in the Bible. Come with Expectations: Expect to experience the Presence of the Lord. Follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and flow in the spirit. Expect "Soaking Time" This is your personal time seeking the Lord while listening to prerecorded music, as directed by the Holy Spirit. Come 15 to 30 minutes early for soaking time. Expect an atmosphere of freedom to worship and liberty in Christ Jesus. Expect the Holy Spirit to administer Spiritual Gifts in the Body of Christ: The Word of Wisdom, Word of Knowledge faith, gifts of healings, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, divers kinds of tongues (languages), interpretation of tongues (languages), 1 Corinthians 12. Expect singing and praying in the spirit with understanding, 1 Corinthians 14:15 Expect to be filled with the spirit, speaking to yourselves in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, making melody in your heart to the Lord. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:18-20 Expect anointed teachings/preaching of the Word Of God. Expect to lay prostrate while seeking the Lord (bring a throw blanket). Note: The above is freely administered by the Holy Spirit, subject to change, and is not all-inclusive. There is much more, but cannot be written here. Remember God sent you here for a purpose. Blessed be God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Ephesians 1:3 We love you in Jesus's name. Apostle David and Prophetess Marguerite Carter, Pastors Apostolic Word Of God Church Inc. 13413 Marburg Lane | Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-4318 Phone: 301.780.3707 | Fax: 301.780.3708 AWOGC website address: http://www.awogc.org david.carter@awogc.org marguerite.carter@awogc.org Donate On-Line at http://www.awogc.org

**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.

**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

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no additional tickets will be sold at the door. A repeat of the talk at Penn Social in DC on Monday, May 18 still has tickets available.** [Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“How AI Alters Thinking,”** on dealing with artificial intelligence’s capacity to change and undermine our thought processes, with Eli Alshanetsky, assistant professor of philosophy at Temple University, principal investigator at its Cognitive Integrity Lab, and author of an upcoming book on AI and freedom of thought. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-how-ai-alters](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-how-ai-alters) .] Doctors who give bad advice can be sued for malpractice. Teachers belong to a profession with set standards. When artificial intelligence guides you, however, that guidance comes with a disclaimer: Use at your own risk. Every day millions of people take that risk, and usually AI seems genuinely helpful. But even if AI gives us good answers, might its use over time do bad things to how we think? Explore the relationship between AI and our own minds with Eli Alshanetsky, whose Cognitive Integrity Lab studies how artificial intelligence changes how we think, learn, and build trust. Author of *Articulating a Thought* and the upcoming book F*reedom of Thought in the Age of AI*, he’s on the cutting edge of efforts to answer AI-related questions such as: How can we tell when work is truly our own? How can technology support rather than replace authorship and reflection? What does trust mean when AI mediates our relationships with others and with our own thoughts? To set up his discussion of potential consequences of AI, he’ll describe how social media’s impact on society serves as a preview. Social media didn’t just give people what they wanted to click on, it actually changed what they regarded as click-worthy. It broke attention spans and fueled radicalization across millions of very different people. It left us with people who doom-scroll for hours, who can’t focus, who don’t know what to trust anymore. If you’d shown people this version of themselves ten years ago, would they have chosen it? Artificial intelligence is making a similar deal with us, but the stakes are higher. It isn’t chasing clicks. It’s optimized for giving you the most satisfying response to whatever is on your mind right now. The risk over time isn’t just that you’ll get lazy. More profoundly, even when you think hard, your sense of what counts as good thinking—as well as what sounds like you—will shift to match what AI has been feeding you. We’ll consider what kind of person this produces and whether this is someone we want to be or want children to become. Professor Alshanetsky will lay out a practical framework, which he calls “the interaction layer,” for using AI without letting it replace the thinking it’s supposed to support. He’ll also talk about what AI-related concerns should be the focus of parents and educators. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Illustration by David S. Soriano / Creative Commons.

**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?

**🌈SAFE ENVIRONMENT🌈** **Matthew 22:39 ❤️** “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Do you identify as **LGBTQIA+** and find yourself carrying doubt, shame, or hurt because of religion? Are you curious about reconnecting with your faith—or exploring it in a new way? If so, you’re invited to join this Queer Bible Study centered on **rediscovering God’s word through love**. **This space is rooted in the belief that Christ’s love is for *everyone*.** Despite what many have been taught or made to feel, your identity does not disqualify you from faith—it is part of your story, and you are worthy of love, belonging, and grace. **Logistics:** 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month *(except May 3rd)* Location: Charles E. Beatley Library, Alexandria VA 60–90 minutes of reading and discussion If this resonates with you, you are welcome here. ❤️🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

**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.

Network with an average of 60+ business professionals, all attendees get an opportunity to give a 30 second elevator pitch, enjoy a light breakfast, 10 minute educational presentation on topics that change weekly, and enjoy networking before and after the meet up.

**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.

Sunday service at Unity of Fairfax will leave you feeling inspired, blessed and empowered to experience the fullness of life. **On a Spiritual Journey** Our community is made up of people, like yourself, who have been led to Unity by Spirit. We are all here because we’re on a spiritual journey to become all that we were created to be. **Welcome to Everyone** Unity welcomes people of all religious backgrounds and beliefs. We welcome people of all creeds, sexual orientation and social background. There are no exceptions in our welcome to everyone. **We Offer Tools** In Unity we don't tell people what to think; rather, we offer tools that individuals can use to create lives of meaning and purpose. **What We Believe** To review what we believe, go here: https://unityoffairfax.org/what-we-believe-what-unity

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Physics of Baseball,”** with Scott Paulson, professor of physics and interdisciplinary liberal studies at James Madison University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-physics-of-baseball](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-physics-of-baseball) .] Profs and Pints is offering baseball fans an even bigger treat than Cracker Jack, an exploration of the physics underlying their beloved sport. Professor Scott Paulson, who regularly teaches introductory physics classes that make the physics behind real-world phenomena accessible to all, will discuss the forces and phenomena that come into play in baseball during pitching, batting, and fielding. He’ll toss you basic physics concepts that help explain how baseball’s routine plays got to be that way, and he’ll explain what’s going on in some situations where the laws of physics seem to be violated by what’s happening on the field. Ever wondered why curveballs curve or knuckleballs behave so strangely? You’ll learn how Newton’s laws and the Magnus force explain how pitchers get drastically different results from subtle differences in their releases. Curious about what exactly the “sweet spot” of the bat is? Ever wondered how big an advantage batters get from the thin air of Mile High Stadium? We’ll explore the physics of the batted ball, examining the phenomena of waves and analyzing the interaction of ball, bat and batter with the help of high-speed video. During one of the more exciting scenarios in a baseball game—the close play at the plate—fans often see outfielders throw to an infielder rather than directly to home. We’ll look at the pros and cons of this relay play, known as a “cut-off,” in the context of the physics of projectile motion. Finally, we will also look into high-profile cheating scandals involving corked bats and doctored balls. Dr. Paulson will present models to explain how these alterations to the equipment can benefit the batter and pitcher respectively, and he’ll discuss how much these models are backed up by data. These few hours in a brewpub will forever enhance your enjoyment of time at the ballpark. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Photo by Tage Olsin / Wikimedia Commons