Religion

We are delighted to welcome guest speaker **François Hallac**, who will give a short talk on **Spinoza’s pantheism**. The talk will provide a starting point for a broader, open discussion of pantheism during the meeting. Spinoza invites us to rethink everything by identifying God with Nature: a single infinite Substance whose attributes—thought and extension—shape all that exists. Human beings are modes of this vast unity, our minds and bodies expressions of the same divine order. To live well is to actualise our essence through understanding our desires, for joy is the fruit of clarity. Like Descartes, Spinoza seeks clear and distinct ideas, yet he rejects dualism and embraces determinism: nothing is contingent, only misunderstood. Freedom arises when reason aligns us with Nature itself. In this union, the philosopher discovers genuine happiness and a profound sense of belonging to the whole. No prior expertise is required—curiosity and a willingness to think together are enough. Early bird tickets at £3 will be available until Mon March 9 **Where:** Downstairs room, Square Pig, Holborn (private room) **NB:** The event begins at 7pm, doors open at 6:50pm. Event ends at 9pm **Format:** 10-minute intro talk → vote on questions → small-group discussion → share insights with the whole room

Join us at the Northern Lights Speakers is a non-profit, volunteer run public speaking club. Whether you are a beginner or experienced speaker, our club will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to improve your impromptu and rehearsed speaking skills. Our experienced Toastmasters will guide you through various exercises and give you feedback to help you think on your feet and speak confidently in any situation. The club is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills, boost their confidence, and overcome the fear of speaking in public. Why not come and see how your speaking abilities can be improved and network with like-minded individuals in a supportive and friendly environment. Contact: nlspeakers@gmail.com

A relaxed London book club exploring the most influential book in history. Whether you think it’s rubbish, holy, or you’re simply not sure what to make of it, you’re very welcome. We meet for two hours at a time. Our reading list includes books from the Bible — as well as some of the books that didn’t make it into most Bibles. The Bible has shaped culture, law, art and ethics for centuries, yet many people are personally unfamiliar with it. Each evening is structured but informal. The group chooses the book or books to read, and discussion takes place in small groups. No lectures. No pressure. No need to prepare anything in advance. The aim is thoughtful, respectful conversation. Plenty of people feel they know quite a bit about the Bible, yet struggle to read it. This is a space to explore it thoughtfully and honestly — in good company. This club is for: • Curious thinkers • Skeptics • Christians with questions • Anyone who wants to make up their own mind Our only rules? Be curious. Be honest. Be kind. And enjoy yourself. It’s also a chance to find a bit of community along the way. Photos may be taken during the evening to share on the Meetup page or social media to help others see what the group is like. If you prefer not to appear in photos, just let the organiser know at any time. We meet in a private room on the second floor of the Duke of Sussex pub. When you arrive, get yourself a drink, ask for The Book Club, and come on up.

Your survival depends on knowing who you can rely on. But how can you tell who your real friends are? How can you determine if a person will help make a joint venture successful? Is there a way to predict behavior? Yes. There are fundamental elements to human behavior. When you know them you have insight into your fellow man, and just by observing how people act, you will know *everything* about them. #### On this lecture you will learn: * The important role of trust in human relationships. * The Hubbard Chart of Human Evaluation—the tool to know true character and predict what people will do. * How to evaluate others accurately and guarantee a more certain future for yourself and those you care about. With the knowledge you learn on this course, you will have tools to know who you can trust and who you can depend on. *“Trustworthiness is a highly esteemed commodity. When one has it, one is considered valuable. When one has lost it, one may be considered worthless.”* *—L. Ron Hubbard*

**Monday Evening Chanting Circle \| 6:30–8:00pm** Start the week by unwinding your body and mind through voice and sound. This weekly chanting class is a relaxed, welcoming space to come together after work and reset through simple, shared vocal practice. We use a mix of: * Sanskrit mantras * Rainbow songs * Shamanic chants * Gentle voicework Chanting is a form of meditation that works through rhythm, breath, and repetition. You don’t need any musical experience and you don’t need to sing “well.” The voice is used as a natural tool for grounding and release, not performance. Practising regularly can help: * Settle the nervous system after a busy day * Quiet mental over-activity * Release tension held in the body * Improve breathing and vocal ease Chanting in a group makes the practice easier and more enjoyable. The shared sound helps people relax more quickly and feel supported, even if they’re new to using their voice. Over time, regular group chanting can build a sense of stability, clarity, and connection. Each session includes time to arrive, chant together, and rest in stillness at the end, so you leave feeling calmer and more centred than when you arrived. Come as you are. No experience needed. === FOR THE BEST PRICE GO TO https://www.tickettailor.com/events/rebirthandawaken CASH on the night - please message Gayatri 07505014729 to reserve place. Note that if you can't come that you need to send a text message 24 hrs in advance or payment will still need to be made Om Shanti, Gayatri

Description: Embark on a captivating journey into the depths of the human mind with our enlightening lecture, designed to unravel the mysteries of cognition, perception, and consciousness. In this thought-provoking session, we will delve into the intricacies of how the mind works, exploring the fascinating realm of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. This lecture aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms that shape our cognitive processes and shape our experiences of the world. During this engaging session, we will cover the following topics: 1. The Foundations of the Mind: What is the mind and what are the different parts of the mind. 2. Perception and Attention: Our perception of the world is a dynamic process influenced by a multitude of factors. We will examine the mechanisms behind perception. 3. Memory and Learning: Memory forms the basis of our knowledge and experiences. We will delve into the intricate workings of memory formation, storage, and retrieval. 4. Emotions and Motivation: Emotions and motivation play a vital role in shaping our behavior and decision-making processes. 5. The Reactive Mind: The single source of stress, unhappiness, insecurity and self doubt and what can be done about it. Through engaging discussions, multimedia presentations, and interactive demonstrations, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the complex workings of the mind. They will leave the lecture with new insights into their own cognitive processes and a heightened appreciation for the wonders of the human mind. Note: This lecture is designed for individuals with a general interest in understanding the inner workings of the mind. No prior knowledge or expertise is required. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply curious about the mysteries of cognition, this lecture will provide valuable insights and foster a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human thought. Join us to unravel the enigma and gain a deeper understanding of how your mind works.

Spring Equinox - balance between Dark & Light! Fresh starts!! Join Witches Rite to call the Fertile Goddess & lusful God Pan for magic! Spring Equinox - time of balance between Dark & Light! Time of Fresh starts!! Nature is frantically busy with fertility, nest builing & mating rites! And who are we to argue with nature's divine ecstacy?! So in our Spring ceremony, we sweep away hindrances, build an altar & sacred space, call on elements to awake us unto Spring and the coming of warm summers. We will call on the fertile Earth Goddess and the lustful nature God Pan with chants and invocations, and do some seed-planting magic for our own fertility (be it romance, or creative ventures)! ==== IMPORTANT NOTICE ======= Dear all, we are sad to say due to rising meetup fees, and members stop using Meetup, we will be moving all our event to other platforms very soon. We urge you to follow us on Eventbrite [https://londonwoodlandwitches.eventbrite.com/](https://londonwoodlandwitches.eventbrite.com/) Bright Blessings. Mani \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 22/02/26\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\-\- PRACTICAL DETAILS \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** **Fee**: cash £5 at ritual ..OR £7 early booking via Eventbrite (link at the bottom).. **Venue**: Queen's Woods, High gate, London (N6 5UU). These events are held in a public Open woods, with rough terrain, and in natural weather conditions . **Meeting point: (please read this carefully)** *Pease Gather at ENTRANCE to the woods on \`QUEENS WOOD ROAD' / Capital Ring. Aim for postcode N6 5UU. - Google map ref: 51.580240, -0.142252 Ritual Team member will come meet you, collect cash fees, and lead all into the woods, to our ritual space. **Woodland safety --** *If you feel unwell (even if it's just cough/ cold) please stay at home. There will be plenty of our Events & socials that you can attend in the future. (44+ coming up in 2026!) - The woodland terrain is unevent, at places quite steep, there are tree roots, fallen logs. We veer off the foot paths and into actual woods for ceremony. It is mostly unsuitable for anyone with breathing issues, heart conditions or mobility issues. *Those attending with any mobility issues must being your own Carer/ support. - There are **no formal toilets** nearby or cafe etc. (all are about 15-20minute walk). **What to bring?** *Ritual items (optional): Moon crowns, flower crowns Ritual cloaks, capes, masks; lanterns, candles in jars.. - Torch light for safe walking at night. *Warm clothing & rain-coats/ outdoor shoes or boots (and ankle covered socks! ). - Small ground sheet to sit on for social. *Your own Cups/chalice to drink from. **Food & Drinks for Social after ritual ---** Please bring food & drinks to share (optional)... example: bread, butter, pitta bread, cheese, small picnic food, soft drinks, wine. If there are unopened food items at the end, we share them with you to all to take home. **Tidying up**: Help us keep woods tidy . Please take any rubbish out to bins on pavements. **\-\- POLICY / GUIDELINES \-\-\-\-\-\-** - The Woodland terrain is NOT suitable for those with mobility issues. *NO Drugs, NO filming or photos during ritual ! - No children allowed. ***Inclusivity**: We are inclusive of all race, pagan beliefs, genders, sexuality, LGBTQP+ *All attendees are responsible for their own well-being and Health & safety. **Contacting Organiser:** Please send us a private messageor e-mail if you need more info. Please avoid last minute enquiries as our team gets busy preparing for this big event. We look forward to welcoming you & sharing our magic with you. Bright Blessings -Mani & London Woodland Witches . **Our facebook group** [www.facebook.com/groups/LondonWoodlandWitches](www.facebook.com/groups/LondonWoodlandWitches) **our Eventbrite page** [LondonWoodlandWitches.eventbrite.com](http://LondonWoodlandWitches.eventbrite.com)

We turn the Wheel of the Year to mark the arrival of spring and honour the Pagan festival of Ostara with music, meditation and ritual. **Donations** Can be made as cash or contactless donations during the closing music. You can also donate to the Chapel[ online](https://www.justgiving.com/rosslynhillchapel). Our collections in March, with the exception of online donations, will be shared with the Good Cause of the Month. March's good cause of the month is https://www.toilettwinning.org *Image by Alexander Grey on [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-red-yellow-and-blue-egg-lx5oFIGYJc4)*

**You are warmly invited to join us for this special SPRING EQUINOX event - Blindfolded Shamanic Trance Dance & Cacao Ceremony experience.** When? 11:45am-2:30pm, March 21st Where? Tufnell Park **For booking and more information:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983477681138?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983477681138?aff=oddtdtcreator) You are warmly invited to join us for this powerful embodiment workshop/active meditation! Blindfolded Shamanic Trance Dance & Cacao Ceremony Our journey begins in the dark. The blindfold comes on. The outer world dissolves. With cacao warming the heart and ancient shamanic drums calling to us… into the dance… Shamanic Trance Dance is an ancient technology of consciousness, rhythm guiding you beneath the thinking mind into embodied knowing. Hear the ancient pulse calling you into ritual.. This is an invitation into a ritual practice/active meditation inward journey... a blindfolded, free-form movement experience. In the dark, the mind quiets and the body becomes the guide. Breath, drums and different musics work together to shift you into a deeply aware state. In this space beyond self-consciousness, emotions can release, insight can arise, and a more instinctive, intuitive intelligence begins to move through you. Rooted in global shamanic traditions, this is a practice of embodied transformation, a dance to connect you to your own inner wisdom and the wisdom of the planet. Dance, Move, Connect, Release, Meditate & Celebrate! You're welcome to come for the whole day or drop into individual sessions. All are welcome! **\*\*\*Part of our all-day transformational workshop TRYBE. More details here: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/trybe-trance-dance-rage-ritual-ecstatic-dance-cacao-tickets-1983448790726?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/trybe-trance-dance-rage-ritual-ecstatic-dance-cacao-tickets-1983448790726?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **SCHEDULE:** ◈ 11:45am-2:30pm Blindfolded Shamanic Trance Dance with Cacao Intention Setting Ritual: Trance Dance is an invitation to a dance journey into yourself. You go inwards with your eyes closed and with the help of a blindfold, to see with your heart and connect with the wisdom inside you. Please note: Use of a blindfold is essential to get the most out of this practice!(No entry after 12pm sorry, this is so we can all journey together. Please bring a yoga mat & blanket, blindfolds will be provided!) **FACILITATOR** **Seth Newman - [https://urubu.com/](https://urubu.com/)** ''My purpose is to facilitate rituals that empower “the whole human being” through dance and music. Like Bioenergetics and other somatic processes, for me, Trance Dance was another door to inner discovery and transformation. I have always been passionate about contemporary forms of music and dance that reclaim our vital energy and our creative potential. I believe that “letting go into life” is synonymous, with our “surrender to the body”. Letting go to the natural flow that moves through us. Letting go, to let flow! It is through “the flow experience” that we express, feel and find ourselves, without being connected to “flow” nothing creative happens.'' - Seth Newman

**An ethical exploration of compassion, culture, and choice.** Humanism asks us to live ethically using reason, evidence, and compassion. But what happens when those values meet one of our most everyday habits: eating meat? In this talk, humanist speaker and journalist Dr. Sapna Ramnani invites us to step back from slogans, guilt, and culture-war arguments, and instead ask a deeper question: If humanism is about reducing suffering and increasing wellbeing, whose suffering counts, and how far does our moral circle extend? Drawing on philosophy, psychology, animal welfare evidence, and humanist ethics, this talk explores why the meat question provokes such strong emotions, how distance and habit shape our moral blind spots, and whether our ethical frameworks have kept pace with what we now know about animal sentience and industrial farming. This is not a talk about telling anyone what to eat. It is a reflective, humanist exploration of moral responsibility, compassion, and choice. **What we’ll explore:** * What humanism actually commits us to ethically * Why meat-eating sits at the crossroads of identity, culture, and morality * The role of “ethical” labels and animal welfare frameworks * Psychological distancing and why suffering is easy to ignore * Whether concepts like “farmed with care” withstand ethical scrutiny * Coherent humanist positions on meat: reduction, contextual eating, and abstention * The talk acknowledges real-world constraints, culture, health, access, economics, and rejects moral purity tests. Instead, it invites honest reflection, ethical curiosity, and compassion toward others and ourselves. **Who is this talk for?** Humanists interested in ethics, philosophy, and moral consistency Anyone curious about animal ethics without dogma or judgment People who enjoy thoughtful discussion and reflective talks There will be time for questions and discussion. You are not being asked to agree, only to think. **We kindly request a contribution of £5 for lecture events to help cover marketing and venue hire costs.** **Format for the evening:** * Arrive from 6.30pm for drinks at the charity wine bar * 7pm talk by Sapna * 7.45 comfort break and drinks from the bar * All profits go to Sapna’s charity choice — Brent and Harrow Remap * After the talk we invite you to join us at The Queens Head and Artichoke for friendly conversation and to continue the discussion. The pub is a short walk away, located at 30-32 Albany Street, NW1 4EA

Whether you're a high flying corporate executive, an aspiring salsa dancer, a visiting american cheerleader, a weekend super model, an olympic swimmer, or living in London from a Sanctioned country with an exotic name, get your training attire out of the closet and join us in Hyde Park with a crew of upbeat and high energy people! https://vimeo.com/229105691 Join us if it’s like minded people you want to meet, If it's a summer beach body you’re after or you simply want to see the amazing sites of Hyde Park. No matter what your reason you will be welcomed by positive energy and open minded individuals. What to expect: an hour of fun and well thought out dynamic body weight exercises. What’s included: following a thorough warmup we begin our short runs and HiiT workouts within desigated areas of Hyde park. What does it really mean: Steady Cardio mixed with explosive sprints, body strength HiiT training, group workouts, followed by a warm down of yoga and mindfulness. By the end of the class you have worked your entire body (and made new friends). You can push yourself according to your fitness level. We never point out any individuals but instead motivate the whole group to push further. We welcome everyone in our group. We run (slow pace) between HiiT stations. We always show options for our exercises from easy option to enhanced and difficult form of the same move. Bring a friend and let’s grow our tribe. Now for the finer details..... When: Every Sunday 11AM Meeting spot: Where: Speaker's Corner - Behind Small Cafe - copy this code in google: GR6R+C7 Exact Location ( click on the link) https://goo.gl/maps/F7sCa5dtjjqZ1J5W7 Closest station: Marble Arch (Central Line) What to bring: light comfortable backpack (to run with): water, hand gloves (for ground workouts), extra top to change into (at the end) make sure there is room for for great attitude and positive vibes :) Note: we are not stationary so you will need to carry what you bring. We run at very comfortable pace. Finish at: Close to Lancaster Gate Station. We then head to Urban Baristas for healthy refreshment and Brunch. They serve the best coffees and super delicious menu. We sometimes finish by Albert Memorial and head to WholeFoods. We post the exercise program on our Facebook and Instagram page. Make sure to check it out: FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/urbantribelife INSTAGRAM: Sunday's Bootcamp: https://www.instagram.com/urbantribe.life/ Our Retreats Page: https://www.instagram.com/utretreats/ We can all achieve more by exercising together. Urban Tribe is about Connecting People Outdoors. Looking forward to see you next Sunday :) Now the boring stuff: Attending any bootcamp session is absolutely at your own risk. We accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, injury or damage arising in any way.

**🔥 Join the Beat – Samba Practice in East London! 🥁🎶** Want to brush off those winter blues as spring is (almost!) here! Something creative. fun and sociable with a friends group of people? Our inclusive and friendly Samba band welcomes everyone—whether you're a seasoned percussionist or have never touched a drum before. No experience? No problem! We provide all the instruments and will have you grooving in no time. Feel the rhythm, meet great people, and be part of an electrifying sound that moves the streets. Just bring your enthusiasm—we’ll bring the drums! Ready to make some noise? See you there! 🔥🎶 Sambattalion is an established East London based Samba Fusion Band. We have been going for over ten years and use meetup as one way to recruit new members. We play gigs in and around London and beyond. Please bring ear plugs / ear protectors. We have some but if you can please bring your own - and wear them. We are very loud. We practice every Thursday, 7.00pm-10.00pm (with a 30 minute break) In January and early February 2026 we are tailoring our weekly practices specifically with new joiners in mind, and remember no experienced required! It is £5 per session (your first session is FREE). We are entirely not-for profit. Cash only please - pay on the day.

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)

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)

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library 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. We desirere to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and all members are treated with compassion and respect. All backgrounds are welcome.

Most people would agree that a great night's sleep is one of the sweetest experiences in life. Crawling into a wonderfully comfortable bed, drifting off to peaceful slumber, and awaking, feeling refreshed, energized, and ready for the day is a gift everyone welcomes. Unfortunately, nights of perfect sleep and restfulness can seem scarce. Particularly, during the truly hard times in life, good sleep can seem an impossibility. The ancient shepherd-crowned-king, David, knew more than the average person about the challenge of getting a good night's sleep in the midst of being falsely maligned, hunted by enemies, and attacked by those who wanted him dead. He understood the terror of running for his life, and having thousands call for his death. What was his answer? Where could a man on the run find peace? What hope was there for a person in such circumstances? David's hope and peace were found in the One Who he knew was Perfect Truth, Justice, Mercy, and Grace, the God Who had delivered His people before and Who would do so again, and again, and again. Because of God's provision David twice details that even in the midst of his enemies, he would "lie down and sleep, and wake again." Psalm 3 and 4 point us to the hope in which those who follow after the Lord can be confident--that from the Lord comes deliverance. Join us at **6:30 pm, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at True Food Kitchen, Easton Town Center**, and be encouraged from God's Word! [Get your tickets on EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982640625482)! [Connect with us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/1236398608589564)!

Many Christian singles have encountered a bit of a "love-hate" relationship with Proverbs 18:22. "He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord." If finding a spouse is considered to be a "good thing", why doesn't God provide a good spouse to each person when they're ready to be married? How can a follower of Jesus be content and trust His leading in life, when they have no guarantee they will ever get God's good gift of marriage? Christian Bevere seeks to inspire hope for believers in Jesus by recounting lessons learned from her own time as a waiting, single woman who sought to trust and follow the Lord, while also yearning to find a good husband. Not just for the unmarried, *Future Husband, Present Prayers* is both an encouragement and an opportunity for anyone who finds themself in a season of waiting--to make the most of today, while looking forward and preparing for tomorrow, confident in God's work throughout all the days of our lives. Join us as we consider these timely truths at **6:30 pm,** **Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at True Food Kitchen, Easton Town Center, Columbus**. Get your tickets on [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/copy-of-future-husband-present-prayers-columbus-tickets-1983848200371)! Connect with us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/887015200770357)!

No person who seeks *true* justice can do so for long without recognizing the necessity of regular, close looks in the mirror. It has been said that the sins we hate most strongly in others are often ones with which we ourselves struggle. If one is not careful, our zeal to see wrongs righted can cause blind spots in our own lives. David knew this intimately. While literally on the run for his life from his enemies, he did not hesitate to call out the sins and wrongdoings of those evildoers, asking God to vindicate him, and to judge the wicked; and yet on multiple occasions, most famously in the adultery against and murder of one of his own friends, David had to reckon with the fact that he, himself, was the one who did evil, sinning against God and man. The only hope for David and the only hope for every human is the perfect justice, mercy, and grace that are found in the Lord, the One, as David later would write, "Who forgives your sins, Who heals your diseases, Who redeems your life from the pit..." \~Psalm 103. We will continue our study in Psalms, looking at [chapters 5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%205&version=NIV) and [6](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%206&version=NIV), **6:30 pm,** **Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at True Food Kitchen, Easton Town Center**. We would love to have you join us! Get your tickets on [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/columbus-a-study-in-psalms-psalm-5-and-6-tickets-1983924798478)! Connect with us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/1198570342056669)!