Spiritual Growth

**‼️EDIT — TIME CHANGE‼️** Apologies everyone, something came up last minute and need to push it back. Sorry for any inconveniences :( **🌈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 a 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. For a long time, I struggled with confusion, frustration, and even resentment toward religion. I asked God why I was made the way I am, wondering if that meant I was somehow wrong. Over time, I came to realize that the hurt I carried didn’t come from God—it came from human misunderstanding, systemic bias, and teachings that strayed from love. Through reflection and growth, my faith has become something different: something rooted in compassion, inclusion, and love for all people—myself included. **Logistics:** • 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month\* • Location: Library or apartment\*\* • 60–90 minutes of reading and discussion\*\*\* \* Frequency can increase if a consistent group forms \*\* In-person gatherings at my apartment's lounge if the group is comfortable \*\*\* Agenda shared in advance **If this resonates with you, you are welcome here. ❤️🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️**

Purpose of This Group This is a weekly gathering for spiritually awakened individuals, starseeds, and those on a journey of self-discovery who are seeking meaningful connection and community. We meet every Sunday to share experiences, explore spiritual topics, and support each other in a grounded, open-minded, and respectful space. Whether you’re newly awakening or have been on this path for years, you are welcome here. COMMUNITY GUIDELINES: We welcome all members to engage with respect and kindness. Hate speech, bullying, or discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any identity will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment, inappropriate comments, or sharing explicit content is strictly prohibited. Please respect privacy, communicate constructively, and report any violations to moderators. Any breach of these guidelines may result in warnings or removal from the community. Some discussion topics: 1. What do you feel is your unique spiritual purpose? • How do your everyday actions reflect this purpose? • Are there experiences or challenges that have guided you toward it? • What would fully living this purpose look like in your life today? 1. How has your past trauma shaped your spiritual journey? • Are there patterns from your childhood or family dynamics that still influence you? • How do you feel these experiences have awakened certain spiritual sensitivities? • What steps could help transform past pain into spiritual growth? 1. How do dysfunctional family dynamics impact your spiritual gifts? • Are there ways family expectations or criticism have blocked your inner gifts? • How can you set boundaries while still honoring family ties? • What lessons from your family history have strengthened your spiritual resilience? 1. How do you nurture your inner child through your spiritual awakening? • Are there unresolved wounds from childhood that need your attention? • How does reconnecting with your inner child influence your heart chakra? • What practices help you feel safe, loved, and whole in your inner self? 1. How is your heart chakra awakening influencing your life? • Do you feel more compassion and empathy than before? • Are there fears or past pain that prevent your heart from fully opening? • How can you consciously strengthen and balance your heart energy? 1. How do you experience the 4th dimension in your spiritual awareness? • Do you sense energies, synchronicities, or visions beyond the physical? • How does this awareness shift your perception of reality or relationships? • What practices help you navigate 4D experiences safely and grounded? 1. How can past traumas become a catalyst for spiritual service? • Are there personal experiences you can transform into wisdom for others? • How do your spiritual gifts support healing in your community or family? • If resources were unlimited, what healing work would you create? 1. How do you integrate spiritual awakening with shadow work? • Are there parts of yourself—anger, fear, or grief—that need attention? • How does exploring these shadows affect your heart and higher dimensions? • What rituals or practices help you reconcile inner darkness with your light? 1. How do you envision your multi-dimensional spiritual growth? • How do past life patterns, inner child work, or trauma shape your 4D self? • Are there limiting beliefs or blocks preventing your full awakening? • How can you actively cultivate alignment with higher consciousness and love? 1. How do you currently nurture your spiritual growth? • Are there practices or rituals that strengthen your connection? • What obstacles prevent you from deepening your spiritual growth? • How would your life change if you committed fully to these practices? 1. How do you handle spiritual challenges or doubts? • Are doubts a source of growth or frustration for you? • How do you differentiate between fear and true guidance? • What strategies help you realign with your spiritual path during tough times? 1. How do your relationships reflect your spiritual journey? • Are there people who inspire or block your spiritual growth? • How do you maintain healthy boundaries while supporting others? • In what ways could your spiritual gifts positively influence your community? 1. What is your vision for spiritual impact in the world? • If resources were unlimited, what service would you offer? • How does this vision align with your current life and actions? • What steps can you take now to start manifesting this vision? 1. How do you integrate your spiritual insights into daily life? • Are your decisions guided more by intuition or external expectations? • How do you recognize when you’re out of alignment with your higher self? • What small daily habits could deepen your connection to your spiritual path? 1. How do you perceive your spiritual evolution over time? • Can you identify key moments that shaped your spiritual awakening? • Are there lessons from past experiences you still need to fully integrate? • How do you envision your spiritual growth unfolding in the next 5–10 years? 1. What is your experience with Kundalini awakening? • How did you first notice the energy rising, and what physical, emotional, or spiritual sensations have accompanied it? • Have past traumas, inner child wounds, or karmic patterns influenced how your Kundalini energy flows? • How are you integrating this awakening into your daily life while balancing your chakras and higher-dimensional awareness? 1. How do you cope with feeling alone or misunderstood? • Are there moments when isolation felt necessary for your growth? • How do you maintain connection with like-minded people or community? • What practices help you feel grounded and supported when alone? 1. How do you distinguish between your intuition and fear-based thoughts? • Are there specific sensations or signs that guide you? • How have past experiences shaped your fear patterns? • What tools or rituals help you strengthen trust in your intuition? 1. How do you protect your energy while staying open and compassionate? • Are there situations or people that drain or destabilize your energy? • What boundaries or practices help you maintain balance? • How do you remain receptive to others without overextending yourself? 1. How do you discern spiritual guidance from mental over-analysis? • Are there synchronicities or patterns that feel like guidance? • How do you manage self-doubt or overthinking loops? • What practices help you stay present and attuned to subtle signs?

What does it mean to truly live in *Onenes*—with each other and with the Earth? Join us at **Unity of Fairfax** for a special Earth Day Sunday service as we celebrate our shared connection to all life. Rooted in Unity’s core value of *Oneness*, this gathering invites us to recognize the sacred interconnection between people, planet, and spirit. Featuring an interfaith element, this service will bring together diverse perspectives to honor the Earth and inspire a deeper sense of care, responsibility, and reverence for our world. Whether you’re spiritually curious, environmentally conscious, or simply looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Earth Day—you are welcome here.

Discover the path to stress management, life's tranquility, and self-improvement through Heartfulness Meditation. Embrace relaxation, meditation, and emotional detoxification practices to unlock your best self. Join our free sessions every Sunday at 8 AM and Wednesday at 7 / 7:30 PM at various centers in MD and VA. Experience the profound benefits of these simple yet powerful practices. Commit to a few months of meditation and witness the transformative impact firsthand. We eagerly await your presence at these enlightening sessions.

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

**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?

Philosophers, religionists, thinkers and psychologists have long debated whether we are born good, evil or full of sin – or whether we’re all blank slates just waiting to be filled in but with no inherent potential one way or the other. But what if we are actually created to be noble? How might that change the way we look at ourselves? What about others? At children? And the world? The world around us often seems to be telling us that we are unworthy of love or of excellence, that we as human beings are somehow inherently bad – or at least selfish in our motivations – and that this needs to be controlled. But what if we viewed ourselves and others as being born with inherent nobility just waiting to be realized? Is it possible that much of the negativity we see in the world today isn’t because people are inherently bad but that our inherent “goodness” and nobility is not being recognized and nurtured? What role does spirituality potentially play in this? How can a more spiritual perspective enable us to find reasons for hope and inspire us to act, to channel our unique strengths towards creating a world that reflects and nurtures our best selves? Can seeing the nobility in ourselves cause us to recognize and uplift the nobility in others, help us overcome challenges and forge a path towards a brighter future? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the underlying truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspectives offered by the Bahá’í Teachings to deepen our understanding of human nature and the nobility within each of us. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore the role each of us can play in transforming our communities, in building a spiritually dignified world where each of us can thrive. *“...Noble have I created thee, yet thou hast abased thyself. Rise then unto that for which thou wast created.”* – Bahá’í Teachings **\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

**Welcome to our church in Greenbelt, MD** where we believe that everyone is made in God’s image, and that no one should be ignored or marginalized. We are a safe space for everyone who is looking for unconditional love and acceptance in Jesus Christ our Lord. We invite you to join us for our next service on **Sunday**, at 10:40 AM. We hope to see you there! 🙏🌟

**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.

**Weekly Sunday Meditation Classes with Sanema Naomi Hardrick** * Each class begins with **guided breathing meditation**, to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace. The meditation is followed by a brief, traditional Buddhist prayer, called *Liberating Prayer.* * The Teacher will then give a **practical teaching** based on the topic of the class series and explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives. * The teaching is then followed by a **guided meditation** to help us mix our mind with the teaching and take it to heart. * Time permitting, at the end of the meditation class we spend a few minutes in **group discussion** and the teacher will take any **questions** that the class might have about the topic. **COST:** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| [Register](https://meditation-dc.org/sunday-mornings/) \*\*[Member Pricing: ](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/)\*\*FREE & Available as an online class. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

So, the world of meditation has a lot to offer, and you have heard it all. This Meetup is about discovering the EXPERIENCE of meditation. Come check us out - volunteer meditation instructors from the Maryland Community will help lead you into the East's best kept relaxation secret, meet like-minded people, and in general have a fun time. As an added bonus, you will also get to experience some of the Art of Living Foundation's breathing programs and get an insight into what makes the Sudharshan Kriya tick. Try saying it 10 times in a row for some tongue twister fun! Anyways, your group lead is likely to be young, fun, a professional who does this on a volunteer basis, might have an accent, smiles a lot (yeah, meditation does that to you)... and at the end of the day, is a meditation instructor par excellence. We are trying to hold meetups across MD but, for now, we will stick to the one free venue we have. Let us know if you want to host one of the meditation Meetups at your venue.. somewhere in MD though!

We all go through times when it feels like the ground is being pulled out from under us. What we relied on as steady and solid may change or even appear to vanish. In this era of global disruption, threats to our individual, social, and planetary safety abound, and at times life can feel overwhelming. Not only are loss and separation painful, but even positive changes can cause great stress. Yet life is full of change: birth, death, marriage, divorce; a new relationship; losing or starting a job; beginning a new phase in life or ending one. Change is stressful, even when it is much desired or anticipated—the unknown can feel scary and threatening. In We Were Made for These Times, the extraordinary mindfulness teacher Kaira Jewel Lingo imparts accessible advice on navigating difficult times of transition, drawing on Buddhist teachings on impermanence to help you establish equanimity and resilience. Classroom 1 and via **[Zoom](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88912244670?pwd=jtR4LLF3bM6YkuFgevZXlJtM9tGZL2.1),** Meeting ID 889 1224 4670, Password 488104

**NOW ONLINE** The weekly Sunday morning (10:30 am to 12 noon) class begins with a welcome, short reflection on an aspect of the teachings, and includes an arriving meditation (15 minutes) that will often incorporate poems and may end with a reflection or question. The opening meditation is followed by an invitation to each person to share their name and a few words (for example, what is alive for them right now or what their intention is for the class or the day). The sharing has been a powerful support to help welcome new people, get to know each other, and build community/sangha. Following a brief period of mindful stretching/movement, we finish with a longer meditation (25-30 minutes) and final reflections on the teachings, sharing, Q&A, and announcements. Class participants are welcome to stay and engage with other members of the community or adjourn to a neighboring restaurant or coffee shop. This space is inclusive, everyone is welcome, and we invite you to bring with you all aspects of yourself. Learn more here: https://imcw.org/Calendar/Event-Calendar/EventId/3686/e/drop-in-class-livestreamed-19-apr-2020

Every Sunday afternoon before church, one of the Covenant Life Church prophetess' hosts a prophetic training class that activates participants in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. During this class, participants will be provided opportunity to be taught how to use the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and will have opportunity to ask questions and talk with someone who has been used in the Gifts during ministry. Teaching is provided on the gifts with emphasis on the Gift of the Prophecy. A combination of lecture and experiential learning is employed to teach, guide and instruct the participants. Everyone is welcome, all classes are free. Childcare is not provided.

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

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.

The Unity of Columbus Resource Group for the Homeless is seeking compassionate volunteers who would like to help serve and uplift members of our homeless community. This group is dedicated to sharing kindness, resources, and support with individuals who may be experiencing difficult circumstances. Anyone with a heart for service is welcome to join us as we work together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Community members are also invited to contribute by bringing helpful items for those in need. Donations of items can be contributed at the meeting and will be distributed to assist members of the homeless community. Please consider joining us and sharing this opportunity with friends, family, or associates who may also wish to help. Learn more about Unity of Columbus at www.unityofcolumbus.org or call (614) 267-4959. Together we can extend compassion, dignity, and support to our community. 💛

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

From birth, human beings are learning. Before we are able to hold concrete memories, we are being shaped and impacted by everything about our lives and situations. From the point that we become capable of cognizant thought and memory, our lives could be summed up as a series of our responses to our circumstances, whether for good or for ill. Dr. Joe Dispenza sees a deep need for human beings to live *on purpose*. Rather than just living life in reaction mode, he challenges people to live intentionally, to seek to change the negative that we have encountered and to pursue the positive through purposeful steps in a different and healthy direction. His study and work seek to demonstrate the changes that can be made from the inside out. Join us as we take a look at new ways to grow at **6:30 pm,** **Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at True Food Kitchen, Easton Town Center, Columbus**. Get your tickets on [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breaking-the-habit-of-being-yourself-columbus-ohio-tickets-1984662515008)! Connect with us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/973088205892754)! Check out our updated website [LocalCA](https://localca.org/)!

Join us every 3rd Sunday of the month right after the Sunday Service for our Potluck Fellowship — a warm and welcoming time to connect, share, and celebrate community together! Bring your favorite dish to share (homemade or store-bought — all are welcome) and enjoy a delicious meal with friends old and new. It’s a wonderful opportunity to relax, laugh, and deepen your connections. Come hungry for good food, uplifting conversation, and heartfelt fellowship!