Spiritual Growth

Please join us for our next **Friday gathering** on **April 10, 2026** for an evening of warm fellowship and insightful discussion. We'll start at **7:00 pm** with **refreshments** at the **Alexandria Bahá’í Center**. The discussion will begin at 7:30 p.m. **Education as an Act of Hope - Constructive Response to Suppression.** This is a story about what happens when ordinary people respond to injustice not with despair, but with determination to build something better. Join us for an inspiring evening with **Kamran Farid**, co-founder of the Bahá'í Institute for Higher Education (BIHE), as he shares a powerful story of resilience, courage, and hope. **About the Discussion:** In 1987, when Bahá'í students and professors were expelled from all Iranian universities simply because of their faith, a group of educators made a bold choice: they would create their own university. For nearly four decades, BIHE has operated underground in Iran, offering degree programs to students denied the fundamental right to education. Kamran will explore a compelling question: *How does access to education sustain hope in communities facing systematic oppression—and what happens when that access is denied?* **About Our Speaker:** Kamran Farid holds degrees in electronics and communication engineering. As a BIHE faculty member and administrator, he was arrested in 2011 and imprisoned for five years—his "crime" was teaching. Since his release in 2016, he continues to support BIHE's mission as a consultant, ensuring new generations can pursue their dreams of higher education despite ongoing persecution. **All are welcome.** No background knowledge required—just bring your curiosity and an open heart.

Join the DMV Bible Study's prayer night for an evening of connecting with the Holy Spirit through a corporate prayer. Dive deep into the teachings of the Bible, specifically exploring topics related to Christian theology, spirituality, and the significance of doctrine in our faith journey. This session will be an enriching opportunity to study the Word of God, reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, and connect with fellow Christian men and women in a supportive environment. Through interactive discussions, prayer sessions, and group activities, participants will have the chance to enhance their understanding of key theological concepts, deepen their spiritual connection, and foster a sense of community. Whether you are a seasoned Bible study enthusiast or just beginning to explore Christianity, this event welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and beliefs to come together for a night of growth, reflection, and fellowship. Don't miss this opportunity to grow in your faith and knowledge of the Christian doctrine!

**Finding Hope in Chaotic Times (Free Event)** **How can a spiritual perspective help us make sense of the times in which we live?** **Despite efforts by many well-intentioned people, it seems more true now than ever that the problems humanity is facing sometimes seem to be getting worse not better. Divisions appear to grow deeper day by day, social relationships can feel strained, our institutions often appear unable to meet the needs of the world today, and even the viability of the natural environment around us seems threatened. So in the midst of these turbulent times, where can we turn to for sources of hope? In times of crisis, are there actually new opportunities for a more peaceful, just, and sustainable way of life? How can we help build those new patterns in our communities?** **Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on how to promote constructive change in these difficult times. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore the role spirituality can play in our efforts to construct a new, more meaningful path forward in the midst of social turmoil.** **“The world of mankind is in the throes of evolutionary activity indicating the passing of the old conditions and advent of the new.” – Bahá’í Teachings** **\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

* **Are you seeking your own answers to everyday questions?** * **Would you like to connect more deeply with the source of life?** Join us for the **Friday HU Chant** and discover how this simple, sacred sound can bring **love, happiness, and inner stability**. **What to Expect:** * 20 minutes of chanting HU, either aloud or silently, whichever feels right for you * Gentle contemplative time afterward * Friendly conversation with others of like heart Everyone is welcome—whether you’re new to chanting or have been practicing for years. Come and experience the uplifting sound of the HU!

* **Would you like to look deeper into the source of life?** * **Do you want to find your own answers to everyday questions?** * **Singing HU can bring you Love, Happiness, and Stability** **You’re warmly invited to join us at our** **Friday HU Chant at 7:00 pm** **You will be welcome to chant out loud or simply listen, whatever is right for you. The chant lasts about 20 minutes, followed by brief contemplative time and conversation with others of like heart.** **Attend In-Person at:** **The Maryland Eckankar Center** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **(Doors open at 6:30 pm)** **For more information:** **Call or text: (301)439-2120** **MEC@eckankarmaryland.org** **Presented by the DC & Maryland Satsang Societies, Inc. Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2025 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

* **Would you like to look deeper into the source of life?** * **Do you want to find your own answers to everyday questions?** * **Singing HU can bring you Love, Happiness, and Stability** **You’re warmly invited to join us at our** **Friday HU Chant at 7:00 pm** **You will be welcome to chant out loud or simply listen, whatever is right for you. The chant lasts about 20 minutes, followed by brief contemplative time and conversation with others of like heart.** **Attend In-Person at:** **The Maryland Eckankar Center** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **(Doors open at 6:30 pm)** **For more information:** **Call or text: (301)439-2120** **MEC@eckankarmaryland.org** **Presented by the DC & Maryland Satsang Societies, Inc. Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2025 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

Compassion is a profoundly peaceful mind that arises when we observe the suffering of others and sincerely wish for them to be free from pain. Authentic compassion never exhausts or discourages us. It transforms our heart, strengthens our inner qualities, and empowers us to respond to suffering with wisdom and courage. When we allow discouragement, anger, or hopelessness to dominate our response to pain in the world, we unintentionally add more suffering to an already difficult situation. Compassion provides a new way to relate: a positive, resilient, and deeply meaningful response that protects our own peace of mind while guiding us to help others effectively. Explore how to cultivate a pure compassion that uplifts rather than overwhelms, and how this inner change becomes the real solution to both personal and collective suffering. Through practical meditations and teachings from the Kadampa tradition, participants will learn how to develop a compassionate heart that brings lasting peace, confidence, and purpose to daily life. Join us to discover why compassion is not a burden, but the source of our greatest inner strength. **COST** $12/Financial Hardship: $6 Members: Free Dinner Included (Donations Appreciated) **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

***What Stands in the Way Becomes the Way - Part 2*** **In this in-person workshop, tap your own answers to deal with rapid change in the environment and know you are not your troubles.** Ø **Break through confusion to step into your true self with crystal clear inner identity.** Ø **Turn doubt and negativity into purposeful clarity with an understanding of your soul’s path.** Ø **Transform your energy into joy, abundance and fulfillment with simple, powerful energy mastery tools.** Ø **Partner with your spiritual guides for daily insight and success.** Ø **Eliminate stress and stay centered with techniques that keep your energy clear and your inner peace strong.** Ø **Activate the healing light you really are.** **Visit [https://inspiringbelief.net/events](https://inspiringbelief.net/events) for more information and to register or contact Mara Spencer** **via email at [[Mara@InspiringBelief.net](mailto:Mara@InspiringBelief.net)]. You can attend Part 2 without experiencing Part 1.**

***What Stands in the Way Becomes the Way - Part 2*** **In this in-person workshop, tap your own answers to deal with rapid change in the environment and know you are not your troubles.** Ø **Break through confusion to step into your true self with crystal clear inner identity.** Ø **Turn doubt and negativity into purposeful clarity with an understanding of your soul’s path.** Ø **Transform your energy into joy, abundance and fulfillment with simple, powerful energy mastery tools.** Ø **Partner with your spiritual guides for daily insight and success.** Ø **Eliminate stress and stay centered with techniques that keep your energy clear and your inner peace strong.** Ø **Activate the healing light you really are.** **Visit [https://inspiringbelief.net/events](https://inspiringbelief.net/events) for more information and to register or contact Mara Spencer** **via email at [[Mara@InspiringBelief.net](mailto:Mara@InspiringBelief.net)]. You can attend Part 2 without experiencing Part 1.**

This is a VIRTUAL FREE event every week. To get access details please [click here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-recharge-fill-up-sis-tickets-1984961497272?aff=oddtdtcreator) If you’ve been pouring into everyone else and quietly running on empty… this space was created for you. There comes a moment in a woman’s life when she realizes she has been pouring into everyone and everything else… while quietly running on empty. The responsibilities. The expectations. The emotional labor. And somewhere in the middle of holding it all together, she forgets what it feels like to be **fully supported, fully resourced, and fully seen**. **The Recharge: Fill Up Sis** is **a sacred weekly virtual meetup** created for women who are ready to pause, recalibrate their energy, and reconnect with themselves in powerful community. This is not a motivational talk. This is not surface-level inspiration. This is a room where women gather to **release what they’ve been carrying, restore their energy, and remember the power of being in [intentional sisterhood](https://thewombsauna.com/wcoe "https://thewombsauna.com/wcoe").** ## What Happens in The Recharge? Each session is a guided experience where women come together to: * **Release** stress, emotional weight, and the pressure of carrying everything alone * **Restore** their energy through meaningful conversation, reflection, and grounding practices * **Rise** into clarity about what their next level of life and leadership requires * **Radiate** with renewed confidence, alignment, and direction This space allows you to experience the tone, leadership, and sisterhood that define the deeper work we do together. ## The Integration Lab: Where Knowledge Becomes Embodiment Many women spend years gathering wisdom. Books. Podcasts. Workshops. Spiritual insight. Therapy. Coaching. At a certain point, the question is no longer: **“What else do I need to learn?”** The real question becomes: **“Where am I actually practicing the life I say I want?”** The **Integration Lab** is the weekly coaching and practice space inside our **[1-Year Self Development Program](thewombsauna.com/programs)**. It is where women stop circulating knowledge and begin **embodying it**. Inside the Lab, we work in real time with the patterns, decisions, emotions, and relationships shaping your life right now. Awareness becomes action. Insight becomes discipline. And personal growth becomes a lived lifestyle. Women gather weekly to: * apply what they know to real-life challenges * strengthen emotional regulation and self-leadership * practice accountability in sacred sisterhood * build the consistency required to live differently This is not a space for passive listening. It is a space for **active personal development and sacred community life.** ## Who This Space Is For? This gathering is for women who: * are tired of carrying everything alone * know they are capable of more but feel stretched thin * value personal development and emotional growth * desire a circle of women who are serious about their evolution * are exploring whether they are ready to invest in a **year of intentional growth** Many women who attend **The Recharge** are preparing themselves to decide whether they are ready to step into the deeper commitment of the **[1-Year Self Development Program](https://thewombsauna.com/programs "https://thewombsauna.com/programs")**. ## What You Should Know This experience is **free**, but it is intentional. Women who attend are often exploring what it would look like to: * prioritize their personal development * practice emotional and spiritual growth consistently * participate in a high-level community of women committed to living consciously Come with curiosity. Come with honesty. Come with the willingness to pour back into yourself. ## Hosted By ## **[Thema Azize Serwa](https://thewombsauna.com/thema "https://thewombsauna.com/thema")** Founder of **[The Womb Sauna](https://thewombsauna.com/ "https://thewombsauna.com")** and creator of transformational spaces where women gather to **release, restore, rise, and radiate**. After overcoming eight years of infertility and PCOS, Thema devoted her life to helping women reconnect with their bodies, their emotional wisdom, and the sacred power of intentional community. Through her work in womb wellness, self-development, and spiritual leadership, she has guided women around the world in creating lives that are rooted in clarity, healing, and self-mastery. ## Final Invitation If you’ve been gathering insight for years but feel ready to start **living differently**, this space will resonate deeply. Because transformation does not happen through inspiration alone. It happens through **consistent practice, honest reflection, and community that supports your evolution.** **Come recharge.**

You are an immortal Soul. As Soul, you are a unit of awareness, who uses a physical body to experience this world. It is your spiritual birthright to freely explore and enjoy all of Divine creation. It is up to each of us to claim that freedom for ourselves! Examples of Soul Travel include out-of-body experiences and near-death experiences. One aspect is your dreams, where you explore other spiritual worlds. Another aspect is the expansion of consciousness. All aspects increase your awareness and understanding of life. This world is a spiritual laboratory. If you would like to learn some Soul Travel techniques, please join us! A flyer for this event is available for you at: [https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Poster-for-April-12th-2026-Discover-the-Expanded-Awareness-of-Soul-Travel-Rev-1.pdf](https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Poster-for-April-12th-2026-Discover-the-Expanded-Awareness-of-Soul-Travel-Rev-1.pdf)

You are an immortal Soul. As Soul, you are a unit of awareness, who uses a physical body to experience this world. It is your spiritual birthright to freely explore and enjoy all of Divine creation. It is up to each of us to claim that freedom for ourselves! Examples of Soul Travel include out-of-body experiences and near-death experiences. One aspect is your dreams, where you explore other spiritual worlds. Another aspect is the expansion of consciousness. All aspects increase your awareness and understanding of life. This world is a spiritual laboratory. If you would like to learn some Soul Travel techniques, please join us! A flyer for this event is available for you at: https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Poster-for-April-12th-2026- Discover-the-Expanded-Awareness-of-Soul-Travel-Rev-1.pdf

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.

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.

Main Library, Meeting Room 3B 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.

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!

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.