News

On September 29, 2024, we’ll deviate a bit from our regular worship pattern in order to accommodate an all-community discussion of the Israel/Hamas war and related Israeli/Palestinian relationships. 

That conversation will be facilitated by Aaron Shneyer and Nizar Farsakh.  Aaron is a Takoma, D.C., resident, activist and musician, and leader of the American chapter of Standing Together.  Nizar is a Palestinian-American political analyst with extensive experience in the Israel-Palestine conflict as well as U.S. Middle East policy.  Both are committed to bridging barriers and bringing communities together.

The in-person conversation will begin immediately after a slightly abbreviated worship (we hope this prayerful exploration will be more an extension of worship) and we hope that all will stay for it.  We anticipate that folks on Zoom will be able to hear Aaron’s and Nizar’s opening presentations, but the Zoom limitations will not enable the folks on line to participate in the conversation.  Accordingly, if at all possible, we encourage you to join us in-person on the 29^th.  Light refreshments will be offered.

All of us have struggled with the grief, anger, passion and complexity of these past 11 months of violence.  Numerous resources are available concerning the conflict.  In preparation for our conversation on the 29^th, we encourage Seekers to check out these few resources:

·         “Wrestling Jerusalem” – you can watch this 93 minute movie on several platforms: for free (with ads) at Tubi or Amazon Prime (Freevee) or without ads on Apple TV for $2.99.  We urge particular attention to the first 6 ½ minutes;
·         Israeli–Palestinian conflict; Wikipedia – extensive with multiple options for additional resources;
·         Additionally, recommended by Aaron and Nizar – The Telos Group and Standing Together.

On behalf of REJMT (Peter, Erica, Dave, Lucy, John, Jeanne, Sallie, Paul and Trish)

Opening Reception: Sunday, September 8, 11:30am – 1:30pm

Seekers Church is pleased to host a show by Patricia Dubroof, a creative aging specialist. Dubroof’s “Who Cares?” series honors caregivers and their gracious generosity as they support the community.

The School for Christian Growth is happy to offer two new six-week classes beginning on Tuesday, September 10. They are Spiritual Journaling, led by Peter Bankson and Joan Dodge and An Unholy Trinity: Sin, Salvation, and the Afterlife, led by Marjory Bankson and John Morris.

AN UNHOLY TRINITY: Sin, Salvation & the Afterlife

In Person: Tuesday nights, Sept 10-Oct 15

• What does salvation mean?
• What were you taught about “being saved”? 
• Saved from what? For what?
• And how do we understand these words — sin, salvation and the afterlife — today?

Bring your questions, imagination and creativity to this in-person class for a lively exploration of your theological worldview and why that matters.

We will meet in person beginning with a simple meal together at 6:30 and class at 7:00 to 8:30 pm.

Led by Marjory Bankson and John Morris.

SPIRITUALJOURNALING: A Journey of Self Discovery & Knowing God with Others

On Zoom: Tuesday nights, Sept 10-Oct 15

Keeping a spiritual journal is one of the practices that can help us on a path to deepen our spiritual life, become more aware of ourselves, be more open to God and better able to hear God’s love and transforming Word for us and the wider world. We will explore these questions:

• Are there journaling practices that can help me discover and grow beyond my blind spots?
• Can I trust in God’s transforming power and loving presence to help me know my genuine self?
• How can I start or re-start this practice and stay energized to continue writing over time?

We will meet on Zoom from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. You’ll receive an email with the link on Tuesday 9/10 afternoon.

Led by Joan Dodge and Peter Bankson.

We are going car campping again this Fall in Prince William Forest Park,  October 11-13. AKA BEAUTIFUL FALL WEATHER!

 Car camping means that you literally drive up to your campsite, pitch your tent, say hi to fellow Seekers (maybe not in this order) and relax. You’d bring your food and comforts. Last year there were about a dozen of us, and we had tons of fun laughing, hiking, talking, whatever. 

 If you’re interested PLEASE let Kevin Barwisk know (contact info below), as it’s good to be looking out for each other. If there’s an issue with gear, also let Kevin know. Hope to hear from you.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/prwi/planyourvisit/oakridge.htm. You would need to reserve a campsite in advance (we all will be around Loop B)— https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233379. Site fees and entrance fees are listed on the website.

Kevin Barwick
kevinbarwick@gmail.com
301-768-2344