April, 2025. My husband and I visited the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness)…read moretemple for the wedding of a Hindu friend and his new bride. The temple is set on a beautiful forested 12-acre tract in a suburb of Washington, DC. While most of the guests had links to Nepal, and spoke Newari and Nepali languages, the Hindu priest regularly took the time to explain, in English, what he was doing in the marriage rituals and their significance, before returning to the actual prayers in Sanskrit. The atmosphere was very festive, with a "stage" beautifully decorated with abundant flowers, and women all decked out in bright (especially red) saris and men wearing traditional vests and topi hats. While the ceremony was going on, guests were encouraged to visit the adjacent room for hearty "snacks" and mango lassis; there was a full vegetarian buffet for guests after the couple were declared husband and wife. It was a special day. After returning home (two hours away), I realized that I didn't know much about the temple, so I visited their website. ISKCON is dedicated to the practice of Krishna Consciousness, also known as Bhakti Yoga. It's monotheistic, with the belief that there is a single source of all life, Krishna. Values include equal vision, without cruelty, humility, choice, nurturing right choices, and affection. It is also referred to as the Hare Krishna Temple of Washington, DC. The temple is very welcoming to all (including non-Hindus) and offers an Open House on Sundays from 12-3. Guests are welcome to come for an hour or a day. They offer a meditation workshop, discussion groups, Kirtan (chanting), and a free vegetarian lunch (prasadam). We didn't know what was going on, but we were actually leaving the wedding at the same time that the lunch was going on. There were outdoor tents set up, and dozens of people enjoying their buffet lunches.

So I would rate my experience good, but I am going to balance it with my sister's perspective…read more Apparently, my sister was suppose to have a blessing ceremony done back when the pandemic hit. In fact, she had scheduled it before the pandemic and the pandemic caused all the states to shutdown a week before she was to do this. On the backend, there was a lot of slighting she felt this temple did or the priest. The priest had withheld funds and put it as a donation instead of just giving it back because a service was never given. Fast forward to a few days ago and he came through. Well, according to my perspective, had I not known about the backend of all this; I would state that he DEFINITELY came through. The blessing ceremony was first described to us in English and then in Sanskrit (which is necessary for the ceremony). Now days, I feel like any priest has to be able to be fluent in both English and Sanskrit as newer generations are never really taught Native Indian languages or meanings of Sanskrit. I also liked the fact that he offered us all coffee and water before performing the ceremony. It is almost like an Americanized...hey...have beer...kind of relationship. Just good etiquette. The crazy part was it was decaf! Man...there are hotels I am still after (Drury Inn...cough cough) who give beverages, but most options are caffeinated. He also stated that all beverages, soft drinks, the temple serves is also decaffeinated. I found that great. The food that was made in temple and offered was also delicious. Mutter paneer and cholay were great. They also like and adopted cats...there is a big grey one named Govinda. How cool is that?

This is a very entertaining and interesting food festival!! They have all sorts of flavorful sweet…read moreand savory dishes and desserts! We ordered Thai tea, fresh shrimp rolls, and chicken buns and all sorts of amazing desserts! The Thai dancers attired with their beautiful and colorful Thai dresses performed intricate and amazing dances! It was such a beautiful Fall day for enjoying eating and entertainment with family and friends!! Highly recommend this annual event if you are in the area!! It's a great way to explore new and exciting culture and events!! However, make sure you have cash, Venmo, or Zelle on hand as they do not accept anything else..

This Thai Buddhist Temple has a space next to it where they have vendors that sells authentic Thai…read moreand sometimes Vietnamese food for purchase. Normally events are around their religious holidays. They also post days that the market is open on Facebook! I love going here to support the local community. Some of the ladies will make to order so you can tone the spice level down of needed. Payment: Venmo, Zelle and cash.

Went to the Sunday Meditation Workshop. The meditation area was beautiful and the members were very…read morekind. I felt comfortable and open enough to ask questions when we had the chance to do so. During the workshop we had 2-3 breaks, and were given instructions on how to breathe for the next meditation session. What I enjoyed the most is that they remind you that they are there to guide you, not force you on how to find the "light" which is the goal of your meditation session. They provide seating pillow, towel and table for your meditation session as well! Highly recommend for a growing experience :)

Very accessible and welcoming community, with programs and activities that meet the spiritual needs…read moreor interests of both youth and adults. The pastoral staff is caring and supportive, and the pastor goes above and beyond in tending to the flock in the church - a gift for which I am truly grateful. As a person who is wheelchair dependent, I had a challenging time finding a Catholic Church in the geographical area that was both fully accessible and also allowed me to sit where I could see and hear and fully participate in the Mass, and also receive the Eucharist (both the bread and the wine). Sounds like something any church would accommodate, but it wasn't that simple. At St. Francis, any person is welcome to be where and as and how any person needs to be, as they gather for worship and celebration. This is a great parish for families and individuals alike.

The last time I was at Sligo, I believe was to attend an Aron Shust concert. I am a Simple Truther,…read morethe broadcast that Pastor Charles Tapp moderates. Having a dear coworker and her family attend the church may have added to the warmth, acceptance and love felt. I got to hear two messages from Pastor Tapp, one on WGST at 8:30 and one in Person at the 11am service. Surely a memorable experience that I must journal. Yet, I have to return to hear Pastor Alex. The children and all those attending to their needs was a joy to witness.

This building is hard to miss. It is a giant oddly shaped concrete blob in Takoma Park. The…read morepastoral staff are nice. There are lots of community events.

A very lovely church with very comfortable seats. The pastor was thoughtful and welcoming. The…read moreorganist used varied registration settings. I liked his choices. This church does livestream Sunday morning worship services.

Thriving ELCA church as active as some younger churches, but with over 50 years of roots on 355,…read morejust north of Shady Grove Rd. Many groups to join for young families, youth activities, teens, young adults, seniors, women's and men's gatherings. Both traditional and contemporary weekly worship services, and weekly communion. Wonderful music ministry! Volunteer opportunities for both local and global causes. This church went virtual, immediately during our global crisis and has continued to grow with new members! Currently, hybrid worship of in-person and virtual. goserve.com for more info!

Our 4th location. Very easy to find. Lots of convenient parking. Onsite cafe and lots of seating in…read morethe foyer. Plenty of seating and room in the main auditorium.

What a great place. I usually go to the Gaithersburg campus but was able to attend a service here…read moreand perform a play with the Drama Ministry. The building is modern, clean, and inviting. They have a large area for the service and comfortable seats. The message is from Pastor Dale so you know you are walking away with something that you will be able to apply to your life. If your in Clarksburg and want to hear the word definitely come to Redeemer in Clarksburg

I love this Church and these are my reasons: We are challenged in every meeting to live according…read morethe Gospel; we have an atmosphere of friendship and love, with no discrimination; we come from different backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicity and race. All in one family.

The best, most generous people. They really care about the people in their congregation and in the…read morecommunity. They host AA, holiday food pickups, support local schools, and so much more. Can't appreciate them enough!