Cedar Lane eNews your weekly update cedarlane.org

Join us for Worship

Diwali: Setting Out the Lights

Rev. Abhi Janamanchi

10:30 AM Sunday, November 8

in-person and online at bit.ly/sundayservicelive


On Diwali, families light lamps before they know who's coming home. We'll talk about dharma - the old word for whatever holds a life together - and about setting out the light anyway, whatever the week has brought.

Share the Plate: Hindus for Human Rights



In celebration of Diwali, this Sunday's Share the Plate will support Hindus for Human Rights, a U.S.-based, nonpartisan organization working to advance human rights, religious freedom, and pluralism in South Asia and North America. Rooted in the Hindu teaching Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) the organization challenges caste discrimination, religious nationalism, racism, and other forms of oppression. Through education, advocacy, and interfaith partnerships, it works toward a world where everyone's dignity and rights are respected. Please give generously this Sunday to support this important work. 


You may give online (now with Google Pay), via Paypal, by texting 'CLUUC $[Amount]" to 73256, or by mailing it to Cedar Lane.

Children and Youth on Sunday Morning


Children and Youth in PreK and up start in the Chapel this Sunday. From there they will head to their Faith Formation classes.


Nursery (Rm 22): Our youngest UUs play and socialize, guided by Sarah & Jessica

PreK/K (Rm 3): Accepting other and ourselves, with "Buster Boo"

1st Grade (Rm 34): Reading together and sharing apples, another kind of "seed home"

2nd/3rd (Rm 30-31): Mending hurt, with "The Rabbit Listened"

4th/5th (Rm 32-33): Healing: Visit from Pastoral Care; Creating greeting cards 

6th/7th (Rm 2): Exploring Religion

8th Grade OWL - Our Whole Lives Sexuality (Rm 4): Body Image

Youth Group (Rm 5): Reflecting on the monthly theme, "Healing"

Community Joys & Sorrows

We are saddened by the death of Holly Van Goor, a lifelong Cedar Lane member, on November 1. Daughter of the late longtime member Wanda Van Goor and beloved sister of Scott Van Goor and Nancy Melvin, Holly will be remembered for her joy in teaching OWL and leading cookie baking at Holiday Craft Days. We hold her family and friends in our hearts.


Liz Peters celebrates the birth of her first grandchild, a grandson named Ernest (Ernie) William Allard. He was born on Halloween at 7 pounds 12 ounces. He lives in San Francisco with Liz's daughter Grace, her husband Brent, and their three cats.


Alison Moses shares gratitude for the support of the Cedar Lane community - I want to formally thank all the friends here at Cedar Lane for reaching out and supporting me during my 6-months period of being unhoused. Obrigada. Gracias. Merci. Thank you. My family and I have been in our new home for one month now where there is abundant light and gratitude. Love and peace.

Events and Happenings

The Fiber Art show opening is this Sunday!

Nov. 8 after service in the fellowship hall


The show is a display of fascinating items including special quilts. The MacLean Quilt made in 1992-93 as a farewell gift to Harriet and Ken MacLean. The new Pride Quilt made this year by Ariel Mora. A quilt from Kansas made about 1935 and handed down to Bill and Cissie Williams. Plus other great objects including two emotional support chickens and much more. All are invited. 

Second Sunday Youth Hang!

Sunday, Nov. 8, 6:00 - 7:30pm


High School Teens! Join us THIS Sunday at 6pm for our monthly youth hang. We will play board & card games. Bring your favorite game & sign up to bring a snack. Mark your calendar for future Youth Hangs: December 13, January 10, February 14, March 14, April 11, May 9 & June 13.

Inquirers: Congregational Care and Belonging

Sunday, Nov. 8, 12:00 - 1:30pm in room 2 (boardroom)


How do we care for one another at Cedar Lane? Join Rev. Louise Green for a conversation about pastoral care, belonging, and the many ways we offer and receive care in our community. Come to one Inquirers session or several! Details: qrs.ly/Inquirers

Alliance Luncheon

Thursday, November 12, 11:30 am - 2:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall


Before it was Leisure World, it was the Edmonson Farm: Dianne Bradley and Juanita Sealy-Williams of the Edmonson Historical Society will tell the fascinating story of Paul Edmonson and his journey to free his family from slavery, and their part in the abolition movement. See the program here.

Writing Alone and Together

Thursdays now through December 17, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm on zoom


Take some time to slow down, reflect, and connect with others in a welcoming, supportive setting. Each gathering explores the spiritual theme of the month and invites you to spend a few quiet moments journaling and listening to your own thoughts. tinyurl.com/CL26Writing

Parent & Caregivers Night Out

Friday, Nov. 13, 6:00 - 9:00 PM in room 32-33


On the 2nd Friday of each month, we make space for kids to play and for grown-ups to enjoy a night out. Nov 13th, we'll be doing Dance and Movement! Bust a move, step to the groove, and sign up at tinyurl.com/CL26NovPCNO

Friday Night Flourish

Friday, Nov. 13, 6:00 - 9:00 PM in the Chalice House


Bring the book you’re reading—or discover a new one—and join us for a relaxed gathering with fellow readers. We'll enjoy a quiet evening, and discuss what keeps us turning the pages. All adults are welcome! Bookmark your spot and register at tinyurl.com/CL26NovFNF

Concerts at Cedar Lane: Chamber Players of the DMV

Saturday, Nov. 14, 7:30-9:00 pm


An evening of delightful music performed by musicians from the American Federation of Musicians (Washington D.C. Union Local 161-710), many of whom have faced challenges to their livelihoods during the closing of the the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.


Learn more and reserve your seat at cedarlane.org/concerts

Child Dedication Ceremony

Sunday, Nov. 15 during the 10:30am worship service


As Cedar Lane celebrates its 75th anniversary, we invite families to participate in a special Child Dedication Ceremony during worship. This meaningful rite of passage welcomes children into our congregational community and affirms our shared promise to nurture, love, and support them as they grow and discover their own spiritual paths. Children of all ages are welcome! To participate or learn more, please contact Nicolle Singer at nsinger@cedarlane.org.

Luncheon After the Service on Sunday, Nov. 15


For 75 years, Cedar Laners have built community, nurtured spiritual growth, and worked for justice. Join us for lunch after the service a week from Sunday to reflect on that history and on the legacy each of us might leave. Please RSVP here if you haven't already.

Celebrate Diwali

Sunday, Nov. 15, 4:30 pm


Join Cedar Lane and Hindus for Human Rights for an evening of music, dance, delicious food, and sparklers for children as we celebrate Diwali, Bandi Chhor Divas, Kali Puja, and Tihar. Come enjoy the festivities, share in the spirit of community and liberation, and help raise funds for communities affected by the devastating floods in Nepal and Tibet. Register Here

Praise in Times of Grief

Thursday, Nov. 19, 7:00 - 9:00 pm


Join us for an intimate discussion with Lebanese-American poet and contemplative educator Moudi Sbeity, including a reading from his books Habibi Means Beloved and Alhamdulillah Anyway. Reserve your seat at moudicedarlane.eventbrite.com

Gaza Children's Shroud:

An Interfaith Vigil of Remembrance and Witness

Saturday, Nov. 21, 3:00 - 5:00 pm in the Sanctuary


Join us as we gather across faith traditions to remember the more than 20,000 Palestinian children killed in Gaza. With panels of the Gaza Children’s Shroud on display, we will share their names, with prayers and music, mourn their loss, and bear witness together.


Come to remember. Come to grieve. Come to stand for the dignity of every child.


All are welcome.

Cedar Lane Congregational Campfire

Saturday, Nov. 21, 6:00 - 8:00 pm at the fire circle (near the playground)


Join us for a free, informal, all-ages evening around the campfire! See more info & please RSVP so we know how many to expect and can share weather-related updates.

UU 101: Introduction to Unitarian Universalism

Sunday, Nov. 22, 12:00 - 2:00 pm in the library and online


Curious about Unitarian Universalism? Join us for UU 101, an engaging introduction to our history, beliefs, values, and what makes UU communities unique. Whether you're new to Cedar Lane or simply want to learn more, you're welcome! Details & RSVP: tinyurl.com/UU101Nov

Building BIPOC Community at Cedar Lane

Sunday, Nov. 22, 12:15-2:15pm in room 33


Do you identify as Black, Indigenous or Person of Color? Join us as we form a group that fosters belonging and connection. Light lunch will be served.

Save the Date: December 5 is Holiday Craft Day!


Mark your calendar for Cedar Lane's annual Holiday Craft Day on Saturday, December 5! More details and registration information are coming soon. We hope you'll join us for this festive community tradition.

New Date: Towards Peace, Justice, and Ecology

Saturday, Dec. 12, 2:00 - 4:00 pm in the Chalice House


Integrating social analysis and Buddhist philosophy, this talk explores the roots of the global crisis and an alternative path toward peace, justice, and ecological sustainability. RSVP today at tinyurl.com/CL26TowardsPeace

Updates and Announcements

Cedar Lane is hiring an additional Nursery and Child Care Provider!


Help our youngest Cedar Laners feel safe, cared for, and ready to play! We’re looking for an experienced, nurturing childcare provider to care for infants and children during congregational events, including Parent and Caregiver Night Out and one monthly Soul Circle. Pay is $24 per hour.


Interested? Read the full position description and then send your resume to staffsearch1@cedarlane.org by December 1. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best consideration!

Leaving a Legacy Gift to Cedar Lane


Legacy gifts support the long-term sustainability of Cedar Lane, ensuring that future generations can benefit from Cedar Lane's ministry, faith formation, social justice work, and our campus. If you've let your family members, financial counselor, or attorney know that you would like Cedar Lane receive a legacy gift, please in turn let us know if you have made this arrangement. We would like to thank you and make sure your wishes are honored. You can reach out to Cedar Lane's Executive Director, Jen Morley, at jmorley@cedarlane.org.

Register Now: Cedar Lane's All-Congregation Retreat

Friday April 30 - Sunday May 2



Save your spot for Cedar Lane's annual all-congregation retreat at Camp Letts! Enjoy a weekend of community, connection, and time together on the Chesapeake Bay. Bring your family, reconnect with familiar faces, and meet fellow Cedar Laners. Registration is now open!

75 years of Memories, Moments and Stories


The celebration of our 75th anniversary year includes you and your experiences! We are collecting memories from Cedar Lane member and would love to hear from you! Write a personal recollection of Cedar Lane or a brief history of a program or event you were involved in. Send memories to anniversary@cedarlane.org.

New Member Spotlight


We welcome Barbara Diamant


I have come to Cedar Lane as an old soul - literally - as I was an active member of the UUC of the Lehigh Valley, PA, for forty years. My husband John and I moved to Bethesda about two years ago to be close to our son and daughter-in-law and our three grandchildren. 


Now retired, I have been an educator at the high school and college levels, and I volunteer at the Bethesda Public Library in their English Conversation Club where I get to meet neighbors from all over the world. Reading occupies me a good deal of the time, along with a measure of daily physical activity. 


We have been attending services since we moved here and I am a regular at the Monday night online Sangha. We consider ourselves very lucky to have the vibrant Cedar Lane congregation close by.

Online Monday Meditation class 

Every Monday from 7:30 -8:30pm on Zoom


This drop-in meditation class focuses on finding peace of mind and stress reduction through the teachings of the Buddha on mindfulness and compassion. Contact Carole Rogentine at meditation@cedarlane.org for more information and to join on zoom.

Sunday Flower Dedications


Did you know you can dedicate a Sunday service flower arrangement in honor or memory of a family member, significant other or friend, or in celebration of an event? Sign-up for a date here.

Ongoing Engagement Opportunities

Alliance Book Club 1st Fridays from 11am-1pm in the library

Alliance Bridge Club Tuesdays 10am-noon in the Fellowship Hall

Alliance Luncheon 2nd Thursdays 11:30-2 in the Fellowship Hall

Diverse Voices book club 4th Tuesdays of each month, 7:00pm on Zoom

Fiber Arts Club Fridays, 2-4pm, online; register to receive the Zoom link

Journeywomen - 1st and 3rd Sundays at 9am in room 3 Resumes on September 20

Meditation Online Class Mondays, 7:30pm, on Zoom

Men's Group 2nd & 4th Saturdays, 8:30-10:30am on Zoom

Science & Religion Group Mondays, 10am-noon, online

8PEG monthly meeting 3rd Saturday of each month, on zoom

Connect with Cedar Lane

Did you know you can become a member at any time by virtually signing the book?


Please contact Rev. Abhi Janamanchi at ajanamanchi@cedarlane.org if you would like to know more.

Please know we are here to provide whatever spiritual sustenance we can, and reach out to Rev. Abhi Janamanchi, ajanamanchi@cedarlane.org, 301-493-8300, ext. 203 directly if you need emergency financial assistance. The Ministers' Discretionary Fund provides confidential assistance to those facing emergency financial needs.

First Snow. Crops are in.



Rock art by Jean Schaible



In case you missed it...

Quick Links

Alliance Newsletter 

Cedar Lane Marketplace

Flower Dedications

Give to Cedar Lane

Make a Pledge

Transportation for Cedar Laners

Please use our online forms to schedule and promote events at Cedar Lane:

Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Congregation

9601 Cedar Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814

301-493-8300 | office@cedarlane.org | cedarlane.org

Connect with us

Youtube  Facebook  Instagram