A free mental health-focused evening exploring communication, care, and LGBTQIA+ relationships with clinical counsellor Ken Best, RCC.
Western culture is steeped in heteronormativity as being straight is considered the default. The church has historically taken straightness one step further by portraying heteronormative marriage and family as the framework in which God's values and relational priorities are reflected.
We are not immune to these influences, so how do they impact us when someone we know, love, or are related to reveals they don't fit the heteronormative model? How do we keep the channels of communication healthy and open?
This free evening gathering will explore our shared notions of "normal" in regards to sexual identity, while seeking to increase openness to the lived experiences of those of different sexual identities and orientations. Practical skills and strategies will be offered to assist in developing more inclusive mindsets while increasing confidence in knowing what you can do and say to increase the frequency and quality of conversations with the LGBTQIA+ people you know and love.
Community Mental Health Talks
Community Mental Health Talks is a new series of free evening gatherings co-presented by Reflector Project and Mount Seymour United Church. Led by Registered Clinical Counsellor Ken Best, these events are designed for people navigating questions around mental health, relationships, identity, faith, and personal change — including those rethinking beliefs they once held, people from church backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals, family members, and anyone seeking healthier, more thoughtful ways to engage difficult conversations. Each evening is held in a space that is open and welcoming to all.
You are welcome without reservation.
No one will try to change you or persuade you that you will be more acceptable to God if you change.
In fact, we believe that spiritual wholeness comes from being more fully who we are while living in loving, just and compassionate relationships with others.
We believe that Jesus taught radical inclusiveness – we are loved just as we are, and we’re called to love others in the same way.