Rest, Renewal & Righteousness: Lessons from the Least of These

What if those who have the least materially have the most to teach us about faith, endurance, and intimacy with God? This workshop explores the wisdom and spiritual depth of the poor through their lived experience. Rooted in Psalm 23—"He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake"—we will reflect on the restorative nature of righteousness.

• Janise Somer and Chris Schroeder - World Vision Canada
   

Navigating the Waters of Mental Health in Canadian Congregations

Drawing on a national survey with nearly 1,000 Canadian church leaders and congregants, learn of where and how mental health and illness is normalized in some congregations, though stigma remains for some, along with how congregations are responding and might strengthen their engagement moving forward with those who experience mental illness or challenges.

• Arch Wong - Flourishing Congregations Institute
   

Being Still Waters for People in Poverty

Poverty is a persistent reality in our cities, our communities and our congregations. For those suffering from poverty, it is an experience of deep trauma and shame. Explore how the church can be “still waters” for those experiencing poverty. Based on work undertaken by the Canadian Poverty Institute and the Canadian Council of Churches Commission on Justice and Peace.

• Derek Cook - Canadian Poverty Institute 
   

Peace in a Polarized World

The complexities of the current cultural landscape can be challenging to navigate as diverse perspectives can often lead to polarizing views. This Cultural Fluency workshop explores how we can engage with these complex cultural differences in ways which help move passed an impasse, and towards deeper understanding of the Other as well as our own cultural lenses. 

• Lauren Umbach - Jaffray Centre for Global Initiatives at Ambrose University