Diocesan Mental Health Implementation Working Group

As directed by Synod, the Diocesan Executive Council established this group in response to the motion passed at the 152nd Session of Synod.

Terms of Reference

Purpose:

Build a knowledge base for the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island to educate clergy and lay leaders to respond to the mental health crisis in our provinces.

Goals: Build knowledge and training to respond to the mental health crisis by:

• encouraging all clergy and lay leaders to take mental health first aid;
• offering Mental Health First Aid (MFHA), or an equivalent program, in each region;
• promoting open discussions about mental health within the church community;
• developing liturgical resources supporting mental wellness, including a Service of Prayer for Mental Wellness in Our Communities.

Reporting Relationship: This implementation team will regularly report to the oversight working group which will include the Bishop and Chancellor. The final report is due to the Bishop no later than March 2026.

Meetings:

Regular meetings will be held on zoom with day and time decided by the group. Meeting notes are to be kept.  Can be sent to the Synod Office for storage.

Budget: No budget required.

Team Members

The Rev Kris MacKenzie

Karmen MacDonald

The Rev Marian Lucas-Jefferies

The Rev Cathy Pharo

Andy Sherin