Following our mission to grow together in relationship with God, each other, and our community, this series is designed to foster informed, respectful, and faithful engagement to grow in our understanding and care for LGBTQ+ individuals within and beyond our church community.
Save the dates for May 22, June 17, July 10, and August 12. Each session will build on the previous one.
May 22 at 7:30-9:00pm at Community CRC
Join guest speaker Dr. Syd Hielema for “What Care for the Queer Community Looks Like.” This session will help participants hear the humanity of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those who are Christians. Practical care will be emphasized so that the church may persevere in hospitality despite potential feelings of fear and discomfort.
Dr. Syd Hielema has served students in the US and Canada as a high school teacher, university professor, and chaplain. In addition, he is a retired commissioned pastor in the CRCNA. He has worked with Faith Formation Ministries, now known as Thrive. He led nine churches in a "Hospitality to LGBTQ" cohort in 2024 and currently leads 13 churches that are part of a Learning cohort aspiring to healthy multicultural congregations. He lives in Ancaster, Ontario.