The Rev. Judith Van Kennen often poses a simple yet profound question to her congregation: “If we don’t express who we are, how will our community know?” This question has deeply influenced the Emmanuel Congregational United Church of Christ in Massena, New York, since she joined in 2005.
Under her leadership, the church has become a source of hope and advocacy for racial, gender, and economic justice. Recently, it has expanded its mission to include mental health awareness, marking its place as the 100th W.I.S.E. congregation within the UCC (United Church of Christ) network.
W.I.S.E. stands for Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive, and Engaged. It promotes understanding and support for those facing mental health challenges, a mission developed after a significant resolution at the UCC’s 30th General Synod in 2015. Van Kennen explains that becoming a W.I.S.E. church was a natural extension of their commitment to being welcoming. “We consciously extend our welcome to everyone,” she says.
Emmanuel’s journey into mental health support began nearly three decades ago when the church became an Open and Affirming (ONA) congregation. Van Kennen recalls how a same-sex couple, hesitant about joining, found a warm welcome at the church. Their eventual openness about their mental health struggles helped shift perceptions within the congregation.
Now, Emmanuel holds weekly discussions on mental health. These gatherings create a space for hope and healing, emphasizing that mental health issues are just like any physical illness. Van Kennen notes that having a mental health ministry isn’t about increasing Sunday attendance; it’s about fostering community wholeness. This message resonates especially with younger members, who often face specific challenges, and older attendees dealing with loneliness, a growing concern according to the World Health Organization.
Discussions about mental health remain essential, especially in today’s high-pressure society. Van Kennen claims, “Everyone faces challenges.” This understanding has led the church to rethink how it labels its mental health discussions. A suggestion from group members to change “mental health support group” to “emotional support group” reflects their commitment to language that promotes inclusivity.
This awareness of the importance of language is echoed by the UCC. Recently, the Rev. Sarah Lund, UCC’s Minister for Disabilities and Mental Health Justice, emphasized the need for sensitivity in discussions around mental health. During the last General Synod, a resolution was passed to acknowledge the evolving language of mental health, demonstrating the church’s commitment to using words that heal rather than harm.
While May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, both Van Kennen and Lund advocate for ongoing conversation. Lund suggests that congregations can incorporate mental health themes into regular services through prayers, sermons, and resources in bulletins. The aim is to normalize discussions around mental health, creating a space where everyone feels accepted.
Many communities are increasingly recognizing the importance of these conversations. Initiatives such as Mental Health America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness provide valuable resources for congregations. The UCC Mental Health Network also offers tools to help churches develop their programs.
Ultimately, the effort to discuss mental health openly has created a richly rewarding experience for Van Kennen. “It’s ministry to each other on so many levels,” she reflects, acknowledging that the journey has been as enriching for her as it has been for those she serves.
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