About this Event
Mental health challenges affect individuals, families, and communities in profound ways. Yet significant scientific research shows turning to faith, prayer, Scripture, and religious community brings comfort, purpose, and restored mental health.
We gather faith leaders, mental health professionals, researchers, and community memebers for thoughtful conversation about Biblical teaches on caring for the mind, supporting each other, and responding to mental health challenges with compassion and inspiration. Building on our previous gatherings, explore our past events: The Bible + Mental Health 2025 and The Bible + Mental Health 2024.
Featured Speakers:
Dr. Monty Burks is the Director of the Center for Faith at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He advances faith-based and community partnerships that strengthen recovery systems, behavioral health, workforce development, and reentry opportunities. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, he previously led statewide faith-based initiatives in Tennessee, partnering with more than 1,000 houses of worship to support individuals and families facing addiction and mental health challenges.
Kathleen Christopher is the Founder and Executive Director of the Christian Healing Institute. She is an ordained ACNA minister with a Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS) and is the author of "Spiritual Warfare and Deliverance Prayers." Her ministry seeks to restore the power of prayer to facilitate wholeness in the person.
Dr. Lynda C. Davis serves as Chief Veterans Experience Officer at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. A former Army officer and clinician, she brings extensive experience in mental health and whole health, military, veteran, and family care and support, and community-based services, including faith-based organizations.
Scott Dziengelski is President and CEO of the National Association for Behavioral Healthcare. With nearly two decades of experience in healthcare policy, advocacy, and coalition-building, he has worked across government, healthcare, and public policy to advance access to behavioral healthcare.
****KEYNOTE ADDRESS**
Fr. Charles Sikorsky is President of Divine Mercy University. A Catholic priest and canon and civil lawyer, he has led the university since 2007, expanding its programs in psychology, counseling, and spiritual direction while advancing its mission rooted in the Catholic tradition.
Carrie Sheffield is Program Manager of Healthy Faith, a trauma survivor, and author of "Motorhome Prophecies: A Journey of Healing and Forgiveness." A Harvard-trained public policy analyst, she has been a Congressional testimony expert witness on social and economic policy.
Prayers and Music:
Ameshia Cross is a nationally recognized communications executive, political commentator, civil rights advocate, and mental health champion. As a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) presenter and board member, Ameshia is committed to advancing mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting compassionate, community-centered approaches to healing. Her advocacy is deeply informed by her personal experiences with family suicide, caregiving, and resilience, as well as her belief in the transformative power of faith, service, and human connection.
Rabbi Yudi Steiner is the Executive Director of the Rohr Chabad Center at George Washington University, where he has served the Jewish student community since 2008. Ordained by the Rabbinical College of America, he is dedicated to Jewish education and mentorship. He and his wife, Rivky, share a welcoming Jewish home in Foggy Bottom with their seven children.
Why This Conversation Matters
The need for thoughtful, evidence-informed approaches to mental health is profound. According to a September 2026 analysis by KFF, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 49,069 people died by suicide in the United States in 2025, nearly 250 more deaths than in 2024, following two consecutive years of decline.
These numbers underscore the importance of exploring every source of support that can contribute to mental resiliency.
What to Expect
Attendees will enjoy opportunities to:
- Explore Biblical perspectives on mental and emotional well-being.
- Hear from experts working at the intersection of faith and mental health.
- Discuss practical ways churches and communities can support people facing mental health challenges.
- Learn more about the role of faith, connection, and community in healing.
- Connect with others who are committed to bringing greater awareness and compassion to mental health.
Event Details
Date: November 16, 2026
Location: Watergate Office Building
9TH FLOOR
2600 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037
Additional details about the program, speakers, schedule, and registration will be announced soon.
Hosted by with fiscal sponsor
is committed to bringing faith and mental health into conversation and supporting communities with compassion and robust evidence.
We are excited for you to join this meaningful discussion as we continue exploring the incredible connection between faith and mental health.
Event venue & nearby stays
Watergate Office Building, 2600 Virginia Avenue Northwest, Washington, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.