Dementia: Living in the Memories of God
Keynote speaker: Professor John Swinton
Dates: November 13-14, 2026 (Friday & Saturday)
Venue: The Anglican Network Church of the Good Shepherd
WHY do we host the 2026 Mental Health Conference on Dementia? According to the World Health Organization, their “Global action plan on the public health response to dementia 2017-2025” aims to provide a set of actions to realize the vision of a world in which dementia isprevented and people with dementia and their carers receive the care and support they need to live a life with meaning and dignity. While the medical sciences and professionals are doing their part, we as the faith community have our part to do in restoring the meaning and dignity of life to people with dementia and their carers.
Professor John Swinton, in his book “Dementia: Living in the Memories of God,” explores two primary questions: Who am I when I’ve forgotten who I am? What does it mean to love God and be loved by God when I have forgotten who God is? John Swinton offers compassionate theological and pastoral responses in light of the transformative counter story of the Christian gospel. He will be the keynote speaker at this conference, sharing his insights and dialoguing with conference participants. Carers of people with dementia will also be Telling Our Stories to share first-hand stories of their journey in the conference.
PUBLIC TALKS:
- Talk One: Friday, November 13, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
- Talk Two & Three: Saturday, November 14, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (includes lunch
and refreshments)
SEMINAR FOR PASTORS, COUNSELORS, and HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS:
- Thursday, November 12, 10 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (with lunch and refreshments)
Register on the 2026 Conference Website:
The 2026 Mental Health Conference is co-sponsored by the Vancouver Chinese Evangelical Ministerial Fellowship.
Keynote talks will be conducted in English, Telling Our Stories in Cantonese. Real time
interpretation will be available.
