Welcome to Atheist Republic AGA_Johanna. Your tale leaves tears in my eyes. But you are a survivor.
It’s a small world, I was born in Oshawa, presently live on Toronto. And one of my close neighbors wears a dress and bra, despite the fact he is married and has two children.
I am very familiar how blue (conservative) this part of the world is, churches everywhere and everyone going to church religiously. Even now the Oshawa region attempts to retain that up-tight conservative lifestyle. But since the General Motors plant seems to be in it’s death throes, changes are inevitable.
I know many religious Transgender people in your situation, many are torn between what they are, and that religion tells them that they are sinners. For some it is an irreconcilable paradox that leads to severe mental health issues.
Welcome, truly, welcome. Find a good seat, put your feet up, and enjoy in a safe place among friends.