As we mark two years since Pope Francis’ historic visit to Canada, the Archdiocese of Edmonton continues to support and advance healing and reconciliation programs with First Nations, Metis and Inuit Peoples.
“The anniversary of the Holy Father’s penitential journey is a reminder that we are walking together on the path towards truth, healing and reconciliation. Our First Nations, Metis and Inuit brothers and sisters of this land continue to lead the way. We know that reaching our destination will take time and prayer, as well as action,” said Archbishop Richard Smith, who was the general co-ordinator of the papal visit to Canada July 24-29, 2022.
“We are very blessed to have such a diversity of programs and initiatives that respond to the various needs that exist among Indigenous Peoples in our local area. I am grateful for the support of the people of the Archdiocese.”
Read Archbishop Smith’s homily on the second anniversary of the papal visit
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The Archdiocese is fulfilling its $3.2-million commitment to the national Indigenous Reconciliation Fund by supporting 34 programs and initiatives. The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund focuses on four key areas: healing and reconciliation for communities and families, culture and language revitalization, education and community building and promotion of Indigenous spirituality and culture.
The local programs and initiatives include:
- Decolonizing Wellness: Empowering Indigenous Youth, a program at the Telus World of Science exploring topics such as nutrition, body physiology, traditional Indigenous sports, land-based survival, plant medicines and astronomy.
- The Mother Bear Wellness Project, a series of healing retreats tailored to meet the mental health needs of Indigenous youth, adults, families, and Elders.
- Catholic Social Services’ Indigenous Cultural Programs for Children, Family and Community
- An Elders’ Retreat at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Parish, a Catholic community of Indigenous people in Maskwacis, recognizing the importance of preserving and honouring the wisdom of Elders
- Indigenous cultural workshops at Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples, including Indigenous-led beading classes, drumming and Cree language classes
Through the National Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, the Catholic Bishops of Canada have committed, in their dioceses, to raising $30 million over five years to support local initiatives in every region of Canada. Half that goal, or just over $15 million, has been raised to date, well in advance of the anticipated timeline.
Read Canadian bishops’ statement on the second anniversary of the papal visit
Grant recipients were chosen by the Indigenous Reconciliation Discernment Circle, led by First Nations, Metis and Inuit partners. More information on the local commitment to the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund can be found on the Archdiocese of Edmonton website.