Pope Francis made a pastoral visit to Canada from July 24 to 29, 2022.
The Pope’s visit provided a unique opportunity for him, once again, to listen and dialogue with Indigenous Peoples, to express his heartfelt closeness and to address the impact of colonization and the participation of the Catholic Church in the operation of residential schools throughout Canada.
The papal visit also provided an opportunity for the shepherd of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics to connect with the Catholic community in Canada. The Catholic Church has a responsibility to take genuine and meaningful steps to journey with Indigenous Peoples of this land on the lengthy path to healing and reconciliation.
The historic journey of Pope Francis to Canada was a significant step on the road to truth, understanding and healing. We invite you to reflect on the Holy Father’s special days among us and to work and pray towards healing and reconciliation.