We hope that you will join in prayer for the Indigenous Delegates traveling to Rome to meet with Pope Francis next week.
These delegates, who were selected in collaboration with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the Métis National Council (MNC), and the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), bring a depth of lived experience and insight on the legacy of residential schools and the impacts of colonialism, with many directly engaged in the ongoing journey of healing and reconciliation.
In the Catholic church, light has always had a special significance because it represents Christ. The light signifies our prayer, which is offered in faith, entering the light of God. In Indigenous spirituality, the Sacred Fire starts a ceremony or sacred event; it is a sacred practice meant to make individuals feel open, grounded, and connected with people on Earth and those who have moved on.
You are invited to come and pray for as short of long a period as you like in front of St Anne between 11 am and 1 pm on Monday, March 28. If you cannot come in person, take a few moments to light a candle and pray wherever you are.
The Pope is scheduled to meet with 30 Indigenous delegates from March 28 until April 1, according to a joint statement by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the organizations representing Inuit, Métis and First Nations — the Assembly of First Nations, Métis National Council and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami.