Church in Canada continues to walk with Indigenous Peoples

By Christopher Wells

Two years after Pope Francis’ historic “penitential pilgrimage” to Canada, the country’s bishops say they “remain committed to walking in solidarity and listening to the experiences of Indigenous peoples to guide the way forward.”

In a Letter Addressing the “People of God,” the bishops said they continue to reflect “on the profound sadness expressed by Pope Francis over the devastating effects of the residential school system on Indigenous communities, and the journey of reconciliation and healing that we have undertaken together.”

Initiatives for reconciliation and healing

The bishops then highlighted some of the initiatives undertaken by the Church in Canada since the Pope’s visit.

The first component is financial support for Indigenous priorities. The bishops have committed to raising $30 million Canadian over five years for projects to support healing and reconciliation. More than half of this amount has already been raised, with the funds going to initiatives identified by local Indigenous communities and overseen by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund.

The bishops also committed to ensuring “transparent access” to mission archives, sacramental records, burial records and other documents. “Pope Francis has emphasized the importance of uncovering and acknowledging the truth about the historical injustices suffered by residential school survivors and their families,” the bishops said, adding, “Truth must precede reconciliation.”

Finally, the bishops acknowledged “the many difficult conversations that have taken place across the country about our painful legacy.” Recognizing that “this deep desire for truth and transparency lies first and foremost with Indigenous communities and residential school survivors,” the bishops encouraged dioceses and all Catholics to support local Indigenous communities as they delve into the painful history of residential schools.

The path to reconciliation and hope

In concluding their letter, the bishops recall Pope Francis’ call for the Church in Canada to take “firm measures” and commit “irreversibly to the new path we are charting” with Canada’s indigenous peoples.

“The path to reconciliation and hope must be traveled together,” the bishops said. “That is why we will continue to listen to and support survivors and Indigenous communities throughout this journey.”

Read the full text of the bishops’ letter on the website of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops.