WE PRAY FOR THE CHILDREN

WE PRAY FOR THE CHILDREN

For the children who died in the former Kamloops Indian Residential School and for all those impacted by this tragedy, that there may be healing founded on truth and that the Spirit will inspire our ongoing commitment to reconciliation. Amen

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, pray for us.

A number of St. Luke’s parishioners have expressed their personal sadness and shock with the discovery of the remains of 215 children in unmarked graves at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.

In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission “Calls to Action” report regarding Residential Schools detailed required actions for both the government and faith groups, including the Catholic Church. Some of these actions remain outstanding even after 6 years, leaving some Catholics questioning their faith. 

Cardinal Thomas Collins has issued a number of statements, and provided information, which is available on the Archdiocese of Toronto website https://archtoronto.org  as have the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) at https://cccb.ca  It is also encouraging to know Pope Francis will meet with representatives of First Nations, Métis and Inuit organizations at the Vatican in November.

As we continue moving towards reconciliation, let us never stop listening to the voices of our Indigenous brothers and sisters or forget the painful memories of their past.