On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we remember all those who still carry deep wounds. I invite all Catholics to take time today to pray—especially for those who still suffer the effects of broken families, painful memories, and discrimination. May we walk together in hope, so that the Church may truly be a place of spiritual renewal and a source of care for those who are hurting.
✠ Richard W. Smith
Archbishop of Vancouver
Prayers of the Faithful
For the Indigenous Peoples of this land, that they may find healing, justice, and respect, we pray to the Lord.
For our government leaders and policymakers, may they be guided by wisdom and empathy as they work towards meaningful change and reconciliation, we pray to the Lord.
For the Church, that it may actively engage in the journey towards reconciliation, acknowledging its role in the past and working towards a more just and harmonious future, we pray to the Lord.
KAIROS Blanket Exercise
September 30 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
St. Augustine's Parish (2154 West 7th Ave Vancouver)
Join us in honouring the Indigenous experience. The KAIROS Blanket Exercise is an eye-opening journey through the history of Indigenous peoples.
Developed by Kairos Canada, an interfaith Christian organization dedicated to social justice, the Blanket Exercise provides an encounter with approximately 400 years of Indigenous history, from first Contact to the present day.
This free event will be led by Deacon Rennie Nahanee of St. Paul’s Parish, Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation, facilitated by Anne Wicks and Helen Chiu.
What to expect: An active workshop, participants literally walk through events on a journey informed by personal Indigenous testimony in an immersive experience that is moving and memorable.
In The Spirit of Reconciliation Documentary (2017)
Looking for a meaningful way to mark this day? Watch In the Spirit of Reconciliation, a powerful one-hour documentary by Vancouver’s Father Larry Lynn. Through the voices of residential school survivors in Canada’s Northwest Territories, the film explores the difficult question: How do we forgive?
Donate to the Healing and Reconciliation Collection
Your donation supports projects determined locally in collaboration with First Nations, including initiatives focused on healing and reconciliation for communities and families, culture and language revitalization, education and community building, and dialogue that promotes Indigenous culture.