Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
Our Journey Continues
Since colonization, Indigenous youth have had to navigate a world that challenges their sense of self, their belonging and their community.
Today, the disconnect between young people and their cultural identity is growing. At the same time, Elders are struggling to share meaningful traditional knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight with the youngest generations, putting these ancient cultures at risk of fading away.
To create a space that brings Elders and youth together, St. Kateri Church and Sacred Heart Church are joining forces to launch “Bridging the Sacred: Elders Guiding Youth in Faith and Culture”. Elders will lead Indigenous youth in traditional practices such as the Grandfather Teachings, hunting and harvesting, and ceremonies that honour the land. Workshops on crafting ribbon skirts, sacred drumming, and prayer and smudging circles will also take place. Teaching youth who they are and where they came from is key to fostering self-identity and Indigenous pride.
At its core, “Bridging the Sacred: Elders Guiding Youth in Faith and Culture” will support intergenerational healing by honouring the role of Elders as teachers and knowledge keepers. The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will help St. Kateri Church and Sacred Heart Church in achieving their goal of weaving Indigenous traditions and Catholic faith together in mutual respect. This holistic model of reconciliation will help ensure that future generations grow up connected to their culture, supported by their Elders and can walk proudly in both their Indigeneity and spiritual path.
Diocese of Thunder Bay
