Reconnection and Love

Creating safe, supportive spaces for Indigenous Peoples requires a thoughtful approach, with an understanding of the challenges and struggles that have led to spiritual disconnection.

This can be done using traditional healing elements, Indigenous worldviews, and education about how systemic institutions have inflicted trauma on Indigenous Peoples for generations.

The Cultural Healing Camp at Rock Island Lake in Alberta recognizes the importance of bridging faith, culture, and healing by creating a space where participants can restore these connections while supporting their emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. What began as a small family camp has grown into a regional gathering, welcoming participants from Calling Lake, Wabasca, Athabasca, and as far as Grande Prairie, Calgary, and Saskatchewan. For two weeks, Indigenous Peoples of all ages and backgrounds come together for land-based teachings, ceremony, and cultural learning led by facilitators with backgrounds in addictions and mental health, education, health and safety, and social work. Individuals come away fulfilled and knowledgeable about scared teachings that encourage reflection and reconnection. It concludes with a traditional feast and mini round dance to honour the collective learning, healing, and relationships built throughout the gathering.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is providing funding to strengthen the camp’s structure, safety, and long-term sustainability. Word of this camp has spread across Canada and increased participation has led to the need for more support to ensure the camp has the resources it needs. The IRF’s contribution will help provide essential infrastructure such as tents, storage, kitchen spaces, and programming areas, and ensure Elders and helpers are properly supported for their time and knowledge. The camp is one of many initiatives founded upon land-based healing and has had incredible success for ending the cycle of trauma that Indigenous Peoples have faced for generations.

Diocese of St. Paul