Commemorating the Papal Visit to Maskwacis

In 2022, Pope Francis made a historic visit to Canada, standing before residential school survivors and their families in Maskwacis, Alberta, and offering an apology on behalf of the Catholic Church for its involvement in the residential school system.

For many, the Pope’s words marked a significant moment of healing as he acknowledged the enduring pain caused by residential schools and told the gathered crowd: “I am deeply sorry.”

Our Lady of Seven Sorrows in Maskwacis is the only designated Indigenous Church in Canada. In response to Pope Francis’s apology, the parish seeks to honor and commemorate this pivotal moment through an art project at the church.

Funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will cover all materials as well as honorariums for Elders and artists in the community who will design and implement the project. Additionally, communication efforts will spread awareness of the project’s significance, fostering unity and understanding among communities and Catholics.

Art, as a form of prayer, serves as a powerful medium for spiritual expression and reflection. Through this project, the parish hopes to help preserve its spiritual legacy while fostering a sense of community and continuation for the Cree Catholic tradition.

Archdiocese of Edmonton