The call for visible and lasting symbols of reconciliation is being made in communities across Canada. While conversations about truth and reconciliation are taking place throughout the country and on national stages, the absence of visible public monuments speaks louder than words. This lack of visibility leaves little opportunity for everyday reflection and serves as a reminder of why it is important to turn conversations into action.

The journey of faith is one unique to each individual, shaped by life experiences, personal beliefs, values and culture. A one-size-fits-all approach can be ineffective at meeting the needs of someone walking their own path. This is especially true for Canada’s three distinct Indigenous groups; First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

In Thunder Bay, the St. Kateri Church has become known as a champion for reconciliation and promoting Indigenous culture. One of the many events it hosts each year, the Kateri Prayer Weekend transcends cultural barriers and merges Indigenous ceremonies with Catholic faith. For three days, Indigenous Peoples from across Northwestern Ontario gather to invite and ignite the presence of the Holy Spirit within the community.

Since 2013, the colour orange has become a symbol of reconciliation. It honours the children who never made it home from residential schools, it celebrates survivors, and it acts as a call to action that every child matters.

The St. Anne’s Christmas Bazaar has become a household event in Ottawa over the last decade. This annual marketplace of local vendors, holiday festivities, children’s corners and a silent auction, has Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members alike looking forward to gathering in celebration and holiday spirit each year. As the St. Anne’s Christmas Bazaar is set to return in 2025 for its 11th year, St. Anne’s is looking to give back and recognize those who have made this event a success.

Substance abuse issues remain a serious challenge in many Indigenous communities. Rooted in intergenerational trauma and significantly impacted by the legacy of the residential school system, substance use has been a way to cope with deep pain and loss for generations. There is a clear need for safe, welcoming spaces where Indigenous Peoples in recovery can gather without judgment and that offer understanding, cultural connection and practical tools for healing.

In the last decade, there has been a surge in Indigenous Peoples’ desire to reconnect with traditional practices and cultural expression through hands-on activities. The Catholic Church shares this drive to revitalize a culture that has historically been oppressed under systemic institutions. Creating safe spaces to teach traditional skills and bring Indigenous Peoples of all ages together is key to achieving this shared goal.

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.

Now more than ever, events that bring people together in the spirit of unity and healing are deeply needed. Divisions between communities and cultural understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples has led to generations of tension and mistrust. To help heal these relationships, Indigenous leaders and communities are welcoming more outsiders into celebrations to learn about their traditions, history and to promote reconciliation.

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO) oversees 39 elementary schools and serves eight counties throughout urban and rural areas of Ontario. Despite the sizeable area the CDSBEO covers, many rural schools still struggle to connect with Indigenous communities, reach youth and provide culturally grounded education.