What We Bring to the Table

Youth are the foundation to building and carrying forward strong cultural identity and pride. Instilling traditional teachings early on is how the rich fabrics of many diverse cultures are carried forward through generations.

For young Indigenous Peoples battling historic policies that tried to erase Indigenous practices, this is especially important. For the St. Francis School, a Cree Bilingual Catholic school in Saskatoon, creating opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of Nehiyaw spirituality and culture is an integral part of the curriculum. The institution is committed to students participating in traditional teachings and recognizing the spiritual significance of   ceremonies that have sustained First Nations communities for generations.

In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, St. Francis School is launching the First Nations Feast project. This celebration will bring the school and surrounding community together to honour the Creator and the spirits of those who have passed away. Four seasonal feasts will be hosted throughout the year, guided by school Elders, Indigenous Student Achievement Coordinators, staff, administration, and St. Francis students. Young Indigenous Peoples will be responsible for planning, preparing, and participating in each Feast while learning its cultural and spiritual significance. They will join weekly smudge and pipe ceremonies, learn the connections between Catholic liturgies and Nehiyaw ceremonies, and explore the relationships between Gospel Virtues and Tipi Teachings.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is contributing funding to cover costs associated with ceremonial supplies, food, traditional ribbon skirts and shirts for students, and honorariums and materials for sacred ceremonies. Indigenous youth will come away more knowledgeable about the connectedness between the Catholic faith and Nehiyaw spirituality and equipped with the tools needed to carry forward traditional practices for future generations.

Eparchy of Saskatoon