The Eparchy of New Westminster joins with other Catholic bodies in actively participating in the first National Day for Truth & Reconciliation on 30 September. Although the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Canada played no role in the residential school system, we share a responsibility with all Canadians to be aware of that history, to understand the lasting trauma caused to indigenous families and communities through the abduction of their children by the Canadian state, and, especially, to learn about the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and its Calls to Action. As Christians, we are also called to meet this day with prayer, a spirit of charity, and a commitment to reconciliation of all people in truth.
Give us the vision and honesty to recognize that the we are all brothers and sisters of one human family, created and sustained by the One Creator. As we deal with many challenges, may we never give way to fear and anger, which can be the source of division and threat amongst peoples.
[From the Canadian Catholic Indigenous Council’s prayer for National Indigenous Peoples Day.]
Visit the Eparchy website to learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, for further links, and two educational webinar videos produced by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Toronto.