There has been growing admiration and veneration for this first-ever Native American, (often called the “Lily of the Mohawks”), to be granted sainthood status. The feast day of this virtuous woman, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha is celebrated in Canada on April 17th.
As may be recalled, it was only a few short years ago that she was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI and made patroness of Canada.
“As we move forward to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action”, commented Bishop Richard Grecco, “I invite our parishioners to turn to Saint Kateri to provide us with her intercessory guidance. With her aid we can dialogue more effectively with our Indigenous brothers and sisters and faithfully support them in their journey of healing.”
St. Kateri Statue at St. Ann’s Church Lennox Island First Nation
Recently Catholic leaders representing Bishops, religious communities, Indigenous Peoples and laity have responded publicly to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) by issuing two reports:
1. A Catholic Response to the TRC Call to Action 48 (On Adopting and Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples)
2. The ‘Doctrine of Discovery’ and Terra Nullius: A Catholic Response
“These documents are an extensive and detailed response to the issues raised by the TRC”, stated Bishop Grecco. “Collectively they represent a commitment to ‘continue to walk together with Indigenous Peoples in building a more just society where their gifts…are nurtured and honoured.’”
The way forward will be based on strong and genuine dialogue and a deepening relationship with Indigenous Peoples, resulting in improved collaboration. This process has just only been initiated locally and must be maintained and enhanced.
“There is an important supportive task that parishioners across the Diocese could undertake”, offered Bishop Grecco. “In keeping with the national Catholic response, the faithful could become better acquainted with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples which is central to the TRC Call to Action 48 within the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada report.”
For further information and the full texts of the referenced Catholic reports please click the following links in French and English.
Réaction catholique – Doctrine de la découverte et TN
Catholic Response to Doctrine of Discovery and TN
Media release March 29 2016 – Catholic responses to TRC Calls to Action-EN
Interview Bishop Bolen March 24 2016