Residential school survivors express hope, skepticism as Pope accepts invitation to Canada
Pope Francis has accepted an invitation to visit Canada on a pilgrimage of reconciliation, and one Saskatchewan residential school survivor said he hopes to see a financial commitment to healing for those impacted.
A release from the Holy See Press Office states “His Holiness has indicated his willingness to visit the country on a date to be settled in due course”.
Roland Desjarlais, a residential school survivor, thinks the visit is great news for the journey toward reconciliation. He hopes to hear an apology that comes with a financial commitment to preserve history and introduce healing programs.
“We require money to fix up [the residential schools] and see them sustained as museums and as some places of healing centres that could respond to the traumatizing effect that is going on right now for generations in all our communities,” he said.
Brenda Dubois is also a residential school survivor and feels skeptical of the intention of the Pope’s trip.
“Is it really sincere, or is it an opportunity to say we did it?” Dubois wondered. “You’re going to come here and apologize for what? Will they actually state what they are sorry for? We know in stating ‘I’m sorry’ there is an expectation of trying to do different. I still don’t feel any difference.”
Archbishop Donald Bolen, Archdiocese of Regina, is excited for this opportunity to reconcile.
“Pope Francis wants to engage with people and we as bishops want him to be able to engage with the survivors of residential schools, with spiritual leaders, elders in Indigenous communities, with Indigenous youth,” said Bolen. “To hear from them, to hear their heart, to hear their deepest concerns and desires.”
Bolen said he understands why some may be skeptical, but believes there is a “profound desire” to heal together.
Bolen said a date has not been set but he hopes Pope Francis will make a stop in Saskatchewan.
DELEGATION HEADING TO ROME
A delegation of Indigenous leaders, elders and bishops will also be heading to Rome ahead of the Pope’s trip to Canada.
Bolen said a group of about 25 to 30 people from across the country will meet with Pope Francis at the Holy See.
“It will be an occasion to discuss what Indigenous people need and desire out of the visit from him to this land,” said Bolen.
He added the delegation has been picked and the representatives will be announced soon.
Desjarlais said he would like the delegations to talk about the need for healing centres and programs for all Indigenous communities still living with trauma.
Dubois doesn’t believe a delegation should go to Rome before Pope Francis travels to Canada.
“We had been nice people, not it’s time to be kind (and) stand our ground,” she said. “This is our space and we deserve to be recognized in our space. Not to go there and have the feeling of still trying to fulfill a relationship that somewhat faults because he still has not stepped one foot in this territory for many years.”
The delegation is set to go to Rome from Dec. 17 to 20.
-------------
The Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program has a hotline to help residential school survivors and their relatives suffering trauma invoked by the recall of past abuse. The number is 1-866-925-4419.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.