A message from development and Peace regarding last week’s Papal Apology to the Indigenous Delegation at the Vatican

Thank you for your willingness to pray in solidarity with the delegation to Rome this week. This is a complex moment of reckoning for our Church and our communities. Our thoughtfulness and prayerful attention sets a good intention for what is to come.

We are encouraged to see that Pope Francis issued an apology for the crimes committed in the residential school system. Pope Francis apologizes to Indigenous delegates for 'deplorable' abuses at residential schools | CBC News. This is an important first step towards one of the calls to action determined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Pope Francis also committed to visiting Canada in July to offer his apologies on the land where the atrocities were committed.

Delegates received Francis’ remarks joyfully. As AFN chief Gerald Antoine says, it is also important to remember that “It’s a historical first step, however, only a first step. More needs to be done to address the Truth and Reconciliation calls to action number 58.” Pope Francis apologizes for role Catholics played in residential schools (aptnnews.ca)

At the same time, we know that Indigenous communities and individuals will have a variety of responses to this week’s events, and settler Catholics in particular must continue to listen carefully and diligently to the many responses, painful and joyful, that are already being expressed.

Our movement will continue to support this process prayerfully and in hopes of good mind and intention for all those involved.

Thank you,

Development and Peace Ontario Animation Team