Truth and Reconciliation: A Catholic Call to Remember and Walk Together September 30 – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

By: Dr. Rose-Alma McDonald (Mohawk), Indigenous Advisor, Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall

September 30 is a solemn day of remembrance and reflection for Canadians and for the Catholic Church. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours residential school Survivors, their families and communities, and remembers the children who never returned home. It also calls us to learn the truth about Canada's residential school history and to continue the journey toward healing and reconciliation.

For the Catholic Church, this day carries particular significance because Catholic religious communities were involved in operating many residential schools. The Church has acknowledged the profound harm experienced by Indigenous children, families and communities. During his 2022 visit to Canada, Pope Francis expressed sorrow and shame for the Church's role in the residential school system and called Catholics to a renewed commitment to healing and reconciliation.

On September 30, the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall will gather for Holy Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica in Ottawa. This Eucharistic celebration will be an opportunity to pray for residential school Survivors and their families, remember the children who never returned home, and ask God's blessing upon the continuing journey of reconciliation.

For Catholics, reconciliation begins with truth. We are called to listen to Indigenous Peoples and Survivors, learn the history and legacy of residential schools, and recognize the enduring importance of Indigenous languages, cultures, traditions and identity.

Reconciliation is also a Gospel commitment. St. Paul reminds us that God has entrusted us with the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18). This ministry calls us to build relationships founded on dignity, respect, listening and mutual understanding.

The journey is expressed not only through prayer but through action. Within the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall, initiatives such as the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund provide tangible opportunities to support Indigenous-led projects that contribute to healing, cultural revitalization, education and reconciliation.

September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters, reminding us of the dignity and worth of every Indigenous child. As Christians, we believe that every person is created in the image and likeness of God.

As we gather at Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, may our prayers lead us beyond remembrance to meaningful action. May we continue to listen, learn, build relationships and walk together with Indigenous Peoples on the journey of Truth and Reconciliation.

May September 30 be a day of remembrance, prayer, healing and renewed commitment to reconciliation.

Every Child Matters. Every voice matters. Every relationship matters. And reconciliation is a journey we are called to walk together.