Can you imagine if a group of people came into our churches and said, “You can no longer believe what you believe about God, and you can no longer do any of the rituals or practices you do. You must adopt OUR practices and beliefs, and ours only, and you will be punished for doing otherwise.”
The National Truth and Reconciliation 94 Calls to Action, specifically #48 and #60, ask us to learn and understand Indigenous Spirituality. This event is the work of volunteers from the New Westminster Ministerial Association (a group of faith-based organizations in the City of New Westminster), including members of Mt. Zion Lutheran.
We have the support of the QayQayt First Nation and The Spirit of the Children Society. A member of the QayQayt First Nation will open the event and Steven Seegerts, from Urban Aboriginal Ministry, will be featured along with two others who will share with us ‘The 7 Sacred Teachings’ through storytelling and music (also called ‘The 7 Sacred Grandmothers/Grandfathers’).
We will be offering Bannock, plus the Bannock Queen Food Truck will be onsite for other Indigenous treats at a cost. There will be an opportunity for people to make their own Prayer Tie or, should they wish, take a kit home to do at a time that works best for them.
The objective of this event is to recognize, highlight and elevate Indigenous knowledge, expertise, perspective and experience. At the same time, it is an opportunity to connect, neighbour to neighbour, as we learn together from our Indigenous siblings.
This is not about the faith groups within the Ministerial Association. It is a joint goal to live out and support justice for all members of our communities. Our hope is to provide an opportunity where neighbours can come to learn more about Indigenous Spiritual Practices in the beautiful and nature-filled spaces in and around the Queen’s Park Bandshell. Those stopping by will have the opportunity to enjoy some Bannock, spend a relaxing afternoon with friends and family and possibly meet new people, all while learning what it means to journey together, and individually, Towards Reconciliation.
Come Join us and… be sure to wear your Orange Shirt!
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