National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Friday, Sept. 30

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Friday, Sept. 30

On Friday, September 30, 2022, Canadians will be observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The ongoing journey to healing and reconciliation has a particular relevance for Catholics throughout Canada given the Church’s involvement in operating many residential schools and recognizing the suffering and intergenerational trauma that remains for many survivors to this day.

A reminder that we ask clergy and staff to take some time during the work day for prayer, reflection and education.

Given the recent Papal Visit to Canada, you may wish to reflect on some of the texts offered by the Holy Father relating to the journey of healing, reconciliation and hope. These texts and videos of his remarks in Canada can be found here. Salt & Light Catholic Media also has produced a powerful one hour documentary on residential schools and the Indigenous delegation to Rome earlier this year. This informative educational resource can be found here.

We also invite the Catholic community throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto to take time on Friday for prayer, reflection and education. Please join us virtually, or in person, for Mass with Cardinal Thomas Collins from St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica on Friday, September 30 at 7:30 am. Watch the Mass live by clicking here. It will also be available here for later viewing.

Enclosed you will find a listing of educational resources that will help provide background and context for clergy, staff and parishioners. Some of these may be read or viewed in a short period of time while others will require deeper reflection and ongoing self-directed learning.

I hope that you will find this information helpful as we journey on the path to healing and reconciliation.

Opportunities for Education – both on September 30 and on an ongoing basis

Archdiocese of Toronto – Healing & Reconciliation Resources

The site includes Frequently Asked Questions and background from a Catholic perspective relating to residential schools. The site also includes prayers, spiritual and educational resources.

https://www.archtoronto.org/en/offices-and-ministries/sub-sites/healing-and-reconciliation/home/