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On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, we remember the victims and survivors of Canada’s residential schools, the systematic program of assimilation, and the destruction of culture, language and family in Indigenous communities. This violence has permanently scarred these lands that make up Canada, leaving many Indigenous communities with generational trauma and its effects. As our Anglican forebears built and administered residential schools, we take seriously our responsibility to be present with the local First Nations observances today — to listen, learn, and build new relationships.  

Merciful God, you call us to loving relationship with one another: Guide us now as we seek to heal old wounds and kindle the embers of relationship. Replace our hearts of stone with hearts of flesh. Give us the gifts of honesty and openness, and fill us with your healing power and grace, in Jesus’s name we pray. Amen. 

Our tower will be lit orange as we honour survivors of residential schools and their families, remember the children who never made it home and reflect on this enduring legacy as part of the ongoing journey toward truth, healing and reconciliation. 

The cathedral will be closed throughout the day on Wednesday September 30, and we encourage you to take part in the many events happening in our community.

Events in our community

5th Annual South Island Powwow | Wednesday September 30, gates open from 10:00am, Royal Athletic Park 

“The South Island Powwow is an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation. Through song and dance, we will celebrate traditional Indigenous cultures and resiliency.”  

Find out more more HERE. 

The Truth About Cowichan | Wednesday September 30, 1:30pm, St. Peters Quamichan 

All are invited to join Bishop Anna at St. Peter’s, Quamichan on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, for an overview of the Colonial history of the Cowichan Valley. Find out more, and register your attendance, HERE. 

Land and Treaties on Vancouver Island: a presentation and discussion with parishioner and historian Jesse Robertson | Saturday October 17, 10:00am, Christ Church Cathedral 

What is the history of treaties on Vancouver Island? How were these agreements understood by Indigenous leaders? Why were so few treaties signed elsewhere in British Columbia? Parishoner and historian Jesse Robertson will join us for a discussion of land and treaties on Vancouver Island, inviting us to consider the way Colonial history continues to shape our lives in the present. Please click HERE to register. 

Further resources

Read more about Victoria Orange Shirt Day HERE.

Read more about Reconciliation and Beyond in the Diocese of Islands and Inlets HERE. 

The Anglican Church of Canada continues to learn from the truths shared by survivors and communities affected by the residential schools system. Read more HERE.