The damage done by the church through residential schools will take generations to repair, Kuvezans said.
Only 19 people out of 3,000 in Keeseekoose can still speak Saulteaux fluently, he said, and even fewer can lead their nation’s traditional ceremonies.
“We are on the verge of losing everything,” he said.
Bohlen said he owed Ted Queens and other survivors a dialogue between the church and their communities. He said he hoped their relationship would serve as a model for other archdioceses.
“The church must be not only in a mode of repentance, but also in a mode of learning … to retell our own history and learn what it is like to stand in solidarity with the indigenous people,” Bohlen said.
As part of the church’s commitment to redemption, Bohlen said, the archdiocese will cover the cost of bringing the survivors to where the pope travels during his visit to Canada.
“I certainly hope and, as far as I can participate in the planning, I will encourage real encounters with survivors, because this has the greatest chance of bringing healing,” he said.
Quevezans said he also expects to see the pope again in person when he visits.
“Wherever he comes, Ted will be there,” Quezance said. “Together with Don.”
Support is available to anyone affected by their experience in residential schools or recent reports.
A national crisis line has been set up for Indian housing schools to provide support for former students and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis services by calling the 24-hour National Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419.
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