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Kiply Lukan Yaworski

Jan 28
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CCCB announces new Indigenous Reconciliation Fund

By Enriching faith

Catholic TRC Healing Response: CLICK HERE for info or to donate

Feb. 2, 2022 – UPDATE – In a message to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, Bishop Mark Hagemoen has announced the diocesan five-year goal of $1.25 million to support healing and reconciliation initiatives for residential school survivors and their communities. Funds raised in our diocese will be part of a national $30-million fund-raising pledge announced by the Catholic bishops of Canada, following their apology to the Indigenous Peoples of this land. – PDF of Feb. 2 letter from Bishop Hagemoen

Feb. 2 , 2022 – UPDATE – The Archdiocese of Regina Truth and Reconciliation Committee announced more details about the  creation and support of reconciliation initiatives, including announcement of a $2-million fund-raising goal, which is well on its way to being met.

Jan. 28, 2022:  Canada’s Catholic Bishops have agreed to establish a new registered charity to support and advance healing and reconciliation initiatives

News release from CCCB Communications with additional files from Catholic Saskatoon News

[OTTAWA – January 28, 2022] – Canada’s Catholic Bishops have agreed to establish a new registered charity to support and advance healing and reconciliation initiatives.

The charity will manage the newly-established Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, which will accept contributions from 73 dioceses across Canada in order to fulfill the $30-million voluntary financial commitment made by Canada’s Catholic bishops in September to support healing and reconciliation initiatives for residential school survivors and their communities.

“The bishops of Canada are fully committed to addressing the historical and ongoing trauma caused by the residential school system,” said Bishop Raymond Poisson, President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB). “In moving forward with our collective financial commitment, we will continue to be guided by the experience and wisdom of Indigenous peoples across the country.”

CCCB News Release (click here for PDF) – English / French

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund will be managed with financial measures in place to ensure transparency and good governance. Board directors and members of the corporation will collectively bring a strong financial acumen and deep commitment to the healing and reconciliation journey.

The directors of the board include:

  • Chief Wilton Littlechild, Ph.D, a Cree chief, residential school survivor, and lawyer who served as a Commissioner for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Chief Littlechild has been a Member of Parliament, Vice-President of the Indigenous Parliament of the Americas, North American Representative to the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and a Chairperson for the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Commission on First Nations and Métis Peoples and Justice Reform.
  • Giselle Marion, who holds a law degree from the University of British Columbia and was called to the Bar in the Northwest Territories in 2008. During her articles Ms. Marion worked for the Department of Justice. She is a Tłı̨ chǫ Citizen and was born and raised in Behchokǫ̀, NT. She is the Director of Client Services with the Tłı̨chǫ Government out of the Behchokǫ̀ office.
  • Rosella Kinoshameg, an Odawa/Ojibway woman from the Wikwemikong Unceded First Nation Territory. She is a Registered Nurse with over 50 years of nursing experience, mostly working with First Nations communities doing community health, maternal child health, immunizations, home and community Care. She was one of the original members of the CCCB’s Indigenous Council and continues to serve as a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Circle.

The members of the corporation include:

  • Natale Gallo, a former Supreme Director of the Knights of Columbus, where he represented Canada on the International Board of Directors.
  • Claude Bédard, National President of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in Canada.
  • Barbara Dowding, former National President of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund will publish annual reports and will be subject to an audit by an independent accounting firm each year.

Any administrative costs will be on top of the $30 million being raised and will not be deducted from this principal amount.

Funding priorities

While specific disbursement guidelines will be informed by additional input from Indigenous partners, the intention is to contribute funds to the following priorities:

  • Healing and reconciliation for communities and families;
  • Culture and language revitalization;
  • Education and community building; and
  • Dialogues for promoting indigenous spirituality and culture.

Regional and/or diocesan granting committees will be established across the country to identify projects that further the fund’s priorities, review applications and request funds to support such projects. These committees will include Indigenous and Catholic membership and it is recommended that they be chaired by local Indigenous partners.

The establishment of the new national framework builds on existing voluntary fundraising efforts already underway by local Catholic entities, including the Archdioceses of Winnipeg and St. Boniface, the Catholic bishops of Saskatchewan, and the Archdiocese of Vancouver.

Diocese of Saskatoon efforts

In the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, where Catholic TRC Healing Response fund-raising initiated by the Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan was launched in July 2021, Bishop Mark Hagemoen welcomed the news from the CCCB about the structure being set in place for the $30-million national fund-raising pledge.

“I am grateful and excited to hear the news from the CCCB regarding the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund and the plan to implement diocesan and/or regional granting committees,” Hagemoen said Jan. 28.

“The Catholic bishops of Saskatchewan are meeting, and I look forward to making further information available about our own diocesan process and goal early next week,” he added.

“I am grateful to all those who have already supported this important initiative with donations and prayers. As Catholics, and as brothers and sisters of a much larger human community – we know that we must all take responsibility for amends and healing for past sins. We now enter this new time of opportunity and responsibility,” Hagemoen said.

Related: Saskatchewan bishops launch Catholic TRC Healing Response (LINK)

Previous fund-raising tied to Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement

In its media statement about the fund-raising structure for the $30-million campaign, the Catholic bishops of Canada state that they recognize that there has been considerable disappointment with a previous Catholic fundraising campaign tied to the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement (IRSSA). “While the CCCB was not party to the agreement, the bishops have recognized the shortcomings of that campaign and learned critically important lessons to ensure that the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund is fully funded and well managed with appropriate oversight,” states the release.

Additional information on the “best efforts” campaign led by the Catholic Entities Party to the Indian Residential School Settlement can be found at: https://www.cccb.ca/indigenous-peoples/indian-residential-schools-and-trc/.

The CCCB will continue to provide regular public updates on this work, including on the appointment of directors, as part of the ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation.

-30-

About the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) is the national assembly of the Bishops of Canada. It was founded in 1943 and officially recognized by the Holy See in 1948.

 

Jan 03
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SYNOD 2021-2023: For a Synodal Church

By News

The Synod process continues in our diocese, part of a world-wide Synod For a Synodal Church launched by Pope Francis.
Submissions from parishes and groups were summarized into a document to be sent to the next level of the Synod process. A public meeting about our diocesan results and experience was held Wednesday May 18 in person and online, beginning with Mass at 6:30 p.m. followed by a program at 7:30 p.m.

Synod Summit May 18 - REGISTER HERE
SYNOD page
ARTICLE about our diocesan process

Video introduction by Bishop Mark Hagemoen:

 

 

Dec 30
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UPDATE from Bishop Hagemoen about Catholic TRC Healing Response

By Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

Bishop Mark Hagemoen provided the diocese with an update Dec, 29 about fund-raising to support healing and reconciliation for residential school survivors, their families and communities.

Bishop Hagemoen’s Dec. 29 Letter – Link to PDF

APPEAL for the support of TRC Healing Response:  Residential School Survivors and their Families and Communities 

Dear Clergy, Religious, Lay Faithful – Sisters and Brothers of the Diocese of Saskatoon:

I wish to update you regarding the status of our efforts here in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon to raise and assign $30 million collectively in support of regionally-based Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Healing Response projects.  These efforts are in conjunction with the commitment by dioceses and eparchies throughout Canada.

Our diocese looks forward to a larger announcement by the Catholic Bishops of Canada regarding the structure for collecting funds and discerning projects. As previously indicated, projects will be allocated to localand national initiatives responding to the TRC’s Calls to Action, as guided by Indigenous representatives ofcommunities and organizations (cf. Calls to Action #58-61, #73-76; #82). This includes consultation with Indigenous organizations that is underway here in Saskatchewan.

In order to most appropriately allocate these funds, we plan to engage Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners in establishing a “discernment circle” and eventual board to discern, allocate, and distribute funds. At this point it is envisaged that this process would be engaged over a multi-year time-frame, as funds are raised and available.

As previously outlined, the general funding priorities are as follows:

  • Healing and reconciliation
  • Cemeteries on the sites of former residential schools
  • Education and cultural support

The Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan announced their province-wide fund-raising effort on July 13, 2021. A Canada-wide campaign by all dioceses across the country was subsequently announced by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) in late September, with the aim that details regarding raising and disbursing funds would be complete by late November. The CCCB  has now indicated that establishing the framework for the national diocese-by-diocese effort has turned out to be more complicated than anticipated – as many issues must be clearly addressed, including: engaging local Indigenous partners; decision-making; transparency and accountability with funds raised; and assignment of funds to projects. (Find a news article at: Catholic Saskatoon News LINK)

As part of the province-wide appeal, I affirm our own ongoing efforts here in the diocese of Saskatoon tofully participate in this collective effort. The Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan have already launched this appeal online with the support of the Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation. Further details and information about the Catholic TRC Healing Response can be found on the Foundation website at: dscf.ca/catholic-trc-healing-response. I am grateful to all those who have already supported this important initiative with donations and prayers. For those of you awaiting more details, be assured that our diocese is fully committed to providing information and to further promoting the campaign in the days and weeks ahead. It is important that this work be done with due diligence and care – both in our own diocese and in the five-year national campaign.

As Catholics, and as brothers and sisters of a much larger human community – we know that we must all take responsibility for amends and healing for past sins. We now enter this new time of opportunity and responsibility. I am aware that there is much excitement and anticipation about moving forward with this Catholic TRC Healing Response initiative, and especially with engaging Indigenous partners to carry out important helpful projects. I am also hearing from many Indigenous and non-Indigenous people a renewed sense of excitement about facilitating healing, and relationship-building as a response to the legacy of the residential school history, and to fulfill the vision given to us by God our Creator for “right relationship” – with God, other people, and all Creation. Let us continue to journey together on a path of reconciliation and healing, actively building “right relationship” through dialogue, awareness and action.

Yours in Christ,

Bishop Mark Hagemoen

 

 

Dec 22
Love0

Christmas 2021 Message from Bishop Mark Hagemoen

By Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

“I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” – Isaiah 43:19

2021 12 21 +MHagemoen Christmas Message – LINK to PDF

VIDEO: Bishop Mark Hagemoen’s 2021 Christmas Message:

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2021  

By Bishop Mark Hagemoen

“I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43: 19)

Brothers and Sisters in Christ – This Old Testament passage from the Prophet Isaiah has been haunting me all year!

This second year of the pandemic has continued to afflict us all in so many ways. Despite the reprieve of the summer – we are now again in a time of heightened concern about the pandemic.

And in all of this – we get ready to celebrate another Christmas season. Christmas is a time when we recall God’s intervention into the state of affairs of all humanity. Despite the challenges and even the crises that the world experiences … God comes to us! And God comes when we need Him the most: the greatest difficulties are the occasion when God’s light is most potent with infusing the greatest darkness.

As I write this letter to you, I am inspired by the letter to Diognetus in the Office of Readings in the Octave before Christmas:

No man has ever seen God… but God has revealed Himself to us through faith, by which alone it is possible to see Him. God, the Lord and maker of all things, who created the world … not only loved humanity but was also patient with us. So He has always been, and is, and will be: kind, good, free from anger, truthful, indeed He and He alone is good.

I continue to be amazed, comforted, and challenged by how God deals with us – all of us. He is the Absolute Lover and Giver. He invites us to respond in some small, faithful way with sharing back the love we can give. Although this is a very small fraction of what God gives to us and the world – He does not measure or give back according to our limited desire or capacity. Because, if He did …we would not be here! God is the Absolute Lover and Giver. As St. John says, “God is Love, and those who abide in Love, abide in God, and God in them.” (I John 4:16)

The letter to John goes on to contrast fear versus love:

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love.  We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:18-19)

The realization of the meaning of Christmas must challenge and stretch us in new and greater ways – including my awareness of the care of my brother and sister – let alone the many who are “the stranger.” Amidst my frustration, regret, and disappointment that we are facing a Christmas and world that is dealing with uncertainty and crisis …CHRISTMAS COMES! O come, O Come, Emmanuel. Whether we are ready, or not…. whether we can celebrate as usual… or not, whether we can gather with many or with only a very few… CHRISTMAS Comes! GOD IS with us in Jesus Christ, the Son of God.  GOD IS loving us, caring for us, holding us.

As the saying goes: “We do not know why difficulty and tragedy comes and what the future holds, …but we do know Who holds us through the tragedy… into the unknown future.

The effects of the pandemic continue to inspire much reflection for all of us, including Pope Francis, who recently stated that the current pandemic calls for a ‘culture of care’ which leads us to draw closer to those who need us. As he states, “It is a closeness understood as sharing, proximity, care and love. I hope that the great trial we are experiencing in the pandemic has made us long for a new closeness among us. A new tenderness.” (Pope Francis, Dec. 10, 2021)

The Pope also has reflected that the “scourge” (of the pandemic) …has tested everyone and everything. Only one thing is more serious than this crisis, and that is the risk that we will squander it, and not learn the lesson it teaches. It is a lesson in humility, showing us that it is not possible to live healthy lives in an unhealthy world, or to go on as we were, without recognizing what went wrong.”

Francis also warned against the “senseless notion” that the world can go back to what it was, relying on “false securities, habits and projects that aim exclusively at pursuing wealth and personal interests, while failing to respond to global injustice, the cry of the poor and the precarious health of our planet.”

Yes, indeed, things will probably not go back to just the way they were …at least not entirely. And maybe that’s okay. In the encyclical Fratelli Tutti – which I cited in my message at this time last year – Pope Francis cites many things that should be different … and which highlight how Jesus who comes at Christmas inspires and challenges us all about a new, redeeming way.  These themes continue to inspire and challenge me during this Christmas time.

I begin with our need to be open to growth and healing. There are many things do need to change …in my life, in our lives. The need for change and ongoing conversion is absolutely crucial. As Pope Francis states:

“Everything depends on our ability to see the need for a change of heart, attitudes and lifestyles … (and watch for) …human weakness, the proclivity to selfishness that is part of what the Christian tradition refers to as “concupiscence”: the human inclination to be concerned only with myself, my group, my own petty interests. “(see FT #166)

The trials of the pandemic have certainly highlighted this temptation.  Another key theme this past year is the call for ongoing truth and reconciliation with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. The outpouring of attention, grief, and desire for restoration and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples of Canada is a key theme calling for growth and healing: one which calls for commitment and hope that inspires concrete actions and relationship-building by individuals, communities, and our Church.

Secondly, the call to reflect on how we truly listen, communicate and relate to others. Pope Francis highlights the task of really sharing and relating with each other in a truly human way. Technology is a tool, but not the basis for authentic human presence and sharing. As Pope Francis states, “…Life exists where there is belonging, communion, fraternity; life that is stronger than death …is built on true relationship and bonds of fidelity.” (see FT #87) Indeed the importance of listening is a key theme as our diocese and the Church throughout the world undertakes the Synod on Synodality in the coming New Year.

A third challenge that arises is our true care for and support of the vulnerable. This issue has thrust itself on our awareness here in Saskatchewan as we now are profoundly aware of the crisis of homelessness and poverty that is now very apparent – especially in our biggest and most affluent cities. As the Pope states, “We are still ‘illiterate’ when it comes to accompanying, caring for and supporting the most frail and vulnerable member of our developed society. We were created for a fulfilment that can only be found in love.” The Holy Father challenges us about our need to be persistent in LOVE. “Charity [Love] is at the heart of every healthy and open society, yet today it is easily dismissed as irrelevant for interpreting and giving direction to moral responsibility.”

On this theme, let us hear Pope Francis’s call to ‘solidarity’ as a way in which we become more Christ-like and walk the journey of allowing our hearts of stone to become hearts of flesh (see Ezekiel 11:19) As Pope Francis states,

“Solidarity finds concrete expression in service, which can take a variety of forms in an effort to care for others. And service in great part means ‘caring for vulnerability, for the vulnerable members of our families, our society, our people.’ In offering such service, individuals learn to ‘set aside their own wishes and desires, their pursuit of power, before the concrete gaze of those who are most vulnerable… service always looks to their faces, touches their flesh, senses their closeness and even, in some cases, ‘suffers’ that closeness and tries to help them.” (see FT #115)

A fourth challenge for us all during these difficult times is to grow in what the Holy Father calls “gratuitousness.” This he states is the ability to, “…do some things simply because they are good in themselves, without concern for personal gain or recompense. Gratuitousness makes it possible for us to welcome the stranger, even though this brings no immediate tangible benefit.” (see FT #139)

Finally, I very much appreciate the Holy Father’s emphasis on the priority of forgiveness, mercy and reconciliation. The mercy and forgiving love of God for the world is the reason that Jesus comes at Christmas. As the Pope states: “…Those who truly forgive do not forget. Instead, they choose not to yield to the same destructive force that caused them so much suffering.” (see FT #252) There is much to be angry about. However, left alone, our anger will consume and destroy us. O how the world needs to choose another way – the way demonstrated in the life and way of Jesus Christ.

May our celebration of Christmas seek Christ’s merciful and redeeming way. Let us ask ourselves:

  1. How does our celebration of Christmas inspire new hope and expectation?
  2. Do we allow the Christ Child to take our hearts of stone and make them hearts of flesh?
  3. How does Jesus – who is the greatest Love the world has known – inspire and call each of us in the coming New Year to be the best that we can be – this amidst the climate of fear, mistrust, and negativity that makes such vision seemingly senseless?

Let us be ready and attentive for this Christmas time when God comes to us!

Have a blessed and joy-filled Christmas season.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Mark A. Hagemoen Bishop of Saskatoon

 

 

Sep 28
Love0

Update from the Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan about fund-raising for healing and reconciliation

By Enriching faith

CATHOLIC TRC HEALING RESPONSE: LINK

In a message to Catholics and Indigenous Peoples of the province Sept. 28, 2021, the five Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan provided additional information about fund-raising for the provincial Catholic TRC Healing Response — which will now be part of a national $30-million pledge announced this week by the Catholic bishops of Canada.

In the days ahead, each diocese/eparchy will provide more information on how this appeal will be approached in their particular region, given their particular circumstances and abilities — watch for more information from Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan Sept. 28 provincial message: PDF

Bishop Mark Hagemoen Oct. 12 diocesan message: PDF

 

“To all Catholics of Saskatchewan and the Indigenous Peoples of this land:

Warm greetings. As the Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan, we begin by joining with Bishops from across the country in the September 24, 2021 statement which offered an unequivocal apology to the Indigenous Peoples of this land.

Two months ago, as we began a new Truth and Reconciliation Healing Response Appeal, we indicated that we would provide more information in September. As an expression of our commitment to fostering healing relationships with Indigenous peoples, the Appeal offers a way to respond to current needs, provide ongoing support for residential school survivors and their communities, and engage more deeply in our own ongoing commitment and response to the truth and reconciliation process.

Our financial commitments, which will form a part of the $30 million financial commitment of the Catholic Bishops of Canada, will focus on three areas: healing and reconciliation, cemeteries on the sites of former residential schools, and education and cultural support. Together, we hold at the heart of all of our steps the TRC Call to Action #61, which has been an ongoing guiding principle for all of us on this path, as it calls upon churches to establish funding for projects related to healing, culture and language revitalization, education and relationship-building. Our Catholic TRC Healing Response is a continuation of efforts and initiatives over the past few decades in journeying with Indigenous communities, listening to the voices of survivors, and those who have been impacted by the legacy of residential schools and the effects of colonization. We recognize that consultation and collaboration with Indigenous Peoples are vital, and we are committed to continuing these essential dialogues.

Catholics in Saskatchewan can anticipate statements in the near future from each diocese and eparchy on how this appeal will be approached in their particular region, given their particular circumstances and abilities. See our eparchial/diocesan statements on the following websites: www.skeparchy.org, www.padiocese.ca, www.rcdos.ca, www.archregina.sk.ca, www.archdioceseofkeewatinlepas.ca.

May we continue to learn to walk together and to dwell peacefully on this land that the Creator has given us, in the words of treaties signed long ago, for ‘as long as the sun shines, the grass grows, and waters flow.’

Sincerely yours in a spirit of humility and respect,

Most Rev. Donald Bolen, Archbishop of Regina

Most Rev. Bryan Bayda, Ukrainian Eparchial Bishop of Saskatoon

Most Rev. Murray Chatlain, Archbishop of Keewatin-Le Pas

Most Rev. Mark Hagemoen, Bishop of Saskatoon

Most Rev. Stephen Hero, Bishop of Prince Albert”

 National Day for Reconciliation and Healing

Get involved: LINK

Related: Catholic bishops of Canada announce $30-million pledge to support healing and reconciliation initiatives

Related: Canadian Catholic bishops: apology to Indigenous Peoples

 

Sep 24
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The Catholic Bishops of Canada apologize to Indigenous Peoples

By News

Sept. 24, 2021 –  The Catholic Bishops of Canada, gathered in Plenary Sept. 20-24, took the opportunity to affirm and acknowledge to the Indigenous Peoples the suffering experienced in Canada’s Indian Residential Schools. 

Many Catholic religious communities and dioceses participated in this system, which led to the suppression of Indigenous languages, culture and spirituality, failing to respect the rich history, traditions and wisdom of Indigenous Peoples.

The Catholic Bishops of Canada acknowledged the grave abuses that were committed by some members of our Catholic community; physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and sexual. They also sorrowfully acknowledged the historical and ongoing trauma and the legacy of suffering and challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples that continue to this day.

Along with those Catholic entities which were directly involved in the operation of the schools and which have already offered their own heartfelt apologies, the Catholic Bishops of Canada expressed their profound remorse and apologized unequivocally.

Together with the many pastoral initiatives already underway in dioceses across the country, the bishops pledged to undertake fundraising in each region of the country to support initiatives discerned locally with Indigenous partners.

They invited the Indigenous Peoples to journey with them into a new era of reconciliation, helping us to prioritize initiatives of healing, to listen to the experience of Indigenous Peoples, especially to the survivors of Indian Residential Schools, and to educate our clergy, consecrated men and women, and lay faithful, on Indigenous cultures and spirituality. The bishops further committed to continue the work of providing documentation or records that will assist in the memorialization of those buried in unmarked graves.

A delegation of Indigenous survivors, Elders/knowledge keepers, and youth will meet with the Holy Father in December 2021. Pope Francis will encounter and listen to the Indigenous Peoples, so as to discern how he can support our common desire to renew relationships and walk together along the path of hope in the coming years.

The Bishops of Canada have pledged to work with the Holy See and our Indigenous partners on the possibility of a pastoral visit by the Pope to Canada as part of this healing journey.

“We are committed to continue the journey with the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples of this land,” stated the bishops. For more information, please visit www.cccb.ca

Related: Catholic bishops of Canada announce $30-million pledge to support healing and reconciliation initiatives

Related: Saskatchewan Catholic bishops provide update about provincial Catholic TRC Healing Response

Les évêques du Canada offrent aux peuples autochtones des excuses sans équivoque

Les évêques catholiques du Canada, réunis en Assemblée plénière cette semaine, ont profité del’occasion pourconfirmer et reconnaître aux peuples autochtones les souffrances éprouvées dans les pensionnats indiens du Canada.

Beaucoup de communautés religieuses et de diocèses catholiques ont participé à ce système, qui a entraîné la suppression des langues, de la cultureet de la spiritualité autochtones et qui n’a pas respecté la riche histoire, les traditions et la sagesse des peuples autochtones. Elles ont reconnu les graves abus qui ont été commis par des membres de notre communauté catholique : des abus physiques, psychologiques, émotionnels, spirituels, culturels et sexuels. Elles ont aussi reconnu avec douleur les traumatismes passés et persistantset l’héritagedes souffrances et des difficultés vécues par les peuples autochtones, qui persistentjusqu’à ce jour.De concert avec les entités catholiques qui ont participé directement au fonctionnement des écoles et qui ont déjà présenté leurs sincères excuses, les évêques du Canada ont exprimé leurs profonds remords et ont présenté des excuses sans équivoque.

En plus des nombreuses initiatives pastorales déjà en cours dans les diocèses de tout le pays, les évêques se sont engagés à entreprendre une collecte de fonds dans chaque région du pays pour soutenir les initiatives discernées localement avec les partenaires autochtones. De plus, ils ont invité les peuples autochtones à cheminer avec nous vers une nouvelle ère de réconciliationen nous aidant à définir les priorités des initiatives de guérison, à écouter l’expérience des peuples autochtones, et particulièrement des survivants des pensionnats indiens, et d’instruirenotre clergé, les hommes et femmes consacrés, de même que les fidèles laïcs, sur les cultures et la spiritualité autochtones. Ils se sont également engagés à continuer le travail de communication de la documentation ou des dossiers qui aideront à commémorer ceux qui sont enterrés dans des sépultures anonymes.

Une délégation de survivants autochtones, d’aînés/de gardiens du savoir et de jeunes rencontrera le Saint-Père en décembre 2021. Le pape François rencontrera et écoutera les peuples autochtones afin de discerner comment il pourra appuyer notre désir commun de renouveler lesrelations et de marcher ensemble sur un chemin d’espoir dans les prochaines années.Les évêques du Canada ont promis de collaborer avec le Saint-Siège et nos partenaires autochtonesen vue de la possibilité d’une visite pastorale du pape au Canada dans le contexte de ce chemin de guérison.

<<Nous nous sommes engagés à continuer le chemin avec les peuples des Premières Nations, des Métis et des Inuits de notre pays.>> Pour de plus amples renseignements, visiter le site https://www.cccb.ca/fr/.

Jul 22
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Historical Case Review Report and Safeguarding Update

By News

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon July 21, 2021 released a report about an Historical Case Review Process that examined past cases of serious misconduct and sexual abuse in the diocese. In conjunction with those results, the diocese also announced updates to its Safeguarding Action Plan.

(The report does not address residential schools as the diocese of Saskatoon did not operate any residential schools and there were no Indian Residential Schools located within diocesan boundaries.)

Historical Case Review & Safeguarding Update  Report Abuse

The report has been posted at rcdos.ca/safer-church/update  and shared with parishes across the diocese.

Goal

A Safeguarding Advisory Committee established three years ago by Bishop Mark Hagemoen recommended a review of diocesan records as part of the release of a Safer Church, Safer Communities Safeguarding Action Plan in March 2020.

“The key goal of our plan was that our diocese and our churches be places of profound respect and safety for all peoples – especially the young and vulnerable,” said Bishop Hagemoen in a letter to the diocese July 21.

With that goal in mind, the Historical Case Review Process was primarily launched to determine what could be learned from past handling of cases to improve diocesan policies here and now, the bishop said. “We wished to determine how our current policies and practices can be improved, particularly in our commitment to support those who come forward with allegations of abuse or serious misconduct,” he said.

“This work is extremely important and valued. Although we have come a long way in our efforts, there is much more to do,” Hagemoen acknowledged.

The Historical Case Review Process involved two committees:

  • an Historical Case Review Committee chaired by Bob Loran that included a number of lay (non-clergy) professionals with a range of backgrounds and expertise – including legal, professional and police investigative experience – reviewing diocesan records independently of the bishop’s office, and
  • a Policy and Operations Review Committee chaired by Brenda FitzGerald, which did a complete review of diocesan policies and the Safeguarding Action Plan in light of the findings of the Historical Case Review Committee. This Policy and Operations Review Committee also met with victims/survivors of clergy sexual abuse, listening to their experience and reflecting on the terrible and long-lasting effects and what is needed to best support victims/survivors.

Priorities

“We have wrestled extensively with striking an appropriate balance between accountability and transparency, and sensitivity and responsibility, as every member of the Policy and Operations Committee deeply desires that the evil of sexual abuse be eradicated,” says Brenda Fitzgerald, chair of the Policy and Operations Committee, as well as of the diocesan Safeguarding Committee.

“In meeting with victims of sexual abuse, the Policy and Operations Review Committee repeatedly found that we must always remain victim/survivor-focused for the sake of respecting that person and their individual journey. This victim-centred approach must be reflected in every update to our safeguarding plan – and of any operation of the diocese,” she said.

At the recommendation of the committeees involved in the Historical Review Process, a commitment to publicly identifying the names of clergy and church employees who have been found guilty of sexual abuse or other serious misconduct has been clarified as being subject to privacy laws “and/or publication bans or privacy agreements.” The commitment was further broadened to include: “We commit to careful consultation with victims or representatives of victims prior to the public identification of names.”

The historical review report lists nine cases involving serious misconduct by either clergy or lay employees working in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, however no new names of abusers were released.

In three previously-reported cases, the names of offenders are again reported. In three cases, a credible claim could not be clearly established by the review committee and therefore names are not released. In two cases, victims have requested that names of the offenders not be published, and the diocese has honoured their wishes. The ninth case involved a Code of Conduct violation by an employee allegedly accessing pornography on a computer at a local parish – the name of the employee, now deceased, is not being released.

Two non-historical cases still under review were also noted in the Historical Case Review report, with previously-released names again published.

“In recent months we have learned that there are situations where releasing names of an abuser would further re-traumatize and trigger victims – each of whom are on their own unique healing journey,” explained FitzGerald.

“For some, releasing names of perpetrators of sexual abuse has tremendous potential to empower victims to seek healing and reparation. For others, there is a great fear and risk of further trauma with the release of names.  As with our commitment that our entire Safeguarding Action Plan be more victim or survivor focused, we came to realize that with regard to this question of releasing names of abusers, we must also prioritize the needs and desires of the victim or survivor,” she said.

“Therefore, we have added this important clause to the commitment addressing the release of names of abusers: ‘We commit to careful consultation with victims or representatives of victims prior to the public identification of names.’ (Safer Church, Stronger Communities Safeguarding Action Plan, Commitment #12)”

Safeguarding plan updates

As a result of the work of the two committees, the diocesan Safeguarding Action Plan released in March 2020 has also been updated in several sections. The plan features 20 commitments that fall into four categories:

  • Outreach and Healing;
  • Process of Reporting and Addressing Allegations;
  • Policies and Training; and
  • Expanding Safeguarding Culture.

In addition to the changes to Commitment 12 about publicly identifying names, other changes to the Safeguarding Action Plan as a result of the Historical Case Review Process include:

  • committing to respond to allegations within 48 hours;
  • exploring the establishment of a 24-hour hotline for those who wish to remain anonymous when reporting serious misconduct or abuse;
  • undertaking a review of existing intake and investigation processes to be more complainant-focused, simplified and accessible;
  • including allegations against church volunteers in record-keeping; and
  • making trauma support and accompaniment resources available on the website as they become available.

Bishop messages

Bishop Hagemoen expressed his appreciation to the committees who undertook the review of historic files and the Safeguarding Action Plan. “I am grateful to those who led this process – professionals who are Catholic and non-Catholic, and who did their work independent of myself and our diocesan offices,” he said.

Bishop Hagemoen also apologized to victims / survivors of sexual abuse and to the wider Church community.

“To any person in our diocese or beyond who has experienced abuse by clergy or anyone else in the Church, I again express my profound sorrow and I apologize for what you have suffered, and for the betrayal, violation, and abandonment you have experienced,” Hagemoen said.

“I also apologize to all members of our Church whose faith and trust has been damaged because of the sinful actions of those who abused the innocent, and those who covered up such abuse. I recognize that both individual and institutional change must happen in our Church to move forward.”

VIDEO: Bishop Mark Hagemoen, Historical Review Committee Chair Bob Loran, Policy and Operations Review Committee Chair Brenda Fitzgerald:

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Jul 13
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Saskatchewan bishops launch “Catholic TRC Healing Response” fund-raising appeal

By Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog

The five Catholic bishops of Saskatchewan July 13 released more details about a planned fund-raising appeal entitled “Catholic TRC healing response.”

 Letter from Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan – PDF (English) / PDF (French)

To donate immediately or make a long-term pledge, see the online giving options at: dscf.ca/catholic-trc-healing-response

The Sasktchewan bishops said that the appeal’s goal is “to support Residential School survivors and their communities and to engage more deeply in our own ongoing commitment and response to the Truth and Reconciliation process” with funds going to the priorities of healing and reconciliation; cemeteries on the sites of former residential schools; and education and cultural support.

“We are collaborating with potential participants, and consulting with Indigenous dialogue partners, including Survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Chiefs, and other community members. Out of these conversations, each diocese and eparchy will discern and communicate separately how they will proceed with the Appeal in their respective dioceses and communities,” said the letter, signed by Archbishop Donald Bolen of the Archdiocese of Regina, Bishop Bryan Bayda of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon, Archbishop Murray Chatlain of the Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le Pas, Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, and Bishop Stephen Hero of the Diocese of Prince Albert.

Video message from Archbishop Donald Bolen: “Launching appeal for survivors and their communities” – 

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Jul 03
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Catholic Bishops of Saskatchewan announce plans for fund-raising appeal for residential school survivors, families and communities

By Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog, News

 In a joint letter released July 3, five Catholic bishops wrote to faithful across the province about plans for a new fund-raising initiative for healing and reconciliation:

​Dear Clergy, Religious and Lay Faithful of the Catholic Dioceses and Eparchy in Saskatchewan,

​​Over the past days, coming face to face with findings at cemeteries of former residential schools, we have been awakened anew to the waves of suffering from those who have been affected by these schools and the colonial system that fashioned and upheld them, a system with which Catholic Church dioceses and organizations, along with other institutions, were complicit.

We have heard the strong request, from Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people in various quarters to initiate a new fundraising campaign to support survivors and engage more deeply in our own ongoing commitment and response to the Truth and Reconciliation process. Many members of our Catholic community have expressed their solidarity and support for the ongoing work of healing for survivors and their families, which could take the shape of supporting local projects of the National Indian Brotherhood and responding locally to TRC Calls to Action involving a financial commitment, as guided by Indigenous communities here in Saskatchewan (cf. Calls to Action #61, #73-76; #82).

​We are deeply grateful for the signs and indications of commitment we have been hearing and have begun consultations this past week towards a province-wide fundraising effort, which we would each undertake in ways discerned in our respective dioceses. To maximize the effectiveness of such an effort, it is important to plan well and to coordinate the efforts of various potential participants, and most importantly, to consult with Indigenous dialogue partners, including Survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Chiefs. Those conversations are already underway and we hope to be able to announce a plan soon.

We offer this brief communication as an update and look forward to responding with more details in the near future.

In the meantime, blessings to you all on this very warm July long weekend.

Sincerely Yours in Christ,

 

Archbishop Donald Bolen, Archdiocese of Regina

Bishop Bryan Bayda, Eparchy of Saskatoon

Archbishop Murray Chatlain, Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le Pas

Bishop Mark Hagemoen, Diocese of Saskatoon

Bishop Stephen Hero, Diocese of Prince Albert

 

Related: Bishop Hagemoen provides summary of diocese’s participation in Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement

Jun 29
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Bishop Hagemoen provides summary of diocese’s participation in Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement

By Bishop Mark Hagemoen's blog, News

June 29, 2021  –  Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon today wrote a letter to the Catholic community about the diocese’s participation in fundraising under the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement (IRSSA) to clarify a recent news report comparing that disappointing effort to the successful fundraising to build a diocesan cathedral.

Bishop Mark Hagemoen Letter to the Diocese – LINK

Although not required to join the 2006 IRSS agreement (since there was no residential school located in the diocese or  operated by the diocese), the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon voluntarily signed on to the agreement to “be a part of this settlement process and to support its purposes,” noted Bishop Hagemoen.  “I believe this was both because of the history and ongoing commitment throughout the diocese to build relationships with Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples,” he said.

Those who signed the IRSSA, including the diocese of Saskatoon, committed to a number of items, including contributing finances to services and programs to Indigenous survivors, families, and communities, as follows:

  1. Payment of $29 million in cash, which was directed to programs and services und the supervision of First Nations organizations, and to the “Returning to Spirit’ program. The diocese of Saskatoon’s share of this amount was $25,000.
  2. A “services-in-kind” commitment, whereby various community services and programs worth more than $25 million were organized by the various Catholic entities to be provided for Indigenous communities. The diocese of Saskatoon’s services-in-kind contribution to Restorative Ministry was valued at $43,000.
  3. A final fundraising appeal that was titled the “Moving Forward Together” campaign. This campaign was to also involve not only the 50 entities, but all dioceses in Canada, with a goal to raise $25 million. After two diocesan-wide collections were held, the diocese of Saskatoon contributed about $34,000 to this national effort, which ultimately fell short of the $25 million national goal.

“I understand that the leaders of various Catholic dioceses and groups put their efforts behind each component of the campaign. However, they were disappointed by the results,” said Hagemoen.

“If I was to summarize why the efforts yielded this kind of result, I would say that many of our parishioners, like many non-Indigenous Canadians, have been slow to understand the impact and the legacy of the residential school system, and this seems to be reflected in the response at the time,” Hagemoen said.

The bishop added that he would very much support revisiting this fund-raising appeal today. “The discoveries of grave sites at cemeteries near former residential schools has drawn an even greater awareness of the need for an appeal to support the healing of survivors and their families from the legacy of residential schools. I think Catholic members in our diocese and across Canada would respond with a heightened sense of solidarity and support,” he said.

In the meantime, the diocese continues to support reconciliation and healing called for in the TRC final report, he said, listing several of the TRC Calls to Action that the Catholic Church and the diocese have been working on.

“However, there is much left to address in the Calls to Action,” the bishop admitted, citing in particular the call for Pope Francis to come to Canada to apologize to residential school survivors, their families and communities for the Roman Catholic Church’s role in the spiritual, cultural, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse that occured in residential schools.

Bishop Hagemoen said: “I again state my support for such a visit by the Holy Father to Canada, and I believe that an apology from Pope Francis would bring healing to many and would help to further the journey of reconciliation in our Church and our country.”

Bishop Hagemoen also reiterated his own apology:  “I deeply regret and apologize that Catholics were part of this system which was designed to separate children from their families and communities and to assimilate them into a culture the featured a colonial attitude and approach. I deeply regret and apologize for the damage done to children at these schools, which for many included neglect and abuse, and I apologize for the deaths that happened at these schools, with children dying far away from mothers, fathers, grandparents and families, and I apologize to the families and the communities who have not been able to honour children’s burial sites.”

In conclusion, the Bishop of Saskatoon expressed his hopes going forward, saying:  “While it is true that the discovery of graves is exposing the wounds and scars from the Indian Residential School legacy which the Truth and Reconciliation Commission revealed – but it is also raising greater awareness of the work, findings and the recommendations of the TRC, and of the great work still ahead for us and our diocese.”

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