Pope Francis alongside Governor General Mary Simon in Quebec in July of 2022
Pope Francis has reiterated shame and sorrow for the wrongdoing of Christians against Indigenous people who attended residential schools in Canada.
The Holy See issued a second apology while making a visit to Quebec City on Wednesday.
Speaking through interpretation, he also committed to renewing the relationship between the Church and Indigenous people.
“It is our desire to renew the relationship between the Church and the indigenous peoples of Canada – a relationship marked both by a love that has borne outstanding fruit and, tragically, deep wounds that we are committed to understanding and healing.”
The Holy See also committed to promoting Indigenous cultures.
He also expressed gratitude to Indigenous people he met in Rome in March and during his visit to Canada.
He says it left an impression on him.
“The time we spent together made an impression on me and left a firm desire to respond to the indignation and shame for the sufferings endured by the Indigenous peoples, and to move forward on a fraternal and patient journey with all Canadians, in accordance with truth and justice, working for healing and reconciliation, and constantly inspired by hope.”
Prior to speaking at the Citadelle in Quebec, the Pope held private meetings with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Governor General Mary Simon.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau believes the apology issued Monday was genuine.
“I was sitting with survivors, and I felt their reaction to your apology. Each will take from it what they need, but there’s no doubt that you had an enormous impact,” said Trudeau.
“Your Holiness, they came to hear what you had to say with hearts and minds open, some willing to forgive, some still living with the hurt, but all willing to listen. Everyone hoping to further their healing journey,” said Simon. “I acknowledge and applaud what has been achieved, what Indigenous communities have achieved, with this week’s visit. It is Indigenous peoples who worked, waited and prayed for an apology on Indigenous lands in Canada.”
Simon also encouraged the Pope to share the stories he has heard and continue to work together to help heal Indigenous communities.
The Pope resumes his visit with a morning mass and later an evening prayer service.
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