Originally scheduled for December 2021 but cancelled at the last minute due to the pandemic, the visit of the delegation of the Canadian First Nations to the Vatican will take place from March 28 to April 1, 2022, the Canadian Conference of Bishops announced February 1. Several audiences with Pope Francis are planned.
The trip is a key moment in the journey of healing and reconciliation that was initiated by the Catholic Church and the First Nations peoples after the reported discovery last spring of mass graves near former residential schools for Indigenous children.
Several meetings planned
During the first days of their visit to the Vatican, the Pontiff should meet with the various representatives present in the delegation. This encounter with the Holy Father will include Indigenous survivors, Elders, knowledge keepers and youth.
The dates were chosen "in close collaboration with the Vatican." However, the trip will take place only if it's deemed that it can be carried out safely in regard to Covid-19, the press release warns.
