NETWORK Workshop: The Challenges of Reconciliation in the Indigenous-Church Context

A virtual series for leaders and volunteers in Youth, Young Adult, and Family & Children Ministries

Pope Francis, as a first step of his journey on his penitential pilgrimage to Canada in the summer of 2022, wanted to make space for memory. The Holy Father sought to recall the history and legacy of the Residential School System and the role of the Church in this piece of the colonial project. In making space for memory, we will address some of the challenges to reconciliation in the Indigenous-Church context. We will also look to the words of Pope Francis and that of his predecessors to draw out the central tenants of our faith that call us to reconcile a relationship that has been deeply wounded.

Presenter: Maria Lucas, JD, Hons.BA, Indigenous Bar Association

Maria Lucas has always had a strong interest in Indigenous-Crown relations and understands the important role that law plays in reconciling this relationship.  A lawyer with Goldblatt Partners, supporting their Aboriginal law practice group, Maria draws on her varied skill set, that includes a substantive understanding of the complexities of Aboriginal law, to assist clients in advancing and protecting their Indigenous and treaty rights. Maria undertakes this work all with a view to building greater space for the exercise of Indigenous self-determination.  Maria is a member of the Indigenous Bar Association. When not conducting research and thinking about the complex questions that Aboriginal law raises, Maria enjoys spending time outdoors, being with friends and family and trying new cooking recipes!

This Workshop series is part of NETWORK, a program of leadership formation for youth, young adult and family and children ministry offered by the Redemptorists of North America and Ignite Ministry. www.ignite-canada.ca