On the weekend of October 14-16, 2022, the Religious and Moral Education Council is hosting our annual conference, being held at the Banff Centre. This year’s focus, Braiding Together: Dialogue towards Truth and Reconciliation, is both timely and relevant. Come join us as we engage in critical conversations in response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), exploring our individual and collective journeys as we walk together, seek deepened understanding, foster authentic and inclusive relationships, and engage in dialogue and action towards healing and wholeness. As Catholic Educators, we are called to do our part to advance the work of reconciliation, righting the wrongs suffered by those who attended residential schools. Pope Francis will take a necessary step in Canada during this summer's historic Landmark Tour. It will be ours to take the next steps forward. In his Papal Address and Apology to Indigenous Delegates on April 1, 2022, he said:
It is my hope that our meetings in these days will point out new paths to be pursued together, instill
courage and strength, and lead to greater commitment on the local level. Any truly effective process of
healing requires concrete actions. In a fraternal spirit, I encourage the Bishops and the Catholic
community to continue taking steps towards the transparent search for truth and to foster healing and
reconciliation. … Dialogue is the key to knowledge and sharing, and the Bishops of Canada have
clearly stated their commitment to continue advancing together with you on a renewed, constructive,
fruitful path, where encounters and shared projects will be of great help.
It is our hope that this conference will serve as a concrete step towards reconciliation with the Indigenous Peoples of Canada. We appreciate the willingness of First Nations, Metis and Inuit Leaders and of the Catholic Bishops of Canada to journey together with us, supporting teachers in our personal and professional development.
Our annual conference is open to members of RMEC, as well as to colleagues in education from coast to
coast, and to all those who are interested in attending. The final report of the TRC, Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future, states that “for Canadians from all walks of life, reconciliation offers a new way of living together.” It is our hope that our upcoming October conference will provide opportunities to reflect on our shared journey, and will support us as we embrace a new way of living together.
Take the Time! Walking Together... It starts with a Single Step!