The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund is a pledge by the Canadian Bishops to donate $30,000,000.00 over the next five years to support initiatives in Indigenous communities related to healing and reconciliation, culture and language revitalization, education and community building, or empowerment of Indigenous spirituality and culture. 

Under my leadership, the Diocese of Pembroke has committed to provide $50,000.00 each year for five years to support such projects in the geographical region of the Diocese of Pembroke. Funds can be requested for projects and initiatives that encompass one or more of the above categories.

In early June 2021, a bombshell exploded in Canadian media: the discovery of anonymous graves of 215 children on the grounds of a former First Nations residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia. Immediately, the media joined in accusing the Catholic Church, which was responsible for this residential school at the time, of mistreating indigenous children. On June 4, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau added more fuel to the fire, declaring: "As a Catholic (who is pro-abortion), I am deeply disappointed by the attitude of the Catholic Church," and he demanded apologies, not only from the clergy, bishops, religious communities, but also from Pope Francis himself... Three weeks later, another bomb: it was announced that 750 anonymous graves were discovered during excavations on the site of an ancient Native residential school in Marieval, Saskatchewan.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Residential Schools – June 2021

There has been considerable media coverage and discussion in recent days following the discovery of children’s remains at the former residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia. The discovery has reopened a painful wound for many in our country and has identified the need for all Canadians to learn more about our history, the role of residential schools as part of that journey and to seek the truth regarding all those who suffered and continue to do so to this day.

The abuse of Indigenous peoples is a dark chapter in the history of Canada and the Catholic Church. While the Church has cared for and served Indigenous people in many ways, it is undeniable that some members of the Church undermined the dignity of First Nations people. There is evidence that much of this abuse occurred at residential schools, which were largely operated by Christian denominations.

Statement of Bishop Guy Desrochers Following the recent discovery at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School

This week, the Federal Government published its report on the recommendations of the Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. While this is important and necessary, it is overshadowed by the recent findings that 215 Indigenous children were buried in unmarked graves at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School on the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation. The pain and loss all First Nations people in Canada are feeling following the news of these findings is immeasurable.