First Mass of the School Year – A Celebration of Reconciliation
- Angel Hsieh
- Oct 4, 2017
- 2 min read
The school opening mass happened Thursday, September 14. We as HT family gathered for the first time this school year. Besides welcoming our new principal, Mrs. Halycz, our mass also included an indigenous ritual called a“smudge ceremony,” which was conducted by Steve Paquette (a traditional knowledge keeper) and Sherry Saevil (the Indigenous Education Advisor for the School Board) as part of the mass. This is a symbol of reconciliation between indigenous peoples and the Catholic faith as we celebrate a fresh start to the school year.
The smudge ceremony is a traditional cleansing ritual in some Native North American cultures. The smoke produced by burning medicinal plants would rise to the Spirit World where our ancestors and the Creator resides. It is a customary to brush or wash the smoke over our eyes, ears, mouth, hands, heart and body for symbolic or ritual cleansing of mind, body, spirit and emotion. All of the body parts brushed by the smoke each individually represent harmony and peace in our conduct. One plant we used in this particular ceremony was sage. It represents the life-giving power of women as well as purify and bless our Mother Earth. Starting off the mass with this ceremony inspires students and staff of HT to ponder about conservation of our planet.
We had the pleasure of having Father John Van Hees from Mary Mother of God Church celebrate the mass with us. Many gratitude towards all that who made this mass successful: Mrs. Weryho, Mrs. Montanari, Mrs. Mattiacci, Leanne Alphonso, Maja Zbogar for their singing of the hymn, Mr. Joseph’s tech crew, readers (including some Grade 9), altar server, gift bearers, the Phy. Ed classes for setting up the seats. A warm welcome to Mr. Stanlake, who played piano for the Mass. Finally, we gladly received a message from Mrs. Halycz reminding us to pray for everyone in the school community for a harmonious year. We happily welcome all of the new staff and students as they become a part of the HT family.
GOOOOO TITANS!!!
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