AMC – Calling All Bundle Carriers and Spiritual Leaders for Sunrise Prayer at The Forks

September 8, 2024

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg—In light of the tragic loss of our Grand Chief, which has deeply affected our collective community, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) invites all bundle carriers, spiritual leaders, and community members to gather in prayer at sunrise on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at Oodena Circle at The Forks. This sacred gathering will be a time to offer prayers for healing, strength, and guidance as we come together in our shared grief.

We call upon all bundle carriers to join us at the sacred circle, where pipes will be lit at daybreak. Let us raise our pipes together in a collective prayer for strength and healing. The ceremony will begin before sunrise, with a fire being lit at 6AM and we invite Bundle Carriers to arrive set for 6:30 AM. Ray Coco Stevenson will lead the gathering with a sunrise song as the pipes are lit, and we welcome anyone who wishes to offer a pipe song or condolence song during this ceremony.

As First Nations people, we have long understood the power of prayer in helping us navigate times of great sorrow and pain. The recent loss of one of our cherished leaders, a grandmother with a kind and soft heart for her people, is a stark reminder of the harsh realities that continue to affect our communities. Yet, through our traditions and ceremonies, we can find strength to move forward.

This call is for all who feel drawn to this sacred moment. We especially ask that the bundle and pipe carriers within our Nations come together in a unified prayer. Chiefs from across our territory, who will already be in Treaty One, are encouraged to join us for this important ceremony. We also extend this invitation to spiritual leaders of all faiths and traditions to stand in solidarity and prayer with us.

The ceremony will offer space for all of us to come together, heal, and remember that despite deep sadness and loss, we are stronger when we unite in our traditions and faith.

Details

Date: Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Time: Arrival by 6:30 AM, sunrise at 7:00 AM

Location: The Oodena Circle, The Forks, Winnipeg

Who: Bundle carriers, spiritual leaders, community members, Chiefs, and all those who wish to join in prayer.

NT5