Today, I had the privilege of standing in Brantford for the opening of the former Mohawk Residential School. As I looked around at the hundreds of people wearing orange shirts, I felt the weight of what this place represents, not just a building, but a history of pain, survival, and resilience.

I thought of the many stories I have heard and recorded over this past year. I thought of our friends from Mistissini who were sent here, and of the survivors I have met today who have memories that will never fade. Walking through the halls, I was surrounded by survivors and their families—some stepping back inside for the first time since they had left. The air felt heavy, but also sacred.

Jeremiah Henry spoke of his 11 years at the school, recalling trauma that was emotional, physical, and sexual. His words were not just history, they were a reminder of wounds that still shape lives today. I watched as one grandson broke down in tears, confronted with the very place where the trauma of his family began. It was heartbreaking, but it was also a moment of truth-telling and connection.

This year has been my own journey of listening and learning. Today reminded me again that reconciliation cannot be confined to a single day or a symbolic shirt. For all of us who wore orange, the challenge is this: what will we do tomorrow, next Wednesday, in December, and into next year?

We cannot change the past. But we can learn from it. We can commit to a future where survivors are heard, families are supported, and communities walk toward healing together. I may never fully understand what they went through, but I can stand beside them as they seek to heal. Please pray for healing that reaches through generations. May our listening, learning, and praying lead us into deeper reconciliation and hope.

Previous Post From Summer Seeds to Fall Ministry