Pope Francis addresses Sacred Heart Church in Edmonton
Global News
Pope Francis addressed Indigenous people and others attending the Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples on Monday as he continued his trip in Alberta.
Pope Francis attended the Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in Edmonton’s inner city on Monday afternoon.
Francis was greeted by drummers and singing at the church. Some people wiped tears from their eyes as the pontiff was wheeled into the downtown building.
The century-old church blends Catholic and Indigenous rituals. Francis took a chair placed at the front of the church under wooden teepee poles.
Members of the parish told the Pope they are thrilled to receive him on his first visit to Canada.
The pontiff gave an address to Indigenous Peoples and parish members about reconciliation and received several gifts.
The Pope said he was happy to visit an Edmonton church that welcomes Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
He says the Sacred Heart is a place for all, just as the Catholic Church should be.
He also spoke of his apology earlier in the day at Maskwacis, where he expressed remorse for the church’s role in residential schools in Canada.