‘The sun is shining on the Vatican’: B.C. First Nations leaders react to Pope Francis’ apology

In front of an audience of almost 200 people Friday, the Pope said he was 'deeply grieved' by the stories of abuse, hardship and discrimination he heard throughout the week.

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Mixed reaction is pouring in from coast to coast following Pope Francis‘ apology for the grave and lasting harm caused by the church- and state-sponsored residential school system.

B.C. First Nations leaders say this is a historic moment and it is the beginning of a load road to reconciliation.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, president of the B.C. Indian Chiefs told Global News he was uplifted by the apology he heard.

“I was absolutely surprised, I wasn’t expecting this. It’s a double-wow Friday for sure. The sun is shining on the Vatican and our people have waited for a very very long time to hear those beautiful words whereby the Pope, the Vaitcan has taken responsibility and has acknowledged the genocidal abuses of the residential school system and has committed to Canada and meeting with Indigenous people to continue this journey along this path after the door has been opened, fully opened,” Phillip said.

He added that Friday’s events made it a “great day” for all Canadians, saying all of the issues of anger, guilt, resentment and shame now have a chance to be dealt with through the apology and forgiveness.

“Today is a day for celebration,” Phillip said.

“I think that the apology and what that represents is an opportunity for all Canadians to begin to know and understand we are truly family. We are in this together and we need to lift each other up, hold each other up and create a better future for our children and grandchildren.”