Posted: September 25th, 2025
Honouring Truth and Reconciliation: A Call to Action
kbailey@adventistontario.org
September 30 marks Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. A solemn occasion to remember the children who never returned home from residential schools and to honour the survivors who continue to carry the weight of that painful legacy.
Until their closure in 1996, 140 federally run residential schools operated across Canada, leaving deep scars on Indigenous families and communities. Each discovery of a mass grave is a heartbreaking reminder of this history and the enduring grief it brings.
Coinciding with this day is Orange Shirt Day, a movement that raises awareness about the impact of residential schools. The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of identity, freedom, and dignity experienced by Indigenous children. It reminds us all that “Every Child Matters.”
On Wednesday, September 30, 2025, we encourage teachers to invite students to wear orange in solidarity with the thousands of survivors. This simple act speaks volumes and fosters a culture of empathy and remembrance.
The Ontario Conference, through its Indigenous Ministries Department, continue to foster relationships with the indigenous people. From organizing various initiatives to assist their need for food, clothing and clean water, to promoting cultural awareness in our schools and churches, the Conference is committed to walking alongside Indigenous communities in meaningful ways. These efforts reflect a growing commitment to reconciliation and healing.
On Sunday, October 4, 2025, churches located near Indigenous reserves are encouraged to invite the local Chief or a designated representative to speak during worship. Presenting an award of recognition may serve as a meaningful gesture of respect. Churches are also asked to offer a Land Acknowledgement appropriate to their location.
As believers, we are reminded that God has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ. According to 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, we are entrusted with the Ministry of Reconciliation. Let us be faithful in this calling, allowing God to reconcile others to Himself through our witness as Ambassadors for Christ.
Dr. Mansfield Edwards
Vice President of Evangelism
and Director of Indigenous and Senior Ministries