The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations is hoping to talk Pope Frances into coming to Saskatchewan to visit the Muskowekwan Indian Residential School, which is the last standing residential school in the province, and it’s where 35 graves were discovered last year. Chief Bobby Cameron says he was there when the Pope apologized at the Vatican in April, and he invited him to come to Muskowekwan, where it means something to the people. Cameron told him he wants all those who committed the crimes to face justice, and he wants the Church to give records and artifacts back to the Indigenous Peoples and to continue to build healing and wellness centres right on the school sites.

Archbishop Don Bolen says he will do what he can to bring the Pope to Saskatchewan, but his role is fairly limited. He understands that the Catholic Church was a part of the government’s efforts to suppress Indigenous cultures and ways of life. Bolen added that the Pope is not in good health, so where he can visit will be limited, but the decisions haven’t been finalized yet.

No matter where Pope Frances visits, the Archdiocese of Regina’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee wants to hear from survivors who want to witness his apology in person, so arrangements can be made if he doesn’t come to Saskatchewan.