Truth, Reconciliation, and the Healing Journey with Christ
On September 30, we remember, listen, and reflect on how following Christ calls us to seek justice, honour Survivors, and take meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
September 30 — National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30 is a day to remember the children who never returned home from residential schools, honour Survivors and their families, and reflect on the lasting effects of the residential school system. It is also Orange Shirt Day, carrying the message: Every Child Matters. Government of Canada
As we walk our healing journey with Christ, this day calls us to humility: to face painful truths, listen carefully, and make room for grief. Reconciliation is ongoing work. It asks us to learn from Indigenous voices and to put respect, care, and responsibility into practice throughout the year.
I’m also thinking of friends who are Ojibway from Shawanaga. I’m grateful for our friendship, and I know that care begins with listening, respect, and a willingness to keep learning. On September 30, I hold them and their community in my thoughts while remembering that reconciliation calls for meaningful action throughout the year.
Christ calls us to love our neighbours through our actions. We can learn from Indigenous-led sources, attend local commemorations, support Indigenous communities and organizations, and reflect on how we can help build relationships grounded in respect. Prayer can guide us—but it is not a substitute for listening, learning, and action.
Scripture for Reflection
“Learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.” — Isaiah 1:17 (NRSVUE)
This verse reminds us that faith calls for action. Seeking justice means being willing to learn the truth, listen to those who have been harmed, and treat every person with dignity. As we remember the children affected by residential schools and honour Survivors and their families, this scripture encourages us to make compassion visible through the choices we make and the respect we show.
A Prayer for September 30
Jesus, guide us as we remember the children who never came home, honour Survivors and their families, and listen to Indigenous communities. Give us humility to face the truth, compassion to share in sorrow, and courage to take meaningful steps toward reconciliation. Help us show our love through respect, learning, and action. Amen.
May remembrance lead us toward a more honest, compassionate, and just way of living together.
