Orange Shirt Day

Today, September 30, is Orange Shirt Day. On this day we wear an orange shirt to honour the children who survived Indian Residential Schools and to remember those who didn’t. Every child matters. We wear orange shirts in recognition, remembrance and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone around us matters.

I invite you to download this colouring sheet and pray for all children as you colour it. Put it in a place in your home and use it as a reminder and call to ongoing prayer for thanksgiving and reconciliation.

Pray this responsive prayer that has been provided by the Diocese of Edmonton:

God of our Ancestors,who holds the spirits of our grandmothers and grandfathers and the spirits of our grandchildren, remembering the children, we now pledge ourselves to speak the Truth. 
And to act upon the Truth we have heard. 

Of the injustices lived; of the sufferings inflicted; of the tears cried; of the misguided intentions imposed; and of the power of prejudice and racism which were allowed to smother the sounds and laughter of the forgotten children. 
Hear our cries of lament for what was allowed to happen, and for what will never be. 

In speaking and hearing and acting upon the Truth may we, as individuals and as a nation, meet the hope of a new beginning. 
Great Creator God who desires that all creation live in harmony and peace, remembering the children, we dare to dream of a path of reconciliation. 

A path where heartfelt apology might lead to a healing of the heart and the chance to restore the circle. A path where justice might walk with us all, where respect would lead to true partnership, and where the power to change would come from each heart. 
Hear our prayer of hope, and guide this country of Canada on a new and different path. Amen.