Convocation 2026
A Day of Discernment and Reconciliation
September 30, 2026
Wednesday, September 30, marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, giving particular significance to our fourth day of Convocation.
Throughout the day, participants continued the guided discernment on new and emerging ministries, building on the conversations of the previous days and listening together for where the Spirit may be calling OMI Lacombe Canada in the years ahead.
In the evening, participants travelled to Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in Edmonton to join the community for a special service marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The gathering offered an opportunity for prayer, listening and reflection on the ongoing journey of reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and the Church.
Fr. Andrew Stendzina, OMI, Provincial of OMI Lacombe Canada, addressed those gathered, acknowledging both the longstanding relationships between the Oblates and Indigenous peoples and the suffering and harm caused through the Oblates’ involvement in the residential school system.
He emphasized that reconciliation must go beyond apologies, statements and commitments. At its heart, reconciliation is about relationships built on truth, humility, listening, patience and mutual respect. He reaffirmed the Province’s commitment to remaining in relationship with Indigenous peoples, even when conversations are difficult, and to allowing the truth of the past to shape its present and future mission.
As Fr. Andrew reminded those gathered:
“The history we share cannot be rewritten. But the relationship we share is still being written.”
Archbishop Stephen Hero also reflected on the importance of listening, learning and recognizing the dignity of every people, language and culture.
Candida Shepherd, speaking on behalf of the Sacred Heart Parish Council, shared a vision for the parish as a place of Indigenous spiritual and cultural revitalization, emphasizing that reconciliation must be lived every day.
For Convocation participants, the evening offered a meaningful connection between the discernment taking place throughout the week and the Province’s ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation. As we look toward the future of our mission, we are reminded that reconciliation is not simply about remembering the past, but about how we choose to walk forward together.
Read more from the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton:
Oblate Leader Says Truth, Humility and Relationship Are at the Heart of Reconciliation – Read Fr. Andrew Stendzina’s full address.
Archbishop Stephen Hero’s Homily for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation