1. Background

Thanks to the financial support of The United Church of Canada Foundation and the commitment of the NGO Dans Les Pas du Sauveur, an intercultural gathering was organized to strengthen relationships between First Nations peoples and the faith community of Eglise Unie St Marc in Ottawa.

This event was part of an ongoing commitment to reconciliation, intercultural dialogue, mutual respect, and the sharing of knowledge and traditions.

2. Objectives of the Activity

The main objectives of the event were to:

• Foster meaningful encounters between First Nations peoples and newcomers;

• Promote reconciliation through open dialogue;

• Honour the traditional knowledge of Elders and Knowledge Keepers;

• Encourage intercultural and spiritual exchange;

• Strengthen community relationships within the parish.

3. Activity Overview

The event followed the planned schedule successfully, with all activities carried out as intended.

The ceremony was led with dignity and professionalism by Reverend Pastor Edward, who facilitated the various segments of the gathering.

The program included:

• Welcome of participants;

• Land Acknowledgement;

• Opening prayers;

• Hymns and songs;

• Personal testimonies;

• Cultural presentations;

• Open dialogue and discussion among participants;

• Exchange of ceremonial gifts;

• Official photographs;

• Closing acknowledgements;

• Fellowship and refreshments.

All planned activities were completed successfully.

4. Participation

The gathering brought together a remarkably diverse group of participants, fully reflecting the spirit of openness and inclusion that was sought.

Those present included:

• Indigenous Elders;

• Knowledge Keepers;

• Representatives of First Nations;

• Members of the faith community of St. Mark's United Church in Ottawa;

• Leaders and volunteers from the NGO Dans Les Pas du Sauveur;

• Several visitors and community partners;

• Members of various cultural communities.

The active participation of everyone fostered an atmosphere of respect, attentive listening, and fellowship.

5. Highlights

Key highlights of the gathering included:

• Strong participation of Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers;

• Meaningful and respectful intercultural exchanges;

• Excellent participation from the faith community;

• Outstanding collaboration between First Nations representatives and the NGO Dans Les Pas du Sauveur;

• A warm and welcoming atmosphere that encouraged dialogue and reconciliation;

• Successful implementation of the entire planned program.

6. Outcomes

The activity achieved several important outcomes:

• Strengthened relationships between First Nations communities and the Christian faith community;

• Encouraged intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding;

• Established new connections among community partners;

• Promoted the values of peace, respect, and reconciliation;

• Increased the visibility of the work carried out by the NGO Dans Les Pas du Sauveur within the local community.

Participants expressed their appreciation for the event and their desire to take part in similar gatherings in the future.

7. Acknowledgements

We extend our sincere gratitude to:

• The United Church of Canada Foundation, for its generous financial support that made this event possible;

• The faith community of Eglise Unie St Marc, Ottawa, for its warm hospitality;

• The Elders and Knowledge Keepers, for sharing their wisdom, teachings, and generosity;

• The NGO Dans Les Pas du Sauveur, for its leadership in planning, coordinating, and organizing the event;

• All volunteers, community partners, and participants whose contributions ensured the success of this gathering.

8. Conclusion

The Intercultural Gathering held on July 12, 2026, was a meaningful opportunity to bring people together, fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and reconciliation between First Nations communities and the broader community.

The support provided by The United Church of Canada Foundation played a vital role in the success of this initiative, which reflects the Foundation's commitment to justice, inclusion, respect for diversity, and solidarity.

The positive outcomes of the event encourage all partners to continue organizing similar activities that strengthen relationships among communities and contribute to building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

The photographs taken during the event reflect the richness of the cultural exchanges, the diversity of participants, and the spirit of fellowship that characterized the day.

Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Eglise Unie St Marc, Ottawa

473 Cumberland Street

Ottawa, ON K1N 7K1

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