Oblate leader delivers speech on truth and reconciliation

Father Andrzej Stendzina, OMI, Provincial Superior of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate in Lacombe, Canada, spoke about truth and reconciliation during the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in the Archdiocese of Edmonton.

In his speech, Stendzina acknowledged that the history between the Oblates and Indigenous peoples includes both missionary service and significant harm. He noted that Oblate priests were part of the residential school system, where Indigenous children, families, and communities suffered, languages and cultures were wounded, and trust was broken.

Stendzina stated that while the order cannot undo past harm, it must acknowledge the truth honestly and accept responsibility. He described reconciliation as being centered on relationship rather than just apologies, financial commitments, or official statements.