Sacred Circles are national gatherings of Indigenous Peoples from across the Anglican Church of Canada and beyond.
The first Sacred Circle, then called a Native Convocation, was held in Fort Qu’Appelle, Sask., from Sept. 28 to Oct. 5, 1988, with the theme “Sharing the Dream”. On June 22, 2002 the Diocese of Rupert’s Land held the first diocesan Sacred Circle with the theme “Towards Healing and Reconciliation.”
Anglican Video has recorded each of these Sacred Circles and released videos (some with study guides). To order a video, contact Becky Boucher, Anglican Video production manager, by email or phone: (416) 924-9299 ext. 236.
NATIONAL SACRED CIRCLES
1. Fort Qu’Appelle, Sask.
28 September – 5 October 1988
Theme: ”Sharing the Dream”
Anglican Video: “Share the Dream” (1988, VHS 52 min.)
2. Kenora, Ontario
1-10 August 1993
Theme: ”Dancing the Dream”
Anglican Video: “Dancing the Dream” (1993, VHS 29 min.). Video includes Apology to Native People offered by the Primate, Michael Peers.
3. Lethbridge, Alberta
1-7 July 1997
Theme: ”Our Journey of Spiritual Renewal”
Anglican Video: “A Journey Begins with a Dream” (1997, VHS 32 min., includes study guide) Video includes major focus on Native Covenant drawn up in Winnipeg in 1994.
4. Port Elgin, Ontario
18-25 August 2000
Theme: ”Walking a New Vision”
Anglican Video: “Walking a New Vision” (2001, VHS 34 min.)
The video chronicles the gathering and the journey of spiritual renewal that has developed in this community.
Website for 2000 Sacred Circle
5. Pinawa, Manitoba
7-13 August 2005
Theme: ”Honoring Our Relations: Keeping the Spirit Alive Anglican Video: ” Honouring Our Relations : Keeping the Spirit Alive” (2006, VHS 56 min. DVD 56 min.) The DVD includes additional features: Introduction, The Tractor Trek, In Harmony Concerts, The Ribbon of Hope, Walk The Diocese, How To Give)
This video documents the historic gathering chronicling the unanimous call for a national Indigenous Bishop and the response from Primate Andrew Hutchison and the other bishops present.
Website for 2005 Sacred Circle
6. Port Elgin, Ont.
Theme: “The Mighty Wind of the Spirit: the New Beginning” This 2009 gathering was dedicated to beloved edler Glady Cook (1929-2009).
Website for 2009 Sacred Circle
For more information about the Sacred Circles and the Anglican Council of Indigenous Peoples (ACIP) please see the ACIP website.
DIOCESAN SACRED CIRCLES
1. Diocesan Sacred Circle (Rupert’s Land) : St. Peter’s, Dynevor, Man.
22 June 2002
Theme: “Towards Healing and Reconciliation”
Anglican Video: ” Gathering at the River : the First Sacred Circle in the Diocese of Rupert’s Land” (2002, VHS 30 min., no study guide)
