Today is September 15th. This is a very special day for all of us who live on Treaty 4 territory.

On this day in the year 1874, Indigenous leaders and representatives of the Queen made a very important promise. Think of a treaty like a promise made between two groups of people, or a handshake that builds a lasting friendship.

They agreed to share the beautiful, rolling prairie lands of southern Saskatchewan so that everyone could live there peacefully. Today, whether your family lived here for thousands of years or just arrived yesterday, if you live, learn, or play on the prairies, you are a Treaty Person. this means we all share the land, and we share a responsibility to be kind to each other and care for nature.

Please join me in the sign of our faith. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Creator God,

Open our hearts to the truths of this land,
to the stories that were silenced, and those that continue to be shared.
Help us to honour the spirit and intent of Treaty,
as a promise to live together in respect, honesty, and mutual care.

Guide us to learn in a good way, with humility,
so that our learning leads to understanding, and our understanding leads to right action.
Amen.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.