In 2016, Synod repudiated the Doctrine of Discovery and the concept of ‘terra nullius’ as heresies. What does this mean, why does it matter, and how can we live into this commitment to seek reconciled relationships built on respect between Indigenous peoples and other inhabitants of "Turtle Island"?
We, as a committee of lay people from across the CRC in Canada, including both Indigenous and settler people, would like to offer this resource to support your congregation as you seek reconciliation, in obedience to Matthew 5:23-24 and 2 Corinthians 5:18. It includes a template for land acknowledgements, best practices, and an example of a CRC congregation that took some steps in this direction.
If you have feedback or would like further support, we'd love to hear from you! You can connect with us at [email protected].
- Hear from this church's reflection of adding a land acknowledgement to their doorway. Or read about this church's experience incorporating a written acknowledgement during a special worship service.
- Watch this video of one land acknowledgement.
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