Linking Arms

In 2002 clergy and  members of several churches,  St Marks Anglican (in East London), St Andrews (Chippewa of the Thames), Zion (Oneida of the Thames) and the Anglican Parish of the Six Nations met to create an outreach fellowship. It started with six sessions planned for 2003, however “Linking Arms” has been so well received by the communities, that sessions are still being held.

The goal was to foster new relationships through sharing spiritual, cultural and historical experiences, to implement circle teachings and facilitate learning about concerns of the Aboriginal community today.

Attendance is open to anyone, not just those of the Anglican faith.  There is no charge for admission, but donations to assist with future programs and to help the Indigenous Healing Fund are welcome. Each session provides a day of fellowship through fun, learning, food and spirituality.

Linking Arms  was the beginning of an amazing spiritual journey for many. Guest speakers such as  Chris George, Drug and Addiction Counsellor for Chippewa of the Thames shared teachings of their elders about smudging, the sacred circle and other native ceremonies. Others shared their perception of Turtle Island (North America). .

Other speakers including Linda Staats, CEO of the Six Nations Polytechnic School, Kelly Curley and Pat Green from Six Nations, Olive Elm of Oneida and Roberta Jamieson, Elected Chief of Six Nations and Former Ombudsman of Ontario spoke on a variety of topics relating to the native culture, residential schools and other subjects such as traditional teachings regarding abuse, alcohol and drugs.

Demonstrations by members of the Nimiida Dance Club, presenting fancy shawl dancing and a “dinner theatre” presentation by the Kanata Dancers displayed the importance of the native dance tradition to their culture and spirituality.

Visits to the Woodland Cultural Centre, residential school and a tour of the Mohawk Chapel were highlights of a session at Six Nations. Other activities  included songs taught in Ojibwe, native drumming, legends being told and teaching of native crafts such as corn husk dolls

As 2003 ended more than 100 participants requested the program continue. 2004 was also a huge success. Guest speakers included Maxine Hendrick of St Andrews, Heather Nicholas R.N., Health Director at Chippewa Health Centre and Justin Hendrick. Topics such as “Reclaiming Your Spirit” and  The Pow Wow: The Meaning of the Dances, Drums and Regalia were well received. A tour of the Six Nations Polytechnic Institute was provided and presentations were held on how Native Pottery and Ribbon Shirts are made.