Now Open: Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p (Holy Gathering Place)

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Holy Gathering Place Opening: New Ceremonial Space

Today, the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC) stood alongside our relations. Together, we were honoured to celebrate the official Holy Gathering Place opening at The Confluence.

This event marks a major turning point for Indigenous spaces in Mohkinstsis (Calgary). Previously, finding accessible and safe locations for traditional ceremonies was a challenge. However, with the doors now open, we are proud to offer a solution. This new space honors our traditions, our ancestors, and the resilience of our people.

Celebrating the Holy Gathering Place Opening

The Holy Gathering Place opening is the result of a meaningful partnership between The Confluence and the AFCC. Yet, the true foundation of this space is the guidance of our Elders. Therefore, we raise our hands in gratitude to the Knowledge Keepers who steered this work. They ensured that we moved forward in a good way.

We owe a special thank you to Elder Clement Leather from the Siksika Nation. He gifted the space its Blackfoot name: Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p. Furthermore, his prayers have consecrated this building. As a result, it has turned from a simple structure into a true home for spirit. This name reflects a deep hope. We trust that Indigenous ceremony, culture, and connection will flourish here for generations to come.

 

A Space for Culture and Connection

The Holy Gathering Place opening is the result of a meaningful partnership between The Confluence and the AFCC. Yet, the true foundation of this space is the guidance of our Elders. Therefore, we raise our hands in gratitude to the Knowledge Keepers who steered this work. They ensured that we moved forward in a good way.

We owe a special thank you to Elder Clement Leather from the Siksika Nation. He gifted the space its Blackfoot name: Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p. Furthermore, his prayers have consecrated this building. As a result, it has turned from a simple structure into a true home for spirit. This name reflects a deep hope. We trust that Indigenous ceremony, culture, and connection will flourish here for generations to come.

Bookings & Information

The Holy Gathering Place opening is the result of a meaningful partnership between The Confluence and the AFCC. Yet, the true foundation of this space is the guidance of our Elders. Therefore, we raise our hands in gratitude to the Knowledge Keepers who steered this work. They ensured that we moved forward in a good way.

We owe a special thank you to Elder Clement Leather from the Siksika Nation. He gifted the space its Blackfoot name: Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p. Furthermore, his prayers have consecrated this building. As a result, it has turned from a simple structure into a true home for spirit. This name reflects a deep hope. We trust that Indigenous ceremony, culture, and connection will flourish here for generations to come.

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