First Religious Life Lecture at King's welcomes Dave Courchene
September 25, 2012
The Office of Campus Ministry at King’s is pleased to welcome Dave Courchene (Nii Aki Innini - Leading Earth Man) to present at the first Religious Life Lecture series of the 2012-2013 season. On September 27 starting at 7:30 (Labatt Hall 105, King's University College), Courchene will present The Legacy of Indigenous People in Canada: The Seven Teachings and the Igniting of the 8th Fire. This lecture will offer a traditional Indigenous perspective on the way of life of an ancient people who define themselves in terms of their relationship with the land. The lecture will also discuss how Indigenous people of America evolved in close connection with the land, how the land gives a people definition on how one should live and behave (following “Natural Laws”), the struggle and challenges faced by Indigenous people of America, the importance and significance of “Sacred Sites” not only for Indigenous people but for all citizens of the world, and the “Seven Sacred Laws” and connection to Spirit and Nature, which have constituted the foundation of the Indigenous way of life.
“I recognize that the Christian Churches have done much to harm and suppress the rich culture and spirituality of our First Peoples,” notes Father Michael Bechard, King’s Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry. “I hope that this lecture will help us along the paths of healing.”
Nii Gaani Aki Innini – is the Leading Earth Man, of the Anishnabe Nation, Eagle Clan, and Turtle Lodge. He has travelled extensively, carrying a message of hope and peace. He shares ancient Indigenous knowledge that he believes can act as a foundation in supporting the New Life that Mother Earth is now entering, and that Elders have confirmed has arrived.
“King’s strives to be at the forefront of dialogue and understanding between people’s and cultures,” continues Bechard. “Our Religious Life Lecture Series helps us to move that dialogue a step further. This year’s series brings together leaders of faith in the aboriginal, Catholic, Jewish and Muslim community. This speaks of our commitment to being leaders in the community.”
Member of the public are invited to join this event. For directions and maps, please visit http://www.kings.uwo.ca/about-kings/visitor-info/location/
Throughout the year, this series welcomes artists, authors, preachers, theologians and activists who share with us the place of faith in their lives and how it calls us all to the betterment of the human family and the whole of the cosmos. The Religious Life Lecture Series was developed and is presented by the Office of Campus Ministry at King’s. For more information about the Religious Life Lecture Series please visit http://www.kings.uwo.ca/campus-ministry-old/veritas-series/
Sponsored with the London District Catholic School Board