Lakota/Catholic Inculturation

In 1994 the Lakota Inculturation Task Force was formed to begin dialogue concerning the inculturation of the Catholic Liturgy and theology. The group was comprised of Native traditional leaders, Native deacons, professors and Catholic priests.  This task was initiated in response to a letter by Cardinal Arinze requesting the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to begin a serious dialogue on these matters and also in response to the Bishop’s Ad Hoc Committee for Native American Catholics. This was the first place in the United States where  this work was engaged in a systematic fashion. The work is on-going and the 1999 document “Recommendations for Inculturation of Lakota Catholicism” produced by the task force is being revisited to provide continuing education and follow-up to those actively working in Native Ministry.

Canku Wakan

As a result of inculturation and the concerted efforts of Native people, priests and Native deacons, an indigenous retreat was developed named Canku Wakan (Holy Road). This is a four day spiritual journey utilizing an inculturated form of prayer inclusive of Lakota and Catholic rituals, traditions and ceremonies designed to bring participants to a closer relationship with Tunkasila (God the Father). During this prayer experience, Native Catholic leaders give presentations and share personal testimonies of faith.

A sweat lodge ceremony (Inipi ceremony) and morning prayer with the sacred pipe, sweet grass and sage blessings, the Eucharist, talking circle and a healing service are some of the common prayer forms associated with this retreat. Participants come away validated in their faith expression and filled with Woniya Wakan (the Holy Spirit).

Basic Directions Institute

The Sioux Spiritual Center sponsors the Basic Directions Institute to prepare ministers who will be working in Native Communities or with Native people for the first time. This is the only place in the United States that this type of formation is offered. The institute involves a six day program of education and training. The institute is endorsed by the National Tekakwitha Conference.

Ministry Formation Program

This program provides study, training and support to indigenous people for them to be parish ministers  in the diocese. The training program uses the text book, “Builders of the New Earth.” Group learning, discussion and practical application are used as the format of study. This is also the prerequisite for those desiring to serve the church through the permanent diaconate.

Fostering Native Youth Leadership

To develop and host a retreat geared toward the formation of Native youth leaders. The program will train and offer tools and skills for Native youth to become leaders in the tribal communities or parishes. The Program has three goals:

• To develop Native youth leaders,
• To build self esteem, confidence and respect in Native youth,
• To enhance the cultural awareness of Lakota youth.

St. Kateri Tekakwitha   

The 2020National Tekakwitha Conference will be held in Raleigh, NC.

Let us gather and honor the first Native American Saint, and make this conference a time of spiritual renewal and healing for Native People.

Let us pray through the intercession of St. Kateri for a successful conference and that all participants will be abundantly blessed.