WASHINGTON - The Dicasteries for Culture and Education and for Promoting Integral Human Development released a joint statement March 30 on the “Doctrine of Discovery.” The matter at issue involves documents (papal bulls) issued in the fifteenth century with regard to European exploration of land beyond continental Europe. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City and secretary for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has issued a statement in response to the joint statement by the dicasteries:
November is Native American Heritage Month. It’s a time to honor the sacrifices and contributions of American Indians to their country, their community and their faith.
The American Indian Catholic Outreach Office for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City named its inaugural princess during the archdiocese’s first-ever Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Honor Dance on July 6 at Saint John Nepomuk in Yukon.
GUTHRIE – A steady drum beat echoed throughout the lodge as Sister Kateri Mitchell, S.S.A., of the Mohawk Nation, gently played a hand drum and shared the life and example of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha.
GUTHRIE – Everyone gathered on the large porch to form a circle. After some introduction, everyone turned to the east where the morning sun bounces off of Guthrie Lake and peeps through the trees. The aroma of sage and cedar drifted upward along with prayers recited in both English and Cherokee. Different prayers were said as participants turned toward each of the “Four Directions:” east, south, west and north.