Traditional Approaches to Healing Seeking Donor Support

Aaron Parker, a local musician, video producer and member of the Edmonton Anglican parishes of St. Augustine’s and St. George’s (where he leads music twice a month), has launched a website and crowdfunding appeal for Traditional Approaches to Healing (TATH), an Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton)-based initiative.

Started eight years ago, by Cree Elder Russell Auger in partnership with E4C, in response to the community's need for emotional and psychological healing, the circle group, now under the umbrella of the Lodgepole Communitas, meets year-round in eight-week cycles at St. Faith’s Anglican Church, 11725 93 ST NW, Edmonton.

Although the circle is grounded in traditional Indigenous practices, it is open to participants of any race. Auger is a familiar face in the Edmonton diocese, assisting Indigenous Ministries with the smudge ceremony at parish and diocesan services and events, including the last Synod. By beginning each circle with medicine (smudge), prayer and song, he fosters a sense of wellbeing and healing through shared presence and openness.

Until recently, Auger was assisted by his grandson and oskâpêwis (helper) Marcus Cruz. But when the next session begins, he will be joined by a new oskâpêwis, with Cruz starting a youth programming position in August.

“Travis (Enright, Archdeacon for Reconciliation and Decolonization) and St. Faith’s are a keystone of our program; a life-giving source for people to make change,” says Auger.

Initially, Parker says he began attending the healing circle with an Indigenous friend to gain a greater understanding of Indigenous and settler reconciliation. But partway through, he unexpectantly lost his job. Parker found healing by sharing his situation with the circle.

While there is no shortage of people wanting to participate in Traditional Approaches to Healing, which is offered to participants at no cost, Parker says donor support is needed to sustain the circle's activities.

By making a one-time or monthly contribution, donors help the group pay its facilitators, rent meeting space and provide refreshments for its participants.

The crowdfunding campaign will be ongoing, and Parker hopes people will consider giving regularly to ensure the circle's continuation.

Visit Website to Donate