Blessed waters pilgrimage held at Beaver Lake

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More than half a century ago, a vision of the Blessed Mary was seen on the shores of Beaver Lake. The following year, a small group of people began what has become a fast-growing, annual religious pilgrimage.

This year's Beaver Lake Pilgrimage will be held over the Aug. 17 weekend.

Congregating at the Sacred Heart Church on the Beaver Lake Cree Nation, more than 300 people attended the pilgrimage last year. This year, even more are expected to attend, said Sandra Manca.

"The pilgrimage is to allow the mother of God to pray for us," said Manca, a Metis raised by non-Aboriginal foster parents. "The pilgrimage is to where our Blessed Mary appeared."

The weekend is filled with gospel singing, church services, a blessing of the lake and a mass baptism.

"People have been coming from all over and from all races, and when the music starts, the church is full and just about everybody takes part," she said.

If Mother Nature co-operates this year, baptism services will be held on the shores of Beaver Lake.

Manca said parents wishing to baptize their children should have birth certificates ready.

For more information on the pilgrimage, contact Manca at (780) 623-7119 or Celine Berlinguette at 623-2629.