Lightning kindles return of spirituality at Morley

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A lightning flash that killed three buffalo on the Morley reserve west of Calgary is responsible for the reinstatement of ecumenical conference, a spiritual gathering hosted by the Good Stoney Band, July 27 to 30.

"We see it as a sign from the Creator that the conference is needed again," explained Good Stoney Chief John Snow. He explained that in past years, when the annual gathering was held, a buffalo was always killed for a celebratory feast. Last summer, at the time when the conference was usually held, three buffalo in paddock were killed during an electrical storm.

"I think it's time to start up again," Snow says, adding that it's been three years since the last conference was held. "And besides, we've had a lot of requests for it."

The four day event is designed to heighten cultural, spiritual and self awareness in the traditional, time-honored way.

Guests are invited to camp at the Stoney Indian Park (teepee set up day is July 26) and are responsible for their own food. Snow says he has no idea of the number of participants to expect at the conference but "in other years they've come from all over the continent and from other lands like New Zealand and the Phillipines. Ceremonial and spiritual leaders come to teach and speak from all over . . . Micmacs, Seminoles from Florida."

On July 27 a sacred fire will be lit to bur throughout the conference. Each day a different tribal representative will perform a pipe and sweetgrass ceremony at sunrise. On the grounds, an arbour will be assembled under which spiritual talks will take place. A special teepee will be provided for group assemblies, as well.

Special meetings will be conducted by Elders regarding culture, language, history and prophecy. Sweatlodges and departed souls ceremonies will be held and healers will work in a separate area.

"Spirituality was the heart of Indian society before the advent of Europeans. It's part of our vice ? the fact that we've gotten so far away from it," Snow states. He sees the ecumenical conference as once again kindling the flame of spirituality in the hearts of Aboriginal people. "It is a seed of strength for us."

The chief offers an open invitation to anyone interested in attending the conference at Stoney Indian Park, located approximately one hour's west of Calgary on Highway 1A.