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South of Edmonton

Pope Francis’ visit to Canada to include stop at residential school

Jun 23, 2022 | 8:25 AM

The Vatican has released the program for Pope Francis’ trip to Canada next month, which includes visiting the site of a former Alberta residential school with survivors of the institutions.

The papal visit starts in Edmonton on July 24, ends in Iqaluit on July 29 and is to include both public and private events with an emphasis on Indigenous participation.

READ MORE: A look at the former residential school Pope Francis plans to visit

The pope is to begin the week visiting the Ermineskin Indian Residential School in Alberta with survivors before attending Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in downtown Edmonton

The following day, a large mass is planned at Commonwealth Stadium, home of the Edmonton Elks CFL football club. The stadium can accommodate up to 65,000 people.

The pope is then to visit Lac Ste. Anne, site of a large annual pilgrimage.

The Pope will then travel to Quebec City for further events and meetings, and will head to Iqaluit before flying back to Rome.

Francis is expected to deliver an apology for the Roman Catholic Church’s role in residential schools.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 23, 2022.

The Canadian Press