Anishinabe Spiritual Centre transitions to Indigenous-led governance

The Anishinabe Spiritual Centre transitions to Indigenous-led governance, marking a historic step in self-determination and Catholic-Indigenous collaboration.

A decades-old spiritual centre in Espanola, Ont., that has served as a gathering place for Indigenous communities and Catholics is now under Indigenous leadership, marking what participants call a historic and sacred moment.

The Jesuits of Canada formally transferred governance of the Anishinabe Spiritual Centre to a newly formed Indigenous-led board of directors this week, a move celebrated as a step toward self-determination and reconciliation. The transition was commemorated with the gifting of a special medal honouring Pope Francis’ 2022 visit to Canada.

Rosella Kinoshameg, a respected Indigenous leader from Manitoulin Island, will chair the board.

“To me, it’s a sacred moment,” she said.

“It’s the beginning of a new chapter, a new way of life for the board of directors. I’m really happy with that.”

Established over 40 years ago by the Jesuits of Canada, in partnership with the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie and local First Nations, the centre has been a unique space intertwining Catholic faith and Indigenous traditions. It has hosted thousands for retreats, cultural programs, and spiritual gatherings.

Father Jeffrey Burwell, Provincial of the Jesuits of Canada, called the transition a “feel-good day” and a natural step for the missionary order.

“We come to a place and then we leave,” he said.

“We’ve reached the point where we can now hand this place over to a Catholic Indigenous-led board. It’s a great joy for us, knowing transitions are never the final word in a relationship.”

Eddie MacDonald, the centre’s executive director, described the shift as a long-awaited milestone.

“This is a historic day,” he said, noting its alignment with the 60th Call to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which emphasizes Indigenous self-governance in spirituality.

“The people here are grown up – they can take care of business now.”

The Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie will remain a collaborative partner, with Bishop Thomas Dowd emphasizing the centre’s role as a bridge.

“My job is to bring people together,” he said.

“This centre has been a jewel for ministry and service. I see an opportunity for growth, a place of encounter.”

Plans are underway to welcome students for field trips, showcasing how culture and faith can coexist – a model the centre has embodied for decades.