Metis sprituality

Metis sprituality is very diverse, combining both their Indian and
White heritages. As well there are social practices that set them
apart. Spirituality The common misconception is that the Metis
practiced only the religion of their fathers (Catholicism or
Protestant). The truth is that like the Metis Nation itself, the
spiritual mixture is as complex as the people who make up the
nation. From the beginning, the Metis child absorbed the teachings
of both father and mother. Those teachings were made up of the
Father's religious background and the traditional teachings of the
Aboriginal Nation of the Mother. The child learned to live in both
the Aboriginal and White worlds encompassing both in their
spirituality. As we see this ability to learn from all of nations
they came in contact with added to the future spirituality of the
Metis. Today Metis practice all forms of religion, from mainline
Christianity to New Age concepts and everything in between. From
their Catholicism they have the Patron Saint of Metis People, St.
Joseph of Narareth. From their Aboriginal Relatives they encorporate
the sweat lodge, medicine wheel, sacred pipe and Long House
ceremonies, and many other Aboriginal spiritual beliefs. Many Metis
People, as with other Aboriginal communities, have lost their
spiritual connections to the past because of marginalization or
poverty and decimation of their communities and their way of life.
The healing has begun and the renewal of their spirituality is an
exciting journey that many Metis People are taking. It is very
common to encounter a prayer and a smudge at the opening and closing
of meetings of Metis People. Customs Medicine and plant lore is a
common practice in Metis communities, with individuals consulting
with the Elders. Many, but far too often not enough, individuals
still speak the Metis languages. Elders are highly honoured and
respected and are an intrical part of the social and policital life.
Young girls are still taught to weave baskets and to braided rugs
for their homes. Hand-crafted decorations, flower bead work and
clothing are a treasured source of pleasure and self expression
today. The practice of celebrating and honouring the Elders in the
community still occurs on New Year's Day. Almost all gatherings of
Metis People today, whether political or social, will include a
feast, fiddle music and dancing.