Did local communities disagree about whether it was a good thing that the Pope was coming to Canada? How has the Pope’s visit brought people closer to Jesus? What was it like for local communities to have security details that are as extreme as the security for the President of the United States?

Anne Wildcat was one of the main, local Indigenous leaders to organize the details of Pope Francis’ first stop on his Canadian itinerary at Maskwacis, Alberta. She and Archbishop Smith exchange stories of some of the most beautiful, tense and chaotic behind-the-scenes moments of having the Pope come to a local reserve and to the Archdiocese of Edmonton.

Links:

• National Truth and Reconciliation Commission Documents
• Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Catholic Parish, Maskwacis
• Papal Visit Website w/ Archival Video and Pope's Speeches

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Upfront with the Archbishop is a weekly podcast where our goal is to strengthen the relationship between the hierarchy and the faithful through informal conversations about our Catholic faith. Featuring Archbishop Richard Smith (Archdiocese of Edmonton, AB) and our host Jenny Connelly. Produced by Matthew Bodnarek and Jenny Connelly.

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