Ceremonial Garden at Indigenous Christian Fellowship

The Indigenous Christian Fellowship (ICF) in Regina, Sask., has marked two significant milestones in its journey of fostering healing and reconciliation: the dedication of its new ceremonial garden in September 2023, and a celebratory concert held in summer 2024. Both events highlighted the transformative impact of collective support through ministry shares.

In September 2023, ICF dedicated the ceremonial garden, celebrating the transformation of a neglected lot adjacent to its Dewdney Avenue location into a vibrant space for gatherings and healing. The garden, designed for wakes, funerals, and reconciliation ceremonies, features benches, a fire pit, and murals that celebrate resilience and community.

“While we are ready to begin using the ceremonial garden for healing and reconciliation ceremonies and events, we look forward to its continued growth,” said Bert Adema, ICF’s executive director. Future plans include additional murals, outdoor cooking facilities, and raised beds for vegetables, native plants, and berries.

The dedication ceremony brought together over 130 people, including community leaders, artists, and politicians. Al Postma, the CRCNA’s executive director-Canada, was among the speakers. “This ministry is a testimony to the CRC’s longstanding commitment to Indigenous justice and reconciliation,” he said.

In summer 2024, ICF hosted a special concert to celebrate the ceremonial garden and its role in fostering community. Indigenous Christian musicians Jonathan Maracle and his band Broken Walls, along with Cree-Métis singer-songwriter Falynn Baptiste, headlined the event. Their performances wove together traditional Indigenous artistry and messages of faith, creating a powerful atmosphere of hope and renewal.

The event also featured performances by Preston Littletent and Eagle Claw Drum Group, Rev. Dennis Hendricksen, and Nathan Ottenson and Pamela Meunch. The concert replaced ICF’s annual fundraising gala, further connecting the community to the ministry’s mission.

The journey to create the ceremonial garden began in December 2021, when ICF purchased the neglected lot. Through the dedication of donors, volunteers, and ministryshare supporters, the space was transformed into a sanctuary of beauty and purpose, said Adema.

“Your gifts make this possible,” Adema said. “What was once a barren space is now a place of hope, healing, and community. Thank you for partnering with us in this journey.”

As the garden continues to grow, it stands as a symbol of reconciliation and renewal, embodying the vision and mission of Indigenous Christian Fellowship.

Watch this vid

eo to see and hear a glimpse of the celebratory concert.