World Views Information

Ceremonies

First Nations and Inuit peoples from across the continent share a tradition of regularily giving thanks, through everyday acts, through rituals and through ceremonies. A ceremony is a formal act or series of acts performed as prescribed by custom, law or other authority.  Ceremonies can be simple or elaborate solemn occasions or forms of celebration. First Nation celebrations are often a means of thanking everyone in the community for their contributions.

Ceremonial gatherings remain at the heart of First Nations spiritual and cultural practices today.  The significance of these ceremonial practices remains true to the sacred teachings that go back to the beginning of time.

Gift-giving is an important part of many First Nations ceremonial gatherings.  People traditionally offer their best and most valuable goods to sacrifice or distribute t guests or members of their community.  Such gifts are a recognition that resources are meant to be shared.  They are also thought to encourage the spiritual world to be as generous.

Many First Nations people believe that in order for the balance of all living things to continue, proper protocols must be followed.  Protocols ensure that ceremonies will be remembered from generation to generation and that values of the culture will be upheld through time.

(Aboriginal Perspectives 2004, 91)