Peterborough Regional Health Centre Opens New First Nations/Indigenous Ceremonial Fire Space

Peterborough Regional Health Centre has unveiled a new First Nations/Indigenous Ceremonial Fire space at the hospital, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the PRHC.

A ceremonial fire is a sacred place that brings people together and creates a space to connect with the land, First Nations and Indigenous ancestors, and one another. The space is located in the courtyard adjacent to the hospital’s A2 inpatient unit and will be available for use by First Nations/Indigenous patients and families, staff and community members, with guidance and support from PRHC’s Indigenous Program Navigator, Courtney Taylor.

“Sacred fire holds deep significance for many First Nations and Indigenous communities. It is a place for prayer, reflection, ceremony, healing, and connection,” said Taylor. “The creation of this space has already brought many groups together. Our hope is that this space now serves as a reminder of the importance of balance, respect, and community while also offering a place at the hospital where teachings may be shared, medicines may be offered, and people can gather during times of celebration, healing, grief and transition.”

Donavan Taylor and Devon Jacobs, Sacred Fire Keepers from Curve Lake First Nation, were on hand to light, maintain, and watch over the fire and share teachings as part of the opening ceremony.

“PRHC is committed to creating an environment where First Nations/Indigenous traditions, teachings, healing practices, and cultural connections are respected, welcomed and supported,” said Noel Bennett, PRHC interim President and CEO. “At PRHC, we recognize that reconciliation is not a destination but an ongoing journey.

The Ceremonial Fire space was created through a partnership with First Nations, Urban Indigenous and other community partners.

“Meaningful action requires listening, learning, building relationships, and creating spaces where First Nations/Indigenous patients, families, staff, physicians, and community members feel seen, respected, and supported,” said Bennett. “This Ceremonial Fire space is one step on that journey, and we are grateful for everyone whose guidance, wisdom, and collaboration has made this space possible. May it serve as a source of comfort, healing, reflection, and connection for generations to come.”

“It was an honour to be amongst those gathered to celebrate the opening of the new Ceremonial Fire space at PRHC,” said Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation president and CEO. “The PRHC Foundation and community donors are grateful for the opportunity to fund the creation of this space. Thank you to First Nations, Indigenous Cultural Teams, other external partners and PRHC for the collaboration that made this possible.”

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