 Key to a restorative approach are the insights that have actually long been known and shared by the people who've always lived in and with this land and we stand here today on unceded Mi'gma territory And we're very grateful to be hosted and mindful that we are being hosted on this land by the Mi'gma people. Following the prayer during the smudge I will be fortunate enough to have the drummers offer us a welcome song and I'd ask maybe that you would rise now as we receive this prayer and welcome and hear the welcome song. Mother Earth and where our heart sits Taking place on unceded Mi'gma territory Great spirit and good creator of all things. We honor you with this prayer We are the descendants of the many people you so long ago chose to live in harmony on Turtle Island We give thanks for allowing us all to gather here today Good creator more than ever we need your strength your guidance and truth Give us the ability to recognize and use the gifts and teachings you have provided Help us pass the virtues of respect and sharing to others We direct our attention to the life forces on Mother Earth She has given birth to all animal creatures and to all plants that nourish us. For this for this we give thanks We ask that you allow those who are experiencing Adversity and difficulty in their lives to find peace and comfort We pray for our Mother Earth so that she may recover from the many wounds that we have inflicted upon her We pray for the good of our nations our communities our elders our families our leaders and our medicine people Creator we ask these things so that we may see the healing of your people and this land all my relations