Attestations
“The Franciscan and Friends Mission effectively utilizes the universal language of music to build community, evangelize and minister not just to the poor but the broader human family, a smart Catholic initiative with good ecumenical participation.”
Bishop Emeritus FB Henry
Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary
We became aware of the Franciscan and Friends via their monthly visits to the Reserves. We invited them to perform at our annual Canada Day Rodeo in Strathmore. The experience was quite refreshing as indicated by the response. We then invited the group to join our planning team for future rodeos. They have brought us some good ideas that we anticipate will really help in offering a positive experience for Indigenous and non-Indigenous.”
Lavina Many Guns,
President of the Blackfoot Nation Warrior Horsemanship Film Society
The Franciscan & Friends First Nations Music Project are pursuing a vision that enriches the lives of others, and providing inspiration to many Albertans. I deeply appreciate their contributions to the community and to the arts in our province.”
Honourable Jason Kenney,
Premier of Alberta
“Casa Mexico is very honoured to work together in some community initiatives with Franciscan and Friends, like Celebrating Life, that promote hope and joy throughout arts and culture. The Huatulco Mexico Music mission, lead by Franciscan and Friends, is very significant to create international cultural exchanges and connect communities from Canada and Mexico. We strongly support Franciscan this important initiative.”
Miguel Cortines,
President, Casa Mexico Foundation
As an Indigenous artist and community organizer I can say with confidence that my relationship with Franciscan and Friends has been filled with inspiration and fulfillment. I have seen Franciscan and Friends reach out in fellowship to so many communities and individuals over the last several years.
My personal relationship began with a talent show in Strathmore, Alberta. Since then I have seen Franciscan and Friends host a conference to help other indigenous artists make important connections. I have seen them organize events and celebrations in the Indigenous communities in Southern Alberta. From painting statues in Piikani Nation to hosting recovery programs for the addicted, Franciscan and Friends have provided a wealth of resources and knowledge to assist in so many ways.”
Kirby Smith,
Blackfoot Confederacy
Since the Franciscan First Nations Music Project was introduced into our community, it has helped in unifying our musicians within Siksika and Treaty 7 territory.
There is a vast array of undiscovered and hidden talent within First Nations communities that needs to be fostered. This project is helping us to do just that, as well giving added support to those individuals in the field of music. It has had a positive effect on our community through talents shows, music festivals, conferences, community functions and providing music lessons. The First Nations Music Project is using the art of music to help us heal and grow as a people. This has supported the vision of supporting our musicians to become a positive change for our people.
I would like to thank the First nations Music Project for their continued support. God Bless!”
Richard Running Rabbit,
Siksika Health Services
The Franciscan and Friends Mission Team are ambassadors, champions, & visionaries…for people of all ages, around the world. Their leadership–in making this world a better place, via fabulous Christian music–is nothing short of heroic; and all who encounter the Team are forever changed—for the better!”
Dave Rodney,
former MLA
“Franciscan and Friends are amazing.”
Naheed Nenshi,
Former Mayor, City of Calgary
Since getting involved with Franciscan and Friends’ First Nations Music Project (FNMP), I’ve seen a tremendous amount of interest from the First Nations musicians who want to be included in this project . We had a music festival on the Kainai Nation October 2019 that turned into a huge success. We currently have 25 musicians and groups from all the Treaty 7 areas that will perform all genres of music, Gospe, Rock , Blues, Rap, Country, and traditional Hand drum. I am truly grateful for Denis Grady and Franciscan and Friends for including me in this great project. It would be awesome to see the project continue to expand and grow to all corners of this great country”.
Councillor Richard Red Crow Sr.,
Kainai Nation
Franciscan and Friends have opened many doors for me. They have introduced me to many remarkable people committed to Truth and Reconciliation. Franciscan and Friends are amazing!”
Alvin Big Crow,
Tsuut’ina Elder
