Praying Spirit Bear

As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.

Tanisi.

In Cree, that means, “Hello. How are you?”

I am an Indigenous man, and in the new year, I became one of the newest staff members of Diaconal Ministries Canada as diaconal coach. My job is to support deacons in the greater Edmonton area. DMC is a partner ministry of the CRC of Canada.

Recently I attended Classis Alberta North. My supervisor interviewed me on stage, asking first about my traditional name, Praying Spirit Bear:

My nerves were shot, and my voice cracked as I answered. Public speaking has been a regular part of my ministry, but for some reason I was extra nervous. I was being vulnerable and transparent in front of a crowd of people mostly descended from European ancestors. Yet these were the people I would be supporting.

I received my traditional name later in life, because of the disconnect from my own people due to being part of the “Sixties Scoop” generation—a generation that came directly after the “Residential School Era.” Since I’m part Cree and part Métis, the elder who gave me, this name was also Cree and Métis. I also received an eagle feather the same day I received the name Praying Spirit Bear.

I was greatly encouraged upon receiving that name, since I was already living out what that name means to me. Praying was significant to me because Indigenous people are well known for being a praying people. It also lines up with our written-down canonical Scripture. Hebrews 10:19 says, “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.” My adopted father taught me to pray this way, and because of the trials I’ve been through in my life, I adopted his practice as my own.

The word “Spirit” was significant to me because I know the spirit world is real, and I’ve always prayed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 24:49 says, “I am going to send you what my father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Jesus is telling the disciples they won’t be effective in life and ministry unless they tap into the power of the Holy Spirit.

The word “Bear” was also significant to me since I’ve always prayed with the same vigor an adult bear would use if its cubs were in danger. The bear is a significant animal to Indigenous peoples. It’s one of the seven animals described in the seven grandfather teachings. The bear relates to the word “bravery” as one of these seven teachings, which is a discussion for another day.

Praying Spirit Bear is my traditional name. The power behind that name perfectly describes how I’ve been living out my life for years now. Receiving this name was an honor as it reminded me to continue praying for myself and for those around me, by the power of the Holy Spirit and with the bravery of a bear.

What aspect of your life has shaped your identity as a believer in Jesus? From your culture? From your family? Ponder this question and live it out to the fullest. As a new coach, I’ll try my best to live out my calling through a brave, powerful, and prayerful approach to life and ministry. For me, “life” and “ministry” are synonymous. Knowing this helps me approach every area of my life as Praying Spirit Bear.

Ekosi mâka. In Cree, that means, “That’s it. Goodbye.”