Abstract

Colonialism in Canada has a negative history; a history that is often justified in the name of civilization or progress. The residential school system is one tool the Canadian government has used to colonize indigenous populations. The Christian church operated many residential schools to help “civilize the Indians.” It should be noted that there have been Truth and Reconciliation Commissions and apologies to address the injustices toward indigenous peoples. Despite noble intentions at reconciliation between state, church, and indigenous nations, the damage of past relationships still remain. This article examines the historical purpose of residential school systems and the role of the Christian church in Canada and compares them from a fundamentalist perspective on the teachings of Jesus Christ. Subsequently, the research will show that there are similarities between indigenous spirituality and fundamentalist Christian spirituality, which lays the foundation for decolonizing reconciliation and justice as a tool of civilizational progress.