First Nations delegates task Pope Francis with carrying for cradleboard as symbol of his commitment

Cree Nation Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty said Thursday that First Nations delegates had entrusted Pope Francis with a cradleboard to be returned to them at their final meeting with the Pontiff on Friday. The cradleboard, she said, symbolizes every Indigenous child that went to residential school and how he treats it will demonstrate his commitment to First Nations People. Delegates also presented the Pope with other items, including moccasins, a beaded broach, an eagle feather and a black ash basket.