Canoe Blessing and Naming Ceremony at Comox (Pentlatch) Lake – St’ixim (Sun) and Spilus (Moon)

Members of Comox Valley Schools and greater community were recently invited to witness a meaningful and memorable canoe blessing and naming ceremony at Comox (Pentlatch) Lake. The event marked the official awakening of two canoes, purchased by Comox Valley Schools Indigenous Education, which will be used in partnership with the Lake Park Society.

Indigenous Education district staff hosted the event, with hereditary and elected leadership in attendance, as well as members of the K’ómoks First Nation, the Indigenous Education Council, and various members of the district community. All those present were invited to witness the cultural work led by Jessie Recalma and Carrie Reid, who conducted Coast Salish protocols and brought the events of the day to life.

Andy Everson, Karver Everson, Anne Billie, and Susan Savoie shared in the cultural blessing of the canoes with cedar boughs before Jessie Recalma gifted the canoes the Pentlatch names St’ixim (Sun) and Spilus (Moon). Jessie, who is a language worker within his nation, chose these names to represent the deep connections between the natural world and the teachings that will take place on and near the water in the future. The ceremony was a powerful expression of respect, culture, place, and community.

The day concluded with witnesses being invited to share what they had seen and experienced. Many reflected on how they would carry the story of the canoes forward within the broader community and their happiness at being called to witness. The Indigenous Education team was honoured to see years of community building, collaboration, and cultural teachings culminate in the blessing and naming of the canoes. They look forward to continuing the story of St’ixim and Spilus and working with local knowledge holders to continue this good work.

Comox Valley Schools is deeply grateful for the teachings shared and looks forward to seeing students engage in land-based learning with the new canoes, St’ixim and Spilus.