Band Members, general public and invited guests attended the Benoit 1st nation Annual Assembly and Mi’kmaw Centre Grand opening which was a cultural gathering and celebration that took place on Sunday, Oct 30, 2016 at 2:00 pm at the Mi’kmaw Centre in Degrau, NL

The event began with a Smudging/ Blessing of the building and the attendees with sage and sweet grass by our Spiritual Advisor Terry Muise.

This was followed by the blessing of the Spirit Wind Community Drum and then the Welcoming song and the Gathering Song.

Rev Patry of the RC Parish of Our Lady of the Cape said read a statement and blessed for the Centre and this was followed by the cutting of the red ribbon signifying the Official opening of the Centre along with the carrying of the Community flag and the Mi’kmaq Nation Flag by Elders Godfrey Benoit and Jerome Benoit.

This event marks the 1st Mi’kmaw Cultural Centre for this region and was very much needed to help the local Mi’kmaq population immerse themselves in traditions, heritage, cultural activities, drumming and language.

Then drumming of the Feast Song followed by a feast, cake cutting and more feasting with snacks, treats and finger foods.

The Benoit 1st Nation Annual Financial Report was handed out to all band members.

The event closed off with the Travellers song followed by a group photo.

The event was hosted by the Benoit 1st Nation Women’s Council who did a beautiful job with the celebrations.