Pope Francis blesses Lac Ste. Anne according to indigenous custom

Pope Francis blessed the waters of Lac Ste. Anne (St. Anne's Lake), according to the indigenous custom of making the blessing towards the four cardinal points.

The Pope then read the blessing formula in English and, using his wheelchair, went to the lakeside to pray.

This lake is the site of an annual pilgrimage completed on the feast day of St. Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary and grandmother of Jesus. It is significant for both Catholics and indigenous people. In fact, many take the water from the lake for their sick as it is believed ot have healing properties.

JRB 

TR: KG