This is the event information listed on the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Website for their 20th Annual Naming Ceremony:

We are honoured to bring Shkaabaawis (Gerard Sagassige) back for our 20th Annual Naming Ceremony. Gerard is from Curve Lake First Nation, with family connections to Serpent River, and brings over 20 years of experience in assisting with healing work.

As a Midewiwin Lodge Member, Gerard has learned from many respected teachers throughout his travels, and he has dedicated himself to supporting the spiritual growth and well-being of others.

The Naming Ceremony is a sacred tradition that connects us to our Anishinaabe spirit names, which hold profound meaning and guide us throughout our lives. Knowing our Anishinaabe names is essential to understanding who we are and how we walk in this world, grounding us in our culture, language, and identity. Our names are gifted from the spirit world, and they carry the strength, purpose, and teachings of our ancestors.

They remind us of our responsibilities and our place in the sacred circle of life.

Under Gerard’s guidance, this ceremony will honour the deep connection between our spiritual identities and our life’s path, helping each participant step forward with renewed clarity, balance, and a deeper sense of belonging within the Anishinabe way of life. We welcome everyone to share in this sacred journey and celebrate the gift of spirit names.

It will take place November 24 @ 10:00 am – November 28 @ 5:00 pm at Enji Maajtaawaad Early Years- EarlyON Room-330 Chippewa Road, Muncey, Ontario

Members from the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation do have priority for this event, but if there is extra space, members of other nations are welcome.

For more information, please visit the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Website