In Lakota ceremonies we pray for good health, happiness, help, and understanding.
Tim Poitras is from Muskowpetung First Nation and is the Sundance Chief of Woptura and the Tiospaye of Pine Ridge South Dakota. At the Regina Elders Gathering held in February 2020, Poitras shares his knowledge and experiences in order to create an awareness of good health, happiness, help, and understanding. In his presentation he discusses the people of the Seven Council Fires, the Seven Sacred Rites of the Lakota Oyate, and the Creation Story. The history and knowledge Poitras shares reminds us to honour those that have left us to the spirit world and respect the knowledge and traditions of our people.
At the Regina Elders Gathering held in February 2020, Tim Poitras, from Muskowpetung First Nation, shared about his role in his community and his understanding of Lakota ceremonies. Poitras provides an overview of the Seven Sacred Rites of the Lakota Oyate including the following ceremonial rights:
- Canupa: The Sacred Pipe Ceremony
- Inipi: The Sweat Lodge;
- Hanblecha: The Vision Quest
- Wiwangwacipi: The Sun Dance;
- Hunkapi: The Making of Relatives; The Keeping of The Soul;
- Ishna Ta Awi Cha Lowan: Preparing a Girl for Womanhood and a Man for Manhood.
