Grandfather Rock Unveiling

In the fall, a unique collaboration between students at Murdoch MacKay Collegiate, the Archdiocese of Manitoba, and community leader Clayton Sandy led to the creation of a permanent sweatlodge mock-up, now installed on the historic grounds of St. Boniface Cathedral.

The project began in September when Murdoch administrators, welding teachers, and students met with Clayton Sandy and Archbishop Albert LeGatt on the cathedral property. The gathering centered on an opportunity to deepen learning, cultural understanding, and community connection through the building of a sweatlodge structure. A grandfather rock, was donated by the Archdiocese to anchor the project and serve as a foundation for reflection and learning.

As part of the planning process, students were invited to participate in land-based learning at Dan Godfredsen’s property, a space developed in collaboration with Clayton Sandy. There, students sat in circle, heard teachings about the land, the significance of the sweatlodge, and learned through presence and experience rather than textbooks. They examined an existing sweatlodge, took measurements, and discussed traditional protocols, using this knowledge to inform their own mock-up design.

In a particularly meaningful experience, students were later invited to return and participate in a ceremonial sweat. With care and guidance, they moved through four rounds in the lodge — listening to the crackling stones, breathing in the scent of traditional medicines, and connecting with the space in a deeply personal way. For many, it was described as a powerful moment of healing and growth.

The construction of the lodge mock-up was led by welding teachers Mr. Doyle and Ms. Beyers, who provided mentorship while encouraging student ownership at every step. Using their metal fabrication skills, students designed a structure that mimics the traditional branch-like shape of sweatlodges, detailing flat metal to evoke the natural materials usually used. Installation was supported by Murdoch’s building and construction program, which secured the lodge to cement pilings surrounding the grandfather rock.

This was more than a class project. Students treated the work with seriousness, care, and commitment. They showed up fully in the design, in the build, and in spirit. The result is not only a beautifully crafted legacy piece on sacred ground, but a symbol of reconciliation in action built with respect, collaboration, and heart.