Native American Perspective on the Garden of Truth & Reconciliation

By Larry M. Deschaine, Ph.D. PE

The history of Native Americans in the United States in general, and in South Carolina specifically, is marred with centuries of oppression, displacement, and cultural assimilation. In recent years, the concept of truth and reconciliation has gained momentum as a means of acknowledging the injustices faced by indigenous peoples worldwide. Recognizing that reconciliation cannot occur without truth, this process aims to uncover the hidden stories, acknowledge the pain and suffering endured, and work towards healing and justice. Here at Mepkin Abbey, we are committed to this cause as evidenced by this meditation garden.

The history of Catholic Native Americans in South Carolina is a long and complex story that dates to the earliest days of first contact and subsequent interactions between Europeans, Africans, and Native Americans in the state. For centuries, peoples in South Carolina shared a strong mutual respect and a rich spiritual connection, which would eventually lead to the establishment of a network of Catholic missions to serve their needs.

Native Americans in South Carolina were made up of a rich tapestry of individual tribes and bands. By the time settlers began to move into the Carolinas in 1672, the Creek, Catawba, and Cherokee had made their way into the Carolina lowlands and gradually began to dominate the area, from Piedmont to the coast. Through cultural exchange and intermarriage, resulting in bi-racial and tri-racial peoples, these tribes adopted European and African customs including Christianity, and over time, Catholic missionaries began to appear in South Carolina.

The first documented Catholic mission opened in 1683 by the Valerian Fathers in Port Royal, South Carolina. This mission served both Native American and African American populations in the area and, during the 1700s, spread to other coastal areas within the state. Other Religious Orders, such as the Society of Jesus and members of the Ursuline Order, also had a presence along the Carolina Coast. These orders, along with the rest of the Catholic Church, sought to evangelize and minister to the Native Americans of any racial purity or mixture in these early days of colonization.

In 1704, the Spanish established a mission on the Ashley River near present-day Savannah; this was the first permanent Catholic missionary post in South Carolina. the mission served both Native American and African American populations in the area and was the spiritual center for the Catholic Church in South Carolina for over 50 years. During this time, the missionaries converted a great number of Native Americans to Catholicism, including the Creek, Cherokee, Catawba, Yamasee, and Chickasaw. The Spanish also built several forts and churches along the coastline, including the first church in South Carolina in Beaufort.

During the 1700s, the Catholic Church continued to expand its influence among the Native American tribes of South Carolina.  However, tensions grew between the Native Americans. These tensions resulted in the great Yamasee War, a very bloody confrontation in 1715 to 1717. Many people dies on both sides and Catholics were banned in South Carolina via legislative act by the South Carolina Assembly in 1716. This was due to concerns of competition with the Spaniards in Florida including an underground railroad for enslaved peoples of all races to flee to refuge and the protection of the Catholic Church in Florida.  The late 1700s and early 1800s saw a renewed effort by the Catholic Church to bring Christianity to the Native Americans of South Carolina. Organized Catholic life did begin in 1788 with the arrival of the first stationed priest in Charleston. Several Native American congregations were established and had a symbiotic relationship with their associated mission. In addition, numerous churches were built, and the faith flourished within the region. The Diocese of Charleston was formally established in 1820. Support of Catholic Native Americans continues to this day.

The Church recognizes that this support must go beyond mere acknowledgment; it must address the systemic issues that still affect Native communities today. Land rights, preservation of cultural identity, access to resources, and education are crucial aspects that need attention. Moreover, providing a platform for Native voices to be heard and actively involving indigenous communities in decision-making processes is vital for genuine reconciliation.

By honestly confronting the past, promoting understanding, and working towards creating a more just, equal, and inclusive society, truth and reconciliation offers an opportunity for healing wounds that have persisted throughout multiple generations. It signifies a commitment to rectify the past and build a future that respects and values indigenous cultures, rights, and contributions.

This Meditation Garden is an important, permanent commitment towards healing and reconciliation. It is a steppingstone towards achieving true reconciliation and honoring the diverse and vibrant Native American heritage here in South Carolina. Come walk with us together as we continue to build a peaceful and prosperous future healed in God’s love.

Dr. Larry M. Deschaine, P.E. is a Native (French Indian). His Native Catholic family ancestry is one of the oldest in existence; traces as far back as the 1680s.

A lifelong learner, he holds four University degrees in three fields of study; Science (PhD, Chalmers University, Gothenburg, Sweden, 2014), Theology (MA, St. Leo University, FLA, 2016) and Engineering (MIT, Cambridge, MA, 1984; University of Connecticut, 1992) and is a member of the prestigious Society of Catholic Scientists.