ISS Grandmothers of the Sacred Fire- Strategy and Planning Gathering

On Oct. 8-11, 2026, the ISS Grandmothers of the Sacred Fire held a second annual meeting at Kingbridge Conference Centre, Toronto, Ontario to review their progress in 2026 and plan for 2027. Grandmothers from Maine to Manitoba gathered to share with each other and the Institute for the Study of Spirit the work they have been doing over the last year to organize their mandate, scope and core values in virtual meetings.

In addition, reports were provided by three Grandmothers who are recipients of grants from ISS to build Spiritual Embassies in three of their home communities. The Embassies are Women’s Lodges for ceremonies, healing, learning plant medicines, and a womb lodge in service to the people of their Nations.

As these strong Matriarchs from many diverse Nations discussed plans for the future, it was apparent that there is an urgency to help organize a Grandfathers Circle, to be open to all men in communities concerned with health and well-being, languages, healing and spiritual growth of men and Two Spirit persons.

In 2027, Grandmothers will be taking on new ways to communicate with young people in podcasts, and messages online to uplift the spirits of all with their dreams, teachings and cultural knowledge.

A detailed report of actions in 2027 is forthcoming.