"A future Papal visit to Canada may be considered, taking into account all circumstances, and including an encounter with the Indigenous Peoples as a top priority.” It does not say this encounter would mean an apology.

"Let us all unite in our efforts to bring comfort and care to those who are hurting today."

The complications of Canadian Catholicism came into sharp relief when Justin Trudeau, a Catholic politician and leader of the popular Liberal Party, became prime minister in October 2015.

The 15 dead included 10 hockey players between the ages of 16 and 21, the team coach, radio broadcaster, bus driver and other team personnel.

Jesuits hope their unification might be a witness in a nation riven by cultural trauma.

The battles being waged in the public square are not so much about whether ultimate truths exist, but which absolute “truths” will govern public affairs.