An estimated 100,000 aboriginal children were taken from their families and forced to abandon language, customs and religion. The purpose of the visit with the Pope was to discuss the legacy of the Indian residential schools era and need for reconciliation.

"We wanted to hear him say that he understands, that he is sorry, and that he feels our suffering, and we heard that very clearly," said Assembly of First Nation's grand chief Phil Fontaine, himself a former Indian residential school student. "Today's expression of understanding, acknowledgement and emotion by His Holiness, on behalf of the Catholic Church, closes the circle."

Residential schools were established and paid for by the Canadian government, starting in the late 1800s, but were administered by various church organizations. The Canadian government, and the Anglican, United and Presbyterian churches have also all issued apologies.