Journey from Fisher River is an invitation to walk with an extraordinary man on his spiritual journey and to share in his dream of what is yet to be. Author Joyce Clouston weaves reminiscences and memories to recreate both the oppression and the vision of Stan McKay’s life and ministry. This intimate portrait allows us to share the years of Stan’s childhood in what was then an isolated Cree village, the alienation he experienced in residential and post-secondary schools, and his healing and liberation, found in memories of his family and his experience of the Elders’ faith within his community. Guided by teachings rooted in Cree tradition, Stan transformed his experience of oppression through his years of ministry, including the highest office in The United Church of Canada as Moderator from 1992–1994. During his tenure as Moderator, Stan led the church in opening pathways to communication and healing with gentleness and humility, justice and joy, laughter and warmth, challenge and affirmation. Central to Stan’s leadership was the Cree concept of Pashtamowin: treat everyone with respect, kindness and consideration. Stan’s community continues to apply their creativity to innovative initiatives, including developing the largest solar energy and geothermal home heating project in Manitoba. On his return to Fisher River in 2020, Stan and his wife Dorothy rejoined leaders and Elders in fulfilling their dream to provide care of children based on Nehiyawewin knowledge where every child is a gift of the Creator, to be nurtured, loved, and supported.

Joyce Clouston, PhD has authored, edited and co-edited six books in consultation with Indigenous colleagues, as well as a series of resources on themes of self-esteem, balancing spiritual traditions, and strengthening families, developed in communities and published with United Church Publishing House, the Anglican Indigenous Council, and Anglican Book Center. Joyce has also written numerous articles, columns, and chapters in local and national journals on themes of spirituality.

Joyce Clouston's profile page