NDSU Welcome Week is set to host an Indigenous Smudging and Blessing Ceremony Wednesday, Sept. 8, at 4:30 p.m. in the Babbling Brook amphitheater.

Spiritual leader Willard Yellow Bird Jr. is scheduled to lead the ceremony.

A Smudging Ceremony is performed individually or in groups and involves the burning of one or more sacred medicines from Mother Earth, such as sage, sweetgrass, cedar or tobacco.

Smudging is a ceremony for purifying or cleansing negative thoughts of a person or place. Prayers, spoken aloud or in silence, are part of the ceremony. The smoke from the burning and smoldering of the sacred medicines is considered a purifying agent for the mind, body and spirit.

“It’s important that we spend time together to start the school off with an open heart, clear mind and healthy soul, said Jen Kacere, assistant director for leadership development. “This event is open to everyone – we just ask that you come with an open mind to learn.”

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