Tribute to Brother Ernie Philip, Dancing Bear, Cultural and Spiritual Ambassador of the Great Shuswap Nation! April 8, 1930 - October 1, 2023.
"I had the great honor and pleasure of meeting Brother Ernie Philip in 1975, a moment I hold dear. We sat together through all-night prayer ceremonies, and even though we only saw one from time to time over the years, Brother Ernie’s spirit of love and kindness was always the same as when we first prayed together.
Such experiences of spiritual connection are truly rare and eternally impactful. In these sacred spaces, we forge a bond that transcends the boundaries of time and space, a connection that will continue to flourish in the spiritual worlds to come. I am sure many other Members of Our Human Family had the same spiritual experience with Brother Ernie!
I have encountered countless souls over my almost 80 years of life, but none have radiated more love, compassion, and kindness than Brother Ernie Philip. His unique and powerful spirit serves as a reflection of what humanity can aspire to be. As he was an Ambassador of the Shuswap Nation in this physical world, I have full faith that Brother Ernie will continue his sacred duties in the Spiritual Worlds to come. His legacy of love and compassion will forever echo through the corridors of time, guiding us towards a more just, loving, and harmonious future."
Hereditary Chief Phil Lane Jr., Member of the Ihanktowan and Chickasaw Nations
