John Beargrease was an Ojibwe man. Ojibway spirituality centers around many certain customs and beliefs. It is important for all of us understand and respect the tradition of this important MN culture.
The drum ceremony is an important part of the Native American people. The drum, a sacred object, is taken care of by a drum keeper. The drum is about three feet across. Its round shape is a symbol of the circle of life. Singers surround the drum and the beat symbolizes a shared heartbeat.
The pipe ceremony is another sacred ritual for connecting to the spiritual world. The pipe represents our prayers in physical form. The smoke is like a link between the earth and the sky. Prayers for the safety of the dogs and mushers of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon are made. There is much symbolism in this ceremony. The tobacco, with its roots deep, connect to the heavens as the smoke rises high.
Watch the video below as the drum group prepares for the ceremony and performs the first song. (Photo by Jessica Shold)
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