American Indian Republic sits down for a video interview with Fr. Patrick Twohy, a Jesuit priest who has lived with and served the Native Peoples of the Pacific Northwest for over 40 years. He has lived with the Swinomish and Tulalip Tribes of the Coast Salish Peoples for the past 25 years, and with the Colville Confederated Tribes in Eastern Washington State from 1973 to 1984.
Father Twohy’s deep love and respect for the people he serves has led to his work which describes the spiritual traditions of the Native religions and connects them with the Catholic faith. Two books titled Beginnings: A Meditation on Coast Salish Lifewaysand Finding a Way Home: Indian & Catholic Spiritual Paths of Plateau Tribes, numerous articles and renown as a one who speaks with the sanction of both the Native Peoples and the Catholic Church, are the fruit of his work.
His life work as a parish priest in Native communities has brought him to the role of spiritual leader and, now, as a respected Elder in both Catholic and Native communities.
Patrick Twohy’s academic degrees include a B.A. in English from Gonzaga University and two master’s degrees: an M.A. in English from Gonzaga University and a Masters in Divinity gained at the Toronto School of Theology. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Law from Gonzaga University in 2006 and was the principal Commencement Speaker for Graduation Ceremonies of that year.
Miguel Douglas is the executive director of American Indian Republic and is an enrolled member of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. He has written extensively on Indian gaming and its effects on American Indian communities. He has received a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Washington.
Tracy Winder
November 15, 2018 at 5:55 pm
Please give a message to Father Patrick Twohy, I miss his presence in LaConner, I was blessed that he participated in my fiance’s farwell and doing the honor of marrying my Husband and I, 22 years ago, he is a wonderful spirit!
Christy Hanson
November 17, 2018 at 10:10 am
That’s so wonderful, Tracy!
Miguel Douglas
November 21, 2018 at 1:50 am
I’ll be sure to let him know next time I see him Tracy. Thanks!
Tashina Kona
November 16, 2018 at 7:09 am
Father Pat miss his gentle soul what Church is he at now I would love to see him
Miguel Douglas
November 21, 2018 at 1:51 am
Hi Tashina. He’s currently at St. Leo’s church in Tacoma.
verne
August 23, 2019 at 9:46 pm
tell him that he is probably one of the most important and inspirational people that natives want to see and hear from I call him the wizard what and incredible man