Great Spirit, dear Lord Jesus, Creator thank you for the many blessings and the wisdom of our ancestors.
Many of you are not aware of an important cultural resource that is available to all tribal members. Whether you are in need of traditional guidance, care and compassion on your journey, or simply to share a meaningful experience with an elder, Clan Mothers are there for you.
The tradition of having a Clan Mother has been passed down from our ancestors who raised our families in a matriarchal way. While the term may sound ancient, Clan Mothers are as relevant today as they were hundreds of years ago. We are the elder women of our families who have embraced the young ones with kindness, care and wisdom. Each clan carries a name inspired by our affinity with the four legged, the winged and the finned and so I am called the mother of the Deer Clan.
My sister Clan Mothers are as follows:
Carol Hendricks Wynn – Otter Clan Mother
Shirley Ann Pells Highrock – Eel Clan Mother
Anita Peters Little – Bear Clan Mother
Marlene Lopez – Rabbit Clan Mother
Janet Hendricks – Eagle Clan Mother
Sherry Frye Peters – Beaver Clan Mother
Most recently we were saddened by the passing of our senior Clan Mother, Amelia Peters Bingham. The Turtle Clan Mother passed away in December. A new Clan Mother will be decided upon by the family.
While you may reach out to your Clan Mother at any time, a Clan Mother’s gathering is held weekly on Sunday mornings beginning at 10:30 am. Presently these gatherings are held at the Mashpee Wampanoag Museum and in the spring will move to the tribal grounds at the sacred circle. You are encouraged to come and share your stories and news and to gain traditional knowledge. These gatherings are like food for our souls, they help sustain us culturally and spiritually in a good way.
By Aunt Joan Avant Tavares, Deer Clan Mother
