Members of the White Earth Tribe will be conducting Birth Ceremony Fires on the north end of the Essentia St. Mary’s Hospital parking lot, potentially starting this weekend. This ceremony holds deep significance in their culture, symbolizing the arrival of a spirit from the spiritual world into the physical world. All necessary requirements, including city ordinances, state statutes, and fire safety measures, have been met for this sacred event. During the Birth Fire ceremony, Asemaa (tobacco) is offered in prayer for a safe birth. Family and relatives gather around the sacred fire to honor the new life entering their family and the world. Male family members light the Birth Fire when the mother is in visible labor and continue to tend to the fire to keep it burning. The fire remains lit until after the baby is born and for a duration equal to the time of birth. The White Earth Tribal members extend their best wishes to the expectant family as they prepare for this meaningful ceremony.