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Native American/Indigenous ministry raises awareness
"There are a lot of needs around the country and Church, but none are more acute than that of the indigenous people of this land," said Bishop Michael Smith, Diocese of North Dakota, and member of the Potawatomi Nation of Oklahoma.
"Reservations are some of the poorest counties in the country," said Smith."While we can't lose sight of the need for justice and righting wrongs, we must recognize the unique giftedness the native peoples bring to our church and to our country. These are people who are proud of being native and who love Jesus Christ."
Sarah Eagle Heart, program officer for NA/IM, connects the Indigenous Ministries Board, Native American ministries and the four aided dioceses of Alaska, Navajoland, North Dakota and South Dakota, giving them one voice while valuing each group's unique needs and diversity.
A key area of concern for the Office of Native American/Indigenous Ministries at this convention is the Domestic Poverty Alleviation Resolution (A155), affecting funding at every level. Eight other resolutions (A146-153) address concerns ranging from the promotion of Anglican partnerships to federal tribal recognition.
"The first phase of Domestic Poverty Alleviation, should it pass, is supposed to bring aid specifically to Native Americans," Eagle Heart said. "The proposed nine-year plan includes aid to Appalachian and urban areas in future phases. This assistance would allow Native populations to build ecumenical partnerships and allocate funds and resources to areas of greatest need, such as youth ministry and pastoral care."
"One of the most important things we can do at this convention is highlight Native ministry and elevate it," said the Rev. Bessie Titus, convention delegate and full Athabascan from the Minto village of interior Alaska. "We can be a gift to the wider church."
To learn more about Native American/Indigenous Ministries click here.
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