A Week with our Native Friends

Posted by Matthew Ryan Keating

Since we arrived back from the winter break, the interns have had a VERY busy schedule. Last week we were honored with a visit from two Native Americans named Dan and Elmer. Each of them brought stories, wisdom, unique insight and perspective, and friendship.

Several times we had the privilege of worshiping with our new friends as they led us in their traditional style with chants, hand drums, and a flute. They also shared testimonies and taught as well as simply spending time with us eating and having fellowship.

Elmer asked us the question, "How many of you are white?" Everyone raised their hands. Then he said that we all have a heritage and calling ourselves "white" robs us of our rich cultural family lines. He also encouraged us to seek out our cultural past.

The next day the interns visited a local Native American museum. The director of the museum gave us a very informative guided tour. We viewed relics, antiques, and modern Native American items... from bark canoes to tobacco pipes... primitive tools to modern clothing.

The week ended with a traditional protocol ceremony where several of the local tribal leaders honored Dan, Elmer, and our church body with gifts. The ceremony was amazing and many new relationships were formed. We are all bettered and transformed by the people around us.

Here are some photos from our weekend with our friends Dan and Elmer!

Riding in the van to the Native museum.

The director the the museum is explaining the method natives used to snare eels.

Elmer and a few of the interns getting ready to worship on the Pinnacle Mountain.

Discussion and teaching with Dan and Elmer.

The traditional protocol ceremony at the end of the week.

Matthew Ryan Keating
2nd Year Leader