Episcopalians have a great opportunity to aid and participate in the
ministry for Native Americans through a special offering that will
assist the ongoing mission work in Navajoland. The Navajoland Area
Mission is 26,000 square miles that spreads over Arizona, New Mexico and
Utah.
"For over 100
years The Episcopal Church has had a presence in Navajoland," Bishop
David E. Bailey stated in an April letter sent to all congregations. "As
we work to reclaim our traditional spirituality and culture, we must
simultaneously address the damage incurred by our history. Some of that
damage is emotional and some of it is physical."
Among the requests
cited by Bishop Bailey is the construction of new hooghans, a
traditional Navajoland dwelling. He is asking for funds to build the
ceremonial and educational hooghan at St. Christopher Mission in Bluff,
UT, one of the churches of Navajoland. Hooghans cost $25,000 to build
and are used for traditional ceremonies as well as educational purposes.
"I hope that you
will consider joining us in prayer and giving to this Special Offering
which promises new life for our people," Bishop Bailey said.
Donations can be made online here
or send checks to The Development Office, The Episcopal Church Center,
815 Second Ave., NY NY 10017. For more information contact Cornelia
Eaton at ceaton@ec-n.org.
