Studying the Bible or hearing the Gospel in our own language is a gift. Caring for the elderly whose first language is Navajo depends on a deep understanding of not only language, but culture and tradition. In emergencies, or when struggling to hear the pain or joy of another, common language creates calm and healing balm. Let’s admit we all benefit from learning, singing and sharing God’s salvation story in our own language. 

Within Tribal communities, the structure of the culture and expression of spirituality are passed from generation to generation through elders and contain a deep and rich understanding of God. Pastor Joann Conroy, a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and President of the ELCA American Indian/Alaskan Native Association, likens the spirituality of Native people to Old Testament times, when God’s people interacted directly with the Creator. 

In partnership with the Grand Canyon Synod, House of Prayer has entered into a program for training local Navajo leaders to serve as ‘Wisdom Keepers’ and spiritual guides. Equipped with the gift of language, culture, and tradition – these guides will study the scriptures, Biblical teaching, pastoral care, ceremonies, and trauma care, with intentional focus on accompanying the community in hearing, teaching and interpreting the gospel narrative within the framework of Navajo culture and language. 

During the month of July, perspective candidates for leadership are committed to a time of prayerful consideration. On Sunday, August 8, Bishop Hutterer and Pastor Jacqui Pagel will be present to affirm the candidates choosing to move forward. The teaching staff has also been meeting, organizing and preparing the curriculum. The candidates will have the great benefit of mentors, pastors, and instructors who have spent time at the Mission, are rooted in Native understanding, and are dedicated to opening this door of opportunity for our candidates.

Try Reading the Bible in Navajo (Diné)

Háálá Diyin God éí nihokáá' dine'é t'áá íiyisí ayóó'ájó'níigo bąą haye' t'ááłá'í há yizhchínígíí baazhníłtį́, áko t'áá háiida boodlą́ągo baa dzólíhígíí éí doo ádoodįįł da, nidi iiná doo ninít'i'ii bee hólǫ́ǫ dooleeł.

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He gave up His only unique Son, so that whoever relies on Him shall not be lost but have everlasting life.

(Translation from Navajo to English)