What our program participants are saying

Before I took the Sacred Water course, I didn't realize how much I take water, and in particular clean water, for granted. The course really opened my eyes to the blessing I have and I will never take it for granted again.

Steven K. Halstead • Bondurant, Iowa

“The Land is Not Our Own has allowed me the space to honor both my Christian faith and my indigeneity. I have gained a deeper understanding of how to communicate existing in both worlds by sharing with a faith-centered group that is open and empathetic. Our call as people of faith is to journey with the oppressed, and this [program] welcomed being witness to the beauty of indigenous culture and spirituality while also holding space to reckon with the horror experienced by indigenous peoples. We cannot build a better future and world without confronting the sin of genocide that continues to manifest in and through our current systems. This course fostered prayerful critique of history, as well as stoking creative solutions to how to repair the harms of colonization and assimilation, specifically as Christians, both individually and as a group. Together we felt the woundedness of genocide and violence, as well as the hope, creativity, and joyful resilience that indigenous people have carried, carry now, and will carry into future generations.”

Mandy Orta • Program Participant

EngagingSpirituality was weeks of amazing gifts. I have an ever-deepening awareness of God’s presence in myself as well as in the vulnerable ones around me. Each session was an invitation to explore ancient ways of connecting more fully with my Creator through prayer and in service. I have become more peaceful, mellow, and present with others. I’m blessed by how and where the Spirit has led me.

Ed B. • Program Participant