New Mexico: Four Corners Native American Ministry. Facilities, Shiprock

Summary: Construction of church facilities on the Navajo Indian Reservation.  (#581255)

Description:

Background: The Navajo Reservation consists of 25,000 square miles with a 200,000 Navajo Indian population.

History: The ministry started with 2 active churches, and over a period of 20 years has established 17 Navajo churches in New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. Several outreach and service projects were also developed.

Mission: The purpose of having facility funds is to build structures that will serve the needs of Navajo churches and other projects. Accomplishments so far are the erection (planning, construction, completion and full use of) the following: 10 new church sanctuaries; 10 new fellowship halls plus a number of classrooms; 2 parsonages; 1 large shelter for abused women and children; 1 alcohol counseling center; and 1 extra large thrift shop.

Expectations: The Advance Special money for these facilities helps make sure that the Four Corners Ministry projects that has started, will be brought to completion. Once the reservation land is approved, we will have no problem with planning (surveys and blueprints) and starting construction with volunteer work groups. About mid-way on the project, we will come to the electrical wiring and plumbing, and we will need more funds, and the Advance gifts will be helpful at this time. The Navajos can do ministry on their own, but projects needs roofs, and congregations need meeting places. Because of the very limited financial resources on the reservation, a great need exists for short-term help. Thanks to the help that has been received, the number of Christians is growing in the Navajo nation.