What Is Needed:
We want to train your team to see people through God’s eyes. AIM staff will challenge your team members to look beyond themselves and to go deeper into the lives of the local people. You can make a difference to someone while learning a lot about life’s struggles, and about your own relationship with Jesus.
We will pour the Father’s love, hope, and foundations of faith into the people on the rez. Your team will mature before your eyes as they develop relational skills. They will learn to let themselves be directed by God and to respond in obedience, producing the fruit of His spirit.
What You Will Do:
We will create opportunities to spend time with students and adults in what we call “hang out discipleship” and life-sharing. Since we’ll be involved in relational ministry, spiritual maturity and prior mission experience really helps. The importance of preparation and practice before the mission can’t be emphasized enough. Bring some veterans to help newcomers get to the next level.
Your mission will be built around the Nespelem Powwow, a community celebration of culture, heritage, and Native spirit. You’ll do ministry from the Nespelem Community Center, and possibly sleep in the Nespelem Longhouse or in tipis at the powwow grounds. You’ll build relationships with locals and Native visitors, helping them set up their camps on the grounds, and helping the Powwow Committee get everything together. You will also provide kids’ activities (ages 5-11) and fun programs/shows for teens, with plenty of one-on-one relation time built in.
AIM field partners include local missionaries, as well as tribal program leaders. Our ministries depend largely on what our partners think is needed and will be most effective in advancing the Kingdom of Jesus, and what gifts and talents your team brings to the table. So, many details will be finalized within 6-8 weeks of the mission.
About This Location:
The Colville culture is made up of colorful, sometimes ancient, tribal customs combined with modern ways. Just as is true for many other Native peoples, the U.S. government misled, misinformed, and mistreated the 12 tribes represented here. The people, never warlike but always strong, have moved forward in spite of past trials. You’ll find genuine hospitality and upbeat attitudes.
In the relatively isolated, rural community where you’ll serve, there are plenty of solid families with warm home environments, raising kids with character. However, beneath the surface of seemingly quiet neighborhoods, you will discover the same social ills common to the rest of America. Many families are impacted, and the Native family clan system is unraveling. Following the call share the hope of Jesus Christ through unconditional love, you’ll affirm that their lives matter to God, and to the community.
The new arbor at Nespelem, where the powwow is staged. In July, it will be filled with dancers, drum
groups, and spectators. A huge, exciting celebration of local heritage, culture, and Native spirit.
