The Community United Methodist Church (CUMC) in Pagosa Springs will observe Native American Ministries Sunday on April 19, joining United Methodist congregations across the country in honoring and supporting Indigenous leadership, ministry and community.
A single worship service will be held at 10:30 a.m., with coffee and treats available beginning at 10 a.m. A community potluck lunch will follow the service. All are welcome.
As part of this observance, the congregation also acknowledges that Pagosa Springs sits on the traditional lands of the Ute peoples, including the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. Across the San Juan Basin, including places like Chimney Rock National Monument, there is clear evidence of sacred gathering, ceremony and community life long before the arrival of European settlers. This recognition invites the community into deeper awareness, respect and relationship with the Indigenous history and presence that continue to shape this region.
Native American Ministries Sunday is one of six special Sundays recognized by the United Methodist Church. This day highlights the ongoing presence, leadership and contributions of Native American communities within the life of the church. It also supports the development of Indigenous leaders through scholarships and strengthens ministries that serve Native communities with cultural awareness, respect and partnership.
This year, CUMC is honored to welcome Pastor Mark Norman as guest preacher.
Norman serves with Native Grace in Cortez, Colo., a ministry focused on walking alongside members of the Navajo Nation and surrounding communities. Members of his congregation will be joining him for this special Sunday, offering an opportunity for shared worship and connection across communities.
The Rev. Ken Daniell and Norman share a personal friendship that has grown through this shared ministry, deepening the connection between the two communities.
CUMC has been grateful to support Native Grace through prayer, financial giving and hands-on efforts, including the collection of Christmas shoe boxes and other resources to support ongoing ministry in Navajo communities.
Native Grace has become a vital presence in the region, engaging in outreach, pastoral care and bridge-building between communities. Its work reflects a commitment not only to service, but to listening, learning and mutual respect, values that resonate deeply with the mission of the United Methodist Church.
“Native American Ministries Sunday is an opportunity not just to learn, but to build real relationships,” said Daniell, pastor of CUMC. “We are honored to welcome Pastor Norman and to continue growing in our understanding of what it means to be in community with our Native neighbors.”
The congregation extends a warm invitation to the wider community to join in this meaningful day of worship, learning and shared table fellowship.
More information on CUMC can be found at www.cumcps.org.
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