Join us for a meaningful celebration of Native American heritage and faith, featuring thought-provoking speakers, hands-on cultural traditions and inspiring stories that reveal the enduring values of faith, hope and community.
This FREE conference is organized by the Diocesan Native American Ministry.
Free-will offerings to cover the cost of lunch will be accepted.
Registration required. Seating limited.
Registration required. Seating limited. Register by Wednesday, Oct. 14.
Call Dcn. Curtis Chambers at (231) 290-0193 or complete the form below.
Promotional materials to share with a friend: Flyer, Image
Agenda
9 am
Mass, St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord
606 N Ohio Ave, Gaylord
Celebrant Bishop Jeffrey Walsh, Diocese of Gaylord.
9:45–10:15 am
Registration/Hospitality
Walk over to the Pastoral Center. Enjoy a light breakfast and fellowship.
10:15–11:30 am
The Road to Sainthood for Nicholas Black Elk: Holy Man of the Oglala (Sioux)
Fr. Steltenkamp, a leading Black Elk scholar, shares the extraordinary story of Nicholas Black Elk, the renowned Oglala Lakota holy man, Catholic catechist and missionary whose witness of faith has inspired a growing movement for his canonization.
11:30 am-12:30 pm | Lunch
12:30-1:30 pm
Sacred Traditions: Native American Wreath Making
Odawa family flower maker Diana Naganashe will share the Native American tradition of creating handmade wreaths for the graves of loved ones. Rooted in remembrance, prayer and the enduring bond between generations, this practice honors those who have gone before us while keeping their memory alive. Dianna will provide step-by-step instruction as attendees create their own wreaths, which Bishop Walsh will bless in preparation for All Souls' Day.
1:30-1:45 pm | Break
1:45-2:45 pm
The Dove and the Muskrat
Drawing from both his Native heritage and his Catholic faith, Deacon Curtis Chambers shares the similarities between Native spiritual teachings and Christian beliefs through two powerful flood narratives. The dove that returns to Noah with a branch and the muskrat that brings mud and grass from the waters in the Native flood story reveal common themes of hope, renewal, creation and God's care for his people. Through storytelling and reflection, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the ways faith and culture can enrich one another.
2:45-3 pm | Sharing Circles
3 pm
Closing Prayer
Bishop Jeffrey Walsh, Diocese of Gaylord, provides closing prayer for unity and love.
Registration required. Seating limited. Register by Wednesday, Oct. 14.
Call Dcn. Curtis Chambers at (231) 290-0193 or complete the form below.
