Mission trip to Navajo Nation - Mexican Springs, NM, American Indians, May 28, 2010 to June 2, 2010

Ministry & Outreach:
Project Overview
This Navajo family of Mexican Springs, 20 miles north of Gallup, New Mexico on the Navajo Indian Reservation, have been raising sheep for over a century. The parents are able to keep the sheep ranch going with the help of their daughters, grandkids and extended family members. But in the spring during "shearing season", when there is extra work to be done, they could use more help. This is the time that friends and neighbors arrive to step in and help out. And this is where you could step in and "be Jesus" to this family by working alongside them as they shear the wool from their flock of 200 sheep. The sheep need to be herded up, lifted unto the shearing table and sheared one at a time. The wool is very valuable and will be used by Navajo women, to weave Navajo rugs to be sold to generate income for the family. As you partner with them, you will be immersed in Navajo culture. You will learn that the Navajo economy is not based on the size of their bank accounts, salaries or houses; it is based on their flock and herd sizes and how well they share these resources with their families. As a "Thank You" when the work is done, a sheep is butchered and a "Sheep Roast Feast" is held for everyone that helped.

The "Sheep Roast Feast" will be a wonderful time for you to fellowship with those that you've begun to build a relationship with by working side-by-side during the week. A time to encourage the parents, who have been Christians since their youth, in their walk with the Lord, as well as a time to share what Christ has done in your life with those who don't know Jesus as their Savior. This "Feast" will be a celebration. A celebration not only of completing the "lambing work", but a celebration for your group as they get an opportunity to "be Jesus with skin on" to this sheep ranching family.

Ministry Description
Sheep sheering is very physical, dirty and tiring. Work clothes that can get dirty are a must. Anyone in the group not able to do the physical labor with the sheep can help out with meals, cleanup and behind the scenes work. God will use this project in your life to stretch you both physically and spiritually as you step out of your own culture into the Navajo sheep ranching culture and build relationships that could last a lifetime. There will also be time to learn more about the Navajo culture through some local sightseeing.

Trip Requirements
Level 1 or 2

Food & Lodging
Food will be supplied by AIM and will either be prepared at the Sheep Ranch or at Native Bible Fellowship Church in Gallup where lodging will be provided. Sleeping arrangements will be on the floor of the church so bring bedding, air mattress or pad and a towel. Safe drinking water will be provided.

Airport & Transportation
Groups may either drive to Gallup or fly to Albuquerque, NM, approximately 140 miles east. There are excellent vehicle rental capabilities at the Albuquerque airport.

Location Description
Cactus, small shrubs and pinion trees cover the high desert surrounding Mexican Springs at an elevation of 6,500 feet. Beautiful red sand stone mountains can be seen in the distance. Prairie dogs, lizards and roadrunners can be seen if you look carefully.

Weather
May & June temperatures range between 70-80 degrees in the daytime with considerably cooler temperatures at night. Lots of wind but little rain can be expected. Sunshine fills a crystal blue sky with fluffy white clouds rolling in and out.

Area Attractions
Gallup, in the heart of Indian Country, is surrounded by outdoor activity opportunities such as mountain biking, hiking, fishing, camping, horseback riding, etc. Red Rock State Park, El Morro National Monument and Ramah National Park are all within a short distance. The Gallup Visitor Center has an excellent museum that gives a good overview of the American Indian culture in the area. Gallup is also known for it's American Indian Arts & Crafts stores where you can purchase anywhere from an inexpensive souvenir to an exquisite piece of American Indian art for thousands of dollars.

Navajo Nation - Mexican Springs, NMAmerican Indians Mission Trip

Navajo Nation - Mexican Springs, NM
American Indians Mission Trip