Overview
ST. NICK’S 2019 SERVICE TRIP TO THE SPIRIT LAKE RESERVATION IN
NORTH DAKOTA
Sign up now. Deadline is March 15, 2019. However, we will fill spots as we receive deposits. If we have space available after March 15th we will continue to take participants. We will form a waiting list if necessary. Contact us to see if a spot is available and to make a deposit.
“We will be known forever by the tracks we leave.” Dakota Proverb
WHERE: Spirit Lake Reservation, North Dakota, based at the Spirit Lake Ministry Center (12 hours from Evanston, plus stops). For more info see www.spiritlakeministrycenter.org
Sleeping Arrangements: Separate male and female communal sleeping quarters with bunk beds and separate bathrooms and showers.
Food: Cafeteria style food on site, bag lunches for worksite
WHEN: July 27th-August 3rd
COST: $325 per person for food, lodging and programming at site. Travel in rental vans is included, provided through fundraising. $50 due on sign up, $137.50 due 4/15 and 6/1. Contact us for scholarships.
WHO: This is a multi-generational trip. Ages: 14 and up. Children under 14 may attend with prior approval from the site. Under 18 must be accompanied by parent, guardian or other adult approved by them.
WHAT:
We will work with the Spirit Lake Ministry Center and serve the community needs. The work usually consists of light construction (roofing, building ramps, painting and minor repairs for elderly and persons with disabilities).
WHY:
-We go to be a church of encounter.
-We are on a pilgrimage to be changed, share our experience and become agents of change.
-Our understanding and empathy grow as we stand on another’s land, in their sacred space and with their community. Broken promises and trauma now come with faces and lives.
-Our witness becomes more direct, credible and impactful.
-In the end….we learn to love better.
DID YOU KNOW?
The treatment of the indigenous peoples of North America remains a sad part of American history. The injustices of centuries have had ongoing effects among Natives living on reservations throughout this country. The suicide rates are as much as 10 times higher than any other population in the country. Yet, through a focus on healing, traditions and spirituality, there is evidence of resilience, strength and hope.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Pope Francis calls us to get our feet dirty and walk where the oppressed walk. He says that once we get our feet dirty walking among the marginalized we will never be content to witness suffering passively. Join us when St. Nick’s goes far beyond our borders to Spirit Lake Nation in North Dakota and you will be transformed.
Map of North Dakota showing tribes:
Map of Spirit Lake Reservation