Native American Ministry
On May 17, 2019, the Native American Ministry Office held its 6th Annual Pueblo Governors’ Lunch. Every year, we look forward to hosting this event as it unites Archbishop John C. Wester and the newly appointed pueblo governors, tribal leaders and those serving their pueblo communities.
The luncheon begins with Archbishop Wester welcoming guests joining from all across New Mexico. This year was no different as Archbishop Wester spoke to the importance of the open communication between the Archdiocese and the Native Pueblos. Last year, a resolution was organized between the Archbishop and Northern Pueblo Leaders to end the Entrada in Santa Fe. Archbishop spoke of how this bond between the Catholic and Native faith brings the richness and beauty of the Pueblo cultures into the Archdiocese.
Both the Native American Ministry Office and Archbishop Wester felt honored to be in the presence of Governor and Tribal Officials representing the Pueblos of Picuris, Isleta, Santo Domingo and Ohkay Owingeh. Many Archdiocese of Santa Fe Office Directors were also present for the luncheon representing the Pastoral Ministries Division, a network of offices who work together and ministers to a diverse range of people and needs across the Archdiocese. Also in attendance was Archbishop Emeritus Michael J. Sheehan, Rev. Michael Carson from the USCCB, Geri Rychner of the Diocese of Portland, as well as various Pueblo Pastors including two from Acoma and Laguna.
The lunch concluded with a retablo given to each pueblo by Archbishop Wester and posing for our group photo. Shirley Zuni, Native American Ministry Director will visit any pueblos who couldn’t attend and give them their gift. She will let them know that the line of communication to both Archbishop Wester and herself is always open.
