Tigua Native American Ministry
The start of something new is exciting and nerve racking, especially when it is your first day of school, having to leave the comfort of mom and dads or grandma’s house where children find the comfort and support of family.
For the children of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, beginning pre-K and going out to experience something new, school for the first time was like being at home. Familiar faces were there to meet and greet them, teachers, support staff, Pueblo leadership, and our presence as ministers to the Pueblo helps the children hit the ground running because they are in the mists of familiarity and they see the support there for them. This environment helps the children flourish and excel as they begin this new adventure.
Our Presence helps the children make the connection with the Mission and helps them see at an early age the importance of living and learning their customs and traditions, but also the importance of the Pueblos connection to their faith. Throughout the coming school year, we will be present at school functions, and we will host them at the Mission to teach them about the faith and the place the church holds within the traditions of the Pueblo.
After gathering in their classrooms, the children came together to begin the new school year and day with prayer and chant. Pueblo leadership and the boys lead the chant as the girls danced, followed by the blessing of the traditional leaders and Rev. Miguel Briseño, OFM, Conv. pastor at the Mission for both the children and the teachers and staff.
Working collaboratively with the Pueblo ensures that we are walking together to serve and nurture the next generation, strengthening their bond to both the Pueblo and Church.
