July Newsletter, 2018 Rick McPherson
“Powwow, celebrations of American Indian culture in which people from diverse indigenous nations gather for the purpose of dancing, singing and honoring the traditions of their ancestors. The term powwow, which derives from a curing ritual, originated in one of the Algonquian nations of the Northeast Indians. During the 1800s, travelling medicine shows selling cure-all tonics used “powwow” to describe their wares. These vendors often employed local Indians to dance for the entertainment of potential customers, who soon applied the term to the exhibition dancing as well as to the patent medicines. The name took hold and Indians themselves added to it their nomenclature to describe dancing for an audience in an exhibition.” Britannica
We have an annual powwow that meets in our own backyard. Every year Native Americans gather at Delta Park in Portland, OR, for a weekend of celebration. We always sponsor a Prayer Tent and provide drinks, snacks and free Buckskin Bibles. Lucy, our lead person faithfully talks and prays with everyone and anyone who comes by and asks for prayer or just a cup of cold water! Our goal is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness. The Buckskin Bible is always a favorite and features a complete Bible study plan written by Gleason Ledyard. Natives frequently refer to the Bible as “Heaven’s Book.” When you think about it, that’s a good name!
Although the weekend featured Tribes from all over the Pacific Northwest, colorful regalia, intricate dancing and lots of good food; (read: Indian Fry Bread) the main event occurred on Sunday of the Father’s Day weekend with a tremendous rain and wind storm. Unfortunately the Prayer Tent didn’t survive the elements. But we did and we’re very thankful!
All of this is only possible because of people like you. Your financial gifts and prayer support make this ministry viable. It’s not easy because we are constantly invading the Enemy’s territory and He resists and wreaks havoc whenever possible. However, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1
As your summer continues keep an eye open for Powwows in your area. Who knows, you may find one in your own backyard!
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