Strengthening Reservation Churches

History of Church Development at WIM

Over the years, Western Indian Ministries has planted a number of churches, most of which are now totally independent and native-run.

Today, there are many other small churches dotting the landscape, but most have weak leadership and little understanding of indigenous church principles.

The Western Indian Ministries' Church Development program is geared to reach out to church leaders with Biblical training and caring support, to encourage a strong native church.

In addition, this department provides outreach ministries such as family counseling, jail ministry, and police chaplaincy.  The goal of this is to model ministry to others and provide discipleship training so that there is a "multiplication process" for outreach to Navajos.

Church Development Today

Milt Shirleson is Director of this department, and, being a Navajo himself who is fluent in the language and culture, is very able to discharge the many duties that he has.

Good News Church

Good News Church in Houck, Arizona is currently the only church that is officially part of Western Indian Ministries.  Good News Church is being set up as a model for the indigenous church principle on the Reservation, which has resulted in church membership growth, local leaders being trained, and the church members being taught, systematically, from the Word of God so they can grow as Christians and as a part of the Body of Christ.

Navajo Police Chaplain

The duties of the Navajo Police Chaplain take him all over the Reservation and into tragic situations.  God has gifted him with the ability to counsel victims and their families, and law enforcement personnel, during tragic accidents and other traumatic events.

Jail Ministry

There is an ongoing ministry to both male and female inmates in the Window Rock jail, which is part of the tribal government. In addition, counseling and witnessing is available to the local county jail and state penitentiaries.

Counseling

Staff members are often called on to counsel individuals and families.  There are many needs for counseling on the Reservation due to alcohol abuse, domestic violence and neglect. Counseling is based on the Bible alone as our source for providing help, hope and encouragement.