Update: Navajoland Bishop Search

Missionary Diocese of Navajoland
By Navajoland Communications Office
December 19, 2025

The Standing Committee of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland shares the following letter from the Rev. Alyssa Stebbing, who has formally withdrawn from the slate of nominees in the election of the first bishop of the Missionary Diocese of Navajoland.

We are grateful for Rev. Alyssa’s prayerful discernment, her time among the people of Navajoland, and the spirit of care and integrity with which she has participated in this process. The Standing Committee has accepted her withdrawal.

The bishop election process will continue with the remaining nominees, the Rev. Cornelia Eaton and the Rev. Leon Sampson. We give thanks for their willingness to continue offering themselves for discernment.

We ask the church to hold Rev. Alyssa, the nominees, and the people of Navajoland in prayer during this season.

Letter from the Rev. Alyssa Stebbing

Dear All,

It is with deep sorrow and regret that I will need to withdraw from the Bishop election. After prayer, meeting with my current and incoming Senior Wardens, and speaking with my regional Bishop, it is untenable for me to remain a candidate for six more months.

The 12 days spent in Navajoland and the entire prayerful process has had a profound effect on me, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. My heart and soul remain in deep prayer for this new mission diocese and for its new bishop. Cornelia and Leon, I will be praying for you and know God is with you. I hope that I can continue to support the Episcopal Church in Navajoland and walk with the people and their clergy, including the new bishop. I am in deep prayer as to how the Spirit will lead.

I am forever grateful for the relationships I made with you all. You all are wonderful and faithful servants of God. Thank you for all the hard work, prayerful discernment, love, and dedication each of you has made in support of this new mission diocese. I also thank you for your support of me in the process and your concern and care.

May the Creator God continue to bless and guide you.

In Peace and All Good,

Alyssa+

Update: Navajoland Bishop Search

Missionary Diocese of Navajoland
By Navajoland Communications Office
December 15, 2025

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

We give thanks to God, Creator of all, for the unfolding journey before us.

In June 2025, the Executive Council approved our Constitution, the final step in our sacred journey to become a missionary diocese. This moment marked not an ending, but a beginning rooted in prayer, listening, and faithful courage. Today, we share an update as we continue forward on our bishop search journey.

Earlier this month, three bishop nominees visited Navajoland. They traveled among our congregations across the three regions, visiting, listening deeply, praying, and sharing meals with our Navajo people. This time together was holy work. It was relationship-building, story-sharing, and truth-telling within our communities and within the land itself.

The process we have undertaken is new for us, and it is also new for The Episcopal Church as a whole. As we walk this path, we are learning that it will take longer than we first imagined. We trust that the Holy Spirit works in God’s time. Creator knows our path, and places before us the learning processes needed for growth, wisdom, and grounding within Creation.

As our nominees walked with us within the four sacred mountains of the Navajo Nation, we recognized that our discernment among these three nominees must be extended by six months. This time is a gift, allowing us and our nominees to grow, learn, and strengthen our foundation through shared knowledge, lived stories, prayerful discernment, and truth spoken in love. We now expect to hold a bishop election in June 2026.

We ask you to continue walking with us. We are forging a path no one has walked before, faithfully stepping into a future shaped by the diverse leaders who walk with us today and by those who came before, each contributing to the journey and passing their wisdom to those who followed, by the Episcopal tradition we carry, and by the movement of the Holy Spirit. Your prayers, patience, and support sustain us as we continue this sacred work together.

May Creator continue to guide our steps.

Sincerely,
The Standing Committee of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland

Dear Friends in Christ,

Yáʼátʼééh – greetings of peace and blessing to you and your loved ones.

This year has been a historic and spirit-filled time in the life of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland. In June 2025, we gathered for our first-ever Diocesan Convention as a Missionary Diocese, a sacred milestone in our shared journey of faith, leadership, and cultural witness.

Important Change:

We had initially planned to gather in Ft. Defiance in November 2025 for the 49th Convocation. After much prayer and discernment, the Council has made the decision to cancel the November 2025 Convocation and instead hold it during the summer of the following year.

This change ensures that more families can attend during summer break and reduces the logistical burden on our regions, having to host two events back-to-back.

Updated Schedule:

• 49th Convocation (In-Person)
  New Date: June 12–13, 2026
  New Location: Bluff, Utah
• Diocesan Convention (Virtual)
  Date: November 7, 2026
  Location: Online via Zoom

This shift allows us to gather for our Celebratory Convocation during the summer months, a season when families are more able to travel, school is on break, and our communities are freer to come together in celebration.

The November 2026 Diocesan Convention will now be held virtually, focusing on the necessary work of governance, leadership, and vision, allowing us to steward our mission with care, without placing additional travel or hosting demands on our regions.

As we are in a time of change, we are still finding what works best for all of us. With each step, we are seeking to align our gatherings more closely with our cultural rhythms, our practical realities, and the mission of the Church. We appreciate your patience, prayers, and continued support as we walk this new path together.

We apologize for any inconvenience these changes may cause and sincerely appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we continue to grow into this new season together.

Through these gatherings, whether for sacred business or shared joy, we remain grounded in the spirit of hózhǫ́, walking in beauty, balance, and faith. We look forward to welcoming you to Bluff in 2026 for a Convocation filled with song, teaching, community, and thanksgiving.

In peace and hope,

Your friends in Navajoland

From the Office of Communications, The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

Final Update – July 11, 2025
Oak Ridge Fire Now 93% Contained

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

We write today with gratitude and good news. The Oak Ridge Fire, which has impacted our communities here in Navajoland over the past weeks, is now 93% contained. Fire crews continue to patrol the perimeter, especially along the western front, where minor smoldering remains are present. The fire’s footprint holds steady at 11,027 acres, and most major fire activity has been extinguished.

The weather remains hot and dry, with occasional winds, but conditions have improved significantly. A reduced Type 3 firefighting team, now comprising 30 personnel, continues to ensure the safety and stability of the area.

Current Status (as of July 11, 2025):
• Acreage Burned: 11,027 acres
• Containment: 93%
• Personnel: 30
• Fire Behavior: Minimal interior smoldering
• Weather: Hot, dry, some wind

All evacuation orders were lifted on July 8, and residents have safely returned to their homes. Support continues for livestock owners through the Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture.

To Our Episcopal Family

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all across the wider Episcopal Church who lifted us in prayer, reached out with words of support, and stood with us from afar. Your love has been a steady presence in a time of uncertainty and challenge.

Through your prayers, we have felt the communion of saints in action, stretching across the miles, carried in hope, rooted in Christ. Your care reminded us that we do not face fire alone.

A Prayer of Thanksgiving and Healing

O God of mercy,

We give thanks for the rain yet to fall,
For the soil that holds our roots,
And for the love that binds us together across time and land.

Thank you for every hand that held the line,
For every prayer spoken in silence or aloud,
And for every act of compassion that softened this time of fire.

As the smoke clears and healing begins,
Let your Spirit rise like morning light—
Calming hearts, renewing strength,
And restoring all creation with your peace.

Amen.

With deep love and enduring gratitude,
Office of Communications
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

From the Office of Communications, The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

July 9, 2025

From the Office of Communications, The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

July 5, 2025

Dear Relatives,

We greet this day with gratitude for steady progress on the fire line and for all who continue to walk with us through this season of challenge and resilience.

As of this morning, the Oak Ridge Fire has reached 26% containment, a significant and hopeful step forward. The fire has now burned 10,814 acres, with over 600 personnel working tirelessly to hold and strengthen containment lines. Though the terrain remains difficult and the weather has turned hot and dry again, crews are staying the course with care and resolve.

Fire Status (as of July 5, 2025)

• Acreage Burned: 10,814 acres
• Containment: 26%
• Personnel: 604
• Fire Behavior: Active in interior areas; risk of spread remains minimal along containment lines
• Weather Conditions: Highs in the mid-80s, humidity 10–15%, with dry winds from the west (15–20 mph).

Please continue to exercise caution in all outdoor activity. The Navajo Nation remains under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. Details and fire safety guidance can be found at opvp.navajo-nsn.gov.

Evacuation Status

There has been continued progress on the evacuation front:

• Zone 12 remains under “Go” (evacuate immediately).
• Zones 1, 2, 4, 10, and 11 remain in “Set” status (prepare to leave).
• Zones 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are now in “Ready” status (stay alert and prepared).

Repopulation has begun in several areas. To view an interactive evacuation map and for zone-specific updates, please visit tinyurl.com/4b7uaapn. You can also sign up for Navajo Nation emergency alerts by texting NavajoNation (no space) to 888777.

Shelter & Donations Update

Shelters in Window Rock and Ganado are now in the process of demobilizing, and operations are transitioning to the six most affected chapters.

Please note the following important changes:

• Donations are no longer being accepted, except for hay to support displaced livestock.
• The Navajo Division of Natural Resources has respectfully ended acceptance of pet food donations, as needs have now been met.
• No cooked meals, bottled water, or hygiene items are currently being accepted.

If you feel called to offer support, the most meaningful way at this time is to write notes or create signs of encouragement for firefighters and emergency personnel. These messages are being shared with crews and bring great comfort and strength.

A Note of Thanks

To our firefighters, incident command teams, chapter leaders, volunteers, and prayer warriors, we see you. We honor the labor of your hands, the courage in your hearts, and the sacred way you care for land and life.

A Prayer for Steady Hands and Grateful Hearts

O God of fire and wind, of rain and renewal,
Be present with those who labor in this heat and hardship.
Guard their bodies from harm, their spirits from weariness.
For every tree spared, every home protected, every person guided to safety,
We offer thanks.
May your peace settle where the smoke once rose.
May your mercy rise where fear still lingers.
May your strength surround each one who serves.

In the name of our Creator, Sustainer, and Shelter,
Amen.

We will continue to share updates as they become available. Until then, we encourage you to stay safe, stay informed, and stay connected.

With love, hope, and prayers,

Office of Communications
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

From the Office of Communications, The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

July 3, 2025

Dear Relatives,

This morning brought hopeful news from the fire line. The Oak Ridge Fire, which has burned through 10,623 acres, is now 6% contained, according to the Complex Incident Management Team (CIMT). Recent rains and increased humidity have allowed fire crews to strengthen containment on the northern perimeter, a sign that prayers, preparation, and coordination are starting to shift the course of this fire.

Though the road ahead remains uncertain, today we pause to acknowledge progress and the hands, hearts, and spirits helping to make that possible.

Fire Status (as of July 3, 2025)

• Acreage Burned: 10,623 acres
• Containment: 6%
• Fire Behavior: Calmer due to moisture, though gusty winds remain a concern
• Crews: Over 500 personnel still working in rotation across the fire zone

Evacuation Status Update

There has been a positive shift in Klagetoh:

Zones 6, 7, and 8 have transitioned from “Go” (evacuate immediately) back to “Ready” status.

This change reflects the stabilizing fire conditions in those zones, though all residents are urged to stay vigilant and ready to evacuate if conditions shift.

Evacuation status is determined daily by the Incident Command team in consultation with local chapters. For the latest, follow official Navajo Nation emergency channels or contact your local leadership.

Ganado Fieldhouse Shelter & Donations

The Ganado Fieldhouse continues to operate as a central shelter for those displaced by the Oak Ridge Fire. We remain deeply grateful to those who have offered supplies and time to support our relatives in need.

The shelter is currently accepting the following items:

Essential Donations:

• Non-perishable food
• Bottled water
• Hygiene products (new/unopened)
• Blankets (new/packaged)
• Towels (new/packaged)

Please do not bring:

• Cooked meals
• Monetary donations
• Gift cards

Drop-off Hours:

8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily

Location: Main entrance of the Ganado Fieldhouse

Donation receipts available upon request

Donations will continue to be accepted until the shelter closes or per guidance from the Incident Command Post.

Questions? Call the shelter at 928-349-0815

Ahéhee’ to everyone who has responded with compassion. Every gesture—large or small—makes a difference.

A Prayer for This Time

A Prayer – For Those Who Minister in Time of Wildfire

Loving and merciful God, wherever we go, you are there with us;

strengthen those who serve in the time of wildfire;

buoy their spirit as they encounter despair;

strengthen them as they comfort the displaced;

and guide them as they guide others to safety and security.

We ask this in the name of Jesus who is our strength and our safe place.

– St. Paul’s Ventura

We offer this prayer for every firefighter, elder, volunteer, and family walking through this hardship. As the winds shift and the fire line holds, may we continue to hold each other up with faith, with presence, and with deep respect for the sacredness of this land.

Stay safe. Stay prepared. We will share more updates as they are received.

With love, hope, and prayers,

Office of Communications

The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

Contact: Good Shepherd Mission – 928-729-2322

From the Office of Communications, The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

July 2, 2025

Dear Relatives,

The Oak Ridge Fire continues to pose a serious threat across Navajoland, with growing impacts on families, homes, and sacred land. As firefighting efforts intensify and evacuation orders expand, our priority remains the safety, well-being, and support of those affected. Conditions remain challenging, with the fire still 0% contained and now having consumed over 10,623 acres.

Today’s update includes the latest on evacuation efforts, emergency resources, fire crew deployments, and public donation guidance. We stand with every family facing uncertainty and remain committed to providing timely, accurate information as the situation evolves.

Firefighting Efforts

We are grateful to the brave individuals working tirelessly to contain the fire. Navajo Hotshots have now been assigned to the Oak Ridge Fire, and in addition, Geronimo Hotshots, representing the San Carlos Apache Tribe, are also in attendance. These skilled crews are crucial in the ongoing effort to contain the fire and prevent further devastation.

Evacuations and Shelters

Klagetoh residents have been evacuated, and those seeking shelter are encouraged to visit the Ganado Field House. Over 100 homes have been evacuated, and more than 350 residents are displaced. Shelters have been set up to provide evacuees with food, water, and emotional support services.

Other communities, such as Wide Ruins and St. Michaels, are under Set status, meaning that residents should be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen. Public safety checkpoints have been established along major highways to limit access to affected areas, and we ask that people avoid entering the fire zone.

Livestock Water Station – Ft. Defiance Chapter House

For residents who have been displaced and have livestock, a water station has been set up at the Ft. Defiance Chapter House. The water truck will be available on the east side of the parking lot until 4:45 PM today. This service is offered to help meet the needs of livestock owners affected by the fire.

Donation Information

The Oak Ridge Fire Public Call Center has received numerous inquiries regarding donations. As of now, donations can be made at the Fighting Scouts Events Center, located at Navajo Route 12, Fort Defiance, AZ 86504. The Wellness Center on the Window Rock Fairgrounds is no longer accepting donations.

Suggested Donation Items include:

• New clothing for men, women, and children (shirts, pants, underwear, socks)
• New bedding, blankets, mattresses, cots, and pillows
• Non-perishable packaged foods
• Face masks
• Towels, washcloths, hand towels, and laundry baskets (all new)

Please remember that for other impacted chapters, donations are being handled independently.

Shiprock Chapter Donations

As of June 30, following President Nygren’s declaration of a state of emergency, both the Navajo Nation and the U.S. government can now allocate funds for relief efforts. The Shiprock Chapter is collecting baby diapers (sizes 2, 3, 4, 5), adult diapers (medium, large), and sanitizing wipes (for babies and hands). Donations are being accepted on July 1 and 2, from 8 AM to 4 PM, and will be transported to the main donation center at the Fighting Scouts Events Center in Ft. Defiance, AZ.

From the Navajo Department of Emergency Management:

• The Oak Ridge Fire Incident Command is not accepting monetary donations, including cash, checks, or online payments.
• There are no official GoFundMe accounts or authorized online fundraisers for this fire.
• Be alert to scams and fraudulent donation campaigns.
• Any monetary donation is made at your own risk and is not endorsed by the Navajo Nation.
• Wait for official guidance before making any financial contributions.

For questions, contact the Oak Ridge Fire Public Call Center: 505-422-7382.

Livestock, Pet, and Emergency Supplies

For those who have been evacuated or displaced with livestock or pets, supplies such as hay, minimal dog/cat food, N95 masks, and bottled water are available at the St. Michael’s Chapter Warehouse. Priority will be given to those directly affected by the fire, for St. Michael’s and Oak Springs Chapter Communities.

Ceremonial Fire Guidelines

The Navajo Nation EPA has reminded members planning ceremonial events that require open fires to properly register them. Ceremonial fire registration forms must be submitted at least five days prior to the event. This ensures safety and proper management during this critical time.

Support for First Responders

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who are working tirelessly to control the blaze and protect our communities. Several events have been organized to support them:

Feeding Event: July 2, 2025, 11 AM – 2 PM, next to Denny’s in St. Michaels, AZ located by the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Drive-Thru Event: July 3, 2025, 11:30 AM – 1 PM, at the Navajo Nation Oil and Gas Company Corporate Office.

Next Steps

While the fire is not yet under control, our efforts remain focused on providing support to those in immediate need. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will keep you updated on developments as they occur.

We encourage you to stay informed through official sources, refrain from spreading unverified information, and direct any inquiries to Good Shepherd Mission at 928-729-2322.

Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers as we face this difficult time together. Our community remains resilient, and with faith and solidarity, we will overcome this challenge.

With love, hope, and prayers,

Office of Communications

The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

Contact: Good Shepherd Mission – 928-729-2322

From the Office of Communications, The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

July 1, 2025

Dear Relatives,

As the Oak Ridge Fire continues to spread across Navajoland, we stand in prayer and solidarity with all those affected by this devastating event. The fire has already burned over 9,800 acres and remains 0% contained. Strong winds are pushing the flames toward the community of Klagetoh, Arizona, which is located approximately 48 miles from Ft. Defiance. Firefighters have managed to hold the fire south of Highway 264, and while conditions are improving slightly, with higher humidity expected, the threat of thunderstorms continues to pose a risk. Over 350 personnel are working tirelessly to control the fire, with additional hotshot crews expected to arrive. Our hearts and prayers are with the families impacted, and we remain committed to offering support during this challenging time.

As of this morning, Klagetoh has been placed under “Go” evacuation status, and residents near the Klagetoh Substation have been asked to evacuate immediately. In addition, the communities of Wide Ruins and St. Michaels (about 8 miles from Ft. Defiance) are under “Set” status, meaning that residents should be prepared to evacuate if the situation escalates. Over 100 homes and more than 350 residents have already been evacuated. Shelters have been set up at the Ganado Field House and the Bee Hółdzil Fighting Scouts Events Center in Fort Defiance, where evacuees are being provided with food, water, and emotional support services. We encourage everyone to stay informed through official sources and avoid entering the area affected by the fire. Public safety checkpoints have been established along major highways and near Klagetoh to limit access.

Here is a link to see an interactive map of the fire:

Interactive Fire Map

Several organizations have already responded to the immediate situation, offering critical assistance to those displaced by the fire. From the perspective of the Vicars of Good Shepherd Mission, they believe that with the resources mentioned above, the emergency response team from the Navajo Nation is actively addressing the immediate needs at present. They suggest holding off on additional donations for now to assess what supplies will be needed as the situation evolves.

During the Southeast Region Parish Council meeting, a group of community members expressed a strong desire to help. However, many felt that it would be more effective to wait until the fire is more under control before focusing on aiding with the aftermath. It’s important to note that some of our congregation members’ sheep camps have been affected by the fire, and several extended community members have already been evacuated. We remain committed to assisting in the rebuilding process and supporting these families when the time is right. We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates as needed. Additionally, our church remains open for prayer and emotional support for those impacted by the fire. We invite anyone in need of comfort or connection to join us in prayer.

We also want to express our sincere gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who work tirelessly around the clock to keep our communities safe. At this time, the Navajo Nation and the Incident Command Post are not accepting monetary donations, Amazon deliveries, fresh food, or clothing. Our efforts are focused on providing essential supplies for the shelters. Please continue to follow updates from official sources and avoid spreading unverified information. It is crucial that we stay united and focused on supporting one another through this crisis.

Let us continue to pray for our neighbors, for the safety of the first responders, and the protection of our land. Through faith and togetherness, we will overcome this challenge. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please get in touch with Good Shepherd Mission, the closest church to the fire, at 928-729-2322.

Please note that all updates on the situation will be posted here on our website. We encourage you to check the site regularly for the latest information. There will not be follow-up emails sent out regarding future updates.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide you with further updates as needed. Thank you for your ongoing prayers and support.

With love, hope, and prayers,

Office of Communications

The Episcopal Church in Navajoland

Contact: Good Shepherd Mission – 928-729-2322