The Beauty Way

Issue 14/ Spring 2025

Growing Together in Faith

Regional Updates from Navajoland

This update was contributed by Rev. Cathlena Plummer of the Southeast Region, Rev. Michael Sells of the San Juan Region, and Rev. Jack Chase of the Utah Region.

Across our regions, we’re coming together to grow in faith and strengthen our communities. In the Southeast Region, the gardening program and Bible studies are fostering deeper connections. In the San Juan Region, church improvements and the reopening of the Hospitality House highlight our commitment to service. And in the Utah Region, we’re reflecting on Lent and preparing for an active spring and summer. Read more about these and other exciting updates as we continue to support each other and grow in faith.

Southeast Region Updates

A significant initiative has emerged from the Southeast Region, where both Rev. Leon and Rev. Cathlena have been informing congregations about recent developments in their mission statement. One major focus is the creation of a spiritually guided gardening program, which not only teaches essential gardening skills but also fosters deeper spiritual growth. The hope is that this program will involve our Youth, allowing them to explore prayer and formation within church-related roles, such as becoming acolytes, torchbearers, or crucifers. This spiritual involvement is designed to benefit their daily walk of faith and to support their growth in mind and skills.

In late October 2024, Rev. Leon surveyed the congregations to understand their desires for change within their church. The unanimous response was the return of Bible study and Navajo hymnal study, which are now being offered in rotating sessions every other Wednesday. These gatherings, where the St. Mark’s and Good Shepherd congregations come together to learn new Navajo hymns and the Blessingway Prayer, have brought profound spiritual connection. The Blessingway Prayer, along with the “Jesus Woodlaaji Sin” Navajo hymns, is central to our shared faith, bridging the gap between past and present generations.

As we journey together, rediscovering and nurturing our faith is critical in this transitional time. We are reminded that, as we continue to learn and share, our connections with the powerful words of the Blessingway Prayer and other sacred hymns are what bind us together in beauty.

San Juan Region Updates

Over the winter months, All Saints Church in Farmington has been hard at work improving its facilities. With the installation of a new HVAC system in the downstairs parish hall and upgraded heating and cooling systems upstairs, the church is now better equipped to serve our community in all seasons. We are deeply grateful for everyone who contributed to this project. However, the work continues as we repay our generous partners, and the Bishop’s committee remains active in raising funds through food sales, games, and raffles. Contributions to the All Saints Furnace Fund are welcome.

Additionally, the Hospitality House, which serves as a home for visitors during mission trips and Vacation Bible School, underwent extensive renovations last year after water damage. We are excited to report that it is now ready to welcome guests again. Once it passes inspection, we plan to furnish the house with beds, mattresses, linens, and other necessary items. Please keep an eye on our Amazon Wish List if you would like to support these efforts.

St. Michael’s in Upper Fruitland has also benefitted from new furnaces, thanks to a generous donor, along with an upgraded electrical system funded through surplus contributions. Similarly, St. Luke’s parish hall in Huerfano now boasts a sturdy new metal roof, funded by a generous donor and volunteers. This church, one of the oldest worship spaces in our region at 94 years old, remains an essential part of our faith community.

We ask for your continued prayers for our smaller congregations, where participation and volunteer support remain crucial. Grandparents, parents, and single mothers continue to bring new generations to church, and we are thankful for their desire to serve both the church and the broader community.

Utah Region Updates
As we enter the spring season, our church communities begin reflecting on the themes of Lent—Repentance, Forgiveness, Healing, and Gratitude. We invite each other to deeply reflect on how we have fallen short, especially in following Jesus’ commandment to love one another. What does it mean to be forgiven? What does it mean to forgive? How does forgiveness lead to healing? And, in all things, we are encouraged to remember the blessings we have received and to express gratitude for them.

In addition to the Sunday Holy Eucharist, we gather every Friday evening during Lent to walk the Way of the Cross at our “summer” church. This tradition allows us to support each other in our spiritual growth and reflection. We are also eagerly preparing for the Great Vigil of Easter, where, at dawn on Easter Sunday, we will gather on BLM land overlooking the river to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Looking ahead to the spring and summer, we are deep into planning with our mission partners, preparing for an active season filled with activities and opportunities to serve. The tiny houses are ready for guests, and we are putting the finishing touches on their furnishings to ensure comfort. Our Retreat House has received a new sturdy concrete floor in the dining room, and the garden beds are being prepared for another season of healthy vegetable growth, with plans to expand the row gardens thanks to support from one of our long-term partners.

As we walk in the way of Christ, we rejoice in the “great cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us and those who walk alongside us. With the Holy Spirit guiding us, we have much to be grateful for in this season of renewal.