The Beauty Way
Issue 14/ Spring 2025
Unveiling Our New Mission Statement
Walking in Beauty and Unity
By GJ Gordy
Hózhó is a complex Navajo concept in which an individual strives for harmony and balance in life and fosters a connection to all aspects of the natural world. As we embark on this new chapter of our journey, we are called to reflect deeply on the concept of Kodóó Hózhó dooleeł, which can be loosely translated as “It begins in Beauty.”
For over a year, the leadership in Navajoland has been working diligently with the assistance of Rev. Canon Lee Curtis and Rev. Simone Drinkwater from the Diocese of the Rio Grande. The difficulty of this task has been immense as the Navajo language is intricate, with meanings that shift depending on the context, cultural backgrounds, family traditions, clanship, and the specific region of the reservation. Each factor influences how words and phrases are understood, adding layers of depth and richness to the language beyond simple definitions. Keeping this in mind, we have now completed the creation of a Diné (Navajo) Mission Statement. However, how do we convey the richness of our words into English where the emotions and meanings held within them, shaped by generations, are often left unarticulated? After many conversations, we have an official English translation that Bishop Barry shared in his letter on the previous page.
We can only hope that we each strive for Hózhó and that the journey and experience gained by taking that leap into interconnectedness will open our hearts to understanding.
At the last gathering of Navajoland leadership, the new Mission Statement is as follows:
NihiTaa Jesus Diyin ayoo at’ei biye nilíini ninąąjį’
Kodóó hózhó dooleeł
Doo yá’áh’da’téehi bits’ąąjį
Ajooba’ dóó áshįįnéé
Bee daa k’é’go
Hózhó násháslįį dooleeł.
The journey to Hózhó challenges us to recognize a force that propels us forward, rooted in faith, hope, love, compassion, and unity. As we seek understanding, we also seek a deeper relationship with one another, with creation, and with Diyin God, our Creator. The unfolding of a new vision for our missionary diocese requires patience and humility, recognizing that the journey itself is beautiful—every step, every challenge, every breakthrough. Kodóó Hózhó dooleeł reminds us that the true beauty of life comes from embracing the sacredness of the present moment, where each encounter, no matter how small, can reveal the divine.
May this Mission Statement serve as a reminder of our commitment, drawing us closer as we move forward in this new chapter. Let us honor the wisdom of those who came before us and laid the path to this moment. Let us hold our community up with prayers for strength and peace. And know that with your support, we continue to walk in beauty and live out the truth of our interconnectedness.
May the beauty of Hózhó guide our hearts and hands as we move forward together in service and faith. -Amen