Embracing Indigenous Spirituality: The Church’s Ongoing Journey with Indigenous Peoples Through Antiracism Discipleship

At Discipleship Ministries, we believe that following Jesus means confronting racism in all its forms. Antiracism discipleship is not a separate ministry—it is core to what it means to make disciples for the transformation of the world. Rooted in our Wesleyan tradition of personal and social holiness, this work invites us to grow in grace, listen deeply, tell the truth about our past and present, and take action toward justice and reconciliation.

The Antiracism Discipleship Connective Learning Series is part of our strategic priority to support United Methodists in living out this call. It is a space of sacred learning and courageous conversation—where clergy and laity from across our connection gather to grow as disciples who love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.

In the reflection that follows, Micheal Pope shares her personal takeaways from this transformative gathering. She names the beauty of storytelling, the power of collective learning, and the importance of embodying community as we pursue antiracist discipleship together.

We Have Only Just Begun: It Begins with US!

By Micheal Pope

Why are we Here?

The second learning gathering of the Antiracism Discipleship Connective facilitated an informed and thought-provoking conversation that opened introductions and prayer. It was amazing to see so many gathered with a heart for eradicating the chains that bind the church and therefore us to racism.

Rev. Dr. Bener Agtarap, Executive Director, Community Engagement & Church Planting/Path 1 reminded us of the purpose and goals of the Antiracism Discipleship Connective. He invited everyone to participate in the conversation and to life up any resources that they thought might extend the dialogue.

Participants were asked to review many resources prior to the discussion. A video series introduced attendees to the history of native Americans and explained tribal sovereignty.

The resources provided also insured attendees would leave with ways to support Indigenous Churches and Leaders Within the UMC Connection. The valuable content can continue the learning process.

Armania Drane reminded us that God does not show favoritism. We as United Methodist are grounded in teachings of Jesus and the founder of the denomination, John Wesley. Together we are bearing witness to the challenges of our siblings who are still living under the ravages of Settler Colonialism.

Dialogue Opens Hearts and Minds

Twenty-two clergy and laity were led in a powerful discussion led by Rev. Cody Robinson, a citizen of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma and UM Pastor. His ability to explain the impact of Settler Colonialism on the polices that exist today.

We were taught that the US government was responsible for the numerous titles that have been used to describe 2.9% (percentage does not reflect those citizens who may not have been counted) of the US population. Rev. Cody pulled back the curtain so that we might see more clearly a rich history that began before Europeans came to the America’s. The creation story and stories passed down by the ancestors have described global experiences prior to 1492.

Native American history is connected by the stories of hundreds of Nations that collide together to describe the rich culture that has survived elimination.

Pastor Cody helped us to understand tribal sovereignty. Tribal sovereignty (574 tribes). Tribes had the ability to monitor and

The Indian Commerce Clause is one way in which the US Government tried to liquidate the power of the tribes while still creating loopholes where sovereignty means that the state gets involved.

Attendees learned about the Domestic Dependent Nations Act and the impact it has on the day to day lives among tribes.

The topic of Indigenous Spirituality was most enlightening to me. Being in nature has always felt spiritual and connective. Our indigenous siblings understand the power of the Earth always seeing harmony between humans and the natural order of nature.

Attendees were curious about the impact Christianity has had on the spiritual practices of Indigenous peoples. An attendee asked Rev. Cody if he liked the Indigenous Bible translation of the New Testament. His response helped all of us to understand that the First Nations translation was a demonstration of people holding on to their traditions but that he preferred the Bible translation used in his seminary training.

This is our Story

In the June session, Rev. Cody C. Robinson guided us into a powerful exploration of Indigenous history, sovereignty, and spirituality. His insights illuminated the continued impact of settler colonialism on our Native siblings and the urgent call to solidarity and healing within the UMC.

In one hour, misconceptions and misunderstandings were revealed. Together we shared our personal reflections and stories. Together we embraced what it means to live in community! The conversations that we are having are courageous and helping each of us to see the beauty of God’s creation in each of us.

As a group we are telling our stories and embracing that heaven on earth will require all of us to work together to eradicate all forms of racism. Replacing with curiosity, love, and unity!

Discussion Questions for Church Leaders

• How is our church acknowledging and responding to the historical and present realities of Indigenous peoples within our community and denomination?
• What practices in our worship, discipleship, or leadership might unintentionally exclude or silence voices from Indigenous or other marginalized communities?
• How can we integrate antiracism discipleship into the core of our ministry—not as an add-on, but as essential to who we are as followers of Jesus?

As we continue this journey, your presence, your story, and your commitment matter. Together, we are rediscovering what it means to be the Church in such a time as this.

What Comes Next

We invite you to join us for our next session on Wednesday, July 3 at 6 p.m. CDT. Micheal Pope will facilitate this topic on What we All Share...Exploring the Nuances of Racism within Minority Groups. If you are interested in joining us, let us know by sending an email to Amania Drane at [email protected]. When we receive your email, we will forward the Zoom link and information about how to join this session and future online gatherings.

For any other questions, contact Bener Agtarap at [email protected].