Hands of Hope Project Helps Navajo Children Hear the Gospel

By Phil Draper

Holbrook Indian School student Kyle Monroe preaches his first sermon.

In February, seventh- and eighth-grade students from Thunderbird Christian Elementary headed to northern Arizona to do a mission project near Holbrook Indian School. During the project, 12 students preached a six-part evangelistic campaign.

Included in the 12-student team were two Native American students from Holbrook's seventh and eighth grade class. Neither of the Holbrook students had ever preached before.

These two students left a huge impression on their classmates. As they preached, they became bold in inviting those attending — fellow Native Americans — to give their hearts to the Lord.

Juan Metelin, a TCE student, was eager to share his impression of the meetings. "I remember when I was preaching, I was really nervous. But at the end, it felt really good to preach to other people. I also remember that we made a lot of new friends, and I think we touched them inside."

HIS Principal Dr. Janet Claymore-Ross, was amazed at the involvement with her students. She shared with Pastor Benjamin Lundquist, coordinator of the program, that having the Holbrook students participate in this evangelistic outreach was a unique experience for the school.

In addition to preaching, the students did a mission project at a nearby orphanage. Naomi's House Navajo Children's Orphanage is a small orphanage that reaches out to Native American children, infant to 16 years old, who come from homes of abuse and neglect.

The staff of the Hands of Hope project were pleased to see how students from two schools came together into one powerful team to accomplish a mission for God. Students from all different backgrounds built friendships that made them feel like one big family.

"I was happy when all the kids worked together to help the orphanage," said Jacob Duffy.

"I liked helping out at the orphanage because it felt good to help someone," said Ashley Norman. "I made a lot of friends with the kids from Holbrook!"

In addition to the evangelistic meetings and the mission project, students spent a day playing on and exploring the sand dunes of northern Arizona and another day snow tubing in the mountains near Flagstaff.

To view video footage of the meetings and fellowship, visit www.blip.tv and search for "Hands of Hope."