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ARIZONA
THE PEOPLE OF THE LAND. The Navajo people, who call themselves Diné, have lived throughout the Colorado Plateau for generations. Their culture developed around a deep connection to the land, with traditions of sheep herding, farming, weaving, silversmithing, and storytelling shaping community life.
During the nineteenth century, conflict with the United States government culminated in the forced removal of thousands of Diné from their homeland. Beginning in 1864, many were marched hundreds of miles to Bosque Redondo in eastern New Mexico, an event remembered as the Long Walk. Conditions during their confinement were devastating, resulting in widespread suffering and death.
The Treaty of 1868 allowed the Navajo people to return to a portion of their ancestral homeland. Over subsequent generations, the Navajo Nation expanded its territory while its people worked to preserve their language, traditions, and cultural identity despite federal assimilation policies and other pressures.
LIFE ACROSS THE PLATEAU. Today, the Navajo Nation is the largest Native American reservation in the United States, encompassing more than 27,000 square miles across Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. Its communities range from larger population centers to remote settlements scattered among mesas, canyons, and high desert landscapes.
Family relationships, traditional teachings, and the Diné language remain important expressions of cultural identity. Tribal institutions, schools, and community organizations work to preserve these traditions while responding to the needs of contemporary life.
The reservation also faces challenges involving employment, infrastructure, healthcare access, and reliable water supplies, particularly in rural areas. Despite these difficulties, the Navajo Nation maintains a vibrant cultural identity and a strong tradition of community resilience. Christian churches serve alongside communities that continue to practice traditional Diné spirituality, reflecting the region's diverse religious landscape.
TWO COMMUNITIES, ONE MISSION. In Flagstaff, Northern Arizona University brings together thousands of students from diverse cultural, religious, and geographic backgrounds. For many, college represents a formative season of independence, exploration, and personal discovery. Led by Bethany Carter, Chi Alpha Campus Ministries seeks to meet students during these influential years, providing a Spirit-empowered community where they can encounter Jesus, develop lasting friendships, and grow into lifelong disciples. Through worship, discipleship, and intentional relationships, the ministry invests in students who will eventually carry their faith into communities around the world.
Beyond the university, Mountaintop Church maintains a presence in Kayenta, within the Navajo Nation. With an emphasis on biblical teaching, Spirit-led worship, prayer, and authentic relationships, the church seeks to cultivate a vibrant Christian community rooted in the local area. Its presence provides opportunities for individuals and families to experience meaningful fellowship, spiritual growth, and the transforming power of the Gospel without leaving their own community.
COMPONENTS
COMING SOON. This will be a component of the trip.
COMING SOON. This will be a component of the trip.
COMING SOON. This will be a component of the trip.
ACROSS THE COLORADO PLATEAU. Stretching across the high desert landscapes of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah lies the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States. Covering more than 27,000 square miles, the region is characterized by towering sandstone formations, expansive mesas, deep canyons, and vast stretches of desert.
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