Native American Ministries
Contact
Rev. Benjamin T. Sullivan
National Coordinator, Native American Ministries
Phone
Walking together in faith, leadership, and community
For generations, American Baptists have partnered with Native American communities in ministry shaped by faith, resilience, and mutual learning. Native American Ministries aims to strengthen Native congregations, nurture leadership, and support communities as they seek healing, hope, and spiritual vitality.
Native American Ministries is a partnership between ABHMS and Native American churches and leaders across the United States. These congregations are located in the Northeast, Southern Plains, Northwest, and Southwest, reflecting the diversity of Native cultures and traditions.
While this ministry has roots in earlier missionary work, today it continues as a growing partnership rooted in respect, collaboration, and shared commitment to Christ-centered service. Native communities across the country continue to face significant social and economic challenges, many of which arise from unresolved historical injustices, broken promises, and systems that perpetuate inequality.
Yet within these circumstances lies the strength and wisdom of Native peoples representing over 500 distinct tribes, whose cultural traditions highlight the vital importance of relationships, community, and spiritual well-being.
Through Native American Ministries, ABHMS partners with Native leaders and congregations to foster leadership, equip disciples, and strengthen communities through ministry, training, and collaboration.
Leadership development: Native American Leadership Training Series (NALTS)
A key part of this ministry is the Native American Leadership Training Series (NALTS). Launched in 2020, NALTS offers training and resources that strengthen both pastoral and lay leadership in Native churches. The program helps congregations grow existing ministries and create new initiatives that address community needs. NALTS emphasizes:
Enhancing pastoral and lay leadership skills
Building capacity for innovative ministry
Supporting discipleship and church leadership
Preparing the next generation of Native Christian leaders
A new training model includes the Ten × 10 Youth Ministry Training Program, designed to help leaders from participating churches strengthen youth discipleship, leadership skills, and church vitality. In addition to leadership training, Native American Ministries connects participants with more learning opportunities through courses offered by the ABHMS Center for Continuous Learning, ongoing support via virtual gatherings on the ministrElife platform, and other online conversations that promote shared learning.
A long partnership of care
ABHMS’ partnership with Native communities highlights longstanding support for the Murrow Indian Children’s Home in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Founded by an American Baptist more than a century ago, the home provides a safe, nurturing environment for Native American children. Its mission is to offer stability, spiritual grounding, and cultural connection to the children it serves, reflecting a lasting commitment to caring for Native families and communities.
Walking together toward hope and renewal
Across generations and geographies, Native American Ministries reflects a shared commitment to faith, leadership, and community. Whether you are called to learn, serve, or support, there is a place for you in this work of partnership and transformation.
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Engage with ABHMS
Reach out to learn how your church or organization can participate in this growing partnership.
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Build Meaningful Connections
Join ministry leaders and peers who share your calling, where you can exchange wisdom and walk alongside one another in a secure, supportive space.
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Support Native Communities
Give to sustain leadership development, discipleship, and community care among Native congregations.