Indigenous Mission Day Review

Indigenous Mission Day – September 28, 2024 - Shinnecock Presbyterian Church, Southampton, NY 

 Nearly 30 participants from across the Synod gathered at Shinnecock Church, welcomed by session elders Saundra Dennis, Cheryl Franklin, Loretta Reddick, and Susan Soto, and Rev. Kate Jones Calone executive presbyter Long Island Presbytery. The day was spent learning and serving, strengthening ties with this historic indigenous Native Reformed congregation, the oldest in the U.S. Elder Marguerite Smith and Rev. Michael Smith offered valuable guidance throughout the event. Participants from Long Island, Coastlands, and Southern New England Presbyteries, along with Synod leaders, joined for worship led by Rev. SanDawna Gaulman Ashley, who delivered an inspiring message based on Psalm 124. 

Prior to Mission Day, participants viewed the documentary Conscience Point, exploring the ongoing Shinnecock efforts to reclaim sacred lands. Shinnecock artist David Martine offered a tour of the Shinnecock Nation Cultural Museum, sharing centuries of tribal history. 

In the afternoon, volunteers tackled projects like installing kitchen hardware, cleaning windows, and stabilizing the church ramp. The day was a meaningful blend of service, learning, and relationship-building. Many left eager to continue this partnership. 

Indigenous Mission Day Report – September 28, 2024 - Brook Church, Hillburn, NY 

Brook Church welcomed five volunteers alongside church members for a day of service, despite rainy weather delaying the shed assembly. Volunteers completed key tasks, including cleaning the kitchen, office, sanctuary windows, pews, and bathrooms, and deep-cleaning the sanctuary carpet and fellowship hall. 

Participants watched Women of the Ramapough Lenape Nation prior to the event, followed by a discussion with the documentary's photographer, Lisa Levart, who shared her experience working with the Ramapough women. 

Hudson River Presbytery's Executive Presbyter, Deb Milcarek, visited, deepening the church’s connection with the presbytery. The event concluded with a worship service on September 29, where Rev. Dr. Nichol Burris delivered a sermon on honoring creation, marking the day as one of relationship-building and cultural appreciation.