I've recently returned from my sixth OIMC Immersion Experience in the UMC Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference. I continue to learn new things and enjoy the relationships I've developed. There is lots to learn, not only about the Native People's, but about our Methodist relationship with them.
At the United Methodist Church's 2012 General Conference the UMC held an Act of Repentance with Native Peoples. The intent was for conference and local congregations to implement ongoing, consistent actions that demonstrate an attitude of repentance.
“The United Methodist Church will build bridges of respect and understanding with indigenous persons. Our churches must listen and become educated about the history of the relationship between indigenous persons and Christian colonizers in their own geographic location. Through prayer and relationship building, they will celebrate the gifts that indigenous people bring to the body of Jesus in the world.” - Page 624 The Book of Resolutions of the United Methodist Church 2020/2024
There are many ways besides an immersion experience that adults and youth can help build bridges and relationships with Native Peoples.
Not far away, the Oklahoma Missionary Conference of the United Methodist Church is our neighbor, www.umc-oimc.org. Youth or adult mission trips to Oklahoma can easily be arranged. Such a trip can be made as a fun mystery trip - because many aren't aware of the rich culture that is so close to us and there are many ways we can get to know them while helping. For example, many of the churches in the OIMC need help with construction related needs and VBS for children. Rev. Donna Pewo is Director of Connectional Ministries for the OIMC. Contact her for specific information about mission opportunities. dpewo@oimc.org. Rev. Pewo is also willing to be a guest speaker. She relates very well to both youth and adults.
A great addition to any trip is going to the Choctaw Culture Center is Calera, OK. Its only 10 miles north of the Texas-Oklahoma border on IH 75. (It's across 75 from the Casino, just so you know, which probably wouldn’t necessarily be part of a mission trip).
Another one is The First American Museum in Oklahoma, City. 
You can arrange for a tour, then explore it on your own. Then end the day at the water park next door on the grounds.
Wherever you go, when traveling please, please take time to learn about the Native Peoples who used to live there or are still in the area. Enrich your journey by getting to know on whose land you visit, live, work and play.
Building bridges and sustaining relationships with
Native Peoples is ongoing work and it is our work to do. I hope you'll find the effort as rewarding as I do!
-- Ruth Bowen, is a retired nurse and involved HTC UWFaith member from FUMC Denton. She is also a former Social Action Coordinator for the North Texas Conference UWFaith.
March 19, 2026
