Hozhoni, together we walk in beauty. Our voyages to the Navajo Nation take us into the heart of native America. Situated on the border of New Mexico and Arizona, and surrounded by some of the most dramatic terrain in the state, you’ll be heading into a week like no other. Our hope is to introduce you to the Navajo people through story and service. We will learn about their history, from their once-vast reign across North America to being hunted down by the US government, and how we can be tokens of healing and love.
When Christ calls us to serve “the Least of These,” the poorest of the poor, we generally don’t immediately think of people living within the borders of the United States. But the tragic story of the Navajo has left them with many challenges for them and one big challenge for us. We have a chance to serve, to learn, and to love others in a unique destination, one that happens to be a nation within our nation. Will you cross the border within our borders? Join the mission on a pilgrimage to Navajo Nation.
Overview
- Sing songs in Diné at a local worship service.
- Hike down to the floor of Canyon de Chelly to see ancient dwelings.
- Sit down with a native storyteller to hear the history of the Navajo people.
- Restore part of a school on the reservation.
- Maintain one of the national parks or monuments of New Mexico or Arizona.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
- Day 1 – Hozhoni
Our team will take the long journey to the heart of native America. We will travel into border of New Mexico and Arizona through some of the most dramatic terrain in the state, heading into a week filled with mission and exploration. Our home will be just outside of the Navajo Nation’s capital. Tonight we will get settled, learn about our week ahead and dive into Dine culture. Hozhoni, together we walk in beauty, will be our theme. - Day 2 – 4 To Love is To Serve
The next three days will be spent sharing hands of healing. The history of the native people is a sad tale. We will learn about their history, from their once-vast reign across North America to being hunted down by the US government. One of the reasons we visit this place is to bring a token of healing and love. For the next few days we will spend our mornings and afternoons on projects in the reservation. The reservations in America hold some of the greatest need in the world and we will try to help meet some of those needs. In the evenings we will rest and continue to hear the enchanting tales of the Dine. Be prepared to not only change lives but have your life changed. - Day 5 – A Sacred Canyon
In the early morning, you head to the brilliant Canyon de Chelly (pronounced “shay”). These spectacular canyons were the last stand for the Navajo tribes, as they unsuccessfully resisted the Indian hunter Kit Carson. You will drive the south rim of the sacred Canyon gaining higher perspective of this natural beauty. Your time in the canyon will be spectacular. - Day 6 – Albuquerque
Welcome to Albuquerque! After a great week in the Navajo Nation we will pack up and head to Albuquerque for our last day. When you get into town, we’ll check in, then explore this special southwestern town. Tonight we will have our Celebration Dinner at a classic Albuquerque haunt then go back to the retreat center for a special time of Pass the Candle. - Day 7 – Take Hozhoni Home
What a week we have had giving of ourselves for our Navajo brothers and sisters. Through storytelling, service, laughter and tears we have learned the heart of the Navajo people who once dominated the west. We have visited untold natural vistas. We have crossed not only two states but visited a different nation. There have been moments of wonder at every turn, but our greatest gift is learning the meaning of Hozhoni. May we walk together in beauty as we return home.
Legacy Location
Legacy in Navajo Nation
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.
