Journal of NAIITS

Volume 21 (2023)

Ethnomusicology: Indigenous Heart Languages

A reflection by Jonathan Dueck, VP Academic at CMU in Winnipeg
“The 2023 NAIITS symposium gathered practitioners—musicians, church leaders—and numerous kinds of scholars interested in music and faith in Indigenous contexts, together. NAIITS also gathered a wide diversity of Indigenous voices, encouraging both commonality and difference in the discussions NAIITS hosted. And NAIITS welcomed non-Indigenous participants, like me, to the gathering and the conversation.

To me this seemed exemplary and something that perhaps only an Indigenous-led gathering like NAIITS could really achieve. In ethnomusicological circles, at least those I’m part of, a big part of studying Indigenous music is recognizing the propriety of musical knowledge—that is, what knowledge about music can be circulated where. That remains important in all contexts, I think, including world Indigenous gatherings—but because NAIITS is Indigenous-led and Indigenous-centred, the anxiety that I sometimes see ‘white’ ethnomusicologists feeling around cultural propriety was largely absent. Instead, there was an excitement to share and learn, and an appreciation of difference and propriety. We could share musical space and intimacy without erasing our differences.”

1. Adrian Jacobs, Ray Minniecon, Sam Chapman, John Grosvenor, Jerry Goins, Fern Cloud, “Our Music Our Way,” pp. 1–21.
2. Jonathan Maracle, “The Call Of The Drum,” pp. 22–41.
3. Simon Moetara, “Reflections On The Use Of Te Reo Māori In Contemporary Worship Music Within The Evangelical-Pentecostal-Charismatic Churches In Aotearoa-New Zealand,” pp. 42–57.
4. Jhonny A. Nieto Ossa, “The Legend Of The Yurupary—A Bridge To Understanding?” pp. 58–69.
5. Chung-Chih Hong (Ayah Demaladas), “Playing The Pangcah,” pp. 70–86.
6. Kharla Acosta, “The Musical Indigenization Of Western Christian Influences And Its Impact On Indigenous Music In The Davao Region,” pp. 87–102.
7. Eric Seaberg, “The Jesus Joik,” pp. 103–116.
8. Kenneth L. Wallace, Jr., “Chahta Uba Isht Taloa,” pp. 117–125.
9. Larry Jent, “Hymns Of Hope From Our Own Voices,”  pp. 126–145.
10. H. Daniel Zacharias, “The Throne And The Round Dance,” pp. 146–157.

Volume 20 (2022)

Indigenous in the City

In this, the 20th volume of the NAIITS journal, we find the continuing maturation of the work of NAIITS in abundant evidence. Herein there is a wealth of insight and perspective, reflecting some of the best of the global Indigenous community. Enjoy within these pages, a wealth of rich reflection and discernment as we explore the question, “What does it mean to be both Indigenous and an urban dweller?”

1. Melodie Bergquist-Turori, “Our Sea of City Streets,” pp. 1–13.
2. David Skene, “Wisahkotewinowak: Land-Based Relationships in the City,” pp. 14–24.
3. Beyaja Notah, “Dawn Child Comes of Age in the City,” pp.  25–37.
4. Michelle Nieviadomy, “The Matriarch in the City,” pp. 38–48.
5. Vince L. Bantu, “The Heart of the City,” pp. 49–63.
6. Pitiree Michail, “Language Revitalisation in the City ,” pp. 64–92.
7. Jo Stuurman, “How Can Identity, Faith, and Culture Come into Singularity within the Urban Context?,” pp. 93–110.
8. Joel Calabrese, “The Land as Urban Witness,” pp. 111–132.
9. Jeff Decontie, “Indigenous Theological Education in a Secular Age,” pp. 133 –148.
10. Andy M. Reimer, “To Remember is Divine,” pp. 149 –171.
11. Rangi Nicholson, “Treaty of Waitangi, Anglican Church, and Aotearoa New Zealand,” 172–198.

Volume 19 (2021)

Treaty and Covenant: Creating Space for Hope

Each people and nation, whether Indigenous or European, had their unique understandings of sacred ‘relationship-making’ institutions and ceremonies, reflecting the special genius of each. Recognition that treaties, covenants, and testaments are the most sacred and binding agreements of community and individuals, witnessed by the Creator or God, as each nation conceived such a being, was a commonality that should have portended peaceful possibilities of new relationship.

Explorations, rediscoveries, and experiences of implementing these ancient relationship-making processes was the focus of the NAIITS 2021 symposium, and is the substance of this volume. In the varied presentations concerning community, treaty, relationship, kinship, intercultural lifeways and more, this volume’s pages are filled with experience and knowledge. My prayer is that we are led to wisdom and wise actions through them.

1. Adrian Jacobs, “A Spiritual Covenant with Churches and First Nations,” pp. 1–9.
2. Te Aroha Rountree, “Tangata Whenua Theology Matters!” pp. 10–25.
3. Monica Friesen, “What Creates Treaty People? Continuing the Conversation,” pp. 26–45.
4. Julene Pommert, “Longing For and Belonging in Community,” pp. 46–64.
5. Joel Calabrese, “Treaty, Etuaptmun, and the Land: A Novel Exploration of an Archaeology of Theology,” pp. 65–86.
6. Cameron Ayn Carlson, “The Promised Land: The Re-Affirmation of Tribal Lands in Oklahoma,” pp. 87–99.
7. Mike Hogeterp, “Kinship and the Two Row Covenant Chain Tradition: An Exploration of Responsibility and Hope,” pp. 100–113.
8. Andy Mitchell, “Kinship and Relatedness Theory,” pp. 114–128.
9. Risaw Walis, “Empsdhug, Hakaw Tux and Kana Menudus: Sediq Mother-tongue Reading of Gen. 9:9–17,” pp. 129–148.
10. Vince L. Bantu, "Ḥegä Krestos: Warfare, Covenants, and Evangelism in Solomonic Africa,” pp. 149–159.
11. Kimberlee Medicine Horn Jackson, "Re-Imagining Covenant: A Conceptual Vision of Indigenous Bible Study Bridging Lakota Values and Virtues to the Fruits of the Spirit," pp. 160–172.
12. Spencer Miles Boersma, “Unmarked Graves and the Hells We Have Made: Jeremiah and the Residential Schools,” pp. 173–189.

Volume 18 (2020)

Spirituality of Wellness in Community

Health and well-being. Who does not want to live their life in the fullness of health and practicing ways of well-being, particularly within and following these pandemic years? But what does it actually mean for Indigenous people to be healthy, to live well and to do so in the context of their spiritual lifeways? The 2020 symposium focused its attention on just that—the Spirituality of Wellness in Community. In this volume of the journal, we navigate a range of papers and topics presented under this broad rubric while being challenged to consider more than one frame of reference as we consider the scope of well-being.

1. Martin Brokenleg, "Circles Of Courage,” pp. 1–10.
2. Ji-gaabiikwe Diane Campeau, "From Soul Wounds To Soul Healing: Decolonizing Trauma Healing Practices,” pp. 11–27.
3. J. Goins, "Modern Elder: A Collection of Ideas,” pp. 28–36.
4. Julene Pommert & Terry LeBlanc, "Indigenous Pathways and a Community Spirituality of Wellness,” pp. 37–62.
5. John McNeil, "Self, Other, Us and Them: Worldview Markers on the Trail to a Good Life,” pp. 63–77.
6. Micky ScottBey Jones, "We Have What We Need: Recovering and Creating Our Healing,” pp. 78–92.
7. Maryl Smith, "Birth As Healing Ceremony,” pp. 93–111.
8. Kenneth Wallace Jr., "Indigenous Identity Through Chahta Hihla,” pp. 112–121.
9. Wade M. Adakai, “Diné Ontology And The Problem With ‘Substance Orientation’: An Evaluation of Name, Role, and Function in Indigenous Identity and Community,” pp. 122–138.
10. Cecilia Titizano, "Salvation As Cosmic Restoration: An Andean Eschatology,” pp. 139–156.
11. EFC Indigenous-Settler Relations Working Group, "Stewarding Sacred Seeds," pp. 157–175.

Volume 17 (2019)

Land and Place: Indigenous Perspectives in an Era of Displacement

Displacement across the globe, restricted to human beings, or expanded to include other members of the creation community, is all but impossible to deny. It is a ubiquitous and growing phenomenon due to war, famine, natural and human created disasters, and is increasingly prevalent in our daily news intake. Images of refugee camps and detention centres are haunting images of inhumanity, as are stories of non-human relocation due to environmental encroachment. It is a result of our inability to live in compassionate ways with one another.

In this volume our annual symposium presenters offer a variety of perspectives of land and place; of welcome, extended hospitality and a more generous and humble view of human connectedness and continuity in the land.

1. Ray Aldred, "The Land, Treaty, and Spirituality: Communal Identity Inclusive of Land." pp. 1-17.
2. Jason McKinney, "From Urbs Nullius to Terra Sacra: Seeking a Spiritual Commons." pp. 18-27.
3. Monica Friesen, "Redeeming Displacement: Cultural Safety in Nursing as a Christ-Motivated Ministry of Decolonization." pp. 28-49.
4. Brooke Prentis, “Dangerous Memories in the Land We NOW Call Australia: Do the Exiles Hear the Call to Country Today?” pp. 50-66.
5. Joshua Grace, “Intergenerational Stories and the Land Itself: Decentering Christian Settler Colonial Ways of Knowing.” pp. 67-81.
6. Marilou Maisonneuve, “Being Christian and Innu: is a Reconnection with the Land Possible? A Historical and Anthropological Analysis.” pp. 82-89.
7. Marilou Maisonneuve, “Être chrétien et Innu: une reconnexion avec le territoire est-elle possible? Une analyse historique et anthropologique.” pp. 90-98.
8. Eric Seaberg, “A Sámi Pilgrimage: Finding a Way back to Sacred Land in the Midst of a Diaspora.” pp. 99-111.
9. Crystal Porter, “A Search to Belong: Cultural Reclamation on the Jesus Way.” pp. 112-128.
10. Keith Starkenberg, “Falling and Standing: Learning a White Theology of Land in North America.” pp. 129-143.
11. Mark Brett and Naomi Wolfe, “Land and the Responsibility to Protect Immigrants: Reflecting on Aboriginal Tradition and the Hebrew Bible." pp. 144-153.
12. H. Daniel Zacharias, “GraceLand: The Land as Relational Gift in the Bible.” pp. 154-175.
13. Garry Worete Deverell, “Bushfires and Colonial Mismanagement of Aboriginal Lands.” pp. 176-179.

Volume 16 (2018)

White Supremacy, Racial Conflict, and Indigeneity: Towards Right Relationship

In this, our 16th volume, we often tread on what some might consider sacred and sensitive ground; topics where a more genteel dialogue has been the norm. And, while some of what you will read herein is more gracious; other contributions are very clearly, “In your face.” We deem it necessary, however, to ensure that at some juncture we might come out the other side of these conversations as better people, living and acting out the great commandment of Jesus together in more honest and transformative ways.

1. Patricia Anne Courtenay, "Racism. The Australian Way! Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi! Oi! Oi!” pp. 13-21.
2. Alistair Reese, “Indigenous Generosity and a Treaty: Towards Reconciliation in Aotearoa-NZ.” pp. 22-39.
3. Damian Costello. “Black Elk’s Vision of Waníkiya: The Ghost Dance, Catholic Sacraments, and Lakota Ontology.” pp. 40-56.
4. James W. Perkinson, “Between Fish-Songs, City Sermons, and Plant Riddles: Reading the Sign of Jonas Indigenously in Settler-Colonial Detroit.” pp. 57-78.
5. H. Daniel Zacharias, “250+ Years of Baptists in Mi’kma’ki.” pp. 79-93.
6. Adrian Jacobs and Jennifer Henry, “Treaty: Medicine for Anxiety.” pp. 94-104.
7. Adam Stewart, “The Unfinished Work of Reconciliation: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Neoliberal Liability Amelioration, and Nimi Wariboko’s Pentecostal Principle.” pp. 105-119.
8. Matthew J. Milliner, “Turtle Island Renaissance.” pp. 120-141.
9. Erna Kim Hackett, “Justice from the Margins: Rejecting White Theologies of Justice and Trusting Theology from Communities of Color.” pp. 142-156.

Volume 15 (2017)

UNDRIP: Right Relationships, Right Relatedness

In this, our 15th volume you will find conversations directly tied to and exploring the UNDRIP during our 14th annual symposium. These papers and the conversations that surrounded them were efforts to explore not just the content of the declaration, but what it might look like for it to be implemented and lived out in a day-to-day basis. You’ll also note in these pages that the signatories to the declaration were sometimes reluctant, even skeptical toward it. This too captures the ongoing challenge of Indigenous Peoples in the globe seeking to assert themselves as unique peoples, in unique lands, with unique histories.

1. Russell, Shari. “The Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Canada Call to Action #48 Complicity, Resignation, or Reconciliation.” pp. 1–15.
2. Goins, Stephanie. “Trafficking and Exploitation: Looking for a Way Forward.” pp. 16–28.
3. Solano Miselis, Jocabed Reina. “Narratives as Political Resistance: The Guna Experience in Panama.” pp. 29–44.
4. Bantu, Vince. “Early Christian Foundations for Indigenous Theological Self-Determination.” pp. 45–50.
5. Westwood, Frances. “Restoring an Incarnational, Trinitarian Vision of God and Humanity in a Racialized World.” pp. 51–62.
6. Begay, Donnie. “Sacred Places or Sanctuaries.” pp. 63–82.
7. Jamer Jewett, Katie. “Worshipping God Well in This Place: Imagining Restoration through Collective Collage.” pp. 83–98.
8. Spargur, JodiLynn. “Re-forming the Church: UNDRIP Prayers.” pp. 99–108.
9. Patrick, Susangeline. “Sermon – Under the Bush: Dismay and Hope.” pp. 109–113.

Volume 14 (2016)

Education: Looking Behind, Seeing Ahead

This issue contains a range of responses and perspectives on the matters of Indigenous theological education. From Christine Folch’s well-crafted retrospective of the impact of NAIITS as a front-runner in the field of Indigenous education, to Ray Minniecon’s challenge to us that we consider education’s starting point by asking significant questions about its purpose, this 14th volume of the Journal of NAIITS is well packed.

1. Folch, Christine. “Reflections And Revindications: Looking to NAIITS’ Past for Wisdom for the Future.” pp., 7–22.
2. Minniecon, Ray. “Indigenous Theology: The Australian Experience—Where Is the Starting Point?” pp., 23–31.
3. John, Kelsey Dayle. “Re-Visiting Theological Questions for Decolonizing Education.” pp., 33–42.
4. Nelson, Carla, Jane MacIntyre, Kirsty Kernohan, Emerson Miso, and Marcelle Sealy. “Tyndale’s B.Ed. Program Of Teacher Preparation as a Case Study: ‘How Do We Fit a People’s Heartbeat into the Curriculum?’” pp., 43–58.
5. Medicine Horn Jackson, Kimberlee. “Using Logic And Reason In Native American Ministry: Building Relationship between Natives and Non-Natives.” pp., 59–67.
6. Jancewicz, Norma Jean. “Exploring The Relevance Of English Language Methodology To Naskapi L1 Teaching.” pp., 69–80.
7. Taylor, Kyle. “Looking Behind, Seeing Ahead For Bacone College: Organizational Structures, Competitive Advantage, and Blue Ocean.” pp., 81–90.
8. Green, Marie. “Crosses At The Inuksuk: Christian Voices of Protest amidst Residential School Conditions (1880-1930) and the Implications for Reconciliation within a Wider Education Framework.” pp., 91–105.
9. Sisler, Gordon. “Paddle And Paper: Personal Reflections on the 13th NAIITS Symposium, 2016.” pp., 107–21.

Volume 13 (2015)

Theologies of Reconciliation: Les Sauvages et Le Sophistique

These thought-provoking discussions on reconciliation and forgiveness are NAIITS’ contribution to the final days of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission which so painfully and publicly exposed the government and church sponsored Residential Schools' attempts at cultural genocide in Canada. The intent of these schools parallel the Boarding School era in the USA - an era still not addressed there by the US government or church community with nearly the same level of authenticity or impact.

In all, this journal is one of the best yet, containing robust discussion, significant personal testimonial, and alternative theological perspectives, built upon a strong commitment from its presenters to seek after the Creator of all things who is the reconciler of all of Creation.

1. Jacobs, Adrian. “I Am Not Your Noble Savage.” pp., 9–24.
2. Vickers, Patricia J. “Story And Truth: Christ and the Ayaawx (Ts’msyen Ancestral Law).” pp., 25–33.
3. Harkrider, Melissa Franklin. “ᎢᎦᏤᓕᎦ: We Belong To One Another: Reconciliation in Cherokee Hymns and Worship.” pp., 35–50.
4. Cotecson, Sherelle, and Matt LeBlanc. “Forgiveness And Reconciliation: A Community Process.” pp., 51–62.
5. Lavesseur, Marc. “Redemption Through Reconciliation Pathway: Soteriology from a First Nations Perspective.” pp., 63–118.
6. Robbins, Anna. “No Reconciliation Without Repentance: Accepting Collective Responsibility for Historical Sin.” pp., 119–34.
7. Pretchuk, Annika. “Logic Is A Battering Ram: One Girl’s Journey of Awakening.” pp., 135–41.
8. Kampen, Melanie. “The Politics of Repentance and the Risk of Reconciliation.” pp., 143–52.
9. Hughes, Thomas. “Calling Euro-Americans to Tear Down Their Internal Forts.” pp., 153–64.

Volume 12 (2014)

Indigenous Reality: Moving Beyond Colonial and Post-colonial Conversations

In this issue we are challenged to consider the impact of traditional mission and its devastating impact on the world’s Indigenous peoples. And, we are called upon to reflect more soberly on recent responses by the church to the recognition of its harm, all too often still couched in the motif of forgive and forget; get over it and get on with it!

1. Ottmann, Jacqueline. “First Nations Leadership and the Adaptation Challenge.” pp., 7–25.
2. Conniry, Charles J, Jr. “The Western World’s Loss and (Partial) Recovery of Mystery.” pp., 27–43.
3. Church, Casey. “Creating Native American Expressions Of Christian Faith: More than the Looks on Their Faces.” pp., 45–62.
4. Dilenschneider, Anne. “Walking The Road Of Forgiveness: The Restoration of Love, Justice, and Power.” pp., 63–79.
5. Green, Gene L. “The Death Of Mission: Rethinking the Great Commission.” pp., 81–110.

Volume 11 (2013)

Shaping Faith: How Language Informs the Journey
Richard Twiss Memorial Issue

This volume focuses on new ways to encourage non-Indigenous people to understand the good news, and to communicate it as such to Indigenous people. It also contains tributes to Richard Twiss.

1. Rynkiewich, Michael A. “Orality and Mission.” pp., 5–27.
2. Aldred, Catherine. “Rhetoric, Discourse And The Surplus Of Meaning: Innovations in First Nations Bible Translation.” pp., 29–57.
3. Heeg, Ruth. “God As Revealed In Scripture: The Translation of Abstract Nouns into Algonquian Languages.” pp., 59–72.
4. Balasundaram, Uday. “Creativity And Captivity: Developing a Framework for Exploring the Language of Musical Creativity amongst Indigenous Cosmopolitans (ICMs).” pp., 73–114.
5. Woodley, Randy. “Richard Twiss Memorial Talk.” pp., 117–19.
6. Peterson, Wendy Beauchemin. “A Tribute Honoring Richard Twiss: March 8, 2013 at Woodleys’ Home.” pp., 121–23.
7. Minniecon, Ray. “Tribute To Dr. Richard Twiss: On Behalf of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia.” pp., 125–29.
8. Jacobs, Adrain. “Richard Twiss Memorial: March 10, 2013.” pp., 131–32.

Volume 10 (2012)

Giants in the Land: Metaphors for Native Evangelicalism

In this issue we explore the metaphor of the giant from the standpoint of being giant – walking into the fulfillment of that “vision” of Dr. Graham. But we also pursue it from the standpoint of having needed to conquer giants so as to be able to continue to thrive within the land of our forebears, and to find our way in the midst of those who would continue to oppress and suppress a Native North American experience of faith. On the one hand we are invited to be superhuman, on the other, the diminutive David. Which of these is correct, if either? Or, is there another, more powerful, metaphor we should seek to embrace as our own?

1. Twiss, Richard. “Rescuing Theology From The Cowboys: An Emerging Expression of the Jesus Way in North America.” pp., 5–44.
2. Oleksa, Michael J. “The Life of the World.” pp., 45–60.
3. Zantingh, Deanna. “Lightened Loads And Real Good News: The Story of Native Giants Waking amidst a Sleeping North American Church.” pp., 61–76.
4. Vandervelde, Shalene Jobin. “Cautionary Tales For Today: Wetigo Stories, Residential Schools, and Double Consciousness.” pp., 77–88.
5. Woodley, Randy. “Respectful Listening: A Spiritual Reflection.” pp., 91–96.
6. Peterson, Wendy Beauchemin. “A Personal Response to Idle No More.” pp., 97–104.

Volume 9 (2011)

Ways We Know Things: Exploring Indigenous Ways of Understanding

In this issue we have several excellent presentations focusing our attention on epistemological concerns related to faith in Jesus. Catherine Aldred focuses our attention on translating scripture when a particular way of knowing intersects with the languages of thought of a people who “know” differently. Gavin Renwick helps us understand the mechanisms of the academy used to encapsulate and transmit knowledge as he identifies an alternate assessment and valuation of knowledge in the practice- led approach to PhD studies. Wendy Peterson, with Cheryl Bear and Linda Martin, frame the question of knowing in the context of identity and identity formation.

1. Renwick, Gavin. “Decolonizing The PhD: Practice-Led Research and First Nations Ways of Knowing.” pp., 5–15.
2. Aldred, Catherine. “Let Me Tell You A Story: Rejuvenating Biblical Narrative through Indigenous Language Translations.” pp., 17–30.
3. Peterson, Wendy Beauchemin, Cheryl Bear, and Linda M Martin. “Ways Of Knowing Self: Reclamation of Real Indigenous Identity.” pp., 31–57.
4. Jacobs, Adrian. “Mitigating Missionary Autism: A Proposal for an Aboriginal Cure.” pp., 59–70.
5. Black, Sidney. “Greetings And Address To Theologians Gathering.” pp., 73–76.
6. Russell, Shari. “Spiritual Contemplation: Water.” pp., 77–79.
7. Martin-Paulichenko, Marc-Nicholas. “Supporting Aboriginal Identity in Youth Ministry.” pp., 81–91.

Volume 8 (2010)

In the Beginning: First Nation Narratives of Ontology and Mutuality

In this issue, we examine some ways of understanding that emerged from interaction with a different perspective—and, of course, different foundational thinking. Ontology has a lot to do with our approach to life and the rest of creation; that is to say whether we understand spiritual reality in strictly behavioral and anthropocentric terms or, as more creation-wide and ontological.

1. Woodley, Randy. “God’s First Discourse: Connected by the Community of Creation in the Harmony Way.” pp., 5–19.
2. Illyn, Peter. “Pragmatic Theology: Belly Button Christianity in the Age of Extraction.” pp., 21–37.
3. Harper, Lisa Sharon. “Shalom and Environmental Justice for Indigenous Peoples.” pp., 39–49.
4. Buller, Cornelius A. “The Power Of Hope: Indigenous Prophecies and the Ontological Force of the Future.” pp., 51–64.
5. LeBlanc, Terry. “Spirit And Spirituality: New Old Perspectives.” pp., 65–78.
6. Twiss, Richard. “All My Relatives: An Indigenous Manifesto for Biblical Justice.” pp., 81–93.
7. Tim Nelson. “Creating a Lakota Theology.” pp., 95–108.
8. Desjarlais, Joe. “A Tale of Two Outbacks: Aboriginal Relationship to Land in Australia and Canada.” pp., 109–13.

Volume 7 (2009)

Indigenous Church: Expressions of Community

In this issue we explore some of the questions related to Indigenous expressions of community. These range from church as community building in Twiss’s paper, to the impacts of globalism on form and thought from Tom and Christine Sine. Very much as we have begun to expect from Adrian Jacobs, in his paper “Church of the Sacred Clowns,” we are asked to reflect on the nature of our humanity in the church. Our desire to engage the next generation is reflected in Jeanine LeBlanc Lowe’s paper exploring Indigenous hospitality. We hear young adult Native people reflect on their conceptions of God and the church in the voices of our internationally convened youth panel led by Hannah Haiu (Maori), Matt LeBlanc (Mi’kmaq) and Michelle Nieviadomy (Cree).

1. Sine, Tom, and Christine Sine. “Following the Jesus Way in the Shadow of the Global Mall.” pp., 5–19.
2. Twiss, Richard. “Community Building In A Multi-Cultural World: As Imagined through the Lens of Trinitarian Thought and Indigenous Values.” pp., 21–33.
3. Jacobs, Adrian. “The Church of the Sacred Clowns.” pp., 35–46.
4. LeBlanc, Jeanine Lowe. “Indigenous Hospitality: Gaining Wisdom and Learning Practices from Cultures That Welcome.” pp., 47–59.
5. LeBlanc, Matt, Hannah Haiu, and Michelle Nieviadomy. “iEMERGENCE In Conversation With Indigenous Peoples.” pp., 61–76.
6. Desjarlais, Joe. “A Missing Conversation.” pp., 79–80.

Volume 6 (2008)

Special Edition: Retrospective

These articles have been selected from the five previous issues, 2003 to 2007, of the Journal of North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies: NAIITS. Each issue is rooted in a NAIITS missiological/theological symposium. The articles have been chosen to reflect the breadth, mission and ethos of NAIITS. The first article, by Jeanine LeBlanc, is new to this issue.

1. Ohia, Monte, 1945-2008.” 2008. p., v.
2. LeBlanc, Jeanine Lowe. “Walking ‘The Good Red Road’: NAIITS, the Obstacles It Faces and How They Are Being Overcome.” pp., 5–20.
3. Jacobs, Adrian, Richard Twiss, and Terry LeBlanc. “Culture, Christian Faith And Error: Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 1, 2003.” pp., 21–57.
4. Hayward, Douglas James. “Foundations For Critical Contextualization: Preliminary Considerations for Doing Contextualization among First Nations Christians. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 1, 2003.” pp., 59–77.
5. Aldred, Ray. “The Resurrection Of Story: Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 2, 2004.” pp., 79–89.
6. Dyck, Jonathan, and Cornelius A Buller. “Mapping The Land: Toward an Aboriginal Biblical Theology of Land. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 2, 2004.” pp., 91–108.
7. Tiénou, Tite. “Indigenous Theologizing: From the Margins to the Center. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 3, 2005.” pp., 109–24.
8. Peterson, Wendy Beauchemin. “Of Steeples & Stories: A Selective Overview of Mission Contact with Aboriginal Peoples of Canada. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 4, 2006.” pp., 125–58.
9. Jacobs, Adrian. “A History Of Slaughter: Embracing Our Martyrdom on the Margins of Encounter. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 4, 2006.” pp., 159–72.
10. McDonald, Mark. “The Gospel Comes To North America: Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 4, 2006.” pp., 173–82.
11. Gefen, Gavriel. “Re-Contextualization: Restoring the Biblical Message to a Jewish Israeli Context. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 4, 2006.” pp., 183–204.
12. Johnson, Dean, Ivan Wells, and Victoria Wells. “Missional Community: Fifth Draft. Reprinted from NAIITS Journal Volume 5, 2007.” pp., 205–34.

Volume 5 (2007)

Redemption, Reconciliation, and Restoration: Journeys Toward Wholeness

Our theme in this issue of the NAIITS Journal is for Native North American peoples and those others who have come here and entered into treaty with us. We dare not buy into the popular notions of reconciliation that are divorced from past behaviour, focused only on some as yet unknown eschatological future. Those lead to self-centered ideas of redemption and relationship and, they lead once again to spiritual abuse or missional arrogance. Biblical reconciliation and restoration – true redemption – promises life to the full.

1. Amjad-Ali, Charles. “Redemption, Reconciliation, Restoration: Journeys Toward Wholeness.” pp., 5–17.
2. Willemsen, Gerard F. “The Road Of Reconciliation In Sweden: Meeting the Sámi in Their Own Culture.” pp., 19–28.
3. Bird, David. “He Must Increase.” pp., 29–43.
4. Francis, Robert. “Colonization: Weapons, Gifts, Diseases and Medicine.” pp., 45–57.
5. Johnson, Dean, Ivan Wells, and Victoria Wells. “Missional Community.” pp., 59–88.
6. Smith, Andrea. “Boarding School Healing Project.” pp., 89–100.
7. Levesque, Liz. “A Native Christian Matriarchal View Of Reconciliation: An Exegetical Review of Romans 5:6-8.” pp., 103–12.
8. Annotated Bibliography: Jesuits and Indigenous Relations: 1540-1770.” pp., 115–35.

Volume 4 (2006)

Historical Efforts to Contextualize the Gospel: Perspectives and Practices

In this issue we explore several historical efforts at contextual theology, missiology and the practice of church. On the one hand we have Damian Costello’s challenging re-interpretation of Nicholas Black Elk’s contextualization of the Christian Gospel in Catholic form, offering a new and refreshing perspective of the conversion of Black Elk. In the presentation of Adrian Jacobs, a piece in which we feel deeply the impact of life lived in the aftermath of cultural loss, community displacement and social devastation, we are confronted with the real effect of non- contextualization of the gospel.

1. Gefen, Gavriel. “Re-Contextualization: Restoring the Biblical Message to a Jewish Israeli Context.” pp., 5–27.
2. Costello, Damien. “Black Elk Speaks.” pp., 29–56.
3. Peterson, Wendy Beauchemin. “Of Steeples & Stories: A Selective Overview of Mission Contact with Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.” pp., 57–91.
4. Woodley, Randy. “A View Of The Native North American Contextual Movement And Its Undecided Future.” pp., 93–114.
5. Jacobs, Adrian. “A History Of Slaughter: Embracing Our Martyrdom on the Margins of Encounter.” pp., 115–28.
6. McDonald, Mark. “The Gospel Comes to North America.” pp., 129–38.
7. West, Russell W. “Professor Whiteowl, This Schoolroom Hurts: Contextualization of the Indigenous Leadership Formation.” pp., 139–61.
8. Gefen, Gavriel. “The Indigenous Expressions of Biblical Faith.” pp., 165–83.

Volume 3 (2005)

Indigenizing and Decolonizing Theological Education

In this issue we present the papers of the third symposium on mission and theology in Native North America. We explore the challenge and purpose of education as it pertains to the preparation of indigenous North Americans for mission and ministry. We examine education’s role in shaping the thinking and responses to the community, its issues and the wider mission field.

1. Tiénou, Tite. “Indigenous Theologizing: From the Margins to the Center.” pp., 5–17.
2. Adeney, Miriam. “Teaching That Makes Sense: Christian Education That Fits Aboriginal Worldviews and Lifeways.” pp., 19–40.
3. Keith, Anita L. “Where Do We Go from Here?” pp., 41–69.
4. Jacobs, Adrian. “Toward Indigenous Education Evaluative Standards.” pp., 71–79.
5. Church, Leonard (Casey). “Authentic Christian Education From A Native American Point Of View.” pp., 81–93.
6. Segura Guzmán, Osías A. “Cafecito + Conversation = Theological Praxis.” pp., 95–102.
7. Buller, Cornelius A. review of “Spirit of the Rainforest: A Yanomamö Shaman’s Story.” pp., 105–7.
8. Twiss, Richard. review of “Why Navajo Churches Are Growing: The Cultural Dynamics of Navajo Religious Change.” pp., 108–9.
9. Twiss, Richard. review of “Of Revelation and Revolution 1 Christianity, Colonialism, and Consciousness in South Africa.” pp., 110–16.
10. LeBlanc, Terry. review of “Creating Christian Indians: Native Clergy in the Presbyterian Church.” pp., 117–18.

Volume 2 (2004)

Community: Native and Christian Values, Realities and Solutions

In this issue we explore the continuing and often frustrating conversations around culture and faith that have risen in the past 10 to 15 years or so (depending upon place). During this period, a wave of awareness of the role of Indigenous people in mission has swept the planet drawing many into its circle. A re-visitation of culture and its function — or lack of—in authentic Christian faith has been at the center of this Spirit-led move to understand the position of indigenous people in the body of Christ. In response, several position papers have been issued from various Native ministries in North America and elsewhere, which have elevated the debate to an often-fevered pitch. Into this debate have waded committed people from both sides of the issue.

1. Aldred, Ray. “The Resurrection Of Story.” pp, 5–14.
2. Woodley, Randy, and Edith Woodley. “Ministry In A Good Way: A New Model for Native American Ministry.” pp, 15–27.
3. Hoeft, Karen. “Interpreting Wesley: Igloo Theology.” pp, 29–37.
4. Henry, Debra, and Elizabeth (Liz) Lévesque. “The Lost Generation Of Manitoba: First Nations Communities & White Middle-Class Adoption.” pp, 39–52.
5. Dyck, Jonathan, and Cornelius A Buller. “Mapping The Land: Toward an Aboriginal Biblical Theology of Land.” pp, 53–69.
6. Hoeft, Karen. “Community Capacity Development in an Aboriginal / Inuit Context.” pp, 71–88.
7. Barnetson, Cheryl. “The Great Mystery.” pp, 89–97.

Volume 1 (2003)

Community: Native and Christian Values, Realities and Solutions

In this issue we explore the continuing and often frustrating conversations around culture and faith that have risen in the past 10 to 15 years or so (depending upon place). During this period, a wave of awareness of the role of Indigenous people in mission has swept the planet drawing many into its circle. A re-visitation of culture and its function — or lack of—in authentic Christian faith has been at the center of this Spirit-led move to understand the position of indigenous people in the body of Christ. In response, several position papers have been issued from various Native ministries in North America and elsewhere, which have elevated the debate to an often-fevered pitch. Into this debate have waded committed people from both sides of the issue.

1. Jacobs, Adrian, Richard Twiss, and Terry LeBlanc. “Culture, Christian Faith And Error.” pp, 5–35.
2. Hayward, Douglas James. “Foundations For Critical Contextualization: Preliminary Considerations for Doing Contextualization among First Nations Christians.” pp, 37–51.
3. Johnson, Don. “Response To: Foundations For Critical ContextualizatioN: Preliminary Considerations for Doing Contextualization among First Nations Christians.” pp, 53–57.
4. Fullingim, Mike, and Jerry Pence. “Response To: Foundations For Critical Contextualization: Preliminary Considerations for Doing Contextualization among First Nations Christians.” pp, 59–65.
5. Woodley, Randy. “Hard Questions Concerning Structure & Values In The New North American Aboriginal Church.” pp, 67–71.
6. Buller, Cornelius A. “Response To: Hard Questions Concerning Structure & Values In The New Aboriginal Church.” pp, 73–78.
7. Aldred, Ray. “Us Talking to Us.” pp, 79–93.
8. Busink, Evert. “Response To: Us Talking to Us.” pp, 95–98.
9. Smith, Craig S. “‘Boundary Lines’: The Issue of Christ, Indigenous Worship, and Native American Culture.” pp, 101–39.
10. “(CHIEF) A Biblical Position by Native Leaders on Native Spirituality: April 2,1998.” pp, 141–43.
11. “A Biblical Position by the Native American Fellowship of the Assemblies of God on the Presentation of the Gospel within the Context of Native Cultures.” pp, 145–46.
12. LeBlanc, Terry. “Culture, Faith and Mission: Creating the Future.” pp, 149–66.
13. Jacobs, Adrian. “Vulnerability And Mentoring.” pp, 167–71.