Rich Avery, director of Wesleyan Native American Ministries

Last Saturday, I attended a Native ministry conference called The Gathering of Nations 2009, in Crystal Lake, IL.

Several prominent Native Christian leaders spoke, including Gordon Thayer, Craig Smith, and Raymond Dunton.  Non-Native speakers who are active in Native ministry included Ron Hutchcraft and Don DeHart.

While the speakers acknowledged the challenges in Native ministry – illustrated by the fact that as little as three to five percent of Natives follow Christ – they were also greatly encouraged by what God is doing right now in Native communities across North America.

They believe we’re on the cusp of a breakthrough, and that we’ll see a great revival among Native North Americans in this generation – one that will ripple throughout the world.

Over the next few weeks I’ll share some of the key insights I learned from the speakers at this conference…and why they’re so hopeful that breakthrough is near.

I am energized by their vision, and grateful that we can share in that revival thanks to your continued support.

- by Rich Avery