Pastor Kate Adelman, development director for the Navajo Lutheran Mission in Rock Point, Ariz., was the guest speaker Feb. 15 New Journey Lutheran Church, ELCA.

As Adelman stated, “Talking about the Navajo Lutheran Mission is a joy; and because my husband and I are so enthusiastic about our experience there, we can tell story after story.

“What we can’t put into words is the immense privilege of sharing daily life among the soft spoken, respectful, spiritual and hospitable Navajo people.”

She further said, “Learning to walk each day in their shoes is enough to shatter cultural stereotypes as they courageously meet the challenges of poverty and injustice, reaching out to their community through the mission’s school, church, hunger program, wellness clinic and cultural center.

“We invite you to learn more and come visit the Navajo Lutheran Mission where every day is one life-changing experience after another.”

Amid the challenges of healthcare availability, hunger, unemployment and isolation, the Navajo Lutheran Mission remains a strong and increasingly necessary community center.

Financial support makes possible needed health services, nutritious meals for hungry children and adults, stable income for mission employees, quality classroom education, a gathering place for worship, and a welcoming environment for visitors and cultural exchange.

Adelman discussed the Navajo Christian Preparatory School, which provides education from kindergarten through sixth grade. Every student attending the Navajo Christian Preparatory Academy goes tuition free.

New Journey Lutheran Church, ELCA, has supported the mission by providing quilts, toiletries and gift cards to be used to buy basic supplies.

On March 12 the fifth annual Food for Kidz food pack will be held at the Fountain Hills Community Center.

Of the 76,000 meals that are projected to be packed, four tables will be dedicated to packaging cinnamon instant oatmeal. Some oatmeal packs will stay locally and some will be delivered to the Navajo Mission.

For more information on how one can become involved with the Navajo Mission, contact Kate Adelman at development@nelm.org.

If one would like information regarding Food for Kidz, contact info@njlf-fh.org. Donations can be made to either Food for Kidz or the Navajo Mission on New Journey Lutheran’s website, www.njlc-fh.org.