Rural Oklahoma Mission Trips

Oklahoma is home to 52 tribes Native American tribes. In this location, your group will have the opportunity to come alongside Camp Crossway as they minister to the youth of many of these tribes through summer camp programs. Through these camps and special programs, our partners at Camp Crossway hope to restore and strengthen families so their future is one of hope and peace.

A Native American Indian Mission Trip is 95-100% relational. Most Native Americans are resistant to Christianity, and many consider it to be “the white man’s religion.” With a history of Christianity being forced on them, only 3%-5% of Native Americans are Christians today. Building relationships is the path to the place where they are open to hearing about Jesus. They need to know they can have a personal experience and a loving relationship with Jesus that will lead to hope and purpose. Join us as we get to come alongside them to help in the work our ministry partners are already doing.

Pawnee Tribe came from Nebraska and Kansas but today are based in Oklahoma. The Pawnee have a tribal religion rich in myth, symbolism and elaborate rites.

The youth and children in these surrounding tribes are the mission field for Camp Crossway. For approximately 12 years, Camp Crossway has been in the community discipling Native youth. They are known, trusted, and beloved by people of the region, not only for their ministry to Native youth and kids, but for their warm and generous hearts. Camp attendance fees are very inexpensive, and often scholarships are given to kids who can’t afford even that. They serve Native tribes from all over the state.

Native Americans are the #1 poverty group in America today. With only 3%-5% of Native Americans being Christians, Christianity is considered to be the “White Man’s religion”. Violence is 5 times the national average on the rez. Death from drugs, alcohol, suicide and automobile accidents are a daily occurrence. The unemployment rate can be as high as 90%. The number of Native Americans incarcerated is at times 4 times the national average.

The book ‘White Man’s Gospel’ by Craig Smith is a must read for anyone intending to minister in Indian Country.

It is important to remember that when you are on the field ministering, you are representing God, Adventures In Missions, and local missionaries. Modesty is the key to all clothing you decide to bring with you. If you are questioning whether or not you should bring it, then leave it at home. Here are a few guidelines for clothing choices:

1. Bring something modest to sleep in.
2. No short, tight, or clingy clothing is permitted. This means no yoga pants or leggings.
3. Sleeveless shirts and tank tops that are 2” wide are permitted on girls. No sleeveless shirt of any form is permitted for guys.
4. If you cannot raise your arms above your head or touch your toes without showing your stomach or lower back, leave it at home.
5. Shorts must come to the top of the knee. Capris or loose fitted joggers are great options.
6. Skirts and dresses should be below or close to the knee.
7. Make sure clothes are not stained and/or torn (except for clothes for painting/heavy manual labor). You do not have to wear your best clothing, but make yourselves presentable. It may be offensive to the locals if you look sloppy.

• Summer Camp Support
• Red Rock Outreach
• Red Rock Community Vacation Bible School

In addition to the packing list: Consider bringing things to play outside with the local kids - balls, games, interactive toys etc.

Native American Locations

SAMPLE MINISTRY SCHEDULE

• Ranch Museum
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Wild West Show