God has moved mightily throughout the Lummi Nation and opened doors for ministry with the youth and elders of the community.  As "cross-cultural workers," MTW desires that we continue to form relationships through these ministries, allowing the Lummi to see God demonstrated in the lives of our team members.  Through these opportunities, avenues will be opened to share the gospel more freely and also help the Lummi see that the teams are there to work alongside of them. This serves as an encouragement and helps equip them to grow.

         cost, dates and project orientation trips

The People: The ancestors of the Lummi people today are from the Native American tribes who settled along the bay as part of their migration across the land bridge that once connected North America with Asia.  Before the arrival of the pioneers, the Lummi people's traditional territory extended from the shores of Bellingham Bay north along the mainland coast including numerous settlements and fish camps throughout the San Juan Islands.  The language, custom, and philosophy of life on the Lummi Reservation is unique, as each has survived the ages by being passed down from elder to child.  Respect for their heritage and one another are the cornerstones of this community.  They are a very caring people.

Project Information: The Lummi Reservation is located on the Puget Sound near the Canadian border.  It is actually a peninsula surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges.  The land consists of 12,992 upland acres and 8,000 tideland acres.  Teams can fly into Seattle or Bellingham where vehicle rentals are available.

The Language: Reviving Lummi tradition and cultural values is a high priority.  The Lummi Nation has an extensive Lummi language program available to all tribal members.  Most Lummi also speak English.

The Religion: Although the Catholic Church and Shaker Church are located on the reservation, few Lummi will profess to believe in anything other than their own native beliefs.  Animistic spirit worship is the driving force behind what the Lummi really believe.  Non-public dances and ceremonies are held throughout the year to appease supernatural forces thought to control daily activities.  Over the centuries, the Lummi have suffered severe repression and censorship for practicing their native religion.  Today they continue to battle for their spiritual sovereignty.  They believe that spirituality is central to the health of their youth, adults, elders, families, and tribe.

Ministry Opportunities: Opportunities exist for activities and sports programs with children and youth as well as an outreach program with the elders.  Construction needs are numerous, and teams in prior years have greatly impacted the reservation by assisting the people with this means of ministry. MTW is seeking two year missionaries for the Lummi Reservation.

Weather: The weather is pleasant in the summer with rain as an ever-present possibility.  In July and August, daytime temperatures are in the 70-80 degree Fahrenheit range with cool evenings.  The winter is cold with temperatures sometimes falling below freezing at night.

Accommodations: Lodging, showers and meals are at the Lummi Community Center located on the reservation.

Meals: Meals are prepared by Lummi women.  Team members will be assigned to assist with the meals by serving and cleaning up.  There is also an opening for individuals willing to volunteer to serve in the kitchen for the weeks the teams are present.

*Project Orientation Trip

For further information contact: Dave Krueger, Phone: 678-823-0004 ext. 2314  or e-mail 2wk@mtw.org