Suicide - the Native Crisis

If you've been keeping up with our weekly "facts" (Hunger, Drugs, & Abuse), it should come as no surprise that Native communities are dealing with a suicide epidemic.

More than any other ethnic group, American Indian and Alaska Natives are turning to suicide as a release from the pressures and darkness of their lives. The struggle against physical and sexual abuse and drug and alcohol use within communities has created a suicide crisis among Native youth and young adults. Some communities have experienced so much loss, they are "grieved out," according to one doctor who specializes in Native American psychiatric issues.

So what are we to do?

At Lutheran Indian Minsitries, we do what Jesus told us to do. We go, we claim the kingdom of God, and we assist in healing.

We create safe places where Native brothers and sisters, of all ages, can come to share and receive guidance.

We lead people to the cross to be healed and saved by the Holy Spirit. We work to make Native peoples and communities whole again to proclaim God's glory.

Romans 8:11 says "The same power that raised Christ from the dead is living in you."

Many Native people are spiritually lost and need to hear about the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the power that it has in our lives.

Healing is a reminder of God's spirit at work in his children to prepare for the resurrection, and by assisting in that healing, we build relationships and create opportunities to share God's love and grace.

This Christmas, take the time to recognize that we are celebrating the birth of our Savior, and since we're short on angels announcing from the heavens, it's our job to share the good news of great joy to all the people. It is that good news that binds wounds and heals hearts.

This Christmas, take the time to support your local Christian non-profits and Native-focused organizations.

Merry Christmas!