Pine Ridge 2009

It's hard to believe we will be going on our church's 7th trip to the Pine Ridge reservation. When we planned that first trip seven years ago, we assumed it would be a one-time deal. However, after the first year, it became apparent that the people of Pine Ridge had found a permanent place in our hearts. It is the relationships with the people of Pine Ridge that keep us coming back year after year.

The woman that we are most connected to is named Pinky. She not only owns the only store in town but she is actively involved in trying to find solutions to the housing problems on the reservation and helping her people in whatever way she can. One of the ways she hopes to help is by bringing in more volunteer groups to learn about the issues on the reservation and help with various building projects. A couple of years ago we helped complete a bunkhouse on the property her mother left her and this year we will be helping to rebuild a home of a family that lost their's to a fire this past summer. The money we raise prior to leaving will go towards this project.

The problems facing the people of Pine Ridge are complex and tremendous, which explains the need for so many volunteers. Approximately 85% of the people on the reservation are unemployed and 69% live below the poverty line. Many of the houses do not have running water or electricity and are overcrowded. There is no industry on the reservation and no substantial natural resources. The extremely high rates of alcoholism and diabetes are two things that contribute to the low life expectancy of only 45. In addition, corruption runs rampant within their tribal council.

Will Peter, a former teacher and current member of the tribal council, has come to speak with our group for the past 6 years. He is a wise and faithful man with many talents. He too is committed to helping his people, which is why he agreed to run for tribal council despite his distaste for politics. Within a few months of winning the election, Will started to receive death threats. When others told him to stop rocking the boat, he replied, "Rock the boat? We're trying to tip the boat over!" He is a man full of love for his people and continues, despite these threats, to help serve them in any way.

Pinky and Will are only two of the many wonderful people we spend time with on the reservation. We also spend every afternoon playing with the kids in Manderson, which was a highlight for many in our group.

Words cannot express how proud and thankful we are for each and every member of our group. Nor can words express how thankful we am to the members of St. Andrew's who continue to support this ministry year after year. None of these trips would have been possible without their prayers and financial support. So from all of us, we thank you.