Wednesday, April 09, 2008

Native American religion -- some links

For an overview of Lakota culture, we'll start with the Lakota Information Page developed by Richard Two Elk. He is an Lakota educator in Denver; his page isn't slick, but often that's a good sign with websites. Especially Native American websites, for reasons we'll explore later.

A wealth of information on Lakota spirituality and religion is available here: Articles on Spiritual Heritage. Including Pipe ceremony, four directions, Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha. American Indian Culture Research Center, Blue Cloud Abbey, Marvin, S.D. There is a lot of good information available elswwhere on the AICRC website. Surf around and find something that interests you.

Dakota/Lakota Theology. Correspondences between Lakota and Christian theology. "When you study People you are touching -- not a problem -- but a Mystery. Problems are irritating, and when solved are discarded. Mysteries are fascinating, and when tested are entrancing. ... For your understanding we have used familiar catechetical terms to parallel Indian concepts in religion."

Dakota Theology on the Blue Cloud Abbey website. " Another list.

An overview of relations between Native people and Christian denominations in "Shining Through: Native Spirituality Sheds a New Light on Christianity" by Rea Howarth [from American Indian Report – December, 1999].

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