A Shared Vision for Shared Life: A Case for a Native and Non-Native Church Partnership Öffentlichkeit
Neal, Wendi (Spring 2025)
Abstract
The historical interactions between Native American tribes and non-Native churches reflect a complex narrative of both intentional and unintentional harm, as well as moments of mutual respect and shared mission. This research explores the relationship between Norman First American United Methodist Church and McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church—two congregations located in Oklahoma—seeking to understand and reinitiate a partnership that has been inactive for over a decade. This project aims to reimagine the relationship through a model of mutual engagement and shared ministry, emphasizing the awareness of history and culture and how those shape the relationship going forward. By examining broader historical tensions between non-Native and Native American Christian communities in Oklahoma and through interviews and focus group data, I find three practices that will help develop a mutually beneficial relationship between these two churches. The goal is to cultivate a relationship grounded in mutual respect, cultural awareness, and collaboration—one that not only strengthens the two congregations but also contributes to the well-being of the surrounding Norman community.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments………………………………………………………………………………... 2
Research Approach……………………………………………………………………………….. 3
Method………………………………………………………………………………............... 4
Historical Context and Background………………………………………………………………. 7
Methodism in Oklahoma: 1830-1888……………………………………………………...... 10
Methodism in Oklahoma: 1889-present……………………………………………………... 12
The Establishment of McFarlin Memorial and Norman First American ………………………. 14
Fruitful Fellowship and Wild Onions……………………………………………………………. 16
The Search for Shared Life in New Ways………………………………………………...…….. 20
A New Approach for Native and Non-Native Relationships………………………………….... 25
Recommendations for a Mutually Beneficial Partnership……………………………………… 31
Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………..... 37
Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………………...... 39
Illustrations……………………………………………………………………………………… 41
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