Fort Yates Mission Experience 2008

Saturday, March 1st to Saturday, March 8th

      This spring break we have to the opportunity to visit St. Peter’s in Fort Yates, North Dakota.  Fort Yates is located in the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, which is the home of the Dakota and Lakota Indians. Fort Yates is also the home of the grave of Sitting Bull.  This is an opportunity to experience a different culture, get involved in their daily lives, see how Christ church has spread, and to help show his love.   

      The parish itself is a reflection of the culture in which it is immersed.  The church is fashioned after a tepee with the tradition 16 poles.  The alter is trimmed with deerskin and beads.  And over the tabernacle is a Lakota chief’s head dress.** 

      It will be a two day journey to get to the reservation.  On the way, we plan to make a stop in St. Louis to go to the Gateway Arch.  We will spend the night in Omaha, Nebraska and go to Sunday mass at the Cathedral of St. Cecilia. And then get to Fort Yates on Sunday.  We will spend four full days at Fort Yates. Then we will start heading back on Friday and spend the night in Kansas City.  Then make it back to Cookeville on Saturday. 

      While in Fort Yates, we will stay at the rectory (guys) and convent (girls).  During the school day, we will get to spend time with the kids (Kindergarten- 8th grade).  We also might help out doing some small things around the parish.**  I am currently talking to Brother George Maufort to get better details of what we will do there.  It is my hope that we can participate in some Indian rituals/cultural activities. 

Any Questions/Concerns/Thoughts Contact Matt Gott

Email: mattgott16@yahoo.com  Cell: (423) 863-9150