Ministry in Navajoland

Beyond the breathtaking sights of Arizona and New Mexico lie some of the poorest Catholic communities of our country in the Diocese of Gallup. The diocese, which straddles the northern quadrants of Arizona and New Mexico, faces challenges of extreme weather and poverty. In the winter, it's typical for the day to begin with bone-numbing temperatures and then climb 30 degrees. Harsh winds and an unrelenting sun take their toll on buildings and the economy. The majority of land is not arable for growing crops. That combined with a lack of industry, makes the Diocese of Gallup one of the poorest in the U.S. with more than a 50 percent unemployment rate in some areas.

Many of the Navajo still live in very humble conditions, in the traditional six-sided hogans without running water and electricity. Most of the population is scattered in family-dominated clusters throughout the land. The extreme conditions, poverty and remoteness of the reservation make it a challenge for the 54,000 Catholics to practice their Faith. That's why Catholic Extension is so vital to the survival of the Diocese of Gallup, providing salary assistance for more than a third of the missionaries who sacrifice to ensure the Church continues to serve the Navajo.