Native American Ministries Sunday

What is Native American Ministries Sunday?
Native American Ministries Sunday is one of six churchwide Special Sundays designated to support ministries and causes important to the entire United Methodist Church. On this day, we come together to honor and support Indigenous peoples and communities. It’s a day to recognize the rich gifts, cultures, and contributions of Native Americans to both society and the Church.

Why Does It Matter?
Many people—both in society and within the Church—lack understanding of Native American life, culture, and spirituality. Native American Ministries Sunday helps bridge this gap by celebrating Indigenous heritage and empowering Native voices in ministry.

Support the Ministry Give through your local church or donate online at donate.gcfa.org/nams. Checks can also be sent to General Commission on Finance and Administration at P.O. Box 340029, Nashville, TN 37203.

Native American Ministries Sunday matters because it addresses the critical shortage of Native American pastors and trained leaders, helping ensure that Indigenous communities have strong representation and leadership within the Church.

What Does My Giving Support?
Special Sundays give us a chance to focus our prayers and support on important ministries all year long—uniting our gifts to multiply our impact.  Your generosity strengthens Native leadership and sustains ministry across the connection. Funds are distributed in three key ways:

Annual Conference Ministries (50%)
Half of the funds collected remain in your annual conference to support local Native American ministries through the work of the Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM).

Scholarships (25%)
A quarter of the money funds scholarships for Native American students pursuing ordained or licensed ministry at approved theological schools.

Programs (25%)
The remaining funds support programs that develop new Native ministries, including mentoring, economic empowerment, and leadership development initiatives.

When Is Native American Ministries Sunday Celebrated?
Most churches observe Native American Ministries Sunday in the spring, usually on the third Sunday after Easter, but it can be celebrated on any Sunday that fits your church’s calendar. Here are the current dates: May 4, 2025, April 19, 2026, April 11, 2027 and April 30, 2028

How Can I Be Part of the Ministry?
You can be part of this ministry by giving, sharing its impact, and supporting the education and leadership of Native American pastors and community leaders. Learn about the difference your support is making and the lasting connections being created [here].