


Native Grace Intertribal Fellowship: Our Story
Native Grace Intertribal Fellowship began in 2012 as a United Methodist ministry. Our worship services, both in English and Navajo, are held at 2 p.m. each Sunday at the First UMC of Cortez.
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What makes us unique?
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Our collaboration with First UMC of Cortez, our partners in mission.
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Our approach to faith in which our worship and community ministry encourages both faith in Jesus Christ and Native American tradition. We believe that in harmony of faith and tradition, we discover God’s grace, love and acceptance.
The Gourd Dance
Six years ago, Pastor Norman Mark led the Gourd Dance on the grounds of the First UMC in Cortez. It was the first of its kind to be held on a Christian church grounds.
“There is no other example of traditional native dance on Christian property that we know of in our region,” said Pastor Mark. “The Gourd Dance is an opportunity to make the bold statement that a person doesn’t have to choose to be either Christian or traditional native. A person can be both and be blessed by practicing how to live side by side in harmony.”
The Gourd Dance, in honor of American Veterans, is scheduled to be held in November in 2024. Check the Events Calendar for more information.
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Gourd Dance 2024



Native Grace is comprised mostly of families and individuals from The Navajo Nation but we welcome members of other tribes. We represent people of all ages and generations.
Before the COVID pandemic, Native Grace was comprised of about 85 members. But the health crisis took a huge toll on our community. We are working with the Navajo Relief Project and today, we have 45 active members and are rebuilding our church membership.





Our Faith

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Native Grace members have many opportunities for service and leadership through a variety of projects and ministries.
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Mission Projects: Native Grace members participate in projects such as care for elders on the reservation; Christmas gifts for children and elders; home repairs and services through Native Grace Builds Lives; and work with UMCOR Disaster Response across the country.
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Native Grace Children’s Ministry: Children receive special attention through traditional craft projects, Navajo language, Biblical teaching and fun activities that help children grow and learn their faith and heritage.
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Leadership & Education: Native Grace members have opportunities for leadership training and educational experiences sponsored by the United Methodist Church.
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Special celebrations: Each year, Native Grace provides opportunities for members to engage in special celebrations and Native feasts as we share the joy of being brothers and sisters in Christ.
Our Staff
Native Grace Intertribal Fellowship-Cortez
Pastor: Rev. Norman Mark.
Pastor Norman also shares this ministry with his wife, Rebecca. Together,
they have many years of ministry experience. “We are excited to be part of
a group that encourages both Christian faith and Traditional Native teaching
and practice,” said Pastor Norman.
Rev. Norman Mark, Rebecca Mark
Cell: 970.394.4415;
Native Grace Intertribal Fellowship Leadership
Pastor Norman Mark leads Native Grace along side the Native Grace Leadership Council.
