Danya Nicketa and Mae Syverud, emerging Alaska Native leaders within Alaska Conference, traveled to Togiak in March to lead a workshop about loss and grief.
Like many Native villages, Togiak, located in Southwest Alaska, has been hit hard with loss. Over the last few months, 33 deaths have occurred within this small, close-knit community. With Togiak’s people having suffered so much in a short time span, it was important that Arctic Mission Adventure provide the resources needed to show compassion towards those in mourning.
A workshop was planned with the help of Rick Remmers, North American Division Native ministries director; Steve Huey, North Pacific Union Native ministries director; and volunteers from Johnson City Church.
The workshop began with attendees forming a traditional talking circle. A prayer to the ultimate healer Jesus was offered, along with an invitation for introductions and greetings. Those attending were made to feel comfortable, creating a safe atmosphere to express their pain in losing loved ones. Some gave testimonies on how God had comforted them, while others spoke about their continued struggles with grief.
Mae Syverud shared Native and non-Native, alike, grieve and all are healing together in Christ. Huey took the group through the introduction of Neal Nedley’s book, Truth Behind Grief.
Danya Nicketa shared a sermonette on biblical application of how to move through grief and her experiences with loss. She reviewed the NEWSTART principles to encourage healthy living for participants and their families to strengthen mind, body and soul. Attendees took notes, asked questions and shared information throughout the presentations.
As the workshop ended, scriptures were read that emphasize how God is a present help during tough times and broken moments. As participants shared final thoughts, a sense of relief and release was evident; the heaviness that was felt at the beginning of the meeting seemed to have lifted off tired shoulders.
The weekend was a great opportunity for both leaders and attendees, and four additional workshops are scheduled in the coming months. Praise God for His comfort and for working in the heart of those that feel called to serve Him, especially for those within Native communities.
Workshop leaders and coordinators arrive in Togiak
Workshop leads and attendees enjoy Sabbath lunch together
Togiak residents who attended the grief and loss workshop
The village of Togiak Alaska, 392 air miles from Anchorage
The Togiak Adventist Church where the workshop was held
