Religious Education Update: February 4, 2007

Huichol Religion and Art

Today the children will explore the religion and art of the Huichol Indians, a small tribe still living high in the Sierra Madre Mountains in Central Mexico. They are said to be the last tribe in North America to have maintained their pre-Columbian beliefs.

According to the Dance of the Deer Foundation, "Huichol life is a continuous cycle of ritual and devotional exercises designed to help them stay connected to the Ancient Ones-Tate Wari (Grandfather Fire), Takutsi Nakawey (Grandmother Growth), Kauyumari (our brother, the Deer Spirit), and Tatei Yurianaka (Mother Earth), among others. The Huichols say that during ceremony, they are inviting these spirits to come into the circle of life to be with them- to help empower them and their families, and to help the universe stay in balance."

The Huichol tribe has no written language, so they have transmitted their beliefs to their children through art and storytelling. This small tribe is renowned for their yarn paintings and intricate beadwork.

I want the children to know about the native traditions which have survived, despite the influence of the dominant religions, such as Catholicism. The Huichol tradition, in common with other indigenous faiths, emphasizes living in harmony with Mother Earth.

The children will express their own ideas and beliefs through their own yarn and beadwork.

After the service, come back to the Fireside Room and see what they have created!

Marlene Abel
Director of Religious Education