Native and Christian: Indigenous Voices on Religious Identity in the United States and Canada

Though Native American and Christian seems like a contradiction because of the tragic course American history has taken concerning indigenous people- it cannot be denied that there is a long and complex tradition and relationship among America's Indigenous people and Christianity. Many tribes and Native people have cultivated and enriched this relationship going right back to the beginning of "America". This relationship, in its pure and uncorrupted form, demonstrates that one does not have to stop being an Indian to be a Christian or that one cannot be a Christian if they cling to an Indian knowledge of spiritual reality. True Christianity, undefiled by ideology and political opportunism is compatible and reconcilable with Native worldview, thought and philosophy. James Treat's book, "Native and Christian", as well as his other offerings and endeavors demonstrate this dynamic clearly. "Native and Christian" is an important work to look at for anyone wishing to explore this topic from aan anthropologic, theological or religious perspective. As a native and a Christian I will state that the book rings true and has been very helpful in my own studies and spiritual walk.