The Would Jesus Eat Frybread? (WJEF) Conference is more than just an event—it’s a sacred space where Native students encounter Jesus in a way that fully honors their culture, identity, and traditions. This past gathering, held from November 8th to 10th, 2024, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was an incredible time of worship, learning, and community. I had the privilege of bringing 9 students from Haskell Indian Nations University to experience it firsthand.
Beyond my role as a Campus Minister, I also served as the Sound/Video Tech for the conference, handling in-room audio, online livestreaming, and AV setup and breakdown. Additionally, I drove with three students from Lawrence, KS, to Albuquerque, NM, while the rest of the group flew separately. The long drive provided an incredible opportunity to connect deeply with those students, hearing their stories, discussing faith, and building relationships in ways that don’t always happen in a typical ministry setting.
A Transformative Experience
For many students, this was their first time engaging with Christianity in a space that didn’t ask them to choose between their faith and their Native identity. One of the students, Star Tsinniginnie, reflected on her experience, sharing how much she valued the time spent with her group from Haskell. She appreciated the opportunity to connect and reflect on faith and identity and noted how having someone to help process discussions made a real difference. “I felt supported by our advisor, Steven, who facilitated meaningful conversations and helped break down different perspectives. His guidance allowed us to engage more deeply with the content of the conference.”
Other students shared how meaningful it was to see Native Christians from different regions, especially those from Alaska and Hawaii, which deepened their appreciation for the diversity of experiences within Indigenous faith communities. A few students also highlighted how small group settings helped them process their faith in ways that felt safe and supportive.
One student reflected on how the worship experience was unlike anything they had been part of before. The blend of Native traditions, music, and biblical teaching resonated deeply with them, helping them see how faith and identity could be fully embraced together. Another student appreciated the opportunity to learn from elders and community leaders, gaining wisdom that they could take back to their families and home communities.
A Closer Look at the Sessions
The conference featured a mix of large group teachings, small group reflections, and cultural gatherings. Some sessions focused on understanding scripture from an Indigenous perspective, helping students see how biblical teachings connect with Native values of community, honor, and relationship with creation. Other discussions challenged students to think about their own spiritual journeys, encouraging them to ask deep questions and wrestle with their faith.
One theme that stood out was the struggle many students face when navigating faith and Native identity. Some had previously felt pressure to separate their culture from Christianity, while others had never been given the space to explore their faith in a way that honored who they are. WJEF provided that space—where students could not only engage in faith but do so alongside other Native believers who understood their experiences.
Key Takeaways from WJEF
1️⃣ Jesus Meets Us Where We Are – Through worship, teaching, and small group discussions, students were reminded that Jesus does not ask them to abandon their identity but instead meets them within their culture.
2️⃣ Community is Powerful – Many students come from places where they feel isolated in their faith. WJEF provided a space to see that they are not alone, surrounded by others who share their journey.
3️⃣ A Call to Action – This conference wasn’t just about what happened during the event; it was about what comes next. Students left feeling equipped and encouraged to bring what they learned back to their campuses, families, and communities.
What Comes Next?
WJEF is not just a mountaintop experience—it’s a launching point. The challenge now is to continue walking in faith and bringing the gospel back to campus in a way that resonates with students. At HINU Fellowship, we’re committed to creating spaces where this kind of spiritual growth can continue year-round.
Many students expressed a desire to continue the conversations started at WJEF by meeting regularly for Bible studies, prayer gatherings, and deeper discipleship. Some students have already begun sharing what they learned with their friends, and others are looking for ways to serve in their home communities. As a ministry, we are working to support and encourage these students as they grow in their faith.
Before heading back home, I took the students to Sandia Peak, where we had the opportunity to reflect on the conference, share laughs, and take in the beauty of God’s creation. These moments outside of formal sessions were just as meaningful—allowing students to process everything they had experienced in a relaxed and open environment.
HINU students and their leader, Steven, overlooking Albuquerque from atop Sandia Peak.
How You Can Help
👉 Pray for these students—that what they experienced at WJEF would take root in their hearts.
👉 Support this work—Your partnership helps make experiences like WJEF possible for more students.
👉 Encourage ongoing discipleship—If you know Native students looking for a space to explore their faith, connect them with us!
I’m so grateful for your prayers and support. God is moving, and this is just the beginning.
For more information about the WJEF Conference, visit their official website: https://www.wouldjesuseatfrybread.org/
