Hope Still Lives Here
Built in 1862, the Methodist Church in the Round Valley Tribal Community stood as a painful reminder. It was part of Fort Wright, where the U.S. Army processed Native people following the 1883 Nome Cult Walk, often called California’s Trail of Tears.
By 1869, the government placed the building in the hands of the Methodists. But for generations, its walls carried the weight of trauma, not sanctuary.
Over the years it has become a symbol of resiliency and hope for the community. Many tribal elders have been calling this little church home for years, hosting potlucks, children’s vacation bible schools and Christmas pageants. Every year they host a weekend to learn about the history of the church and the beautiful valley they call home. And we can’t forget the consistent and faithful Sunday morning services led by Pastor Roy and another elder, Mitzy.
What once stood as a symbol of sorrow began to shift into a beacon of hope, though it still bore scars. The fence was broken. The paint was peeling. And the bell in the steeple hadn’t rang for year…silent.
So with a crew of hard working teenagers and young adults, we scrubbed the sanctuary until it sparkled. We mended and painted the fences the lined the front of the property. We worshiped Jesus from the front lawn and prayed over the community, writing notes of love, encouragement and prophetic words. And finally we repaired that old bell so it could ring again.
A symbol not of sorrow, but of restoration. Of healing, and of new beginnings.
This precious church holds many memories from years gone by. From an old army post, to a temporary Reservation School, to a church filled with love and healing. We absolutely love and honor the beautiful people who worship here every Sunday and love the community they call home.
