Presbytery of Alaska

The Continuing Mission and Ministry in Southeast Alaska

The Presbyterian Church (USA) has long been involved in cross-cultural mission around the

world. Some of that mission happens daily within the boarders of the United States, specifically in southeast Alaska. Here, the interchange of Alaska Native cultures with the Presbyterian tradition provides unique and blessed opportunities for communicating the gospel of Jesus Christ.

With Alaska's continued growth and development, the state's population has diversified, yet the population of southeast Alaska remains about 25 percent Alaska Native people. The rich heritages of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian people are evident in many of the villages that have a Presbyterian presence. In fact, the population of some of those villages reaches from 80 to 95 percent Alaska Native people. Currently, 1,300 Presbyterians - many of them Alaska's first people - work and live in this area.

The challenges and blessings of living and serving in southeast Alaska are both strong. Remote island locations, economies rocked by layoffs, and alcohol and drug abuse impact all southeast communities. The work of individual churches demonstrates Christ is at work in congregations who have little, sharing what they have with those who have less. There is faithfulness to friends, family and neighboring communities with a special compassion for children and youth.

The communities also witness the faithfulness of God who continues to bless the longstanding mission of the Presbyterian church in southeast Alaska.

Click: Presbytery of Alaska for more information.

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