When the first Europeans passed through the southeastern territory of what is now known as the United States in 1540, they found hunters with great bows that the Spanish soldiers were unable to pull back. They found a culture that was untainted by the outside world - they found the Cherokee.

For the first 200 years of contact, the Cherokee extended hospitality to the newcomers from the East. Peaceful trade prevailed, and intermarriage was not uncommon. The Cherokee were quick to embrace useful aspects of the new culture but, by then, nearly 200 years of broken treaties had reduced the Cherokee empire to a small territory, and President Andrew Jackson began to insist that all southeastern Indians be moved west of the Mississippi.

Through a supreme court ruling and Cherokee victory, Andrew Jackson, in violation of balanced government, defiled the ruling and forced his removal upon the Cherokee. This mass exodus became known as the "Trail of Tears".

The Cherokee have always claimed their roots in Southern Appalachia (Western North Carolina) and those Cherokee that reside in North Carolina today descend from those who were able to hold on to land they owned, those who hid in the hills, and others who returned – many on foot. Gradually and with great effort, they have created a vibrant society, a sovereign nation where people in touch with their past and alive to the present preserve timeless ways and wisdom.

These are the people of which my heritage came and from July 3rd - July 14th, I will be living among the Cherokee, leading a Church2Church - American Indian trip (we also work with American Indians in C2C) to bless the current believers by extending their ministry in love and service. This is much desired from the warriors of Christ amongst the tribe and will allow them to greater reach their culture - as their culture.

Many of you have roots in Cherokee, North Carolina and you should be proud to know that your people still stand. Join the vision, war in prayer, and empower us to empower them as we walk instep with God's heart for His very own Cherokee tribe.