Mountain Utes in United States
Photo Source:
Larry Lamsa - Flickr
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Mountain Utes |
| Country: | United States |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 5,000 |
| World Population: | 5,000 |
| Primary Language: | Ute-Southern Paiute |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 60.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 3.00 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | North American Indigenous |
| Affinity Bloc: | North American Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Mountain Ute are part of the Ute Nation, descendants of the Weenuche band. The Weenuche band historically inhabited the territory just west of the Rocky Mountains, concentrated in the modern states of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah. In the past, they roamed this region, hunting game, gathering food, and living in tipis made of animal hides.
Today, many of the Ute Mountain tribe live on the 900-square-mile Ute Mountain Indian Reservation, located in the Four Corners area of the southwest, where Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado intersect. The largest concentration of Ute Mountain people lives in Towaoc, Colorado, where the tribal headquarters is located.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Ute Mountain culture continues to include arts and crafts, such as beaded items, baskets, and pottery.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Water has always played a major role in the Ute Mountain culture. Every year, they hold the Bear Dance, a ceremony that serves as both a social event and an opportunity to conduct traditional rituals intended to ensure water quantity and quality. Some continue to believe in a spiritual connection with the earth and a need to appease the spirits. This includes seeking the help of shamans, engaging in sacrifices, and holding ceremonies to honor nature.
What Are Their Needs?
The Mountain Ute have endured a history of both animistic deception and violent displacement. Some continue to live in darkness, their minds blinded by the god of this world.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Lord to call and send workers into this unique harvest field.
Ask the Lord to prepare the hearts of the Mountain Ute to receive the gospel.
Pray for the lies of animism to be dispelled and for them to be set free by the truth of Jesus Christ.
Pray for healing and forgiveness for past and present treatment.