During a two-week trip to Kykotsmovi, Ariz., students learned about the history, religion, and culture of the Hopi—a puebloan people living in southwestern U.S.—as they visited historic sites, served in an elementary school, and lived among these native people.

Distance and difference summarized students’ experiences as they traveled more than 3,000 miles (spanning 11 states) and were astounded by the vast open spaces in the landscape and between communities in the southwest. Though never leaving the U.S., students discovered an environment quite different from Goshen—in geography (high desert), politics (autonomous government within reservations), and economic realities (80% unemployment, severe poverty, subsistence living).

While visiting Third Mesa, Ruby, a Hopi who believes in following Jesus, invited students into her home—a rare honor—and shared stories of her life, including her walking eight miles a day to tend her crops! And like the widow who fed Elijah (1 Kings 17), Ruby offered hospitality and generously prepared food—from the little cornmeal she had—for her student guests.

Junior Siobhan Mahnken was particularly impressed by Ruby, her much simpler lifestyle, and her priorities. She says, “Most people I know are concerned with image, but not Ruby. Family is her priority.”

Other highlights included visiting centuries-old petroglyphs and cliff dwellings, helping teach young children at the Hopi Mission School, and attending a church service at the Kykotsmovi Mennonite Church. Junior Blake Shetler, in contrast to his church, noted a difference in gender roles, attentive listeners through a long service, and enthusiastic singing. He says, “Even though they never skipped a verse, the singing was quite enjoyable. They were intent on praising the Lord.”