Once every month, students and staff unite for a unique tradition at St. Joseph’s Indian School — Lakota Mass. This beautiful Mass honors Catholic faith and the rich culture of the Lakota (Sioux) people, creating a deep spiritual experience.
As students enter the Our Lady of the Sioux chapel, the sense of culture and faith are unmistakable. Many wear traditional apparel: ribbon skirts, ribbon shirts and stunning dance regalia. Their attire is a reflection of identity, family, culture and belonging. Before Fr. Greg begins Mass, student dancers step forward to lead the way, gracing the aisle with traditional Lakota dances that fill the space with reverence and beauty.
LaRayne, St. Joseph’s Native American Studies teacher, said, “Our students look forward to singing, dancing and praying at Lakota Mass. They are excited to greet our [campus] homes and visitors as they stand in their regalia outside the chapel.”
This blending of tradition and spirituality offers our students something truly special: a chance to embrace their faith through the lens of Lakota customs. Even Fr. Greg honors this connection, wearing moccasins during Lakota Mass, a gesture that beautifully symbolizes unity and respect.
Persais, a student at St. Joseph’s and this year’s Miss St. Joseph’s, said, “Participating in Lakota Mass means everything to me. It’s telling everyone that we are still here.”
Throughout the ceremony, cultural elements are woven into the worship in meaningful and authentic ways. Sage is smudged before entering, inviting purification, peace and prayer. The Chalk Hills Singers — our student drum group — share powerful Lakota songs that echo through the church. And during the blessing of communion, instead of bells or chimes, the beat of the powerful drum echoes in the chapel reminding us God is present in every culture and every language.
Joe Tyrell, Director of Mission Integration at St. Joseph’s Indian School, said, “It’s essential to St. Joseph’s mission that the Catholic faith and Lakota culture are celebrated together during Lakota Mass, as this honors both the spiritual and cultural identities of our students, showing them that their faith and heritage are intertwined. This unity strengthens our community by fostering belonging, pride and deeper understanding among students, families and staff.”
Lakota Mass exemplifies who we are as a community. Our students are able to express their identity, honor their ancestors and experience worship in a way that feels natural, familiar and deeply spiritual. It is a time that reminds each of us that faith and culture do not compete, they uplift one another.
We invite you to witness this meaningful Lakota Mass that inspires our campus community by watching the following video.
Wóphila tȟáŋka — many thanks — for sharing this moment with us.
Learn more about St. Joseph’s Indian School by visiting stjo.org.
