Indigenous Peoples’ Day Message from President Helenor Webb

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The following is a message sent on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Monday, October 12, 2026, from UBE Arizona President Helenor Webb to membership.

Dear UBE Arizona Members,

Today, Indigenous Peoples' Day, we all have the opportunity - dare I say, the faithful duty - to pause and reflect. To consider with our hearts the damage done to our fellow human beings, our siblings in Christ, in the name of so-called "discovery," purported "progress."

I had the privilege of participating in one of the three Indigenous Peoples' Sunday services at Saint Matthew's (Chandler) yesterday, a service that was attended by many UBE Arizona members. Led by UBE Arizona and Council for Native American Ministry members The Rev. Monica Whitaker, Rector of Saint Matthew's, and Joey Morelli (Hopi Sand Clan), the Council's Native Voice, it was an incredibly meaningful and beautiful service. 

Especially poignant was the wisdom shared by Grandfather Lench Archuleta (Yaqui Tribe). From the many wonderful teachings he shared, I took away a feeling of hopefulness. A feeling that we could all reach out to one another in very simple but meaningful ways to establish connection and, in doing so, help heal our world. Even just acknowledging one another when we pass, as ants do, can let people know we see them and we value them, just because they are and just as they are.

What a wonderful lesson.

Faithfully,

Helenor

Grandfather Lench Archuleta (Yaqui Tribe) and Joey Morelli (Hopi Sand Clan) share reflections on Native Spirituality.

Helenor Webb offers the readings during the service wearing her “Every Child Matters” shirt in honor and remembrance of the Indigenous children who died after being forced into residential and boarding schools, as well as survivors of the schools, their families, and communities.