Pastor's Note

A Message from Pastor, Nathan Sam-Whistler

Hello Mariposa!

I'm thrilled to share that I've finally moved into the parsonage and become a part of your wonderful community. I'm excited to introduce myself and look forward to meeting you all.

Let me tell you a bit about myself. I'm Native American, an enrolled member of the Tohono O'odham Nation in Arizona, and also a member of the Paiute and Shoshone Nations in Nevada. My cat is a beautiful black and long-haired feline. Also, I have four adult daughters who are all working / or attending school, and residing in Nevada.

Over the past decade, I've been a pastor, with two years of experience in Atwater, California, and prior to that, in Yerington and Schurz, Nevada. I have lived in Nevada and Arizona, where I have families that include siblings.

My ministry journey began in Schurz, where I served the local Methodist Church. This predominantly Native American congregation is located on the Walker River Paiute Indian Reservation.

It was here that I earned certificates in Lay Speaking, Lay Serving, and Conference Lay Ministry from the United Methodist Church (UMC).

I've been serving on the CA-NV Annual Conference Committee on Native American Ministries since 2016. I didn't initially seek this role; I accepted a learning position under the former chair, Derrick Rainbow, who unfortunately passed away in 2017 due to COVID-19. Derrick encouraged me to join the committee, and I eventually took on the lead position, becoming the chair since then.

My journey in ministry wouldn't have been possible without Derrick and the other committee members who visited us on the reservation. They recognized my potential and supported me in my ministry endeavors. In Derrick's passing, I met one of your previous pastors, Robin Matthews-Johnson, who became my friend. She is missed.

My diverse experience is undoubtedly the most valuable asset I bring to the table. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and contribute to the church's mission. See you in July, God bless!

Grace and Peace,
Pastor Nathan Sam-Whistler