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All over North America this ceremonial prayer music can
be heard, as the People strive to follow a spiritual path. Two boys, one,
Lakota/Ponca and the other Dine', grew up in the arms of the Native American
Church, learning the songs and prayers. Later, they were to begin to compose
their own songs to accompany the rituals. With this release they perform
in accapella fashion 20 of these beautiful compositions. An excellent
collector's item as these songs are delivered in true harmony which is
unusual with Native traditional singing of North America. Creates a soothing,
spiritual, and releasing mood. Excellent for personal prayer time and
anyone working in the healing arts.
The Native American Church, or NAC, has it's roots in the
Native Peoples of Northern Mexico, specifically the Huichol. Using the
sacred peyote medicine with their prayers and songs, this spiritual way
has been shared from tribe to tribe till now it is practiced as far north
as Alaska and the northern Canadian Native reserves.
Originally, there was no "Church", only the Peyote
Way or Road. The NAC was formed following the attacks by the federal government
and Christian missionaries to stamp it out. Once the Church was organized,
the persecution lessened. And with the passing of the Native American
Freedom of Religion Act, the NAC now has legal protection within
the US. Notwithstanding, the persecution continues, as do the songs and
the commitment of these prayerful, loving people. The late Allen Neskahi,
Sr.(the webmaster's grandfather) was the first Dine' roadman, having traveled
to the Cheyenne of Oklahome to acquire the ceremony in the early 1900's.
To all the NAC members, thank you for your ongoing prayers and dedication.
...hey ya na, hey nay yo way!
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