Keres, Western in United States

Introduction / History

The Western Keres are one of the Pueblo peoples of the American Southwest, primarily residing in the pueblos of Acoma and Laguna in western New Mexico. Their language, Western Keres, belongs to the Keresan language family, a unique linguistic group not related to other Native American languages. The Western Keres have lived in their ancestral homelands for centuries, building thriving communities characterized by strong cultural identity, communal cooperation, and respect for tradition.

Spanish colonization in the 16th century introduced Catholic influence and disrupted many aspects of Pueblo life, yet the Western Keres have retained much of their language, cultural structure, and distinct religious traditions.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Western Keres life revolves around family, community, and the land. Many families continue traditional farming and ranching while also participating in modern professions in nearby towns or cities. Pottery, art, and jewelry making remain important cultural and economic activities. Homes are often clustered in pueblos, where extended families live close to one another and community life follows the agricultural calendar.

Ceremonial dances, feasts, and festivals play a central role in maintaining unity and cultural identity. Education and preserving their language are high priorities, especially as younger generations navigate life between traditional values and modern society.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Western Keres maintain a deep spiritual connection to the earth and the cycles of nature. Their traditional religion includes ceremonies, dances, and prayers that honor the Creator, ancestral spirits, and the forces of nature. Many Western Keres also identify as Catholic, a result of Spanish missionary influence, but traditional beliefs remain deeply rooted.

Often, Catholic and traditional practices coexist in a blended form of spirituality. While there is a Christian presence among the Western Keres, traditional religious systems and community ceremonies continue to guide most aspects of life and belief.

What Are Their Needs?

The Western Keres need continued support in preserving their native language, as younger generations are increasingly adopting English as their primary language. There is also a need for holistic community development that respects traditional culture while providing opportunities for economic growth.

Spiritually, many Western Keres have not yet heard or embraced the gospel in a clear and culturally relevant way. They need prayer and outreach efforts that communicate Christ's love with sensitivity to their cultural heritage and values.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Western Keres people would put all their faith in Jesus Christ's abundant blessings.
Pray that there would be a tremendous increase in discipleship and evangelism materials in the Western Keres language.
Pray for the work of the Holy Spirit to mightily defeat the resistance to the preaching of the gospel among the Western Keres.
Pray for lasting relationships between believers and Western Keres families that lead to trust and open hearts toward the gospel.
Pray for healing from historical wounds and for spiritual openness to God's word throughout the pueblos of Acoma and Laguna.

Text Source:   Joshua Project