Colville in United States

Introduction / History

The Colville people are part of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, located in north-central Washington State. The Confederated Tribes consist of twelve distinct bands, including the Chelan, Nespelem, Sanpoil, Colville, Lakes, Palus, Wenatchi, Entiat, Methow, Moses-Columbia, Nez Perce of Chief Joseph's band, and Okanogan. These tribes were traditionally semi-nomadic, relying on seasonal hunting, fishing, and gathering, particularly along the Columbia River and surrounding regions.

Linguistically, the Colville bands spoke a mix of Salishan and Sahaptin languages, depending on the band. Today, English is predominantly spoken, but language revitalization efforts are underway for both Colville-Okanagan (a Salishan language) and Nez Perce (a Sahaptin language). The formation of the reservation in the late 19th century came with the loss of ancestral lands and significant cultural disruption, but the tribes have worked hard to preserve their heritage and sovereignty.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, Colville tribal members live on and around the Colville Reservation, which spans over a million acres of diverse terrain. Many families are engaged in a mix of traditional and modern livelihoods, including tribal government, education, forestry, natural resource management, and health services. The tribe operates various enterprises to support economic development, such as casinos, agriculture, and tourism.

Cultural preservation remains a central part of life, with tribal events, powwows, language classes, and traditional practices continuing to strengthen community bonds. However, like many Native communities, the Colville face ongoing challenges such as high unemployment, substance abuse, mental health issues, and a need for improved access to quality education and healthcare.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Traditional Colville spirituality included animistic beliefs, reverence for the Creator, and respect for spirits associated with nature, animals, and ancestors. Vision quests, sweat lodge ceremonies, and seasonal dances were important spiritual expressions. These beliefs remain influential in the cultural life of many tribal members.

Christianity was introduced through Catholic and Protestant missions in the 19th century and remains present in the community today. Some tribal members are practicing Christians, while others blend Christian beliefs with traditional spirituality. Participation in longhouse religion, a traditional ceremonial and social gathering practice, also continues among some Colville people. Religious belief and practice vary widely, with many identifying more with cultural spirituality than formal religious institutions.

What Are Their Needs?

The Colville people are working to reclaim and protect their cultural identity through language revival, traditional education, and land stewardship. There is a strong need for continued support in preserving native languages and passing on traditional knowledge to younger generations. Social challenges—such as addiction, trauma, and economic hardship—remain pressing in some communities, requiring holistic and culturally sensitive solutions.

Spiritually, there is a need for outreach that acknowledges Colville culture while clearly communicating the hope and healing found in Christ. Ministries rooted in relationship, service, and mutual respect have the greatest opportunity to bear fruit. Support for indigenous Christian leaders and faith-based community programs could have a transformative impact.

Prayer Points

Pray asking God to bring healing and restoration to those affected by addiction, trauma, and poverty on the reservation.
Pray that the many evangelistic and discipleship materials available would be boldly used to reach the Colville people.
Pray that their hearts and eyes would be opened to the truth of God's word, the power of the gospel, and the true hope and peace found only in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Pray asking God to raise up indigenous Christian leaders to shepherd the Colville communities, that His glory may be revealed and his kingdom advanced among them.

Text Source:   Joshua Project