Apache Christ icon controversy sparks debate over Indigenous Catholic faith practices

The congregation at St. Joseph Apache Mission in the Mescalero Reservation in New Mexico, is struggling to deal with the hurt caused by their priest removing a cherished painting called the Apache Christ, which portrays Jesus as an Indigenous holy man. Parishioners say that for years, they have successfully blended their Indigenous culture with their Catholic faith. While the paintings and other objects that were taken have been returned and a new priest has been assigned to the parish, the community is demanding a public apology from the Diocese of Las Cruces, which oversees the church. They say it is essential to help them move forward in the path of healing and reconciliation.