Story perspectives

Pastor Defies Tribal Order, Holds Service Amid Protest

7/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pastor Sarah Lucas refused to leave Wind River Reservation after Northern Arapaho Business Council ordered the church out.
She delivered a July 5 sermon calling the tribe’s sacred pipe and ancestor prayers idolatry.
About 100 Northern Arapaho members protested outside the church on July 7 demanding an apology.
Northern Arapaho Business Council Chair Keenan Groesbeck posted on July 10 that the church must leave.
Lucas held a Sunday service on July 12 despite threats.

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Story summary

Pastor Sarah Lucas refused to leave Wind River Reservation after Northern Arapaho Business Council ordered the church out.
She delivered a July 5 sermon calling the tribe’s sacred pipe and ancestor prayers idolatry.
About 100 Northern Arapaho members protested outside the church on July 7 demanding an apology.
Northern Arapaho Business Council Chair Keenan Groesbeck posted on July 10 that the church must leave.
Lucas held a Sunday service on July 12 despite threats.