Coupstick Chaplain

“Lord, you have made your bow quite ready, and called for many arrows. You have fashioned each by hand and sworn an oath over all.”(Hab. 3:9)

This site is dedicated to the memory of David Pendleton, Oka ha-tuh, Cheyenne warrior and Episcopal Deacon, and those Kiowa Koitsenko who followed “The Jesus Road.”

“Remember when I went first and you followed; I follow another now, his name is Jesus, what he says is true and he only makes war for peace!”

(Pendleton)

Commission

As a Kiowa-Na’ishan Christian Chaplain, the militancy of my future calling was declared at the time of my “second baptism” when these words were spoken over me – “The Lord has called you from your mother’s womb and made mention of your name among her people. He has made your mouth like a sharpened sword, and like a polished shaft in his quiver he has hidden you; in the shadow of his hand he has concealed you.” (Is. 49:1,2)

Mission

The Coupstick Chaplain was envisioned as a Native American Christian chaplaincy for “War Fighters,” the Warrior Community at large, and those Veteran non-profits and American Indian Warrior Societies that continue to represent and support them.

In view of the fact that wars are fought for religious as well as political reasons, it often becomes less about bullets and more about water when it gets down to a personal level. “And the angel showed me a pure river, of water of life, as clear as crystal, that issued from the throne of God and the Lamb.” (Rev. 22:1, KJV, ann.) The inference being, that while the source is there for anyone to partake from, they must first believe that the source exists before they can bow the knee and drink.

As for those who are quick to disdain, faith is like a braided chain, a fast-rope of duty and honor that takes a particular type. The same that the Lord God Hashem-Elohim looked for when selecting Gideon’s 300, –“…choosing only those few who lapped the water with their bare hands.” (Judges 7:6) While this example is perhaps one of the best illustrations of “The Warriors Ethos” that we have, it has also been noted as being characteristic of the angelic hosts as well; the the best example being that of the Archangel Michael, known as “The Angel of War.” Yet there is more to the story that is often left untold. The Lord’s direct involvement in Israel’s preparation for war can be seen as not only a tacit approval of war, when the need arises, but an endorsement of the warrior class itself. This then is of singular importance, particularly when viewed through the lens of geopolitics today. Unfortunately, while many view defense as counterintuitive when it comes to promoting peace, current events would suggest otherwise. In spite of our best intentions, war has been and continues to be a recurring theme in human history. A sobering realization, especially when considering the fact that no amount of religious idealism or wishful thinking has ever been able to change it.

In spite of that, religion (or a lack thereof) still remains a primary consideration when it comes to geopolitics. And while not entirely unaware of the fact, politicians are typically too busy courting constituencies, while attempting to navigate the changing geopolitical landscape. And so, here we are at war once again…after twenty years of GWOT for Heavens sake. Lesson yet to be learned – “Know your enemy” (Sun Tzu). Politics and military overreach aside, military service may still provide the one possible exception to the rule, remaining one of the few professions in which the individual can in fact make a difference. Not simply through team effort and personal sacrifice, as one might imagine, but through a certain inculcated ethos that has been realized. For those who feel drawn to such an endeavor they might be well-served to find an appropriate descriptive. And while “The Warrior’s Ethos” may be the current meme in military parlance, it pales in comparison to wisdom gleaned from sages seen. And it was from those I learned of valor earned, which bid me turn to pages past.

One. That of our own historical, egalitarian and meritocratic Indian warrior societies, which even today embody the “Kiowa martial ethos,” as Meadows noted (Pl.65). Two. The archetypal life of Jesus of Nazareth, whose personal sanctity, teaching and demonstrations of faith read like something out of the Red-letter Edition of a Warrior’s Manifesto. As in reading Jesus, once again, I was not only struck by his all-embracing vision, but his audacity and dogged determination to see it through. And this I found to be quite interesting, as it was very much in keeping with our own traditions, when holy men were visionaries and warriors of renown. Their legacy demonstrating that what is needed is not simply the lance, but a coupstick wielded by ethical leader-thinkers, who are as good at building bunkers and bridges, as they are about calling down a rain of pain. While ‘quiet professionals” all, they yet must needs be “Peaceful Warriors” still.

And while one could say that there’s a spiritual connotation when it comes to war and peace, there remains a bottom line. While it can be argued that Church and State, as well as the Military, constitute earthly authorities, who in turn remain accountable to a higher authority. And it is for that reason that I can say that there will be hell to pay if they get it wrong. Defending “American Interests” may be one thing, but there are times when questions arise as to the public good. Not simply in terms of cost- benefit analysis, but in a relative sense, up close and personal. As for myself, while I continue to entertain a certain pragmatic idealism when it comes to this country, its purpose and people, as a person of Native descent, well-versed in our past trials and tribulations with The Federal Government itself, I’ll hedge my bets when it comes to possible outcomes. And while my primary role may be that of a chaplain, and the spiritual well-being of my fellow compatriots, I’m also a sheep-herder, a “Dog Soldier” if you will, trying to keep the flock going in the right direction, whether it be with a coopstick, a quirt, or the point of a pen.

Vision

“As the day of His reckoning and the hour of His visitation draws near, God is drawing the Native people unto himself, from east to west, from the Arctic to Terra de Fuego. In turn, calling us to consecrate ourselves for this great purpose, which is our destiny. To lay everything else aside to walk the the ‘Good Red Red,’ the road that Jesus walked and made sacred by his own blood. That we might come together in these last days as one Native Nation under God, walking in a sacred way. To lift our voice as one, and by the “power” of the Holy Spirit to alter the outcome of future events in such a way as to change the course of history.” (Audible vision / witnessed August 1997 (Roseville CA)

As for those who remain unaware of the fact, it may be of some interest to note that “types and shadows” of Christ were evident in the Americas long before the Spanish explorers and well before the first Christian missionaries set foot in Indian Country. A prime example of that, in a cultural context, is the Plains Indian Sun Dance, held every year around Summer Solstice. A sacramental gathering of associated tribes for spiritual and cultural renewal. Its centerpiece is that of the sacred tree, and “Dancers” who have consecrated themselves in advance through fasting, prayer and participation in “The Sweat Lodge” ceremony in preparation for the ordeal to come. With their chest’s now pierced, rawhide thongs are then drawn through the bone skewers, before being attached to the sacred tree. Circling sun-wise as they dance, as the day wears on they will either pull free or drop. Whether a reenactment or percursor of the “suffering servant” to come, few could discount the symbolism or fail to draw parallels between “the cross” and the Christ to come.

Even so, yet perhaps even less well-known, Native Americans are but descendants of remnant populations from previous great catastrophes. Call it earth science if you will, but those Natives have stories to tell. The only question being, is anyone willing to listen? “Who, as I, shall call, and declare it, and set it in order for me, since I appointed the ancient people, and the things that are coming and shall come, let them show it unto them. (Isaiah 44:7) Them has now become us!

And as the warrior crowd knows a thing or two about that and more, we honor one that settled the score. – Wanikhiya (“Makes Live”) as Lakota Holy Man, Black Elk perhaps best described him. (Neihardt, 146) A warrior in line with our own traditions, he led…”where even angels feared to tread.” – to Jerusalem, that sepulcher of saints, to speak truth to power and so much more. Imagine if you will, the spectacle, the rage and disillusionment over one so tried. Our Captain, his only crown now, of thorns, “hung on a tree” for all the world to see; despised, bloodied and broken beyond description. Yet, the script was flipped. Worlds in collision, no other description, a vindication of conviction like no other worth mention. The resurrection of Jesus put every mouth to shame, while shifting the blame. It turned the world upside down, people inside-out and right side up again. Yet, the life he lived, he lived not in vain, as the journey itself became both metaphor and refrain. A soldiers story, short and sweet; the Warriors Road both fitting and mete.

Coupstick Chaplain

The Coupstick Chaplain continues to remain non-denominational in perspective, believing that salvation from self and the evils of this world is best served through simplicity of faith and selfless service. Yet, as a Christian chaplain, standing alongside those who place themselves in harms way for others who won’t, I recognize and continue to support faith expressions apart from the Christian norm. How could it be otherwise when my own Native people are not only representative of a multitude of missionary Churches, but traditional religious expressions as well. And it is from that perspective that I would offer this. The vast majority of faith expressions I come across on a regular basis, have one thing in common, belief in a higher power and the need to validate their own existence.

It follows then that I would not only endorse The First Amendment to the US Constitution, but the “wall of separation” that continues to exit between “church and state.” In doing so, I not only acknowledge our inherent right to choose, but to affirm what the spirit of the law implies, that we have certain inalienable rights endowed to us by Creator. Ye,t in saying that I am not without some reservation, as the potential for religious extremism exists within that same right. The issue being, that when religious tolerance becomes the very vehicle through which religious intolerance is allowed to flourish, it not only negates the very premise upon which it was founded, but serves to promote exclusivity, which in turn can lead to intolerance.

That said, our flag is now unfurled, and rightfully so, as I remain confident that if we hold fast to the standard that has been raised, we will have shown ourselves worthy to be called companions of Christ. Yet make no mistake, the battle ahead is only beginning. And while many still slumber, we stand ready and united. Yet for those who cannot make sense of the fact that the natural and spiritual are meant to be conjoined in man, they may do so, but to their own disadvantage, dismay and ultimate dissolution.

And while this blog can be seen as a public chaplaincy by some, its primary focus remains that of our men and woman in uniform. Not simply because they bear the burden of our mutual defense, but because many are called to walk the line between the Devil and the deep-blue sea. Although confidentiality is a given when it comes to chaplaincy, this blog will attempt to go further in addressing the deeper and often divisive issues in regard to the warriors calling. To say then that I’m concerned about our current state of affairs and the challenges we face today as a nation would be an understatement, as in light of America’s founding I can see a noticeable drift. An in consideration of the fact, we might do well to remember our angelic tutelary Columbia, who even now stands watch over our eastern gate. Holding high the Torch of Freedom in her right hand, in welcome to all those seeking refuge, and in her left, The Constitution, in warning to anyone whose selfish ambitions might tend toward “the pragmatic application of mechanisms and strategies designed to keep a group in power, regardless of their ideals, morals, or even their ultimate purpose.” (Lavenda, 2009).

“Walk Softly, but Carry a Big Stick!”

While the Coupstick Chaplain is emblematic of my Indigenous ancestry and pastoral orientation, the Plains Indian tradition of “Counting Coup” or “touching the enemy” as it was called, speaks volumes about warfare as being essentially spiritual in context. For that reason, it may of some interest to note that while the coupstick itself is similar in appearance to the traditional Indian lacrosse stick as used in “The Creators Game,” it connotes as well to the Shepard’s crook, a Christian symbol of supernatural authority and spiritual guidance. Yet traditionally, Kiowa coupstick is unique in one regard; it retains the lance-head firmly attached to its business end. And while the coupstick may speak of justice and the resolve to maintain peace through strength, or violence if need be, the very act of “counting coup” is in itself representative of mercy. And while that concept is not unfamiliar to the Christian praxis, many have lost sight of the fact. This is especially true among those who profess a belief in God, thanks be to Jesus, yet fail to follow in his footsteps; seemingly oblivious to the fact that a living faith intuits personal sacrifice. For the recalcitrant then, the Plains Indian tradition of Counting Coop may be particularly apropos, as they often some sense knocked into their heads. The fact that the spiritual warrior must needs have a role in the advent to come is no more open to debate than reclining in the castle while letting the peasants do all the heavy lifting. And while it remains a matter of choice if one chooses to be present and directly engaged in“restoring the world” (Tikkum olan), or absent, it does in fact speak volumes about one’s authenticity and ultimate destiny.

A Refuge in Time of Trouble?

Although the Americas have been referred to as Turtle Island or a place of refuge “from time immemorial,” as they say; it may soon become a crossroads of conflict “… a spiritual conflict over material matters” (Waters, 1963). For that reason, the historical image of the American Indian perhaps best represents the ongoing struggle between spirituality and materialism, the natural world and that of cultural survival. Who better then to articulate that cause than those who’ve been on the receiving end for over five-hundred years. More importantly, the fact that Native Americans have managed to remain an intrinsically spiritual people, in spite of efforts to the contrary, lends credence to my assertion that one day they will rise again. Not simply as separate peoples plotting their own divergent course, but as “one holy nation under God, walking in a sacred way,” while affirming his “First Instructions.” At the same time, I see them taking the lead in resisting an adversarial agenda which seeks to subordinate all creation to a system of godlessness, moral depravity and abject servitude.

Things being what they are then, it should come as no surprise if Creator took an altogether different tack, raising up a people who many would consider least in The Kingdom of Heaven, while placing them at the forefront of a “last days” revival. Considering the possibility, especially when viewed through the historical lens of Native America, it leaves little to the imagination, as Sitting Bull said: “He created us all according to his own purposes and called it good. Therefore, it is not right for us as eagles, to now become crows.”

Although Native Americans have been characterized as second-class citizens, or even squatters on their own lands, they’ve somehow managed to maintain their dignity along with their spiritual orientation. Their resilience then has not gone unnoticed, particularly among those now poised to suffer a similar fate. As there are many within the so-called herd that are neither buffaloed nor cowed and who now see resistance as the only alternative to a future prospect of beef rations and filthy blankets. For them, “going off the Rez.” has taken on new meaning, as reflecting upon their own situation they’ve come to realize what Indian’s have known all along – we’re in a fight for our lives against a supernatural enemy, one who not only seeks dominion over the entire earth, but the heavens above, including the spirits of the entire creation. And, even as Russell Means said, “We’re all Indians now!”

The Blog

Drawing from my various interests, including history, geopolitics, religion and war, political theology becomes a suitable platform for addressing the increasing dissonance that exists between self-interest and self-sacrifice in the political sphere. And while it’s understandable that politics remain necessarily separate from religion, from our democratic point of view, it is the moral and ethical composition of religious philosophy that provides the objectivity so often lacking in political discourse. And by viewing that discourse from an Indigenous perspective, an alternative vision can be offered, one which not only builds upon a biblical hermeneutics uniquely adapted to the Americas, but one which serves to address the dystopian future we now see emerging.

Support

Friends, if any of the preceding resonates with you, take a moment to subscribe to the blog. And, as your interest remains foundational when it comes to motivating the pen, stay in touch the comment link on the blog-site or by email: quill@coupstickchaplain.org.