About Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission · Bent, New Mexico
St. Joseph Apache Mission is a Catholic parish located in Mescalero, New Mexico, serving the Mescalero Apache community. The parish has faced significant controversy in 2024 after the secret removal of sacred Indigenous artwork, including the Apache Christ icon, by parish leadership and the Diocese of Las Cruces, sparking community outrage and calls for accountability. The parish is deeply involved in Indigenous ministry and has been working to rebuild trust with Native communities following historical Church abuses. The return of some stolen items in July 2024 was celebrated as a step toward healing, but demands for an official apology and full accountability remain unresolved.
- Patron
- St. Joseph
- Rector
- Father Chudy
- Diocese
- Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces
Why belong here
The parish offers a space for Indigenous Catholics to live their faith authentically, honoring both their cultural heritage and Catholic identity. Through ministries like youth catechism and community outreach, the parish seeks to rebuild trust and foster healing after historical trauma. Members are encouraged to participate in sacramental life and community service, rooted in the values of reconciliation and cultural respect.
Controversy and Theft
In June 2024, the Apache Christ icon — a sacred painting gifted to the Mescalero Apache — was secretly removed from the church during the night. The removal was carried out by the pastor, members of the Knights of Columbus, and representatives of the Diocese of Las Cruces. Community members, including youth catechism teachers, were shocked to find the icon missing. The Diocese has not issued an official statement, and the painting’s current location remains undisclosed. The incident has been widely condemned as an act of cultural erasure and colonialism, especially given the Church’s recent apology for historical atrocities against Indigenous peoples.
Community Response and Healing
Anne Marie Brillante, a community member, documented the incident and shared her experiences with Deacon John Eric Munson and the Diocese’s Safe Environment Coordinator. She criticized the Diocese’s handling of the situation, including aggressive demands for personal information and lack of accountability. The return of some stolen items — including pottery vessels and frame adornments — in July 2024 was celebrated as a step toward healing, but the community continues to demand an apology, full restitution, and accountability for those responsible. The parish remains committed to Indigenous ministry and reconciliation, guided by the USCCB’s 'Keeping Christ's Sacred Promise'.
Contact and Outreach
The parish can be contacted via email at [email protected]. Community members are encouraged to get involved in parish life, including youth catechism and other ministries. The parish is located at 626 Mission Rd., Mescalero, NM 88340. While the website includes links to contact pages and reports, no phone number or social media presence is listed. The parish is actively seeking support and collaboration to rebuild trust and continue its mission of cultural and spiritual healing.