In other words, our purpose. Tribal Trails was never intended to replace the face-to-face ministry of First Nations believers, churches, pastors, and church-planting missionaries.
But television does have unique advantages, and a useful role. Through TV the Gospel is presented to people who would not normally welcome a personal visit nor attend a church meeting. It reaches into many more homes than would be physically possible for missionaries, pastors and evangelists to visit.
Tribal Trails has become a “door-opener” — the missionary or pastor who identifies himself with the program often finds that he and his message have already been introduced to the people. Tribal Trails has opened the way for missionaries to settle in new communities. In addition to telecasts, the distribution of Tribal Trails DVD videos have proven to be an effective ministry tool.
“Welcome to Tribal Trails…”
Those who appear on camera are Indigenous Christians sharing what Christ has done for them. The majority of NCEM-TV’s staff work behind the scenes, giving opportunity for First Nations believers from various walks of life to share their thoughts and experiences. Through testimonies, songs and interviews, the program’s guests are effective communicators.
Tribal Trails is primarily evangelistic in nature, making the Gospel message plain, but it is also an “encourager.” Native believers who tune in find that they are not alone in their faith — that there are increasing numbers of Christians like themselves.