Between 1950 and 1996, more than 300 resident workers, plus approximately 500 dental students, medical students and short-term volunteer workers, dedicated their lives to bring healing of body and soul to the people of Monument Valley. When the mission and hospital finally closed their doors, hundreds of friendships had been forged and many more memories created.

Twelve years later, over the July 4 weekend, many of those who served at the Monument Valley mission and hospital in southern Utah came together to reconnect and fellowship with former co-workers and Navajo friends.

"For many years, the need for a reunion was discussed, but never became a reality," explained Blanche Wilson. "So after many discussions, we decided to have one." Blanche and her husband, Gene, co-hosted the event with Pastor Charlie Whitehorse.

The celebration began Friday with a buffet supper on the church lawn, which was decorated to celebrate Independence Day. A vespers service followed with singing and praise. By Sabbath, approximately 300 people had arrived, and services moved to the local high school auditorium.

Keith and Joyce Mulligan, who pastored in Monument Valley in the late 1960s, taught Sabbath school, retelling experiences that had helped strengthen their faith. Dale Wolcott gave a challenging worship message, portraying the journey of Monument Valley church, hospital, school and community services.

Whitehorse shared his dream of organizing a center at Monument Valley for training Navajo workers to continue the work started by the mission and hospital. Even though the mission and hospital closed their doors in 1996, the local church and church school have continued to be a positive influence in the valley.

After a lunch of Navajo tacos and watermelon, some chose to relax and visit while the more energetic group drove to Corkscrew Slot Canyon to hike or capture the red rock mesas on film.