Who we are

The Tuba City Church of Christ is a long-standing congregation located on the Navajo Nation in Arizona. It is characterized by its deep roots in the local community and its commitment to service in a region that faces unique geographic and cultural challenges.

History and Leadership

The mission in Tuba City was established in 1974 by Don and Ann Tullis, who had previously worked in other areas of the reservation like Kayenta and Montezuma Creek. The church saw significant growth and stability during the 24-year tenure of Paul and Ann Ghee, whose work is credited with building much of the current infrastructure and reputation of the congregation.

Following Paul Ghee's passing in 2013, the leadership transitioned to Eric and Tracy Kee. Eric’s story is particularly notable: he grew up in Tuba City and was originally introduced to the church through its summer mission teams. After attending Harding University and serving in Italy, he returned to lead his home congregation in 2014.

In 2025, the Kees moved to Searcy, Arkansas, and Dean and Pam Dempsey began serving as missionaries. Dean grew up in Tuba City and Oak Springs, Arizona, and was introduced to Christ through Pam’s father, Paul Ghee. The couple and their three children lived and worked in Illinois and returned back to the Navajo Nation in 2022.

Community Impact and Ministry

The church is well-regarded for practical ministries that address the specific needs of the high-desert environment:

  • Wood-Cutting Service: Because many families on the reservation rely on wood stoves for winter heating, the church has maintained a long-term service to provide wood to the community.

  • Youth Outreach: The congregation focuses heavily on providing a space for young people to belong, often engaging them in community service projects to foster leadership and faith.

  • Cultural Context: Tuba City is a unique intersection of the Navajo and Hopi nations. The church operates in an area where the two tribes live side-by-side (sometimes even observing different time zones), and it strives to be a unifying presence.

Worship and Beliefs

As a member of the Churches of Christ, the congregation typically follows New Testament precedents for worship, which generally includes:

  • Acappella singing: Worshiping through vocal music without instrumental accompaniment.

  • Weekly Communion: Observing the Lord's Supper every Sunday.

  • Biblical Focus: A strong emphasis on the Bible as the sole authority for faith and practice.

Note: Because Tuba City has several churches with similar names (such as the Tuba City Assembly of God or the Community of Christ), it is easy to confuse them. The Tuba City Church of Christ is specifically the one located at 133 Peshlakai Ave. on the corner of Peshlakai Ave. / Warrior Drive.