Yap Ye Iswa
On the day of Yap Ye Iswa, Let us give thanks to Manatou(God), Kaia (Spirit), and Ku’ri (Jesus). We thank you Manatou for the earth, our home. We thank you Manatou for all the animals you have given us to rule over. We thank you Manatou for the river that runs, that gives a home to the fish, and place to wash ourselves clean and drink. We thank you Manatou for the rains to cleanse our land and renew all life. We thank you for the oceans and the bounty they possess. On this day of the Catawba, Yap Ye Iswa, we thank you Manatou for our people. May Manatou, Kaia, and Ku’ri shine blessings down on us so that we may one day be reunited with our tribal family, and our children’s children may never forget the struggles of the Iswa.
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That is a very interesting perspective you offered about Manatou, Kaia and Ku’ri. Well written. Are you familiar with Catawba traditional religious beliefs?
My family is part of the tribes that journied to Oklahoma, this was taught to me by my Grandmother, as far as Catawba being influenced by Christianity. I try to stick as close to the Catawba traditions, but many have been lost in my family over the years, but we still enjoy celebrating Yap Ye Iswa.
I have had the privelage of visiting the Catawba Reservation several times in the last few months. I enjoyed the Cultural Center and I got to meet several people who shared different aspects of their history with me. One of the drummer/singers (I believe his name was Danny) invited us back anytime to experience their singing, dancing and drumming. I am hoping to go back soon.