The Cross and the Trail: The Battle for Cherokee Spiritual Sovereignty

Scraper, Matthew: - "Matthew B. Scraper is a writer, theologian, and citizen of the Cherokee Nation whose work confronts the complex intersections of Indigenous identity, Christian faith, and historical injustice. A former ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, Scraper brings over two decades of experience in ministry, spiritual formation, and theological education. His academic work, including research conducted at Durham University, delves into the legacy of Christian missions among the Cherokee and the ongoing impact of forced assimilation. Drawing on a lifetime of spiritual exploration and cultural reflection, Scraper writes with both personal vulnerability and scholarly insight. A theologian and Army veteran, he invites readers to grapple with uncomfortable truths while honoring the enduring strength of Native communities. In The Cross and the Trail, he offers more than history - he offers a path toward healing, understanding, and reclamation."