New Mexico Albuquerque Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Albuquerque's culture is a vibrant blend of Southwestern influences, Native American heritage, and Hispanic traditions. The city's culinary scene is renowned for its New Mexican cuisine, featuring dishes like green chile stew and enchiladas. Music and arts thrive in Albuquerque, with venues like the KiMo Theater and the Albuquerque Museum hosting performances and exhibits. The city also embraces its rich history with institutions like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Historically, Albuquerque has grown from a Spanish colonial outpost into a vibrant urban center, retaining its unique charm and cultural richness.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of desert landscapes, mountain ranges, and river valleys, with natural landmarks such as the Rio Grande and the nearby Sandia Mountains, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

CLIMATE

The climate is arid with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures average around 92°F, while winter temperatures average around 40°F. Rainfall is scarce throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are English and Spanish.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

INDUSTRIES

Aerospace and Defense: The region has a strong aerospace and defense sector with major employers like Lockheed Martin excelling in technology and innovation.

Energy: Companies like PNM Resources lead in utility services and energy production.

Technology: The area supports a growing technology sector with companies like Intel excelling in semiconductor manufacturing.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, celebrating hot air balloons; the New Mexico State Fair, showcasing local culture and agriculture; and the Old Town Holiday Stroll, featuring festive lights and community activities.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the ABQ BioPark Zoo, known for its extensive animal exhibits; the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, featuring Native American history and culture; and the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, offering insights into ballooning history.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, biking, and hot air ballooning, with major parks like Cibola National Forest and Petroglyph National Monument being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

In 1831, one year after the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Church leader Oliver Cowdery preached to Native Americans in Missouri. Part of the Mormon Battalion, a group of Latter-day Saints preparing to fight in the Mexican-American War, crossed New Mexico in 1846.

Missionary work among Native Americans began as early as the 1860s. Two elders found success while laboring among the Zuni Indians on the Little Colorado River in New Mexico. They baptized more than 100 converts. Many Church settlements in New Mexico absorbed refugees from the Latter-day Saint colonies in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution in 1912.

The first temple in New Mexico was dedicated 5 March 2000 in Albuquerque.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

New Mexico Mission Moms and Friends (LDS) Group

New Mexico Albuquerque Mission Group

Albuquerque Mission – President Maurice Baker Group