New Mexico Farmington Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Farmington'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 Navajo tacos and green chile stew. Music and arts thrive in Farmington, with venues like the Farmington Civic Center and the Farmington Museum hosting performances and exhibits. The city also embraces its rich history with institutions like the Aztec Ruins National Monument. Historically, Farmington has grown from an agricultural hub into a vibrant urban center, retaining its unique charm and cultural richness.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of desert landscapes, mesas, and river valleys, with natural landmarks such as the San Juan River and the nearby Chaco Canyon, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

CLIMATE

The climate is arid with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 91°F, while winter temperatures average around 21°F. Rainfall is sparse 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

Energy: The region has a strong energy sector with major employers like ConocoPhillips excelling in oil and gas production.

Agriculture: Companies like local farming enterprises lead in agricultural production, particularly in alfalfa and livestock.

Tourism: The area supports a robust tourism industry with attractions such as Chaco Culture National Historical Park drawing visitors from around the world.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Riverfest, celebrating the San Juan River with music and activities; the Redneck Rally, featuring off-road racing; and the San Juan County Fair, showcasing local culture and agriculture.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the Farmington Museum at Gateway Park, known for its local history exhibits; the Aztec Ruins National Monument, featuring ancient Pueblo structures; and the Chaco Culture National Historical Park, offering insights into ancient Native American culture.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, fishing, and boating, with major parks like Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness and Animas River Parks 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!

Farmington Mission Families Group

New Mexico Farmington Mission Group

Farmington New Mexico Mission Group