The Mississippi River begins as a stream so narrow you can step across it. But the spiritual history of its headwaters runs far deeper than the water.
First European Missionaries Arrive
Father Louis Hennepin named the Falls of St. Anthony — the first recorded Christian naming of a landmark in the region.
Veritas Caput: The Source Named
Henry Schoolcraft identified Lake Itasca as the source of the Mississippi River. The name “Itasca” comes from Veritas Caput, meaning “true head.”
The 32nd State: A Star of the North
MN was admitted to the Union as the 32nd state. In biblical Hebrew, the word for "heart" (Lev) has a numerical value of 32.
Rev. Enmegabowh
“I have seen that the Great Spirit whom my fathers feared is the same God who sent His Son to save.”
John Johnson Enmegabowh was the first Native American priest ordained in the Episcopal Church.
Bishop Henry Benjamin Whipple
“The gospel knows no race, no color, no condition—it comes from God for all.”
Whipple served as MN’s first Episcopal bishop and advocated for Native people during injustice.
The Grasshopper Plague
“Let the people of Minnesota humble themselves before God in repentance and prayer.”
During the grasshopper plague, MN called a statewide day of prayer and fasting. The plague ended soon after.
Strawberry Lake Revival
“We did not plan it—the Spirit of God simply came.”
The Strawberry Lake Revival was remembered as a sudden move of the Holy Spirit marked by worship and repentance.
North Central Revival
“No one wanted to leave the presence of God.”
“Confession, prayer, and worship continued day and night as the Spirit moved.”
The Great Awakening
Awaken, MN—arise and shine for the glory of Yeshua alone. He is above all, preeminent in all.
The Prophetic Invitation
MN, arise and shine.
The sleeping church must awaken.
Let the headwaters be cleansed.
Let the river of life flow from the source again.