Help to Rebuild Historic Kiowa Site

On March 14, 2025, a breakout of over 130 wildfires across Oklahoma resulted in the total loss of the Rainy Mountain Kiowa Indian Baptist Church. The near-70 mph winds knocked down the power lines near the back of the church, creating a live wire spark. Due to the high winds it was difficult to contain the fire as it spread rapidly, engulfing the church in flames. The church had been standing since its November 1949 dedication after a previous fire in 1948. Gotebo Hall (the dining hall) located next to the church also received considerable window and roof damage due to fire hose water pressure and winds.

Established for 131 years, The Rainy Mountain Kiowa Indian Baptist Church ('Rainy Mountain') has stood as a community pillar for the Kiowa people and a notable site for surrounding tribes, families, and individuals from all directions. Among other accolades it is the site of the composition of the first Kiowa Hymn -- an integral aspect of Kiowa tradition -- by Chief Gotebo. Many notable Kiowa leaders were dedicated members of this congregation as well. The church sits just miles from its namesake- "Rainy Mountain", a sacred site for the Kiowas and a source of notoriety and inspiration for many who love the Kiowa people. It is a place rich in tradition, memory, language, and teachings.

Generations of Kiowa people have "grown up" at Rainy Mountain. While the church is a spiritual home for many Kiowa Christians, it is also a gathering place for Kiowas from all denominations, spiritual teachings, and many who hold traditional ties to the land and Kiowa ways of life. While its history and impact cannot be summarized in such few words-- it was (is) one of the true heartbeats of the Kiowa people. From birthdays, to Kiowa hymn singings, to the iconic Christmas, Easter, and Halloween celebrations, and of course the annual Indian Taco Sale, we know that though our hearts are aching, Creator, Daw-Kee (our God) will make a way for us to rebuild as a congregation and Kiowa people once again.

Aho (thank you) to all who have reached out with their memories, support, and prayers. Any amount donated helps.

Proceeds will go towards rebuilding the church- including but not limited to: landscaping / clean up, wiring, plumbing, construction, AC/Heat, Pews, Books/Hymnals, etc.

Questions, comments, concerns, or offerings of all other assistance may directed to our offical facebook page (linked below)

Rainy Mountain Official Facebook Page

--Gofundme Requirement--

About the Organizer: Hello, my name is Lily Painter. I am a lifelong member of Rainy Mountain and descend from other lifelong members (parents, grandparents, great grandparents, etc.) I am also Kiowa from the Quoetone, Toyebo, Toppah/Yellowhair/Kauahquo, and Lonewolf families. I was asked to oversee this gofundme by senior members of Rainy Mountain to cover those who do not wish to / may not be able to send mail-in donations (the address and contact for this can be found on our Facebook Page).

The funds raised here will be sent to Rainy Mountain and their official bank account. The beneficiary bank account is linked to this gofundme and I will be posting updates frequently.