Malayo 1 inColombia

Malayoin Colombia

Who are these men, all dressed inwhite with long black hair? They

are the Malayo, also known as Wiwapeople, who live in the valleys of theSierra Nevada Mountains of Colom-bia. They have a very democratic wayof governing; every few weeks, themen gather all night to discuss andvote on how to resolve conflicts. Vil-lage shamans are in charge of carry-ing out their decisions. Currently,they are struggling to maintaintheir identity.

Ministry ObstaclesThe Malayo are very poor andmalnutrition is a major problem,especially among the children, whohave a high mortality rate. In addi-tion, they are struggling to maintaintheir land from encroachments ofsettlers in their area. Education isalmost non-existent.

Outreach IdeasIf linguists helped develop an alpha-bet in their language, this could leadto a ministry to teach God's truthfrom the Bible.

Prayer FocusPray for God to send workers to theMalayo with the means to not onlyimprove their physical health, but

also to share the good news aboutChrist, who loves them and died forthem. Pray for God to send to theMalayo people dreams and visionsthat will prepare their hearts to rec-ognize and receive the gospel mes-sage when they hear it. Pray for anunstoppable movement to Christamong them.

SCRIPTURE …the people living in darkness have seen a great light; onthose living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. Matt 4:16

PRAY for this people group to see the light of Jesus Christ.

Unreachedoftheday.org

September

1

��mah-LAH-yohPOPULATION: 18,000LANGUAGE: MalayoRELIGION: Ethnic Religions

BIBLE: Translation startedSTATUS: Unreached

Pajonal Asheninkain Peru

South America has many smallindigenous people groups, and one

of these are the Pajonal Asheninka,who live in the grassy plateaus of theeastern Andean foothills of Peru. Theyhave suffered from enslavement anddevastating epidemics during the 20thcentury and from terrorist groups inthe early 1990s. The Pajonal Asheninkahave been exposed to the gospelmessage. In addition, some missionagencies are translating the NewTestament to their dialect. The goodnews is that there are now four or fiveindigenous evangelical churches in theearly stages of development.

Ministry ObstaclesAnimism still has a strong grip on thelives of the Pajonal Asheninka. Theylive a subsistence lifestyle, connectedto the land with only enough foodfor one to two days, and they mustwork hard to produce enough food toeat. Their hunters are not findingenough game.

Outreach IdeasMissionaries who can offer medicaltreatment and perhaps a facility wouldgreatly improve their lives. Also,teachers committed to their students'welfare would help in improving theirlives for the future.

Prayer FocusMay these infant churches grow strongin the Word, resulting in a peoplemovement to Christ in the 2020s. Prayfor the Lord to improve their livesphysically, economically and spiritually.Pray for the Lord to protect them fromthe spirit world and to understand thepower of the Lord.

SCRIPTURE God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him,for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. Matt 5:3

PRAY that this people group to recognize their own spiritual bankruptcy andcome to Christ for the riches of His forgiveness.


September

2

��pah-ho-NAHL ah-SHEN-ing-kahPOPULATION: 15,000LANGUAGE: Asheninka, PajonalRELIGION: Ethnic Religions

BIBLE: New TestamentSTATUS: Unreached

South UcayaliAsheninka in Peru

The South Ucayali Asheninka in Peruare very similar to other Asheninka

groups. However, the South UcayaliAsheninka live in the central jungle ar-eas of the Peruvian Amazon. They, too,like their cousins, have suffered greatlyat the hands of outsiders and terroristgroups. They are also subsistencefarmers and work mostly in the morn-ing and rest during the heat of the af-ternoon. Often the men go huntingand fishing in the evenings. They havean animistic worldview, and they useshamans to look for the causes of lifeproblems and appease wicked spirits.

Ministry ObstaclesTheir animistic worldview is a majorobstacle to understanding that there isonly one God and that he has alreadyprovided the only sacrifice needed tosave them and give them eternal hope.Lack of education and the confusionfrom an alphabet system that usesspellings from a different triballanguage keep things difficult.

Outreach IdeasMission agencies and personnel thatcan improve their health care,educational opportunities, andagricultural skills would go a long wayin giving the South Ucayali Asheninka amore stable lifestyle. Then, they wouldbe more receptive to the good newsabout Jesus.

Prayer FocusPray for those trying to improve thelifestyle of the Asheninka group tomake great strides in the 2020s,resulting in a people movement toChrist. Pray for spiritual receptivitycoming from many visitations of theHoly Spirit.

SCRIPTURE You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop thatcannot be hidden. Matt 5:14

PRAY for this people group to become a light to the world reflecting thegoodness and grace of Jesus Christ.


September

3

��oo-kah-YAH-lee ah-SHEN-ing-kahPOPULATION: 17,000LANGUAGE: Asheninka, South UcayaliRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Urdu in Guyana

Would you ever expect to findUrdu-speaking Muslims in

Guyana? They are not just one ethnicgroup, but a collection of Urduspeakers, formerly of Pakistan and thenorthern states of India that haveemigrated in search of economicopportunities. They are found in everylevel of society; they are a combinationof those how do not read and thosewho are highly educated, the poor andthe money lenders, the landlords andthe religious leaders. Their onlycommon denominator is the Urdulanguage and their Muslim religion.Urdu speaking women are still fairlyisolated from the outside world. Someentirely cover their bodies; otherscover their heads and wear darkglasses to maintain a sense of privacy.

Ministry ObstaclesTheir Muslim religious system is amajor obstacle. Also, many viewChristian or Western world ideas as athreat to their culture. Because theycome from different levels of societyand educational backgrounds, it isdifficult to adequately communicatewith such a diverse group.

Outreach IdeasFervent prayer groups are needed tolift up these precious people who areshrouded in misunderstanding aboutthe person of Jesus Christ. We needfervent and faithful intercessors to go

to the throne of grace to soften Urduhearts so that they will be receptive tothe gospel.

Prayer FocusPray for loving ambassadors of Christto go to the Urdu speakers in Guyana.Pray for the Holy Spirit to move amongtheir leaders and open the door for theKing of kings.

SCRIPTURE Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmlesssheep but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, thatis, by the way they act. Matt 7:15-16a

PRAY that the Lord gives this people group the discernment to recognize falseprophets and the grace to know the true Prophet, Priest and King, Jesus Christ.


September

4

��OOR-dooPOPULATION: 4,000LANGUAGE: UrduRELIGION: Islam

BIBLE: CompleteSTATUS: Unreached

Saramaccanin Suriname

The Saramaccan fought hard for theirland rights, and in 2007, the Inter-

American Court for Human Rights ruledto support land rights for them. This mo-ment serves as an inspiration to other in-digenous people all over the world whofight the same fight. The Saramaccanwere sold as African slaves but escapedin the 17th and 18th centuries. Theyspeak Saramaccan, which includes a mixof West African languages, English andPortuguese. Many Saramaccan live alongrivers, which are used for drinking water,fishing and transportation. Because ofSuriname's civil war in the 80s and 90s,many Saramaccan fled to neighboringFrench Guyana.

Ministry ObstaclesMuch of Saramaccan culture is influ-enced by ancestors, forest spirits andsnake gods. These gods and spirits influ-ence decisions regarding practical things,such as how to deal with theft andwhere to plant a garden. This idolatrycan be a blockade from believing in andserving Jesus Christ.

Outreach IdeasBecause horticulture is important to theSaramaccan, Jesus ' parables of farmingand sowing seed may speak to theirhearts. About four percent of Saramac-can are Christian, so we can pray forthem to spread Christ's fame throughouttheir community.

Prayer FocusPray for the Saramaccan refugees inGuyana to thrive and for the restorationof Suriname after their devastating civilwar. Pray that God would soften theirhearts to Christ, especially among theirelders. Pray for Saramaccan believers tohave a movement to Christ startedamong their people.

SCRIPTURE Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; theycannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and bodyin hell. Matt 10:28

PRAY for believers in today’s people group to be courageous in their witnessfor Christ and fear God, not men.


September

5

��sara-MAH-kunPOPULATION: 30,000LANGUAGE: SaramaccanRELIGION: Ethnic religions


Spanish-speakingJews in Uruguay

Sephardic Jewish immigrants firststarted coming to Uruguay from

Turkey in 1907, and by 1920, they hadopened retail stores in Montevideo.As faithful Jewish believers, theybuilt synagogues, schools, koshermarkets and other organizations toassist their people. Anti-Semitism tosome degree prevailed in Uruguay atthe beginning of WWII; however, bythe end of the war, there were50,000 Jews in the country. Uruguaywas the first Latin American countryto recognize the state of Israel andestablish diplomatic ties with thatnew nation. Over 10,000 UruguayanJews have immigrated to Israel since1973. This, combined with an agingpopulation and intermarriage, hasdecreased the Jewish population.The Jewish cultural connection thatonce tied the community togetherhas basically been replaced withsecularism and nominal adherence toTorah Judaism.

Ministry ObstaclesIndifference to their Jewish roots,decreased population, andimmigration to Israel have made itdifficult for followers of Christ tobefriend the Uruguayan Jewishpeople and share with them thebiblical power of God and His gracefound in Jesus.

Prayer FocusPray that Uruguayan Jewish believerswould be open to hearing, acceptingand knowing that they can have a lifein Jesus, which will give them eternalpeace. Pray for a movement to Christamong Uruguayan Jewish people.

SCRIPTURE At that time Jesus prayed this prayer: O Father, Lord of heavenand earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselveswise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Matt 11:25

PRAY for this people group to humble themselves and come to trust in Christas little children.


September

6

��joozPOPULATION: 17,000LANGUAGE: SpanishRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Portuguese-speakingJews In Brazil

Since the early 21st century, a growingnumber of Portuguese Sephardic

Jewish people in Brazil have discoveredtheir Jewish identity through DNAtesting and ancestral research. They arepart of a group of Jewish people knownas the "conversos" or by their Hebrewname Bnei Anusim (Children of thecoerced/converted). During the 14thand 15th century, these Sephardi Jews inPortugal were forced to convert toCatholicism, and a small number ofthem immigrated to Brazil as"Christians." Most Anusim abandonedtheir Jewish traditions over thecenturies, and others rejected all formsof religious practice. There are a numberof Jews in Brazil, and a several of theseare Anusims who have returned to theirJewish faith.

Ministry ObstaclesSome Anusim Sephardics deeply resentwhat their families endured, and othershave rejected all religion. They associateChristianity with coercion, not graceand mercy.

Outreach IdeasPatient, loving Christ followers need todevelop friendships to reach the heartsof the Portuguese Jewish people. Praythat friendships would open the way forPortuguese Jewish people to know thetruth and light of God's grace andpower in his Word!

Prayer FocusPray that as these Portuguese Jewishpeople come to know the truth oftheir Jewish identity, they would turnto God's Word and accept Jesus astheir Messiah and rejoice in theirsalvation! Pray for them to share Christand extend his grace into a movementthat will affect Jewish people all overLatin America.

SCRIPTURE Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a cropthat was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had beenplanted! Matt 13:8

PRAY that today’s people group would become fertile soil and produces muchfruit for God and His kingdom.


September

7

��joozPOPULATION: 94,000LANGUAGE: PortugueseRELIGION: Ethnic religions


Israeli JewsIn Israel

The prophet Ezekiel (39:27-29)predicted that God would re-gather

the Jewish people and give them their"promised land." God kept Hispromise, and on May 15, 1948, thenation of Israel was reborn whenIsrael's first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, read Israel's Declaration ofIndependence. In 1948, there were anestimated 23 Jewish Messianicbelievers and no congregations.Currently there are over 150congregations and a conservativeestimate of 30,000 believers in theMessiah. Israeli Jews face ongoingadversities primarily from the Arabworld: political division and lack of jobsand housing to accommodate theirgrowing population.

Ministry ObstaclesThe government resists any form ofevangelism. Almost 50 percent ofIsraeli Jews are very secular with noacceptance of God's Word.Persecution is strong against MessianicJewish believers by Israeli Jews.

Outreach IdeasTrained Christ-followers befriendingthe Jewish Israelis can open the doorsto presenting the lineage of Jesus fromthe Old Testament prophets, showinghow God has prepared for the comingof Jesus as the world's only Messiah.

Prayer FocusPray that believers would be willing toprepare themselves to study Hebrewand be trained to be the most effectiveto bring God's Word and salvation tothe Jewish people of Israel. Pray for abreakthrough among the Orthodoxand Hassidic Jewish populations, bothof whom rarely give Jesus a chance tooffer them a full life.

SCRIPTURE Now go out to the street corners and invite everyone you see.So the servants brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike, andthe banquet hall was filled with guests. Matt 22:9-10

PRAY that many in today’s people group to accept the Lord’s invitation tobecome part of His kingdom and join His great feast at the end of the age.


September

8

��joozPOPULATION: 4,797,000LANGUAGE: HebrewRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Cochin JewsIn Israel

Did you know there are Jewishpeople in Israel who speak a south

Indian language, Malayalam? Today theCochin Jews have been incorporatedinto the Israeli population. Many retaintheir Malayalam language and spicycuisine, and in Israel, the Cochin Jewsare most famous for bringing adelicious hybrid cuisine thatincorporates spicy Indian food. Theirlifestyles are no different from otherJewish people in Israel. Through pastgenerations, these Cochin Jews havebecome lighter-skinned than theirforefathers in southern India.

Ministry ObstaclesThe Cochin Jewish population has hadbad experiences with so-calledChristians in the past, especially whenthe Portuguese controlled their part ofwestern India. Israel, to them, is arefuge from hostile outsiders.

Outreach IdeasBelievers will need to find persons ofpeace in the Cochin community to gaintheir trust, so they can share thespiritual riches of Jesus Christ.

Prayer FocusPray for Jesus movements to blessextended Cochin Jewish families so thegospel will spread rapidly among thispeople group. Pray for the spiritual

lives of the Cochin people to becomefruitful as they follow Christ. Pray forthe lives and culture of the Cochinpeople to evidence the rule and reignof the Kingdom of God as they open upto the gospel, and for the beauty ofJesus to be seen in them. Pray that thespiritual eyes of the Cochin Jews areopened to see their Messiah.

SCRIPTURE The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithfulservant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I willgive you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’ Matt 25:21

PRAY that many in this people group become good and faithful servants of theMaster and celebrate with Him in the coming kingdom.


September

9

��ko-CHIN joozPOPULATION: 12,000LANGUAGE: MalayalamRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Romania JewsIn Israel

In April 2019, the Jewish Communityof Husi, Romania witnessed a tragic

scene. Their cemetery had been bro-ken into by vandals that smashed andtoppled 73 gravestones of their fami-lies. Sadly, this disturbing action wasnot a surprise to them. Anti-Semitismwas continuing to grow in Romania,and many were afraid to let peopleknow they were Jewish. Romania'sJewish population has plummetedfrom 800,000 before WWII to a tinyremnant. During WWII, up to 380,000Jews were killed in Romanian state-held territories, and following the war,thousands of Romanian Jewish familiesimmigrated. The majority of RomanianJews in Romania are older. Their his-tory has almost been eliminated.

Ministry ObstaclesTheir painful past and the increasein anti-Semitic actions at the hands offalse Christians have caused manyRomanian Jews to be guardedagainst "Christians."

Outreach IdeasChristians need to reach out to Roma-nian Jews in friendship, so they can de-velop trust. This may open a way to dis-cuss God's Word with them. The inter-net and radio Bible Broadcasts are ex-cellent tools to reach Romanian Jews.

Prayer FocusPray that God would open the eyesand hearts of Romanian Jewishpeople, so they will have a fullrevelation of His saving Glory in Jesus.Pray that this revelation would result intheir forming their own DiscipleMaking Movement.

SCRIPTURE Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where hepreached God’s good news. “The time promised by God has come at last!” heannounced. “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the goodnews!” Mark 1:14-15

PRAY that this people groups to get the opportunity to hear a clear presentation ofthe good news. Pray for God’s Spirit to move them to repent and believe in Christ.


September

10

��joozPOPULATION: 205,000LANGUAGE: HebrewRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


French Jewsin France

Anti-Semitism has steadily increasedin the last 15 years in France,

resulting in thousands of Jewishpeople's migrating to Israel, Canadaand the United States. Rather thanleave France, some Jewish people havediscretely decided to leave Paris andmove into the suburbs; many havechosen to hide their Jewishness.Nearly three-quarters of the Frenchpublic consider anti-semitism aproblem that affects all of Frenchsociety. Over 85% of Jewish peoplehave experienced anti-Semiticincidents, which mainly have occurredin the streets, schools, stores, andworkplaces through verbal abuse,physical attacks and shootings, leavinga number killed. Synagogues havebeen vandalized, and Jewishcemeteries defaced.

Ministry ObstaclesFear and anxiety due to anti-semitismhave caused the Jewish people inFrance to distrust believers who desireto reach out to them.

Outreach IdeasConsistent friendships by MessianicJewish believers can bring the comfortand love of God to the French Jewishpeople in a way that leads them tofurther trust God the Father.

Prayer FocusPray that God would open the minds,hearts and souls of the Jewish non-believers to accepting Jesus as theirMessiah, who desires them to knowHis grace and give them eternal peace.Pray for loving ambassadors of Christto reach out to French Jews in France.

SCRIPTURE A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, beggingto be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” hesaid. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I amwilling,” he said. “Be healed!” Mark 1:40-41

PRAY for this people group to feel the healing touch of Christ and be cleansedfrom their sins.


September

11

��joozPOPULATION: 455,000LANGUAGE: FrenchRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Polish Jews in Israel

Many Jews fled violent persecutionfrom the Romans around 2,000

years ago. They arrived in Europe andspread throughout the continent,influencing culture and history inEurope. However, because of intensepersecution of Jews in Europe, theyfled elsewhere. Through time, theyhave generally split into various groupsbased on whether they held to Jewishtraditions and values. European Jewsare diverse in religious practice. Thetraditional Hassidic movement wasborn in Poland and has gainedpopularity in the United States andIsrael. While most Jews in Europe arereligiously affiliated, some Jews areconsidered not religious.

Ministry ObstaclesDue to their history of rejecting Jesusas the true Messiah, they tend to viewthe gospel message as anti-Semitic.

Outreach IdeasSome could create ministriesspecifically geared to Jews in Polandthat emphasize conversationsbetween Jews and Christ followers.

Prayer FocusPray that the few Polish Jewish believ-ers would be so filled with the fruit ofthe Holy Spirit that they will draw

others to the only Savior. Pray thatGod would awaken and soften theJewish hearts to come to the realiza-tion of Christ as the true Messiah andcommit their lives to Him. Pray thatGod would protect the Jews from vio-lence. Ask the Holy Spirit to send work-ers in the harvest field and grant be-lievers courage to evangelize.

SCRIPTURE When Jesus woke up, He rebuked the wind and said to thewaves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a greatcalm. Mark 4:39

PRAY that the Lord brings His peace that passes all understanding into thehearts of this people group.


September

12

�� joozPOPULATION: 129,000LANGUAGE: PolishRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Yahudic Jews in Israel

The Yahudic Jews of Israel wereoriginally part of the Jewish

Diaspora (the destruction of theJewish homeland by the Babyloniansin what is now Iraq). Most of themare ethnic Jews, and some differ intraditions. Because of the completedestruction of the Temple and muchof their homeland, Israel, these Jewshad to perfect and rely on their oraltraditions. Almost all have returnedto Israel, though a few remain in Iraq.

Ministry ObstaclesBecause of their history ofoppression and anti-Semitism, theseJews may view Christians and theirbelief as another means to rip aparttheir long desired traditions andfamily. They may view the gospel as athreat to their religious practices.

Outreach IdeasBelievers can build coalitions that tieJews and Christ followers togetherfor discussions, starting with whatwe agree upon before discussing ourdifferences. This would be a greatopportunity to gently share Christ.

Prayer FocusPray that God would heal the brokenfamilies and tie them together again.Pray that through this, God would

show His grace ever more, leadingmore Yahudic Jewish people toHimself. Pray that they would see thegrace of God, who sent His mostprecious and beloved Son, Jesus(Yeshua) as the redeemer of theJews. Pray that God would stir thehearts of Christ followers to sharethe good news of the perfect Jew.

SCRIPTURE Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own peopleand tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has hadmercy on you.” Mark 5:19

PRAY for those who have been blessed among today’s people group to boldlyand lovingly tell others of God’s abundant mercy.


September

13

��yah-HOO-dik joozPOPULATION: 97,000LANGUAGE: Arabic, Judeo-IraqiRELIGION: Ethnic Religions

BIBLE: UnspecifiedSTATUS: Unreached

English-speakingJews in the US

Judaism is the oldest monotheistic(one God) religion. The Jewish

people in North America tend to live inurban cities. New York is known forhaving the highest Jewish populationin North America, many of whom aredoctors, lawyers and businessmen.Although influenced by surroundingculture, the religiously committed Jewsin the United States have not lost theirbeloved traditions. Many of thempartake in Rosh Hashanah (New Year),Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) andPassover. Religious Jews believe in thesupreme being of the Old Testament,creator of the universe, and ultimatejudge. Reformed Jews, on the otherhand, do not abide to any traditions, sothey can easily be secularized.

Ministry ObstaclesMany Jews view Christianity as aninvading religious system thatthreatens to violate their traditions.Jews often think of Christians as anti-Semitic since they faced persecutionby false Christians for centuries.

Outreach IdeasThere can be discussions betweenJews and Christians to understand oneanother. This can be a stepping stoneto discussing similarities anddifferences and why we believe therehas to be a Messiah.

Prayer FocusPray that God would give wisdom tomission agencies to take Christ toAmerica's Jewish population. Pray for astrong movement to Christ amongJewish people in the U.S. Pray that Godwould soften Jewish hearts to be moreopen to Christ as the only way to theirHeavenly Father.

SCRIPTURE They were completely amazed and said again and again,“Everything He (Jesus) does is wonderful. He even makes the deaf to hearand gives speech to those who cannot speak.” Mark 7:37

PRAY that this people group comes to understand that the wisdom, powerand goodness of God are found only in Jesus Christ.


September

14

��joozPOPULATION: 5,005,000LANGUAGE: EnglishRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Eastern Yiddish-speaking Jews in the US

Yiddish, derived from Medieval HighGerman, is a common language

among northern European Jews. In thenineteenth century, many Yiddish-speaking Eastern European Jews immi-grated to the United States. Many set-tled on the east and west coasts of theUnited States. In the twentieth century,many more came, having survived theHolocaust. Over the years, Yiddish gaveway to English, and the number of Yid-dish speakers declined, as did much ofits vibrant literature and drama. Yiddishwords became embedded into NewYork English. More recently, it persistsand is growing among Hasidic, Ortho-dox, and Ultra-Orthodox Jews, who useit at home and school. It also persistsas a cultural marker among nominal,cultural Jews.

Ministry ObstaclesFervency of Orthodoxy and Ultra-Ortho-doxy close the Hasidim to the gospel.Another obstacle shared by non-Yiddish-speaking Jews is the Holocaust, whichthey blame on Christians. Indeed, anti-semitism turns many Jews away fromthe Messiah. Yiddish speakers also livein a closed community.

Outreach IdeasGospel songs, plays and music in Yiddishmay be useful. Bible studies in Yiddishcould be tried.

Prayer FocusPray that Messianic believers will beJesus' ambassadors to this community.Pray that God will prepare the Yiddish-speaking Jews to be open to a gospelwitness and that there will be a massivemovement to their loving Messiah inthe 2020s.

SCRIPTURE Then He asked them, “But who do you say I am?” Peter replied,“You are the Messiah.” Mark 8:29

PRAY that this people would believe and proclaim, like Peter, that Jesus Christis their Savior and Lord.


September

15

��YIH-dish joozPOPULATION: 352,000LANGUAGE: Yiddish, EasternRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Spanish-speakingJews in Puerto Rico

The Yiddish-speaking Jews are notthe only Jews in the United States.

Indeed, the Sephardim, Ladino-speak-ing Jews arrived earlier, but in whatwas then colonial Spanish New Mex-ico. Many were conversos: IberianJews, who had "converted" to Catholi-cism. Most came from 1880-1930 fromSpain, Portugal, Bulgaria, Greece, Tur-key, North Africa, Latin America, theLevant, Iraq and Iran. Ladino was theirlingua franca. They were unwelcomed,even among American Jews becausetheir Judaism was different. Still, theysettled in the same areas, and are es-pecially well known in Puerto Rico.They have developed their own arts,they have their own synagogues, andLadino is taught in some U.S. colleges.

Ministry ObstaclesBecause they are an unknown ethnicgroup, they are truly a "hidden peo-ple;" thus, the Church must becomeaware of their existence. Becausethey have often been subject to anti-Semitism, they are even less likelyto be open to the gospel than theAshkenazic Jews.

Outreach IdeasThere is no weapon against a HolySpirit-generated love that Christ's am-bassadors can demonstrate in practicalways to the Sephardic Jews in the US.

Prayer FocusPray that the Church would find waysto develop culturally meaningful waysof reaching them. Pray that Messianiccongregations would deliberately seekout Sephardim and love them into theKingdom. Pray for a powerful move-ment to Christ among the SephardicJews this decade.

SCRIPTURE And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but loseyour own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Mark 8:36-37

PRAY for today’s people group to come to realize that all the spiritual riches oflife and true wisdom are found in Jesus Christ alone.


September

16

��joozPOPULATION: 1,100LANGUAGE: SpanishRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Kaman in Myanmar

Muslim Kaman people are betweena rock and a hard place in their

Myanmar homeland. As a Muslim peo-ple group in a hostile Buddhist land,they are persecuted to the point wheremany live in internally displaced personscamps (IDPC) A rape-murder led to re-venge arson of Kaman houses and theirremoval to the camps, although somehave re-settled in a commercial city.Because Kaman are Muslim, some inMyanmar's parliament are calling fortheir destruction. Some are evenmarried to members of Myanmar'sBuddhist majority. Most just want togo home and live in the peace theyonce had.

Ministry ObstaclesThe politics in their environmentis the major obstacle because itnudges people to see through religious/political lenses.

Outreach IdeasAt the same time, the political insecuritymay open them to the gospel, which isnot Muslim, Buddhist or political. IfChrist's ambassadors can gain access tothe IDP camps, they can reach out tothese Muslims, showing them the com-passion and love of our Savior. This canbe an effective way of introducing themto Jesus Christ.

Prayer FocusPray that the church would gain entryto minister within IDP camps and standalongside the Kaman in their time ofneed. Pray that the stress of living inIDP camps and of being in a new citywould cause the Kaman to seek spiri-tual answers in Christ. Pray for a strongpeople movement to Christ.

SCRIPTURE He (Jesus) said to them, “The Son of Man is going to bebetrayed into the hands of His enemies. He will be killed, but three days laterHe will rise from the dead.” Mark 9:31

PRAY for today’s people group would comprehend that Jesus died for theirsins and rose again demonstrating His power over sin and death.


September

17

��kuh-MAHNPOPULATION: 5,100LANGUAGE: RakhineRELIGION: Islam

BIBLE: PortionsSTATUS: Unreached

Gujarati in Myanmar

There were many Gujarati Hindus inMyanmar starting in 1865 until they

were ousted by nationalistic Burmesein 1962. They were called "Britishcolonialists" by irrational Burmese,who harmed their own fragileeconomy by driving out the businesssavvy Gujaratis. Today some Gujaratisremain, mostly in commerce. Theyspeak Gujarati and are Hindu,followers of Krishna, although someare Jains. They are known both forbusiness acumen and honesty;everything is on the basis of one'sword and a handshake.

Ministry ObstaclesObstacles to evangelism and churchplanting include devotion to Krishnaand Jain gods, their stigmatizedminority status and wealth. The lattermay be the biggest obstacle, given theavailability of gospel materials andScripture in Gujarati. Their honesty,ethics and integrity may make thembelieve that they do not needforgiveness from God.

Outreach IdeasThere is a potential mission force inbelievers from minority ethnic groupsin Myanmar and northeastern India.

Prayer FocusPray that the church in Myanmarwould overcome its own nationalism

to reach out to the Gujaratis withintheir communities. Pray the Holy Spiritwould lead Christ's ambassadors to"people of peace" who can openGujarati communities to begin theirown movement to Christ. Pray the HolySpirit would prepare Gujaratis to beopen to that witness and to be opento acknowledging their sinfulnessbefore God.

SCRIPTURE When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with His disciples.He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom ofGod belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone whodoesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Mark 10:14-15

PRAY that this people group humbles themselves and comes to God with child-liketrust and thereby enter into His kingdom.


September

18

��goo-jah-RAH-teePOPULATION: 35,000LANGUAGE: GujaratiRELIGION: Hinduism


Manyuki in Myanmar

What might it be like to live inconstant fear of evil spirits and to

make regular sacrifices to hopefullyappease the fickle and treacherousdemons of the unseen realm? This is lifefor the Manyuki people of Myanmar. TheManyuki are animistic, meaning that theyare very spiritual but have little spiritualhope. Making sacrifices could placate thespirits or bring blessing. However, toneglect them or perform under parcould easily result in curses by thesesame spirits.

Ministry ObstaclesThe borders of Myanmar are closed toChristianity, and its spread is notwelcome. Furthermore, attempts topersuade the Manyuki away from theplacation of their own familiar spiritsmay prove difficult – to give attention toanother God may bring misfortune!

Outreach IdeasThe strength of man is powerless torestrain the Holy Spirit. Jesus caninteract with the Manyuki directlythrough dreams and visions, andbelievers who operate in the miraculouscan cause a powerful stir. In the natural,radio or TV stations broadcasting acrossthe border might reach some.

Prayer FocusPray that Manyuki families, villages andcommunities would know the freedom

of following the King of kings, the onewho holds all authority in heaven and onearth. Pray that they would meet Jesusin dreams and visions and that theywould pursue him eagerly. Pray that theywould make space for a Disciple MakingMovement and that they would soonhave evangelistic resources.

SCRIPTURE “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “MyRabbi,” the blind man said, “I want to see!” Mark 10:51

PRAY for the Lord to heal the spiritual blindness of today’s people group. Praythat these people see and recognize Jesus for who He truly is, the Light andSavior of the world.


September

19

��mahn-YOO-keePOPULATION: 20,000LANGUAGE: ShanRELIGION: Buddhism


Taungyo in Myanmar

Centered in the township of Pinlon,the Taungyo people live primarily in

Myanmar's southern Shan State.Ethnically, they are a sub-group of themajority Burmese (or, Bamar) peoplealthough their dialect of Burmese is non-standard. The Taungyo maintainthemselves as a unique people group,though they still live intermingled withother ethnicities. One way to pick outthe Taungyo is by the distinctive apparelof the women – lots of silver on theirjewelry and heavy brass rings on theirlegs that are used to signify their maritalstatus. The Taungyo are fishermen andagriculturalists.

Ministry ObstaclesThough some outreach is beingperformed by local evangelists andmissionaries from other people groups,the Taungyo are almost entirelyBuddhist. Buddhism centers around thepursuit of perfection, achieved overlifetimes of effort. It will be difficult forthem to accept the idea that they need asin-free savior, who alone is perfect.

Outreach IdeasThough the Taungyo people may not bedrawn by printed material, audio andvideo materials might be very effective.

Prayer FocusPray that they would be open to

receiving the good news of Jesus – theOne who became sin that we mightbecome the very righteousness of God.Pray for a mass awakening among theTaungyo and deep movements ofdiscipleship as they pursue God's truerighteousness and holiness. Pray fordreams and visions that will allow Jesusto make himself known.

SCRIPTURE Jesus replied, “Your mistake is that you don’t know theScriptures, and you don’t know the power of God.” Mark 12:24

PRAY that this people group hungers for and learns the Scriptures. Pray thatthese people begin to experience the miraculous power of God.


September

20

��TOWN-yohPOPULATION: 46,000LANGUAGE: TaungyoRELIGION: Buddhism

BIBLE: Translation NeededSTATUS: Unreached

Afar in Eritrea

The Afar claim to be descendants ofHam, Noah's son. The Afar who live

in the desert inhabit one of the mostrugged regions in the world, known asthe Afar Plain or the Danakil Desert.Most of the Afar are nomads who herdsheep, goats, cattle, and camels. Aman's wealth is measured by the sizeof his herds. Rural Afar live in campssurrounded by thorn barricades, whichprotect them from the attacks of wildanimals or enemy tribesmen. They areMuslim, but many hold to pre-Islamicbeliefs and customs; they believe thatcertain trees and groves have sacredpowers and that the spirits of the deadhave power over their lives.

Ministry ObstaclesTo follow Jesus among the Afar is torisk losing status in the community aswell as possibly losing family andfriends. These are serious losses.

Outreach IdeasThere are many followers of Christ inEritrea. Perhaps some will rememberto carry the good news of Jesus tothe Afar.

Pray For the ChurchPray that the few followers of Jesusamong the Afar would find each other,faithfully fellowship together, andreach out for the Lord. Pray theywould be excellent witnesses for the

Lord's goodness among family andfriends.

Prayer FocusPray that the Afar community wouldbe able to prepare their children forthe rapidly changing conditions of the21st century. Pray for the availability ofgood schools and that parents wouldmake schooling a high priority.

SCRIPTURE These were His instructions to them: “The harvest is great, butthe workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; askHim to send more workers into His fields.” Luke 10:2

PRAY for an abundance of Holy Spirit-led workers to disciple this people group.


September

21

��AH-farPOPULATION: 284,000LANGUAGE: AfarRELIGION: Islam


Southern Pashtunin Afghanistan

Since the 1970s, the country ofAfghanistan has been in a state of

constant conflict. Right in the middle ofit are the Southern Pashtun people.They are said to love and hate withequal intensity, displaying fierce loyaltyto friends, yet defending the right ofbadal -- revenge or blood feuds -- whereenemies are concerned.

Ministry ObstaclesTribal traditions, state and socialopposition, conservative Islam and thehostility of family all combine to stuntany growth of the Christian faith amongthe Pashtun people.

Outreach IdeasMost likely, believers will need toaddress the physical and material needsof these suffering people, so they cansee Christ's compassion displayed in apractical way.

Pray For the ChurchPray for the few followers of Jesusamong the Pashtun to lead by examplein their faith. Pray for them to grow inChrist themselves and to stay safe whiledoing so. Pray for them to be bothcourageous and loving as they reach outto their Muslim community.

Prayer FocusPray for spiritual and physical peace inAfghanistan. Pray for the governmentto create an environment in which thepeople are safe. Pray for every tribe ofPashtun to accept Jesus' love into theirhearts and begin living to serve Him.Pray for a full Disciple MakingMovement to take root and spread.

SCRIPTURE Then He opened their minds so they could understand theScriptures. Luke 24:45

PRAY that the minds of this people group will be opened to understand God’sword by the Spirit Himself.


September

22

��pahsh-TOONPOPULATION: 9,881,000LANGUAGE: Pashto, SouthernRELIGION: Islam


Northern Pashtunin Afghanistan

Pashtun kings and emirs (local leaders)ruled Afghanistan from 1747 to 1973,

until they were overthrown by the Sovietcommunists. Since then, the country hasbeen in conflict. The Pashtuns organizedthe mujahedeen (freedom fighters), andthey overthrew the Russians. Tomaintain power after their victory,Pashtuns founded the Taliban (radicalIslamists), which joined Al Qaeda.Unfortunately, the conflict between thePushtun-based Taliban, especially amongthe Northern Pashtuns, and the Afghangovernment (made up of other tribalgroups) has not resolved, resulting inongoing bloodshed.

Ministry ObstaclesThe Pashtuns are dedicated to SunniIslam, and they strongly reject Westernvalues, especially anything they view asanti-Islamic. Pashtun families believe thatany member of their family whoembraces the Savior brings themdishonor, and there are almost alwayssevere repercussions.

Outreach IdeasOutreach tools like the internet, radio,JESUS Films and steadfast prayer bybelievers can go a long way towardmaking sure they have the chance tohear that Jesus is Lord of lords. Thisneeds to be undergirded with worldwideprayer, so the Lord will intervene in

Northern Pashtun lives.

Prayer FocusPray that every possible opportunity toreach the Pashtuns would give them thechance to know the truth of the gospel.Pray that this would be the decade whenan unstoppable movement to Christbegins among the Northern Pashtuns.

SCRIPTURE Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain inme, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can donothing. John 15:5

PRAY for the Lord is to help today’s people group to understand that apartfrom Him they can do nothing of spiritual and eternal value.


September

23

��pahsh-TOONPOPULATION: 2813,000LANGUAGE: Pashto, NorthernRELIGION: Islam


Maliar Pashtunin Pakistan

Life has become increasingly moredifficult for the Maliar Pashtuns, who

mainly work as farmers in the Potoharregion of Punjab and the PeshawarValley of Pakistan. Deforestation,overgrazing and extensive agriculturehave made soil resources morevulnerable to floods, which make the soilless fertile. A number have moved intoPakistani cities where they work asvendors with little hope to get out ofpoverty, and a few have emigrated toEngland. Maliars follow the Pashtun wayof life and firmly adhere to Islam,rejecting efforts by believers to reachthem with the gospel.

Ministry ObstaclesBeing intimidated by feelings ofinsecurity, poverty, illiteracy, politicaloppression, combined with deep-rootedIslamic beliefs has restricted the Maliarsfrom being open to the claims of Christ.

Outreach IdeasThe need for assistance in the area of soilconservation and new training skills infarming could be an opening for trainedChrist followers to enter the Maliar ruralregions as God's messengers. Others canbe reached in England by committedtrained believers.

Prayer FocusPray that God would uphold faithful,committed long term Christ followers in

the areas of development, education,business, healthcare and otherprofessional areas to work among theMaliars to help them thrive economicallyand spiritually. Pray that Christianresources would be available to Pashtunsin their languages and dialects. Pray for aDisciple Making Movement among theMaliar people this decade.

SCRIPTURE The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said,“Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! John 1:29

PRAY that today’s people group looks to the Lamb of God, Jesus, to have theirsins taken away.


September

24

��MAHL-yar pahsh-TOONPOPULATION: 276,000LANGUAGE: Hindko, SouthernRELIGION: Islam

BIBLE: Translation NeededSTATUS: Unreached

Northern Pashtunin the United States

The Pashtun have been called thelargest Muslim tribal society in the

world. They are found in India, Pakistan,Afghanistan and now many are living inthe United States. There is a largeAfghan diaspora in Fremont, CA. Theyare very famous for their restaurants andexotic markets. Other US states wherethey have settled include Virginia, NewYork, and some of the northeasternstates. Why have they come to the West?Plagued by instability, endemiccorruption and on-going violence, manytens of thousands of Afghan Pashtunshave migrated in search of jobs andopportunities they no longer have intheir original homelands.

Ministry ObstaclesKeeping their culture and identity isextremely important to Pashtuns.Embracing Jesus Christ as their Saviormust not interfere or threaten theircultural identity.

Outreach IdeasReaching the Pashtuns soon after theyarrive in the US is key in reaching themfor Christ. Offering them hospitality,inviting them to Christian homes forspecial occasions can give them a realsense of friendship in hopes ofintroducing them to mankind's "bestfriend" Jesus who wants to bless them.Radio programs in their language can beanother tool for reaching them.

Prayer FocusPray for a people movement to JesusChrist among the Pashtun diaspora thatwill spread far and wide! Pray for theAmerican church to strengthen efforts toreach the unreached Pashtun and otherunreached people groups in their midst.Pray for spiritual hunger among thePashtuns in America.

SCRIPTURE Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again,you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” John 3:3

PRAY that many in this people group are born again and enter into theKingdom of God.


September

25

��pahsh-TOONPOPULATION: 151,000LANGUAGE: Pashto, NorthernRELIGION: Islam


Ir in Laos

The Ir people group live in thehighlands of Laos. They are usually

included in other people groups, butthey are distinct, and our heavenlyFather wants them to be his children.They live in long houses on stilts, andthey keep pigs and chickensunderneath. During the Vietnam War,US warplanes dropped clusterbomblets over this region. Many ofthese bomblets remain and can explodewhen touched by farmers or children.

Ministry ObstaclesThe place where the Ir people live isnot easily accessible and is not invitingto missionaries. Wet rice farmersusing traditional hoes to turn the soilhave accidentally set off bomblets ashave children playing in the fields. AWestern religion, as they considerChristianity, is a strong reminder ofAmerican bombers.

Outreach IdeasMedical teams as well as those whomake prostheses could make a hugedifference in reaching the Ir people.Also, reaching the Ir with radiobroadcasts in their language andsharing gospel stories about Jesuscould make a difference. There aremany strong believers from nearbyVietnam who can reach them.

Prayer FocusPray for the Lord to call forth medicalmissionary teams to work with the Irpeople. Pray for God to raise up prayerteams to pray that a people movementmay begin among the Ir people thisdecade. Pray for spiritual hunger thatwill turn their hearts to the Light ofthe world.

SCRIPTURE But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when trueworshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is lookingfor those who will worship Him that way. John 4:23

PRAY that this people group soon begins to worship the Father in spirit andin truth.


September

26

��eerPOPULATION: 6,200LANGUAGE: IrRELIGION: Ethnic Religions

BIBLE: Translation StartedSTATUS: Unreached

Jeng in Laos

In 1936, the Jeng fled Vietnam forLaos, where they lost some of their

cultural uniqueness. Today they livein six villages where they engage inrice farming along main highways.One thing they did not lose was theirtraditional animism. Indeed, theyresisted Buddhist efforts to convertthem. They are linguistically andhistorically related to the Oy andBrau peoples of Laos, among whomare some followers of Christ.Unfortunately, there are no believersamong the Jeng.

Ministry ObstaclesResistance to Buddhismconditions them to resist any beliefsystem which denies the trappingsof animism.

Outreach IdeasTheir residence along majorcommunication arteries opens themto outside ideas; and thus, toevangelism by Oy and Brau followersof Jesus.

Prayer FocusPray that the small Brau and Oychurches would take advantage ofthe communication routes to

evangelize the Jeng through word,deed and power encounter. Pray thatGod would work in the Jeng peopleto embracing the ways of JesusChrist for all of their families andvillages.

SCRIPTURE I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believein God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned fortheir sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24

PRAY that today’s people group listens to the God’s message and believes inthe good news of their salvation.


September

27

��jangPOPULATION: 9,000LANGUAGE: OyRELIGION: Ethnic Religions

BIBLE: UnspecifiedSTATUS: Unreached

Bisaya in Malaysia

Have you heard of the "middlepeople," the Bisaya of Western Saba

and Brunei Bay, Malaysia? They live alongthe "middle" stretches of the LimbangRiver, hence they are known as "peopleof the middle" or "people of the river,"where they live in stilt long houses onthe river front where they fish. They alsofarm inland. Their houses are divided intoapartments where extended familieslive. This indigenous people group isoverwhelmingly Muslim, but they mixorthodox Islamic beliefs with animisticand shamanistic practices.

Ministry ObstaclesObstacles to ministry include a lack ofScripture in their language, lack ofSpirit-empowered witness andevangelism, and a lack of intercessoryprayer for them.

Outreach IdeasOutreach is possible through Scriptureportions and gospel messages in theirlanguage. There are other indigenouspeoples with a gospel witness who canreach out to them if motivated by theHoly Spirit. Medical clinics are replacingshamans. Pray that the churches onSarawak would pray for their kinsmen inWestern Saba and Brunei Bay and seekto evangelize them as the Spirit leads.Pray that Christian doctors and clinicswould be established among the Bisayas

of Malaysia.

Prayer FocusPray that Christian doctors and clinicswould take root among the Bisaya ofMalaysia. Pray that they would becomeopen to the gospel and Christian witness.Pray for a mighty movement to Christamong them this decade.

SCRIPTURE Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to mewill never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”John 6:35

PRAY that this people group hungers for God and begins to feed spiritually onthe Bread of life, Jesus Christ.


September

28

��bee-SAH-yahPOPULATION: 74,000LANGUAGE: Bisaya, SabahRELIGION: Islam


Bawaean in Malaysia

In 1350, sailors saw a glimpse oflight around an island in South East

Asia and named it Kawi. It was afitting name as it meant, "having thesunlight." Six hundred years later,"Kawi" officially became an island ofthe Republic of Indonesia. Nownamed Bawean, the island is home tothe Bawean people. Bawean also livein the neighboring country ofMalaysia. The Bawean are majoritySunni Muslims with some influencefrom traditional local beliefs. Manygrow rice, maize and coconuts fora living.

Ministry ObstaclesSharing the gospel with Muslims inMalaysia is very challenging; thegovernment equates focusing onChrist as lord with "converting" outof Islam.

Outreach IdeasMany Bawean people live inSingapore, where there is freedom ofreligion. Perhaps Christ followers canreach out to the Bawean inSingapore first, and new Baweanbelievers can take Christ to theirpeople in Malaysia and Indonesia.

Prayer FocusPray that the love of Christ would be

experienced and embraced by theBawean people. Pray that theBawean would understand they canbe adopted into the kingdom of light.Pray for believers in Indonesia,Malaysia and Singapore to shineChrist's light to those around them.Pray that there would be a move-ment to Christ among the Bawean.

SCRIPTURE On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood andshouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyonewho believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Riversof living water will flow from his heart.’” John 7:37-38

PRAY for this people group to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit and theoverflowing, gracious love of God.


September

29

��boh-YAHNPOPULATION: 57,000LANGUAGE: MaduraRELIGION: Islam


Hanunoo in thePhilippines

How can the Hanunoo people, living inpoverty and worshipping nature

spirits, be reached with Jesus' love? Theyreside in the far south of Mindoro, one ofthe Philippine islands. They live in smallvillages of no more than 50 people onvalley slopes overlooking streams. Theyfarm rice, corn, beans, sugarcane, andsweet potatoes. The Hanunoo areisolated from medicine and education,along with other aspects of modernlife. Their villages are autonomous, withno chiefs.

Ministry ObstaclesNearly all Hanunoo people practice theirown ethnic religion, so their faith is inthe power of nature spirits rather thanthe Creator.

Outreach IdeasPrayer and translated evangelisticmaterials are keys to reaching theHanunoo. Doctors and educators whofollow Christ can bring practical helpand the gospel. Hanunoo believerscan be discipled to share Christ withunreached Hanunoo.

Prayer FocusSome Hanunoo are Christian and asegment of those are evangelical. TheNew Testament and audio Bible teachingare available in the Hanunoo language.

Pray for discipleship of Hanunoobelievers to share Christ's message withthe unreached. Ask God to stir faithfulprayer in Filipino churches for theHanunoo. Pray the Lord would sendprepared witnesses to Hanunoo familiesand villages. Ask for Disciple MakingMovements that spread to the manyHanunoo communities.

SCRIPTURE And the one (God) who sent me (Jesus) is with me—He hasnot deserted me. For I always do what pleases Him.” John 8:29

PRAY for today’s people group to begin to please God by trusting in andobeying His Son.


September

30

��hah-noo-NOOPOPULATION: 23,000LANGUAGE: HanunooRELIGION: Ethnic Religions


Malayo 1 inColombia

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