How can we ensure there is a church within walking distance of everyone in the world?

We must be patient. We must be steadfast. Most importantly, we must pray.

Thousands of indigenous people groups exist around the world, each with their own unique history and culture. While some have heard the Gospel, there is still much work needing to be done. Many of these people face persecution, especially those who have converted to Christianity. A strong church provides hope, safety and support for these new Christians, and spreads the Gospel to others.

As the Global Church Developer, our mission is to equip our indigenous partners with resources they need to plant churches, disciple believers and provide refuge. Without you, we could not accomplish that mission. Each month, we highlight some of those groups that may be blessed by ICM and our partners.

Please take time each month to pray for them as our work continues, and reflect on your own spiritual journey with the Lord. We pray each month’s post is a blessing to you. We thank you for your endless support.

All Scripture references come from the New Living Translation (NLT). Joshua Project used for Profile resource and stats.

September

People Within Reach: APURINA

Located in Brazil

The Apurina people live mostly in the dense Amazon rainforest close to riverbanks. They follow a typical “fisherman” lifestyle, depending on fish and turtle products for food and revenue. Women create pottery, brooms, baskets, and occasionally hammocks. The Apurina people also create canoes from jutai trees, allowing them to easily maneuver through small streams.

Apurina people follow their god called Tsora, and rely heavily on shamans for spiritual leadership and physical healing. Thankfully, ICM partners in the Amazon basin of Brazil are developing healthy churches among the Apurina and other riverine people groups. Roughly 40% of the Apurina population has heard of Christ and has converted to Christianity.

Apurina At a Glance

Population: 7,700
Language: Apurina
Main Religion: Ethnic Tribal Religions
Christian: 40%*

Reflection Questions

• What are your spiritual gifts that God has blessed you with? Teaching? Hospitality?
• How can you use these gifts to further God’s Kingdom?

Think about how you can use your spiritual gifts to serve others.

Prayer Requests

• Pray that Christianity will flourish within Apurina villages.
• Please pray for the Apurina as they continue to battle environmental exploitation by loggers.
• Pray that their homes would not be damaged, and that they would remain safe.
• Please pray for the spiritual awakening of the Apurina people, that they would abandon ritualistic shamanism and turn to Christ.

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’ ”—Isaiah 52:7