GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Duri of Indonesia

Senin, 05 Januari 2015

Duri of Indonesia

The Duri area consists of 17 villages spread among the districts of Baraka, Alla, and Anggareja. This area is close to a major road which is passable by automobiles. Social status is determined by education and/or wealth. Wealth is measured in terms of ownership of water buffalos, land, gold, and houses. Generally, those who are educated move to the city. The Duri are very open-minded toward education and other things that can raise their standard of living. Almost all Duri are Muslim, combining traditional animistic beliefs with Islam. This can be seen from their awe of facing spiritual powers. They trust in a dukun (shaman/healer/occultist) to heal sicknesses and cast out evil spirits. A small number of Duri still identify themselves as animists who practice Alu' Tojolo.

Ministry Obstacles
Spiritual opposition will surely be present whenever Jesus is presented to a person or to a tribe. Workers need to be prepared for this.

Outreach Ideas
A Christian minority is found in the villages of Baroko and Benteng Alla, at the border of Toraja. Pray they will join with neighboring Christians in other people groups to reach their communities.

Pray for the followers of Christ
Pray the Christians in this group will be able to withstand pressure to renounce their faith and, instead, will grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Pray for the entire people group
The Duri need improved means of transporting crops to market. The sale of dangke cheese could be expanded through industrial processing and more attractive packaging. In addition, improved health and nutrition for children needs attention.

Scripture Focus
"And those who lead many to righteousness [will shine] like the stars for ever and ever." Daniel 12:3