Wolio of Indonesia

Wolio of Indonesia The Wolio primarily live on the island of Buton. Their ancestors were immigrants from Johor, Malaysia at the beginning of the 15th century, who also founded the Buton dynasty. In 1540, the sixth king became a follower of Islam. He reshaped the kingdom to become a sultanate and set himself up as the first sultan. Wolio people live as farmers on the land and sea. Primary land crops are rice, corn, and cassava. In the sea, especially from June to September, vast stretches of water are used to cultivate agar-agar (seaweed) that is ground up and used to make a variety of products. Almost all Wolio have beliefs centered in Sufi Islam. They practice meditation in order to receive visions from God, or to find hidden truths far beyond their own reasoning. Belief in reincarnation is also adhered to as a result of Hindu influence. Ministry Obstacles No scripture is reported as available in the Wolio language, though Gospel recordings are available. Outreach Ideas Workers are needed to take Gospel recordings and other resources to the Wolio people. Pray for a church planting movement to develop that will take the good news of Jesus to each person in the tribe. Pray for the followers of Christ There may be a few followers of Jesus today among the Wolio of Indonesia. Please pray for these and the many others who will soon join them. Pray they will live holy lives, and will fellowship together for encouragement and edification. Pray for the entire people group The Wolio need greater opportunities for work that can provide enough money for their livelihood. Because of the Wolio people's geographical situation, along a major sea lane through Indonesia, there is a great deal of tourism potential for the city. Their fishermen need better training and more knowledge to improve production and distribution of their sea products. Scripture Focus "Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised." 1 Chronicles 16:24-25		People Name: Wolio Country: Indonesia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 222,000 World Population: 239,000 Language: Wolio Primary Religion: Islam Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1