GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Pannei of Indonesia

Minggu, 16 November 2014

Pannei of Indonesia

Almost all the Pannei people are followers of Islam. The area where they live has many mosques and prayer houses for worship. The goal of the Islamic leadership in the area is to have a mosque or prayer house within easy walking distance for each family. At the same time, traditional animistic beliefs are still strong in daily life. The services of a dukun (shaman/healer/occultist) are often sought for many purposes, including healing the sick and exorcising evil spirits. The Pannei believe in the power of spirits that inhabit sacred places and are thought to bring either misfortune or prosperity. The departed spirits of their ancestors are thought to be alive and able to watch over the behavior of both adults and children.

Ministry Obstacles
Workers can expect spiritual opposition as the news of Christ is taken to the Pannei. But God is more powerful, so workers needn't be discouraged by this.

Outreach Ideas
Gospel recordings are available in the Pannei language. Pray workers will become available to take these to the people.

Pray for the followers of Christ
Pray the Christians among the Pannei will learn to let the peace of Christ reign in their hearts. Pray they will learn to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in their hearts to God.

Pray for the entire people group
The Pannei are viewed by outsiders as being "behind the times," closed off and impoverished. A wide range of new employment opportunities needs to be created. Formal education and vocational training in a variety of skills would be helpful.

Scripture Focus
"For behold, darkness will cover the earth, And deep darkness the peoples; But the Lord will rise upon you, And His glory will appear upon you. And nations will come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising." Isaiah 60:2-3