Surma, Suri of Ethiopia

Surma, Suri of Ethiopia The Surma people live in the remote southwest corner of Ethiopia. They have a basic subsistence and barter economy. The Surma are a highly monolingual and homogenous society, living beyond most of the influences of the modern world and its technology. Their tenuous relationship with neighboring ethnic groups often erupts in fighting and loss of life. The girl pictured here shows some of the typical Surma characteristics for both men and women: large earplugs, decorative body painting, the hair shaved in patterns. Men and children typically wear no clothing. Mission work was initiated among the Surma in the early 1970's. Due to various outside pressures, however, this Christian outreach lasted only a few years before leaving. There is presently no known Gospel witness among the Surma. Ministry Obstacles The Surma people are insular, largely cut off from most of the outside world. Outreach Ideas There is planned outreach to this group. Pray for success in sharing the Good News with them. Pray for the followers of Christ There are a few reported Christians within this tribe. Pray the Surma Christians will see the need to fellowship together, to strengthen each other. Pray for the entire people group Please pray for peace between the Surma and neighboring tribes. They also need to see the importance of schooling for their children. Pray that schools will be made available. Scripture Focus "Now to Him who is able to do exceedlingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21		People Name: Surma, Suri Country: Ethiopia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 38,000 World Population: 38,000 Language: Suri Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2