GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Intha of Myanmar (Burma)

Jumat, 16 Januari 2015

Intha of Myanmar (Burma)

The Inthas are an old tribe of Bama living in the midst of the Shan area. They are unique because of their villages built on stilts over the water of Lake Inle and their hydroponic farming based on floating gardens. Leg rowing, floating gardens, and villages on stilts over the water are unique features that have turned this area into a tourist destination. The floating gardens and surrounding area is extensively cultivated and produces a wide variety of vegetables, fruit, and flowers. Fishing and gardening is all done from small, traditional, flat-bottomed, teak boats. The Intha people are staunchly Buddhist. Around and on Inle Lake there are at least 1000 temples, pagodas, stupas, and monasteries. Buddhism pervades every part of Intha life and culture, but it is mixed with traditional animist beliefs. Fear plays a large part in their daily lives.

Ministry Obstacles
The worldview of Buddhism is very different from the worldview of the Bible. Knowing and serving the Creator God may not be seen as a possibility.

Outreach Ideas
There is much tourism and outside interaction with this group. Missionary endeavors could begin by serving the needs of the Intha in the marketplace.

Pray for the followers of Christ
Please pray for any followers of Jesus who presently are in the Intha community, and pray for the many others who will soon join their numbers. Pray they will be accurately taught the ways of Christ, and will depend fully on him and his death on their behalf.

Pray for the entire people group
Pray the Intha tribe will soon be completely delivered from fear.

Scripture Focus
"How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" Romans 10:14-15