Afar in Ethiopia

Afar in Ethiopia The Afar claim to be descendants of Ham, Noah's son. The Afar who live in the desert inhabit one of the most rugged regions in the world, known as the Afar Plain or the Danakil Desert. Most of the Afar are nomads who herd sheep, goats, cattle, and camels. A man's wealth is measured by the size of his herds. Rural Afar live in camps surrounded by thorn barricades, which protect them from the attacks of wild animals or enemy tribesmen. They are Muslim, but many hold to pre-Islamic beliefs and customs. They believe that certain trees and groves have sacred powers. Spirits of the dead are believed to be very powerful. Ministry Obstacles To follow Jesus among the Afar is to risk losing status in the community, as well as possibly losing family and friends. These are serious losses. Outreach Ideas Ethiopia has many Christians, in various tribes. Perhaps some will remember to carry the good news of Jesus to the Afar. Pray to that end. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray the few followers of Jesus among the Afar will find each other, and faithfully fellowship together. Pray they will grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and grow in numbers. Pray they will be excellent witnesses for the Lord's goodness among family and friends. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Afar community will be able to prepare their children for the rapidly changing conditions of the 21st century. Pray for the availability of good schools, and that parents will make schooling high priority for their children. Scripture Focus "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever." Revelation 11:15		People Name: Afar Country: Ethiopia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 1,810,000 World Population: 2,649,000 Language: Afar Primary Religion: Islam Bible: New Testament Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1