Abaza in Russia

Abaza in Russia The Abaza live in the western Caucasus region of southwestern Russia. In the sixth century, they accepted Christianity; but between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries, they gradually converted to Islam. In the 1800s, the Abaza fell under Russian control and rebelled against Russian authority several times until the early 1900s. They live in small, isolated settlements high in the Caucasus Mountains. Since there are so many Christian people groups in the area, they are familiar with Christianity; however, they have no real knowledge of the saving power of Christ. Ministry Obstacles The Caucasus region at one time had many followers of Christ, but more recently has resisted the Christian message. Many don't fully understand the message of Christ. Outreach Ideas Perhaps followers of Christ in the Republic of Georgia will have opportunity to take the Gospel to those in the Caucasus region, including the Abaza. Pray they will be given the heart to do this. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray for the believers in Jesus within the Abaza community. They need prayer support. Pray they will find each other in order to fellowship. Pray they will be diligent to study the Scriptures, and will become students of the Word. Pray for the entire people group Pray for peace in the Caucasus region. Pray for improving relations with the Russian government. Scripture Focus "Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." Psalm 96:3		People Name: Abaza Country: Russia 10/40 Window: No Population: 44,000 World Population: 68,000 Language: Abaza Primary Religion: Islam Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: No Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2