Introduction / History

The Irantxe also go by Manoki. They have their own language, which is being replaced by Portuguese. They were almost extinct because of diseases and massacres until they took refuge in a Jesuit mission. In 1968, they were given land by the Brazilian government. It was outside their traditional lands, and it didn t have the resources they were used to having.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The land they were given has been taken over by agribusinesses and ranching interests. Their water is becoming polluted, and deforestation makes it difficult for them to hunt or fish for their food supply. They plant gardens to grow their food: manioc, beans, corn, sweet potatoes and peanuts. Some of the men work on outside ranches to earn some money.

They have their own ceremonies and religious rituals.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Irantxe people have been affected by the Roman Catholic Church ever since they first had contact with outsiders. They hold masses and believe Catholic doctrines, but they also have their own traditional beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

They have many physical and spiritual needs. The Irantxes need the chance to embrace a faith founded on the rock, Jesus Christ. Hopefully, they will get job training to prepare them for the future. As it stands, they are very vulnerable to outsiders.

Prayer Points

Pray for them to find a way to survive the onslaught from the outside world.
Pray for the Lord to guide and protect the Irantxe people in Brazil.
Pray that soon Irantxe Christians will disciple others.

Scripture Prayers for the Irantxe in Brazil.

References

https://pib.socioambiental.org/en/Povo:Iranxe_Manoki