The Nauna are a very small people group living in Papua New Guinea's Manus Province on Nauna Island, a single island community in the Admiralty Islands. Their existence has long been defined by village life in this isolated setting amid the ocean and nearby islands, which has helped preserve their unique cultural identity.
Their language is referred to in data as Neherneh, but external linguistic records identify the language of Nauna Island itself as Nauna, an Oceanic Austronesian language spoken in the village on Nauna Island. This language is endangered and reflects the long?standing isolation and distinct linguistic heritage of the community.
The Nauna live in a single village settlement on Nauna Island in Manus Province. Daily life centers on subsistence activities typical of small island communities, such as fishing, gardening for root crops and other local food sources, and gathering seafood along reefs and coastal waters. Homes are constructed from local materials, and extended family networks shape social life.
Because the village is on a small island with limited infrastructure, travel to larger towns or services generally requires boat transport. Access to formal healthcare, secondary schooling, and markets typically involves journeying off the island. The community largely depends on local knowledge, cooperation among neighbors, and traditional ways of life to sustain daily needs and pass on cultural knowledge.
Almost all of the Nauna identify as Christian, although only a smaller portion (around 19?percent) are classified as evangelical believers, indicating that a deeply biblical understanding of the gospel may not yet be widespread across the community. Traditional spiritual beliefs, including ideas about spiritual forces connected to nature and unseen influences, can remain influential even among those who identify as Christian.
Scripture translation has started, but there are no known Bible portions, complete Bible, audio Scriptures, Jesus Film recordings, or other media resources available in the language associated with the community. This means access to God's Word in the language spoken within their village is very limited.
The Nauna need a clear and faithful presentation of the gospel of Jesus Christ that leads to genuine personal faith and growth rooted in Scripture rather than a blend of belief systems. Christian identity exists in name for many, but deeper understanding, discipleship, and biblical teaching are needed at all levels.
A major need is the completion and widespread availability of the Bible in the language of the community, allowing individuals to engage directly with God's Word in the language used in daily life. This would support personal study, teaching, and shared spiritual growth.
There is also a need for trained local church leaders who can teach sound doctrine, disciple new believers, and help establish strong, biblically grounded church communities.
Practically, improved access to healthcare, formal education, and reliable transportation would support both physical well?being and opportunities for community and spiritual development in this remote island setting.
Pray that the Nauna people would come to a clear and saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that those who identify as Christians would grow in biblical understanding and not blend traditional beliefs with Christian teaching.
Pray for the completion and availability of the Bible in the language of the Nauna community so that they can engage directly with God's word.
Pray for faithful local leaders to be raised up who can teach, disciple, and shepherd others.
Pray that traditional spiritual beliefs would be replaced by a firm trust in the truth of Scripture.
Pray for improved access to healthcare, education, and transportation that supports overall community well?being.
Scripture Prayers for the Nauna in Papua New Guinea.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
