Introduction / History

The Polish are from one of the oldest nations in Europe. Their history began over 1,000 years ago. Theirs was a large kingdom between the 15th and 18th centuries, but after this time came great troubles for Polish people. During the Second World War, many Polish died because of persecution and genocide. The collapse of communism in 1989 brought them freedom, but after 1989 millions of Polish suffered from poverty and unemployment. This fact caused much of the Polish emigration to Western countries.

Where Are they Located?

Most Polish live in Poland, in Central Europe, but there are big groups of Polish immigrants in USA, UK, Australia and Germany. There are also great Polish minorities in Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today many Polish people give up traditional lifestyle and worldview. After the collapse of communism, they started work more in private sector services and less in agriculture and industry. Young Polish want to study in high schools and have good jobs, but very often they are limited by poverty, especially in the villages. Today more than a half of Polish live in cities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Polish religious life is dominated by the Roman Catholic Church, but in reality about half of them are only nominally Catholics. The collapse of communism was a big cultural shock. Many Polish have a conservative worldview, but sometimes it becomes fanatical, without understanding of Bible and Biblical principles. The great influence of relativism is observed by the younger generation. Horoscopes, magic and folk beliefs are still popular in Poland. Some Polish are also influenced by atheism, communism and materialism.

What Are Their Needs?

Polish people are disappointed with politics and traditional Catholic religion. Big problems in Poland are also addictions - mostly alcoholism - and increasing number of divorces, which destroy family ties. Despite the fact that Poland is a Christian nation since its founding in 966, most Polish don't understand Christianity completely and don't know Bible.

Prayer Points

Pray for better knowledge of the Bible.
Pray for the government and politicians to make wise decisions.
Pray for missionaries in Poland who help the poor.
Pray for better understanding of who God is.

Scripture Prayers for the Polish in United States.