Introduction / History

The Mawayana are a First Nations people in Brazil. Almost all speak Portuguese, Brazil’s trade language.
Their contact with outsiders began in the 20th century with rubber extractors, whom they worked for in exchange for metal tools, money and trinkets. When the rubber boom ended in the 1950s, they came in contact with big cat hunters who traded with them. Unfortunately, the Mawayana people were infested with diseases from these outsiders, and their population is very low today.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Each Mawayana village is autonomous and ruled by a chief. He must gain their trust and prove to be a capable leader.
They find some of their food in the rainforest. Men hunt and fish. Both sexes contribute to growing manioc, bananas, potatoes, etc. for their food supply.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Mawayana have some Roman Catholic influence, but most remain dedicated to their traditional shamanistic religion.

What Are Their Needs?

The Mawayana people need to adapt to a changing world. SIL workers are helping them adapt by marketing their goods for an outside market.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to provide protection and mercy for the Mawayana people of Brazil.
Pray for members of the Mawayana tribe who love the Lord to teach Christ to others.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among the Mawayana people this decade, providing them with a hope and a purpose.

Scripture Prayers for the Mawayana in Brazil.

References

https://pib.socioambiental.org/en/Povo:Wayana
https://www.endangeredlanguages.com/lang/5162