The Delaware people, also known as the Lenape, are an Algonquian-speaking tribe originally from the eastern woodlands of what is now New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, southeastern New York, and Delaware. Their traditional language, Unami or Munsee (both dialects of the Lenape language), has largely been replaced by English, though revitalization efforts are ongoing.
They were among the first Native Americans to encounter European settlers in the 1600s, forming early alliances but also enduring waves of displacement, disease, and broken treaties. Over time, they were forced westward into Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, Kansas, and eventually Oklahoma, where most Delaware people live today. Some Delaware groups also settled in Wisconsin and Canada. Despite centuries of upheaval, they have preserved a strong sense of identity and community.
Today, Delaware people live in both rural and urban areas, with many centered around the Delaware Tribe of Indians and the Delaware Nation in Oklahoma. They actively participate in tribal government, cultural events, and educational programs that promote Lenape heritage. Powwows, storytelling, and traditional crafts remain vital ways to preserve their cultural roots. While many Delaware work in modern professions such as education, healthcare, and business, others face economic challenges typical of Native communities, including limited access to quality jobs and healthcare. The Delaware continue to invest in community programs that strengthen their people and sustain their traditions for future generations.
Historically, the Delaware believed in a Creator called Kishelemukong, the giver of life, and acknowledged a spiritual world filled with lesser spirits governing nature and human life. Their traditional ceremonies emphasized harmony with creation and moral living.
Over time, Christian influence grew through missionary activity, particularly among Moravian and Baptist missionaries in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many Delaware people today identify as Christian, while others hold to or blend traditional beliefs with modern spirituality. Though churches exist within their communities, there is still a great need for personal revival and for Christ-centered discipleship to flourish among the Delaware.
The Delaware people need continued healing from historical trauma, loss of land, and cultural dislocation. Spiritually, there remains a deep need for the gospel to be understood in a way that connects to their identity and history. Culturally respectful evangelism, community service, and biblical teaching will help bring hope and renewal.
On a practical level, the Delaware face challenges with unemployment, health disparities, and educational barriers. Ministries that combine compassion with truth—offering mentorship, family support, and spiritual guidance—can make a lasting difference among the Delaware people.
Pray that the Holy Spirit would soften and stir the hearts of the Pawnee people to clearly see and embrace the true Creator and giver of life, Jesus Christ.
Pray that personal revival would occur among the Pawnee Christians and that their spirits and hearts would be stirred to find their true identity and purpose in Christ.
Pray for Christ-centered discipleship and outreach to flourish in Pawnee communities.
Pray asking God to raise up faithful indigenous Christian leaders to shepherd their communities for His honor and glory.
Finally, pray for Pawnee believers to take the gospel to their own people and communities with love and compassion.
Scripture Prayers for the Delaware in United States.
Delaware Tribe of Indians official website
Delaware Nation official website
Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian archives
Ethnologue: Lenape Language Profile
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
