Arvanite in Greece
Photo Source:
Mstyslav Chernov - Wikimedia
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Arvanite |
| Country: | Greece |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 143,000 |
| World Population: | 143,000 |
| Primary Language: | Albanian, Arvanitika |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 65.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 1.00 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Albanian |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Arvanite moved from southern Albania to Greece in the 1200s-1300s. Their reason for migrating isn’t clear, but more came at later times. For example, many others from Albania poured into Greece after communism fell in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Their language is similar to that of the Tosk Albanians. It is called Arvanitika Albanian, but it is in the process of being replaced by Greek.
They identify with Greece, and they are loyal Greek citizens. Some of them were instrumental in helping the Greeks win their independence from the Ottoman Empire.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Arvanite women have many rights and are considered equal to men. In the past they even fought in battles.
Most of them are farmers who also raise livestock. Others have contributed to Greece as painters, politicians, literature and through the military.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Arvanite are Orthodox Christians. They might be loyal to the church, but many are secular in their worldview.
What Are Their Needs?
Like most peoples in Europe, the Arvanite need to center their spirituality on Jesus Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray for their spirituality to be centered on Jesus Christ and him crucified.
Pray for Arvanite disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for spiritual hunger to be satisfied by a deep relationship with the only savior.