Balkar in United States

Introduction / History

For centuries, the historically Muslim Balkar people have lived in the highlands of the Caucasus Mountains (southern Russia) in the province of Kabardino-Balkaria, shepherding their flocks and their livestock. This livelihood is passed from father to son, beginning at a very young age. It's never-ending, strenuous work. Expanding their property to accommodate increased herds is something shepherds strive for, since a man's fortune is ranked by the number of cattle or sheep he owns.
Some have migrated to Central Asian countries, usually those once ruled by the USSR. A small number are in the United States.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Those in the US must adapt to an entirely different language and culture. Because of their small population, they probably blend in with other Muslims and Russian compatriots.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Balkars have a Muslim culture where every aspect of life, from birth, to marriage, to death, is governed by folk-Islamic and Balkar traditions.

What Are Their Needs?

Probably no Balkar Christians live in the United States where they have the freedom to embrace the Lord without government interference. They do, however, face much pressure to stay under the yoke of Islam by their families. Christ followers can go to them. It’s a matter of whether people are willing to take Christ to their unreached Muslim neighbors.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to send loving Christians to minister life to their Balkar Muslim neighbors.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will soften the hearts of the Balkar people toward the gospel.
Ask God to call forth teams of intercessors who will rise up and faithfully stand in the gap for the Balkar.
Pray that they would discern the freedom of Christ in their worship and in their communal relationships.
Pray for the salvation of key Balkar leaders who will boldly proclaim the gospel.

Text Source:   Joshua Project