Okinawan, Ryukyuan in United States

People Name:	Okinawan, Ryukyuan
Country:	United States
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	4,500
World Population:	1,166,000
Primary Language:	Okinawan, Central
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	2.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.20 %
Scripture:	Portions
Online Audio NT:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Japanese
Affinity Bloc:	East Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

The Ryukyuan are the indigenous peoples of the Ryukyu Islands. Traditionally, the people have a very tightly-knit family life and enjoy close personal friendships. They see themselves as bound together by their home island and, especially among older people, will always consider themselves from Ryukyuan first and Japan second. They are among the longest-lived people in the world. Native Uchina religion places strong emphasis upon the role of the women in the community, with women holding positions as shamans and guardians of the home. Most of the younger generation are not serious adherents of this religion anymore, but many older people try to teach about the old ways, including dances and the language.

Ministry Obstacles

The Ryukyuan people do not have a legacy of understanding the ways of God as revealed through Moses, the prophets, and Jesus Christ.

Outreach Ideas

Pray that a strong movement to Jesus will bring Ryukyuan families and communities into a rich experience of God's blessings.

Pray for the Followers of Christ

A small number of the Ryukyuan people identify themselves as Christians. Pray they will be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray for the people on the Ruykyuan islands to become aware of their need for forgiveness of sin, and that forgiveness has been provided through faith in the work of Christ on the cross. The Ryukuyan are known as a peaceful people and have always considered the arts and music as more honorable than combat skills. Pray these peaceful people will welcome the good news of Jesus as it comes to them in various forms.