Galician in Portugal

Introduction / History

Galicians are descended of ancient Celtic invaders. In the 400s there was a Galician kingdom formed by the Germanic Suevi tribe. Their name probably means "milk" in reference to their pale complexion. They live in Galicia in northwest Spain. This is an autonomous region. In addition to Spanish, they speak Gallego which is similar to Portuguese.

In 1492 Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand unified Spain as the nation state we know today. They also started an overseas empire. Since Galicia was struggling economically, many of their people moved to the Spanish colonies. Since that time there have been many times of poverty in the Galicia region. When this happens, Galicians emigrate to Portugal, Germany, Mexico or Uruguay.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Married Galician women keep their surnames. Children use the name of their father followed by the name of their mother.

Galicians grow crops such as turnips and potatoes. They farm and fish; some are self-employed. They like eating seafood and folk dancing.

Galician women often have outside jobs to supplement the family income. When they are in rural areas, women perform farm duties along with raising children.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Galicians are Catholic, but they maintain unbiblical superstitions. Women are usually more religious than men.

What Are Their Needs?

Pray that Galicians in Portugal will genuinely give their lives to Jesus Christ and turn their backs other forms of spirituality.

Pray that their daily need will make them aware of their reliance on God and will help to lead them to salvation.

Pray that soon Galician disciples will make more disciples.

Pray for entire Galician families to worship and serve the Lord together.

Text Source:   Joshua Project