Ukrainian in Paraguay
Photo Source:
C. M. Sturgeon - Pixabay
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| People Name: | Ukrainian |
| Country: | Paraguay |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 41,000 |
| World Population: | 32,574,100 |
| Primary Language: | Ukrainian |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 79.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 3.80 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Slav, Eastern |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Ukraine lies to the north of the Black Sea in southwest European Russia. Historic ties to Poland and a Cossack tradition contribute to the Ukrainian heritage. Often referred to as the breadbasket of the former Soviet Union, Ukraine is a primary grain-producing region. It also boasts great mineral wealth and has a productive iron and steel manufacturing economy. There are also large numbers of Ukrainians in Siberia and northern Kazakhstan. There is a growing Ukrainian diaspora, and some are in Paraguay.
Ukrainians settled in Paraguay after others had settled in Brazil and Argentina. They arrived between the 1920s and 1950s. The first Ukrainians came from northern Ukraine’s Volhynia region. The 1940s brought some fleeing the horrors of WWII. Most Ukrainians in Paraguay are settled in Itapúa.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Ukraine has been the breadbasket of Eastern Europe until war broke out with Russia. Most Ukrainian in Paraguay are using their agricultural skills in growing grain. They are often large landowners who lease farmland to others.
Others are in urban professions in cities like Asuncion, Encarnacion and especially Itapúa, where Ukrainians have a bigger presence. They are becoming assimilated into Paraguayan society.
Ukrainians are moving out of Paraguay in favor of Argentina, Canada and the United States.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Ukrainians in Paraguay are part of the Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox Church. Almost a third are Greek Orthodox. The rest are Baptist or Mennonite. Ukrainians usually attend church.
What Are Their Needs?
In the 2020s, Ukrainians are facing the stress of war with a major world power. They might live in faraway Paraguay, but most have family and friends who are facing danger.
Prayer Points
Pray that they base their lives on relationship with Christ and become passionate evangelists.
Pray for spiritual and emotional healing over Ukraine’s war with Russia. May they allow Christ to heal their hearts and minds!
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Ukrainian churches in Paraguay.