Kpelle, Liberia in United States

Introduction / History

The Kpelle people are the largest ethnic group in Liberia. They speak the Kpelle language, which belongs to the Mande branch of the Niger-Congo language family, though many also speak English, the national language of Liberia. The Kpelle have a cultural history marked by strong family ties, agricultural traditions, and a communal way of life centered around farming and trade.

Many Kpelle came to the United States during and after the Liberian civil wars (1989–2003), seeking safety, stability, and new opportunities. Today, they have established communities in several U.S. cities, particularly in Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, while maintaining connections with relatives and friends in Liberia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In the United States, Liberian Kpelle families work hard to balance life between two cultures—preserving their traditional values and customs while adapting to American society. Many are employed in healthcare, education, transportation, and social services, often working long hours to provide for family members both in the U.S. and abroad. Education is highly valued, and parents emphasize academic success for their children as a way to build a better future.

Community gatherings, Liberian associations, and church events play important roles in maintaining social bonds and cultural identity. The Kpelle diaspora continues to express hospitality, generosity, and a deep sense of community responsibility, often extending support to family members in Liberia through remittances and community projects.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kpelle traditionally practiced animism and ancestor veneration, believing in a Creator God who was distant from daily affairs, with spirits and ancestors serving as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds. With the spread of Christianity in Liberia during the 19th and 20th centuries, many Kpelle people converted, particularly through the influence of Baptist, Methodist, and Pentecostal missions.

In the U.S., most Liberian Kpelle identify as Christian and participate in Liberian-led churches that blend African worship styles with Western Christian teachings. However, some Kpelle still hold to traditional practices or mix old spiritual beliefs with Christianity, reflecting a blend of worldviews that shapes their faith experience.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kpelle in the United States face both cultural and spiritual needs. Culturally, they strive to maintain their language and traditions while helping their children navigate American culture without losing their identity. Many also deal with the lingering effects of war trauma, displacement, and the challenges of adjusting to life in a new country. Economically, there is a need for stable employment and affordable housing, especially for families supporting relatives in Liberia.

Spiritually, while many Kpelle profess Christianity, some need a deeper understanding of biblical truth to distinguish faith in Christ from traditional religious syncretism. There is a growing opportunity for discipleship, leadership training, and culturally relevant ministry within Liberian and Kpelle churches in the U.S.

Prayer Points

Pray that Liberian Kpelle believers in the U.S. will grow strong in their faith and live out the gospel clearly in their communities.
Pray that Kpelle churches in the U.S. would raise up spiritually mature leaders who can disciple others in the truth of God's word.
Pray for unity among Liberian Christian fellowships in America, that they would be a light both to other Africans and to the broader American community.
Pray that the Liberians would understand that the true Creator is not distant but seeks an intimate relationship with his creation.
Pray that the Liberian people would understand that only Jesus is the mediator between God and man.
Pray for a mighty work of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of the Liberian people.

Text Source:   Joshua Project