Tuvans-Todzhan in Russia

Tuvans-Todzhan
Photo Source:  Anonymous 
Map Source:  People Group location: IMB. Map geography: ESRI / GMI. Map design: Joshua Project.
People Name: Tuvans-Todzhan
Country: Russia
10/40 Window: No
Population: 1,900
World Population: 1,900
Primary Language: Tuvan
Primary Religion: Buddhism
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: Complete Bible
Online Audio NT: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Ural-Siberian
Affinity Bloc: Turkic Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

The Todzhan Tuvans are a subgroup of the larger, Tuva-speaking group in Russia. They are herders and breeders of reindeer. Divorce is common among the Tuvans. Tuvan culture is noted for its rich, oral epic poetry and Tuvans love music. They have been traditionally shamanists and Tibetan Buddhists. Today, the Todzhan Tuvans are mostly Buddhists, but the influence of shamanism is still strong.

Ministry Obstacles

The current religions of the Tuvan people present a very different worldview than that of the Christian believer. A new way of thinking is necessary to accept the lordship of Christ.

Outreach Ideas

The Tuva language has the complete Bible available and other resources are also available, including the JESUS Film.

Pray for the Followers of Christ

There are probably no followers of Jesus among the Todzhan Tuvans, although there are likely a few believers among the larger Tuvan group. Pray for Tuvan believers to be taught accurately how to know and follow Christ and that they would grow in numbers.

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray the Tuvan peoples would be able to provide adequately for their families. Pray for workers to go to the Todzhan Tuvans as Christ's hands and feet, blessing them in every way. Pray that Russian or Mongolian Christians would be able to take these resources to the people.

Text Source:   Joshua Project