Moro Joloano Tausug in Philippines

The Tausug are the most dominant of the Muslim groups in the southern Philippines. The name Tausug means "people of the sea current." They make their living through fishing and agriculture. Their major cash crops are coconuts, coffee and fruit. The ideal marriage among the Tausug is still one arranged by the parents, although now young people may select their own mates. First and second cousins are favored as spouses.

Ministry Obstacles

The Tausug are staunch Muslims. Children study the Koran and, when ready, recite the scriptures in a public ceremony. The Tausug showed great determination in their fight for independence from Filipino control. Conflicts between them and cultural Christians left deep wounds. There is a need for sensitive Christian workers to minister Jesus' love to the emotionally scarred people.

Outreach Ideas

The Tausug believe that after death a person goes to hell, although eventually he or she can reach heaven. Christian workers can share assurance of immediate presence in heaven.

Scripture Focus

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."  Acts 1:8

Scripture Prayer

Pray that today’s people group would receive God’s Spirit and become empowered to tell others about the grace of God in Jesus Christ.

Prayer Focus

Ask Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to heal the wounded hearts of these people. Ask the Holy Spirit to grant wisdom and favor to mission agencies focusing on the Tausug people. Pray that God would use Tausug believers as bold witnesses to their own people leading to an unstoppable church planting movement.