Spanish-speaking Jewish in Uruguay

Sephardic Jewish immigrants first started coming to Uruguay from Turkey in 1907. By 1920, they had opened retail stores in Montevideo. Uruguay was the first Latin American country to recognize the state of Israel and establish diplomatic ties with that new nation. Over 10,000 Uruguayan Jews have immigrated to Israel since 1973. This, combined with an aging population and intermarriage, has decreased the Jewish population. The Jewish cultural connection that once tied the community together has basically been replaced with secularism and nominal adherence to Torah Judaism.

Ministry Obstacles

Indifference to their Jewish roots, decreased population, and immigration to Israel have made it difficult for followers of Christ to befriend the Uruguayan Jewish people and share with them the biblical power of God and his grace found in Jesus.

Outreach Ideas

Christian leaders meeting with Uruguayan rabbis could open new sources of discussing the Old Testament prophecies.

Scripture Focus

"I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we were commanded by the Father."  2 John 1:4

Scripture Prayer

Pray for this people group to learn to walk in the truth and to obey the commandments of God.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a movement to Christ among Uruguayan Jewish people this decade. At this point, we know of none who accept the redemption of Christ. Pray that Uruguayan Jewish people would be open to hearing, accepting and knowing that they can have a life in Jesus, which will give them eternal peace. Pray for the Lord to thrust out loving, faithful ambassadors to this Jewish population.