Ath Pahariya in Nepal

The Ath Pahariya are part of a cluster of people known as the Rais, the largest group in eastern Nepal. The diverse groups in the cluster all speak various dialects from which most of these groups take their names. Although many have facial features which resemble those of the peoples of Mongolia, the Ath Pahariya claim no relation to people from that distant part of the world. Instead, they believe they are descendants of the Hindu goddesses Marema, Mahadeva and Nina.

Ministry Obstacles

Their homeland is hard for gospel workers to reach.

Outreach Ideas

As farmers, the Ath Pahariya have been limited by insufficient knowledge of technology, causing a poor yield in crops. People with the right skills can help them get a better harvest each year.

Scripture Focus

"Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth! Sing to the LORD, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day."  Psalm 96:1-2

Scripture Prayer

Let many from today’s people group sing a new song of praise to the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Ask God to strengthen, encourage and protect the small number of Ath Pahariya Christian believers. Pray for spiritual hunger that will lead the Ath Pahariya community to the cross. Pray for good yields from crops, and for a rising literacy rate. Pray for them to give God the glory when they reap a bountiful harvest. Pray the Ath Pahariya people would have all gospel materials easily available to them. Pray for Christ's ambassadors to go to them with skits and songs that glorify Christ.