Kikai   KEE-kai

Though they live on a Japanese island in the East China Sea, Kikai have preserved their traditions and cultural practices while adapting to the modern world. The cultures of Japan, China, and Southeast Asia have had a significant impact on them. Many of their traditions and cultural events are related to agriculture. Sugar cane is their main crop. They have always had a connection with Japan's main island, despite having their own language. The traditional local language known as Kikai or Kikai-Ryukyuan, is deemed endangered, as younger generations have little or no knowledge of it.

Ministry Obstacles

The Kikai people are often forgotten. Few will go to live on their remote island. Though the Kikai are officially Buddhist, they also have their own traditional beliefs. This flexibility of beliefs is common in Buddhism. It allows for many outside beliefs.

Scripture Focus

"May our granaries be full, providing all kinds of produce; may our sheep bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our fields;"  Psalm 144:13a

Scripture Prayer

Pray that physical prosperity will lead this people group to thankfulness to the Lord rather than spiritual apathy.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a large harvest this year as a testimony of God's power and love. Ask the Lord of the harvest to send laborers to reach the Kikai with God's grace. Pray that God will have mercy on the Kikai, doing whatever it takes to place them in a position to receive him. Ask God to open the hearts of the Kikai to the gospel. Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.