Ir in Laos

The Ir people group live in the highlands of Laos. They are usually included in other people groups, but they are distinct, and our heavenly Father wants them to be his children. They live in long houses on stilts, and they keep pigs and chickens underneath. During the Vietnam War, US warplanes dropped cluster bomblets over this region. Many of these bomblets remain and can explode when touched by farmers or children.

Ministry Obstacles

The place where the Ir people live is not easily accessible and is not inviting to missionaries. Wet rice farmers using traditional hoes to turn the soil have accidentally set off bomblets as have children playing in the fields. A Western religion, as they consider Christianity, is a strong reminder of American bombers.

Outreach Ideas

Medical teams as well as those who make prostheses could make a huge difference in reaching the Ir people. Also, reaching the Ir with radio broadcasts in their language and sharing gospel stories about Jesus could make a difference. There are many strong believers from nearby Vietnam who can reach them.

Scripture Focus

"But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in him."  Lamentations 3:21-24

Scripture Prayer

Pray that soon members of today’s people group will embrace the love and compassion of the Lord. Pray that they become part of His portion.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the Lord to call forth medical missionary teams to work with the Ir people. Pray for God to raise up prayer teams to pray that a people movement may begin among the Ir people this decade. Pray for spiritual hunger that will turn their hearts to the Light of the world.