Introduction / History

With an expansive geographic reach between Wisconsin to Oklahoma, the Potawatomi tribal people group celebrate their American roots within the Algonquian family as well as the First Roots found in Canada. The Potawatomi have developed a long-term alliance called the Council of Three Fires, with their allies as both the Ojibwe and Odawa tribes. As the "youngest brother," their Council of Three Fires status is Bodewadmi, which translates as "keepers of the fire." Before the Potawatomi gained federal status as a recognized tribe, the people's ancestors lost most of their lands primarily during the 1830s.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Despite the risk of their existence, the Potawatomi elders have taught their younger generations their cultural values and how to live life fully. The Potawatomi "Seven Grandfather Teachings" entail developing the principles of bravery, honesty, humility, love, respect, truth, and wisdom. The Potawatomi have assimilated to American culture while in multiple Midwestern states.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Potawatomi traditionally observe principles found in Midewiwin, a religion which centralizes its beliefs from what a medicine man discerns and decides for his people. As Westerners migrated from Eastern United States onto lands originally belonging to the Potawatomi, the outsiders also brought Catholicism and Methodism. Some accepted the new religions completely, while some blended their previous beliefs with the new religion, and others rejected Christianity altogether.

What Are Their Needs?

The fewer number of members within the Potawatomi tribe, the more likely this people group's heritage will exclusively remain in the past. The decrease in tribal membership can cause the surviving members to prioritize preserving their beliefs as what they believe is self-protection.

This people group's past trauma and tragic losses both historically and culturally are significant and need to be acknowledged. As they heal, may God also help with softening the hearts of the Potawatomi so their better acceptance of Jesus Christ. They need to remember that God gave them dignity as a people and live in a way that reflects that truth.

Prayer Items

May our Heavenly Father supply healing to work within Potawatomi families and individuals.
May the people understand that Jesus is not just another wise man but loves unconditionally as Savior and Lord over their lives.
May Christian Potawatomi communities provide hope and joy for others to emulate.
Pray that soon Potawatomi Christians will disciple those without the hope provided by the only Savior, Jesus Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Potawatomi in United States.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potawatomi