Saami, Kildin in Russia
Photo Source:
Ninara - Flickr
Creative Commons
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Map Source:
Norwegian Polar Institute
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| People Name: | Saami, Kildin |
| Country: | Russia |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 400 |
| World Population: | 500 |
| Primary Language: | Russian |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 70.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 2.00 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Finno-Ugric, Saami |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Saami people are from Lapland, a far northern region in Norway, Sweden, Russia and Finland. One of their subgroups is the Kildin Saami. They are a tiny population living in Russia, though an even smaller number have migrated to Ukraine.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Kildin Saami are struggling to keep their language and culture alive. Only a small number of Kildin Saami children want to learn this ancient language. Russian is the trade language, and they must master it.
The Saami peoples live in a very inhospitable area where few can make a living. Some are hunters and fishermen. Their homeland is too cold for agriculture.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Kildin Saami are Orthodox Christians, though they include ancient religious practices. They are far more reached with the gospel in Ukraine than they are in Russia.
What Are Their Needs?
The Kildin Saami people need to put Jesus Christ first in their lives so they can enjoy the abundant life only he can offer.
Prayer Points
Pray for Kildin Saami disciples in Ukraine to go others in Russia to disciple them in the ways of Christ.
Pray for dreams and visions to convince Kildin Saami elders to put Jesus first in their communities.
Pray for them to understand that they need Jesus Christ.