Lengola in Congo, Democratic Republic of

Introduction / History

Lengolas live in the equatorial forest of the DRC around the Lualaba River. They speak the Lengola language. Their social, political and economic activities are regulated by the Butoka society, a community association open to both sexes. Traditionally, they had rituals of initiation and circumcision.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They make a living from small scale agriculture; banana farming and hunting, as well as gathering. They are known for carving large wooden statues called Butoka, used during initiation ceremonies into Kota society. They have a strongly clan-based social structure.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Traditionally, the Lengola believed in a creator god who was distant, not involved in daily affairs, to be approached indirectly through invoking the ancestors. Today the vast majority of the Lengola are Christians, especially Roman Catholics, but traditional beliefs are still influential in many communities.

What Are Their Needs?

Recently many communities have been embroiled in land disputes and violence, resulting in displacement of many families. Displacement camps around Kisangani are overcrowded. Some schools have closed.

Prayer Points

Pray that nominal Christians may come to true faith in Christ that will lead them to abundant life.
Pray for displaced families, that stability may return to their lives.
Pray that churches will be overwhelmed by the power and goodness of the Holy Spirit, leading them to disciple others and send out workers.
Pray that even in its poverty, the Lengola church may share its faith with others.

References

Text Source:   Joshua Project