Embera, Northern in Colombia

Introduction / History

Embera is an indigenous people group that lives only in a remote part of northwestern Colombia. Each Embera subgroup has their own dialect. The Northern are a subgroup of the Embera people. About half of the Northern Embera speakers live in Panama.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In their jungle home, the Northern Embera do not use the usual currency, but most use a form of trade instead. Since they live near rivers, fish make up a large part of their diet. They live in a part of Colombia where they are vulnerable to rebel armies who commonly wreak havoc on indigenous peoples. Rebels have raped women and forced young men to be their guides in finding rival rebel groups. Many of them now live in towns and cities to escape the violence. Some live in Medellin, where they beg for a living or sell baskets. They are not prepared for this lifestyle change.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Traditionally, the Northern Emberas worshiped spirits, and their religion could best be described as animistic. Animism is the belief that non-human objects have spirits. Fortunately, some subgroups have responded to the gospel, and they can take Christ to their near neighbors. The Northern Embera are among them; they have a good percentage of Evangelicals that God can use to take Christ to others.

What Are Their Needs?

The Northern Embera people need advocates to help them adjust to the ways of the 21st century, which will surely engulf them if they aren't ready.

Prayer Points

Pray for loving ambassadors of Christ to help them with job training and other economic needs.
Pray for physical and spiritual protection for the Northern Embera people.
Pray for spiritual hunger that will lead them to the cross.
Pray for a movement to Christ that will bless them in every way.

Text Source:   Joshua Project