Socotran in Yemen

suh-KOH-trin

The tiny Yemeni island called Socotra is the largest in the Socotra archipelago. It is also named as a World Natural Heritage Site and described as “the most alien-looking place on Earth.” Some Socotrans raise cattle and goats; others sell dates, ghee, tobacco and fish. Politically, the Socotra archipelago joins with Yemen but geographically belongs to Africa. In 2021, the Socotra government exclaimed that the UAE has been violating the island and planning to control it for years. Although Christianity was introduced and faith was practiced for many years, Christianity in Socotra went into decline when a Muslim sultanate took power in the 16th century. Today, the Socotran are almost completely Sunni Muslim.

Ministry Obstacles

It would be extremely expensive and difficult for someone to go to Socotra.

Outreach Ideas

Helping to restore Socotra’s flora, fauna and fish will be a meaningful display of Christ’s restorative work. The Socotrans also have dietary and medical needs.

Scripture Focus

"And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying, Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth."  Revelation 5:8-10

Scripture Prayer

Pray for many in this people group to begin to worship and serve the Lord of lords.

Prayer Focus

Pray that Christian satellite TV broadcasts would be made available in the Soqotri language. Ask the Lord of the harvest to send more laborers to the Socotran to tend a movement to Christ.