Introduction / History

Sicilians are the people who live in the Mediterranean island of Sicily. Sicily is part of Italy. Though they speak Sicilian, Italian is the language of commerce. Sicilian is regarded by UNESCO as a minority language. It contains a lot of other linguistic influences whereas standard Italian is more directly traced to Latin.

There has been a large number or Sicilians who have made their way to other countries, and most of them are assimilated. A small number in Canada retain their culture and language.

Sicilians began to migrate to Canada as early as the mid 19th century, though they were more likely to arrive in the early 20th century. Sicilians were lumped in with other immigrants from Italy. More arrived after WWII, mainly to work in construction.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There are a couple of reasons Sicilians have trouble adjusting to Canadian ways. Canadian young adults try to get “out of the nest” and stake it out on their own. This is not the way for Sicilians. The idea of being independent from the family, especially as a young, unmarried family member, is anathema to Sicilians. People often live with their parents until they get married, often in their early 30s. This is mainly because of the strong family, though those same families can be seen as controlling by the younger generation.

One of the things that can make things difficult for Sicilians in Canada are time schedules. Canadians are prompt and businesslike. Trains and busses run on time.

Sicilians and other Italian immigrants have contributed much to Canadian culture. They have been active in radio, publications, literature and education.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sicilians are dedicated Roman Catholics, though many are secularized. This is a Catholic culture, and even those who don’t find spiritual truth in the church will attend festivals honoring saints.

What Are Their Needs?

The Sicilians need to look to Jesus Christ for true spiritual nourishment. He is the bread of life!

Prayer Points

Pray for Sicilian followers of Christ to disciple others in the ways of Jesus.

Pray for the Sicilian to give God praise for all he has given them and make gratitude an important part of their spiritual lives.

Pray for a Holy Spirit directed revival in Roman Catholic churches in Canada.

Scripture Prayers for the Italian, Sicilian in Canada.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Canadian_people_of_Sicilian_descent

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

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

http://www.bestofsicily.com/sicilians.htm

https://www.thesmalladventure.com/post/10-sicilian-customs-and-traditions-you-should-know-about