Introduction / History

The Kraho are an indigenous people in Brazil. They have been pushed west from their homeland by Portuguese settlers and cattle ranchers. They established an alliance with cattle ranchers, and they helped protect ranches from other indigenous groups. They even helped enslave some of these tribes. Then in 1940 there was a conflict with ranchers resulting in a massacre of a Kraho settlement. In the 1950s they listened to a “prophet” who taught them to become “civilized Brazilians.” In the 1980s they took the opposite approach and wanted to restore their culture and refrain from integration.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kraho people all raise children communally. Even small children look after smaller children regardless of who are the parents. People are very generous with one another, believing that sharing possessions means others will help you when you need it.
Kraho women are encouraged to give birth at a hospital, but the nearest hospital is 200 miles away.
After a hunting expedition, a fishing trip or opening a garden they celebrate by having log races in the rivers. Men wear paint made from plant material.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kraho have many myths, some of which have to do with creation. Creation came from creator heroes Sun and Moon who worked towards completing creation. Their myths suggest they believe that everything came from outside, even their shamans, whom they believe have magical and healing powers. Almost half of the Kraho are Roman Catholic, but they allow for many indigenous beliefs to blend with this religion.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kraho need a Christ-centered worldview. He needs to be central to their lives.

Prayer Items

Pray for Kraho Christ followers to disciple others in his ways.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to bless them with the abundant life offered by Jesus Christ.
Pray for an abundance for the Kraho people as a testimony of God’s love and power. May they respond with gratefulness to the King of kings.

Scripture Prayers for the Kraho in Brazil.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krah%C3%B4
https://pib.socioambiental.org/en/Povo:Krah%C3%B4
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/indigenous-group-brazil-parenting-village-amazon-a9097811.html
https://www.lensculture.com/projects/416846-kraho