Introduction / History

The Southern Pocomam in Guatemala are part of the broader Maya cultural and linguistic family long present in the highlands and foothills of the country. Their heritage grows out of centuries of indigenous settlement prior to Spanish colonization, and they have maintained distinct language and community structures tied to their Mayan roots. The Southern Pocomam are one of several regional subgroups of Poqomam speakers in Guatemala.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Southern Pocomam communities typically live in rural areas where daily life is shaped by a blend of traditional practices and broader Guatemalan rural society. Agriculture plays an important role, with families cultivating crops suited to local conditions and participating in small?scale commerce to support household needs. Relations within extended families and community networks are central to social life, fostering cooperation in both work and cultural activities.

Their primary language is Poqomam, a Mayan language that remains in daily use among many community members and helps preserve cultural identity. While Spanish is widely known and used in public spheres, the Southern Pocomam continue to value their indigenous heritage through language and community bonds.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Southern Pocomam are identified primarily with Christianity, and the faith is influential in community life and values. Christian teaching and practices are present throughout many families and congregations, forming a central part of moral and social expression.

As with many Maya peoples, traditional cultural understandings about the world may still be present among some individuals at a personal or family level. These traditional perspectives can include awareness of spiritual realities tied to nature and ancestry, expressed in simple cultural ways rather than formal theology. The gospel's message offers the transforming hope of salvation through Jesus Christ, which remains foundational to Christian belief among Southern Pocomam.

What Are Their Needs?

Although the Southern Pocomam have a strong Christian presence, there is a need for continued spiritual growth and discipleship rooted in Scripture. Resources that help believers engage deeply with God's Word in ways that resonate with their language and cultural context will support lasting faith development.

Access to portions of Scripture in the Poqomam language exists, but the availability of the full Bible and broader teaching materials that are culturally relevant could help strengthen personal and community engagement with God's word. This includes resources for all ages and stages of spiritual maturity.

There is also a need for faithful, well?equipped church leaders who can shepherd congregations with biblical clarity and nurture spiritual growth within families and communities.

Prayer Items

Pray that believers among the Southern Pocomam in Guatemala will grow in their understanding of Scripture and live with a clear and vibrant faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for access to culturally relevant teaching resources and for Scripture engagement that speaks deeply to the heart of the community.
Pray for godly leaders to emerge who will shepherd and disciple believers with wisdom and love, guiding them to maturity in Christ.
Pray for families to be strengthened in their faith and for the gospel to shape everyday life, decisions, and relationships.
Pray that the Southern Pocomam church will have a vision and courage to share the hope of Christ with neighboring peoples and participate in the work of God's kingdom.

Scripture Prayers for the Pocomam, Southern in Guatemala.