Thu Lao in Vietnam
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| People Name: | Thu Lao |
| Country: | Vietnam |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 200 |
| World Population: | 200 |
| Primary Language: | Thu Lao |
| Primary Religion: | Ethnic Religions |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Mon-Khmer |
| Affinity Bloc: | Southeast Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Thu Lao (aka, Tulao) people were probably part of the large migration of Tai-speaking peoples who moved into southern Yunnan and Southeast Asia at various stages over the past 1,000 years. The Taiping Rebellion of 1851-1864 caused tens of thousands of people to flee the carnage that was taking place as the Taiping troops marched throughout southern China. The leader of the Taiping armies, Hong Xiuquan, believed he was the brother of Jesus Christ and that he was called by God to set up an earthly kingdom in China. The Tulao may well have migrated to their present location at that time, but this cannot be proven as the Tulao have no written account of their past.
Where Are they Located?
The Thu Lao (pronounced "Too-laow") people straddle the Chinese-Vietnamese border.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Tulao have their own festivals, customs, and marriage and funeral practices.
The Tulao in Vietnam cross the border into China for weddings, funerals, and other festival occasions.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Animism rules the thinking and actions of the Tulao people in China and Vietnam. Perhaps because of Han Chinese influence, there is also a degree of ancestor worship and Taoism. They are not Buddhists.
What Are Their Needs?
There has been no evangelical activity among the Tulao people for many years. They have not been reached by the gospel at all.
Prayer Points
Pray for an effort to reach the Tulao before they become completely indistinguishable from the peoples around them.
Pray for spiritual freedom from the longstanding traditions that hold them in bondage.
Pray for the Tulao people to have a spiritual hunger that will lead them to Christ.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to spark a disciple making movement among the Tulao people that will transform their communities in China and Vietnam.