Thu Lao in Vietnam

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.

The Thu Lao (pronounced "Too-laow") people straddle the Chinese-Vietnamese border.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Thu Tulao have their own festivals, customs, and marriage and funeral practices.

The Thu Lao 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 Thu Lao 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?

Their primary need is to place their faith in Lord Jesus Christ, who loves them, and paid the full penalty for their sins.

There has been no evangelical activity among the Thu Lao people for many years. They have not been reached by the gospel at all

Prayer Points

Pray for an effort to reach the Thu Lao 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 Thu Lao people to have a spiritual hunger that will lead them to Christ.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to spark a movement o Christ among the Thu Lao people that will transform their communities in China and Vietnam.

Text Source:   Joshua Project