Bungku in Indonesia

Formerly, Bungku communities were segregated into three classes: village heads formed the elite group, common people the middle group, and slaves were the lowest group. In the past, the Bungku lived in remote inland areas but with the building of the Trans-Sulawesi highway, they have become more open to outsiders. The Bungku need assistance and training to manage their coconut, resin, and rattan plantations more professionally. Training by professionals who would not exploit the Bungku would be a great contribution to their economic development. Affordable medical care and medication are seldom available in rural areas. The Bugis culture of South Sulawesi greatly influences their culture. Although they are Muslim, older traditional animistic beliefs are still maintained. For instance, the Bungku still believe in different kinds of spirits and practice various rituals to either pacify or control them. Theirs is folk Islam.

Ministry Obstacles
No scripture is available in the Bungku language, although gospel recordings are available.

Scripture Focus
"Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."  Mark 1:14-15

Scripture Prayer
Pray for this people group to have the opportunity to hear a clear presentation of the good news. Pray for God’s Spirit to move them to repent and believe in Christ.

Prayer Focus
Pray for the completion of the Bible translation that has begun in the Bungku language. Ask Jesus to appear in dreams and visions to family and village leaders, showing them that he is more than a great prophet. Ask God to send gospel workers to the Bungku to make disciples and help meet their needs regarding infrastructure, agriculture, training and medical care. Pray for a movement to Christ among Bungkus that will bless them in every way.

Presented by Joshua Project
www.joshuaproject.net